The last entry of 2004!
Going out to eat Mexican food tonight. My quest is to find a good one. I consider "a good one" to be one with a Health Inspection rating of at least 90%. I have eaten at some of them and then spent the rest of the day in Montezuma's Revenge, so I would love any recommendations for the Atlanta area! So if you know of a really great Mexican restaurant, please post a comment!
I went ahead and started the WLB (Weight Loss Blog). I am already starting to regret I have shared my diet with everyone...that is the part of me that wants to escape the diet and gorge on Little Debbie cakes. I have done pretty well today so far. I had a small bowl of Crispix for breakfast and so far I've avoided the snacking carnage. I've been drinking a lot of water. Adding a little fruit juice to the water makes it a little easier to drink more. Well anyway, the reason for the Weight Loss Blog is so I can share it there and not bore you with it here.
I wonder if I can eat Mexican food without going overboard? I know to avoid the avocado and the refried beans. I think I'll just limit my portions and NOT have soft drink. Ooops there I go, boring you again.
My site is on the PayPal Shops Featured page again. Right now my button is at the bottom but it will move up daily. I am going to get even busier than I am now. I have 4 clients right now. Three of the projects are going to be very challenging, different from things I have done before. Oh I love a challenge! But now to find the time to get it done. One more day of dog watching and I'll have a bit more time.
Thanks for stopping by, and I'd love to get a comment from you so I know someone is reading my dribble!
Darla
Friday, December 31, 2004
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
Sent to me by Brad D. ... excellent :)
Thanks Brad!
Darla
Thanks Brad!
Darla
Mr. Miller
During the waning years of the depression in a small
Idaho community, I used to stop by Mr. Miller's roadside stand for farm fresh produce as the season made it available. Food and money were still extremely scarce and bartering was used
extensively. One day Mr. Miller was bagging some early potatoes for me. I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily appraising a basket of freshly picked green peas. I paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes. Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller and the ragged boy next to me. "Hello Barry, how are you today?" "H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. Sure look good." "They are good, Barry. How's your Ma?" "Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time." "Good. Anything I can help you with?" "No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas." "Would you like to take some home?" "No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with." "Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?" "All I got's my prize marble here." "Is that right? Let me see it." "Here 'tis. She's a dandy." "I can see that. Hmmmmm, only thing is this one
is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?" "Not zackley ... but almost." "Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble." "Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller." Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came Over to help me. With a smile she said, "There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever. When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, perhaps." I left the stand smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering. Several years went by, each more rapid than the previous one. Just recently I had the occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there I learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his viewing that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could. Ahead of us in line
were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts, all very professional looking. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one, each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes. Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and mentioned the story she had told me about the marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket. "Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about. They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim "traded" them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change
his mind about color or size, they came to pay their debt." "We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world," she confided, "but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho." With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three
exquisitely shined red marbles. Moral: We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath. Today..... ........ I wish you a day of ordinary miracles ........ A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself ........ An unexpected phone call from an old friend ....... Green stoplights on your way to work ........ The fastest line at the grocery store ........ A good sing-along song on the radio ......... Your keys right where you left them
Dear readers, you are showing impeccable taste by visiting my blog, and I would love to share more of my life with you right now, but we have to get over to the neighbor's house to let their dogs out, before they pee all over the kitchen over there.
Hope your day will be better than mine LOL!
Darla
Hope your day will be better than mine LOL!
Darla
We have 'inherited' another neighbor's dog to take care of now - through Saturday.
The neighbor watching the dog is now sick...she's sicker than I am, so we'll take care of this dog too.
Easy addition, we'll just take care of that dog after we take care of the other dogs.
I gave Ashley (the neighbor who's sick) some grapefruit, oranges, tea bags, and Hall's cough drops and hope she feels better soon.
That's life on the cul de sac!
The neighbor watching the dog is now sick...she's sicker than I am, so we'll take care of this dog too.
Easy addition, we'll just take care of that dog after we take care of the other dogs.
I gave Ashley (the neighbor who's sick) some grapefruit, oranges, tea bags, and Hall's cough drops and hope she feels better soon.
That's life on the cul de sac!
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
No receipt? You don't exist at these retailers, dahlink
DD1 received a GameBoy game for Christmas, the Incredibles, that she already has, so we told her she could exchange it at a store. DD2 received a non-electronic item that she is a little old for now, so she wanted to exchange that also.
In 'the good old days' you could return a gift, even something from the electronics department, if it was unopened. Especially right after Christmas, the stores would be extremely flexible and at least allow you to exchange for a store credit or another item.
Kmart - wouldn't allow it today. Ok, I figure - they're fighting to stay afloat. If I was one of their shareholders, I would be upset if the store took back items without receipts, under those circumstances. Allowance made for Kmart.
Target - No go - no receipt, too bad.
E mployees at the 'service' desk will treat you like you're some kind of scammer.
When I worked in a store, (11 yrs) I always considered people who returned things as current and/or potential customers, and they were. Usually when they were allowed to exchange things, they'd end up spending more money! As in our case, we were going to buy additional items, but we didn't because we wanted to wait to buy from whoever we exchanged with.
Back in my store days, maybe the item being returned came from a competitor...who cares...? The customer came to our store, and if we treated them right, they would (and did) return again.
This kind of thing is why more and more I do my business with work at home moms.
Service is better, and I am helping a local family out.
Anyway, when I see on CNN the financial reports that retailers didn't do very well this year, and they try to blame it all on the war, give me a break. It is more in the retailers FAILURE TO SELL and PROVIDE SERVICE that have gotten them into this bind. When salespeople give up, and when shoppers are treated like pieces of furniture instead of the real people they are, businesses are going to have trouble.
It's pretty simple, treat people right, and they'll beat a path to your door. Yes, there will be some fraudulent returns/exchanges. In my view, 90% of people are honest, and 10% are dishonest.
So you lose on the 10% so you can GET the 90%. Don't piss off the 90% to protect your company from the 10% !!! (DUHHHH!!!!)
More corporate losses result from crooked executives and employees overall. They have more opportunity to do real harm to a company.
I know my family will think twice before we buy from these big retailers again.
They really need to wake up, read Thriving on Chaos
by Tom Peters and really understand it, don't just quote the catchphrases, but really put it into practice - and there's tons of business for everyone.
DD1 received a GameBoy game for Christmas, the Incredibles, that she already has, so we told her she could exchange it at a store. DD2 received a non-electronic item that she is a little old for now, so she wanted to exchange that also.
In 'the good old days' you could return a gift, even something from the electronics department, if it was unopened. Especially right after Christmas, the stores would be extremely flexible and at least allow you to exchange for a store credit or another item.
Kmart - wouldn't allow it today. Ok, I figure - they're fighting to stay afloat. If I was one of their shareholders, I would be upset if the store took back items without receipts, under those circumstances. Allowance made for Kmart.
Target - No go - no receipt, too bad.
E mployees at the 'service' desk will treat you like you're some kind of scammer.
When I worked in a store, (11 yrs) I always considered people who returned things as current and/or potential customers, and they were. Usually when they were allowed to exchange things, they'd end up spending more money! As in our case, we were going to buy additional items, but we didn't because we wanted to wait to buy from whoever we exchanged with.
Back in my store days, maybe the item being returned came from a competitor...who cares...? The customer came to our store, and if we treated them right, they would (and did) return again.
This kind of thing is why more and more I do my business with work at home moms.
Service is better, and I am helping a local family out.
Anyway, when I see on CNN the financial reports that retailers didn't do very well this year, and they try to blame it all on the war, give me a break. It is more in the retailers FAILURE TO SELL and PROVIDE SERVICE that have gotten them into this bind. When salespeople give up, and when shoppers are treated like pieces of furniture instead of the real people they are, businesses are going to have trouble.
It's pretty simple, treat people right, and they'll beat a path to your door. Yes, there will be some fraudulent returns/exchanges. In my view, 90% of people are honest, and 10% are dishonest.
So you lose on the 10% so you can GET the 90%. Don't piss off the 90% to protect your company from the 10% !!! (DUHHHH!!!!)
More corporate losses result from crooked executives and employees overall. They have more opportunity to do real harm to a company.
I know my family will think twice before we buy from these big retailers again.
They really need to wake up, read Thriving on Chaos
by Tom Peters and really understand it, don't just quote the catchphrases, but really put it into practice - and there's tons of business for everyone.
Today I've been taking Robitussin, vitamins, water, chowing down on oranges! Still working on the laundry and doing catch-up housework.
I learned a lot of things while I was laid out. One thing's for dang-certain, DD2 (age 11) MUST learn how to pick up after herself! I told her she'll never be able to run away from home because we could always track her down. She leaves a trail EVERYWHERE she goes. Just a quick walk around the house and I can tell her "Hey, you had a peanut butter sandwich, a chocolate milk, then you played with one of your Christmas presents." Then I enjoy the look of shock on her face. She thinks I could be on CSI, but sadly I'm not all that brilliant - the evidence she leaves behind is pretty obvious.
Trail of Evidence:
Peanut butter sandwich: Bread package left open on counter, bread practically falling out onto the floor. Peanut butter container left open on counter with knife sticking up in it. Crumbs all over the counter.
Chocolate Milk: Chocolate milk drippings on counter. Empty glass left in living room with chocolate milk residue on it.
Opened a present: Tags from gift and clear cellophane wrap left in bits on counter. Scissors left out, not put back.
This is just an example, but it is getting so tiresome. She just needs to learn to put things back AS she goes. Any tips? I will take any advice.
I was able to call three clients today while DS napped. He is coughing and I think he has a sore throat so I've started giving him a Pediatric version of Robitussin (no alcohol in it, seems to work!)
I am so ready for us all to get over this stuff! I am going to be even more militant about the handwashing around this house! I already Lysol the doorknobs and lightwitches. Any advice on that would also be helpful...how to keep the germs out in the first place, when you have two school aged kids.
Received good news today, my site is going to be a Featured PayPal Shop sometime this week. This will make the third time for me. It always gets me really busy. My site will get tons of hits.
Thanks again for stopping by.
Darla
I learned a lot of things while I was laid out. One thing's for dang-certain, DD2 (age 11) MUST learn how to pick up after herself! I told her she'll never be able to run away from home because we could always track her down. She leaves a trail EVERYWHERE she goes. Just a quick walk around the house and I can tell her "Hey, you had a peanut butter sandwich, a chocolate milk, then you played with one of your Christmas presents." Then I enjoy the look of shock on her face. She thinks I could be on CSI, but sadly I'm not all that brilliant - the evidence she leaves behind is pretty obvious.
Trail of Evidence:
Peanut butter sandwich: Bread package left open on counter, bread practically falling out onto the floor. Peanut butter container left open on counter with knife sticking up in it. Crumbs all over the counter.
Chocolate Milk: Chocolate milk drippings on counter. Empty glass left in living room with chocolate milk residue on it.
Opened a present: Tags from gift and clear cellophane wrap left in bits on counter. Scissors left out, not put back.
This is just an example, but it is getting so tiresome. She just needs to learn to put things back AS she goes. Any tips? I will take any advice.
I was able to call three clients today while DS napped. He is coughing and I think he has a sore throat so I've started giving him a Pediatric version of Robitussin (no alcohol in it, seems to work!)
I am so ready for us all to get over this stuff! I am going to be even more militant about the handwashing around this house! I already Lysol the doorknobs and lightwitches. Any advice on that would also be helpful...how to keep the germs out in the first place, when you have two school aged kids.
Received good news today, my site is going to be a Featured PayPal Shop sometime this week. This will make the third time for me. It always gets me really busy. My site will get tons of hits.
Thanks again for stopping by.
Darla
Sunday, December 26, 2004
I have the flu for the second time this year. Unbelievable! DD2 is also sick.
I have been running a 100-101 fever today.
We just got back from taking care of our neighbor's dogs, Beau and Booger.
Beau is a furry black lab mix, and Booger is a female black poodle/cairn/something or other mix.
Booger has 'issues.' She often thinks she's the Alpha Male of the household, bosses around all the larger dogs. The family also has a 'puppy' Bull Mastiff --he is in dog daycare at the vet. He's a real handful, but very cute. His name is Bruiser. He is HUGE. He would knock me down if he was at the house, so I'm glad he's at the veterinarian.
Booger cried and cried when we left. She likes me, but can't stand kids.
Well my house is a wreck, the couch is FULL of laundry, but at least it's clean laundry. I will get caught up on things tomorrow hopefully.
Darla
I have been running a 100-101 fever today.
We just got back from taking care of our neighbor's dogs, Beau and Booger.
Beau is a furry black lab mix, and Booger is a female black poodle/cairn/something or other mix.
Booger has 'issues.' She often thinks she's the Alpha Male of the household, bosses around all the larger dogs. The family also has a 'puppy' Bull Mastiff --he is in dog daycare at the vet. He's a real handful, but very cute. His name is Bruiser. He is HUGE. He would knock me down if he was at the house, so I'm glad he's at the veterinarian.
Booger cried and cried when we left. She likes me, but can't stand kids.
Well my house is a wreck, the couch is FULL of laundry, but at least it's clean laundry. I will get caught up on things tomorrow hopefully.
Darla
Friday, December 24, 2004
Newest completed portrait done in graphite pencil on 11"x14" paper. I charge $275 for a hand drawn portrait of one subject like this one. It is payable half and half (50% of fee up front, 50% at completion). It is totally hand drawn, original work of art, drawn using photo as reference.
Posted by Hello
My DS (Dear Son, age 16 months) woke up crying at around midnight. I thought maybe he might be hungry, since he wouldn't take his cup. I offered a banana. Apparently the smell of the banana helped set him off - he threw up in the kitchen and again in the hallway. He has been running a fever. I think I got a combined total of 2 hours' sleep last night. I have a ton to do, we are going to have 10 people at our house tomorrow (that includes our family). I have a lot of cooking and cleaning to do, and I am running a fever myself. Lots of fun, huh? The girls are fighting a lot, because they had a friend over last night for a sleepover, which also added to my lack of sleep. So they are grumpy and fighting today.
The Martha Stewart Christmas will be left by the wayside this year!
Darla
The Martha Stewart Christmas will be left by the wayside this year!
Darla
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Norway police have questioned a suspect regarding the theft of Munch's 'The Scream' painting.
Check out the story here
Check out the story here
If I had the guts to do this too, I'd be rich.
Advertise on this guy's chest...?
www.RentMyChest.com
Advertise on this guy's chest...?
www.RentMyChest.com
I wish for you...
Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your heart
Gentle hugs when spirits sag,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Faith so that you can believe,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
And love to complete your life.
God Bless you!
I asked the Lord to bless you
As I prayed for you today
To guide you and protect you
As you go along your way....
His love is always with you
His promises are true
No matter what the tribulation
You know He will see us through
So, when the road you're traveling on
Seems difficult at best
Give your problems to the Lord
And God will do the rest.
Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your heart
Gentle hugs when spirits sag,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Faith so that you can believe,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
And love to complete your life.
God Bless you!
I asked the Lord to bless you
As I prayed for you today
To guide you and protect you
As you go along your way....
His love is always with you
His promises are true
No matter what the tribulation
You know He will see us through
So, when the road you're traveling on
Seems difficult at best
Give your problems to the Lord
And God will do the rest.
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
100 Things - here are the next 20....
A continuation of my earlier 20 things (so this is part two of five, or for the Shakespeare fans, Part II of V).
30. I love to look at birds out in the yard. I'd love to have several bird feeders and birdhouses. Seeing birds outside cheers me up and makes me glad I don't put chemicals on our grass.
A continuation of my earlier 20 things (so this is part two of five, or for the Shakespeare fans, Part II of V).
30. I love to look at birds out in the yard. I'd love to have several bird feeders and birdhouses. Seeing birds outside cheers me up and makes me glad I don't put chemicals on our grass.
31. I really like Launch ( http://launch.yahoo.com ) - you can listen to music while you surf the 'net or just while doing other stuff.
32. I will be taking care of two neighbor's sets of pets over the holidays.
33. I don't mind.
34. I like dogs and it will be fun walking them.
35. I made fresh squeezed orange juice this morning.
36. My parents and my brother sent us boxes of citrus fruits from Texas.
37. Enjoying the fruits but having to give some of it away.
38. Some old movies can make me cry.
39. Don't tell anyone I told you that.
40. I tap danced in my kitchen 2 days ago.
41. Nike shoes aren't very good for tap dancing.
42. I occasionally like watching SpongeBob Squarepants.
43. I took my kids to the SpongeBob Square Pants Movie.
44. I used to think Caller ID was only for people who were trying to avoid their creditors.
45. I now have Caller ID and I love it.
46. It's not much good for avoiding creditors. LOL!!!
47. I like it because when one of my daughters' friends calls, I can give the phone directly to DD1 or DD2, and that saves a lot of time.
48. I have an electric lawn mower and like it (no fumes to choke on like the gas model!)
49. When I got married in 1985, I was one week shy of turning 20.
50. I could barely boil water without an instruction manual.
I just saw someone blatantly throw a styrofoam cup out the car window onto my neighbor's lawn. Why do some people think that all the world (except their yard of course) is their personal trash can?
I was going to post more, but now I have a styrofoam cup to go pick up so I lost my train of thought.
Darla
I was going to post more, but now I have a styrofoam cup to go pick up so I lost my train of thought.
Darla
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Apparently we have no privacy anymore when it comes to purchasing.
Maybe it's just my PMS talking here, but I took the kids to Discover Mills mall yesterday. Two stores we made a purchase in - The Children's Place and Limited Too, both sales clerks asked for our home phone number. I asked the lady at Limited Too why they need the phone number, she said just for records. I told her I didn't want to get any telemarketing calls - I signed us up on the Do Not Call List, but by giving it out, they are probably going to see it as permission for them to call me/sell my phone number to the highest bidder. I'm not really pleased about that, and I may even write to those companies through their sites to get their official position. We get telemarketing calls already, mainly from companies we do business with (so they can circumvent the Do Not Call List legally) but Direct TV Satellite TV and BellSouth are really overdoing it. One day we got THREE calls from BellSouth.
I can't see why the Department of Homeland Security would need to know I bought a T-Shirt at Limited Too. LOL!
Well, I'm off to a client's house to deliver some artwork. Hope you have a great day and thanks for stopping by.
Darla
Maybe it's just my PMS talking here, but I took the kids to Discover Mills mall yesterday. Two stores we made a purchase in - The Children's Place and Limited Too, both sales clerks asked for our home phone number. I asked the lady at Limited Too why they need the phone number, she said just for records. I told her I didn't want to get any telemarketing calls - I signed us up on the Do Not Call List, but by giving it out, they are probably going to see it as permission for them to call me/sell my phone number to the highest bidder. I'm not really pleased about that, and I may even write to those companies through their sites to get their official position. We get telemarketing calls already, mainly from companies we do business with (so they can circumvent the Do Not Call List legally) but Direct TV Satellite TV and BellSouth are really overdoing it. One day we got THREE calls from BellSouth.
I can't see why the Department of Homeland Security would need to know I bought a T-Shirt at Limited Too. LOL!
Well, I'm off to a client's house to deliver some artwork. Hope you have a great day and thanks for stopping by.
Darla
Monday, December 20, 2004
We had some snow flurries yesterday. Nothing big enough to stick on the ground, but pretty cool to see anyway. I have to admit that even I got excited like a little kid about it.
Maybe we will get some more today that will stick. You'd think I got enough of snow, growing up in Michigan - but I do miss it - sometimes, and I'd love for my kids to have fun out in the snow.
DH started a fire (no, it wasn't arson). We do have a fireplace.
It was nice. Explained to DS (the 16 month old) that fire is hot, don't touch, etc, etc.
We finally went out and bought a Christmas tree. It has kind of a citrus smell to it, and has soft branches. We thought it would be the safest with a toddler running around. We put only plastic ornaments a the bottom where DH can reach. He loves to take off the ornaments. Our tree is now only decorated from the middle up. Bare at the bottom half! Oh well.
I spent a lot of yesterday just doing housework (exciting, huh?) But teaching DD1 and DD2 how to do things, and the management/supervision/follow-up is sometimes more work than if I just did it all myself! But they need to learn how to do these things. So, the laundry is almost all done - for the time being. Can you imagine how much laundry a family of five accumulates? It's horrendous. I'm surprised I don't have nightmares about laundry attacking me.
I did work on SW's portrait, almost done...just some more work on the hair and the background, and her lacy collar. That is going to be very delicate and pretty. DD2 decided she would like to try also, so she also did a sketch of SW. She is quite the lil arteeste...I think I will get her a drawing notebook and a good quality set of pencils/erasers/etc for Christmas. I don't know if it's a gift for her or for me, though...it will keep her out of my pencils! She needs her own to take care of, and some that she has the freedom to just explore her art skills without borrowing.
After that, I suddenly remembered a tray of chocolate macaroon cookies I had bought at the grocery store yesterday. Luckily, it's winter and not summer right now. If it was summer, then the cookies would be goo, but since it's been cold, the cookies were nicely refrigerated out in the car. Took a quick family poll: "Hey, I bought these for Christmas, but we can have them now if y'all want." Can you guess what the answer was? That's right. We chowed down. They were really good. Christmas comes but once a year, so let's be merry. The diet will start after Christmas.
Thanks for stopping by!
Darla
Maybe we will get some more today that will stick. You'd think I got enough of snow, growing up in Michigan - but I do miss it - sometimes, and I'd love for my kids to have fun out in the snow.
DH started a fire (no, it wasn't arson). We do have a fireplace.
It was nice. Explained to DS (the 16 month old) that fire is hot, don't touch, etc, etc.
We finally went out and bought a Christmas tree. It has kind of a citrus smell to it, and has soft branches. We thought it would be the safest with a toddler running around. We put only plastic ornaments a the bottom where DH can reach. He loves to take off the ornaments. Our tree is now only decorated from the middle up. Bare at the bottom half! Oh well.
I spent a lot of yesterday just doing housework (exciting, huh?) But teaching DD1 and DD2 how to do things, and the management/supervision/follow-up is sometimes more work than if I just did it all myself! But they need to learn how to do these things. So, the laundry is almost all done - for the time being. Can you imagine how much laundry a family of five accumulates? It's horrendous. I'm surprised I don't have nightmares about laundry attacking me.
I did work on SW's portrait, almost done...just some more work on the hair and the background, and her lacy collar. That is going to be very delicate and pretty. DD2 decided she would like to try also, so she also did a sketch of SW. She is quite the lil arteeste...I think I will get her a drawing notebook and a good quality set of pencils/erasers/etc for Christmas. I don't know if it's a gift for her or for me, though...it will keep her out of my pencils! She needs her own to take care of, and some that she has the freedom to just explore her art skills without borrowing.
After that, I suddenly remembered a tray of chocolate macaroon cookies I had bought at the grocery store yesterday. Luckily, it's winter and not summer right now. If it was summer, then the cookies would be goo, but since it's been cold, the cookies were nicely refrigerated out in the car. Took a quick family poll: "Hey, I bought these for Christmas, but we can have them now if y'all want." Can you guess what the answer was? That's right. We chowed down. They were really good. Christmas comes but once a year, so let's be merry. The diet will start after Christmas.
Thanks for stopping by!
Darla
Friday, December 17, 2004
I stayed up until about 12:15 am, finished the family portrait for AH. I am relieved that it is done. I will look at it some more and perhaps do some 'tweaking' here and there, but for now I am going to let it be. I am pleased with it. Now, if I could only figure out how to transfer photos from the digital camera into the PC, I will share it with AH's permission only of course. It's a new camera, I have figured out how to shoot pics with it and work most of the features, but just haven't figured out the info transfer part.
So you think you had a bad day?
I have been thinking about the soldiers in Iraq, they are having it very rough, and here I am, sitting in my comfortable home. We can whine about the economy, the jobs, the price of milk or gas - but when it all comes down to it, we have it GOOD.
Here are the pictures from Iraq (and also links to bloggers about Iraq) that you won't see on the nightly news.
Some other links:
AnySoldier.com
BooksForSoldiers.com
Thanks to all the troops. We are thinking of you back home and pray for your safe return. My father is a veteran of WWII (Served on Saipan) and my oldest brother is a Vietnam Vet.
I am praying for the soldiers and their families. We love you guys (and gals!)
Darla
I have been thinking about the soldiers in Iraq, they are having it very rough, and here I am, sitting in my comfortable home. We can whine about the economy, the jobs, the price of milk or gas - but when it all comes down to it, we have it GOOD.
Here are the pictures from Iraq (and also links to bloggers about Iraq) that you won't see on the nightly news.
Some other links:
AnySoldier.com
BooksForSoldiers.com
Thanks to all the troops. We are thinking of you back home and pray for your safe return. My father is a veteran of WWII (Served on Saipan) and my oldest brother is a Vietnam Vet.
I am praying for the soldiers and their families. We love you guys (and gals!)
Darla
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO WITH YOUR FAMILY ON NEW YEAR'S EVE?
Join 104.7 The Fish for "Lawrenceville Rings", a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration on the Square. This is a FREE family friendly event that will feature ice skating, story-tellers, activities and crafts, musical entertainment, great food, and a countdown celebration. The fun starts at 6:30pm on the Square in Lawrenceville and runs until Midnight. For more info visit www.visitlawrenceville.com
Join 104.7 The Fish for "Lawrenceville Rings", a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration on the Square. This is a FREE family friendly event that will feature ice skating, story-tellers, activities and crafts, musical entertainment, great food, and a countdown celebration. The fun starts at 6:30pm on the Square in Lawrenceville and runs until Midnight. For more info visit www.visitlawrenceville.com
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Desperately wanting to have something interesting to post here today.
Not really together because I got my schedule out of whack. I'm not even sure what time I fell asleep last night, because I fell asleep in the living room in the circa 1978 Barcalounger. Hey, don't laugh, it has 'good bones' as the designers say! Someday I will have it reupholstered, and who will be laughing then! It is hard to find a wingback chair that is a recliner. It's pretty neat.
So anyway, I was cold and wrapped up in a blanket just to get warm, and then I was going to do the dishes and do some drawing. Last thing I remembered, I was watching Curb Appeal on HGTV. They were turning a gray house (one that was last updated in 1954) into a Swiss cottage look. I think I stayed with them until they got it completed, but next thing I knew, it was 1:30 am and Debbie Travis' Painted House was on. As I trudged to bed, I realized I would have to do my artwork today, while DS naps. I'm listening to him complain in his crib now - perhaps there won't be a nap this morning. At least I was able to get the kitchen cleaned up this morning, and the dishes done, while DS was in his high chair. If he's not restrained like Hannibal Lecter, then he wants to 'help,' which is great, if you have all day! But time is a priority these days. I definitely want him to learn and to want to help though. He was so cute in his high chair this morning, he did some coloring. I drew some squares and circles on the paper, and he tried to fill them in. Did a pretty good job of it, too.
I am almost done with AH's family portrait. Her son is giving me fits. Ok, not the real fits, there hasn't been any foaming at the mouth or anything like that, but I am looking at his picture right side up, sideways, and upside down to get his likeness. I am almost there. It would probably be okay with AH at this point, but I have a vision in my mind, and it's not quite there yet. I will work on it some more today. i will also look at the artwork in a mirror. That usually helps me pick out things that need adjusting. Then I will start on SW's portrait. It will be quick and easy. It's just a one subject portrait. The multiple subject portraits, and the ones that require composition of several people from individual photos take the most time, naturally.
If I could be a slapdash artist and just do art quickly to make a buck, I would certainly be more profitable, but I sure couldn't live with myself if I did that. When I see the designers on HGTV and they are picking out a painting to put in a room, all they care about is the size, style and the colors - will it match the room? Many of the art pieces they use seem hideous to me, yet they pay hundreds of dollars for them. I guess I can slap some paint on some canvasses this summer in my garage and sell them to designers. The art will be meaningless and emotion-less. Kind of empty if you ask me. Is that the art people want now? They don't care about the meaning, they just want something to match?
Thomas Kinkade's artwork is now on Glade Air Freshener candles.
Can you guess that I am sort of down on the state of the art world? I realized yesterday that as an artist, I am in a gray area - as a pencil artist, I'm not as respected as 'painters' who do things the old school way, but I don't fit in with the modernists either, because my work is very traditional. So I sit here on my fence in blog world and probably think too much. How would my artwork look on Glade candles anyway? Um, nahhhh.
I'm okay with Thomas Kinkade's art being on those air fresheners - but if John Singer Sargent's art gets merchandised that way, I will definitely get upset. Sargent is one of my all-time art heroes. Oh my, I have an art hero. How nerdy could I be?
On to other things, The girls are very excited because we may have some snow flurries this weekend (we live near Atlanta). The ground is super cold, so I'm hoping if it shows, it will stay awhile. DH has Monday through Christmas Eve off work. It' s going to be very fun. We'll get our Christmas tree tomorrow night, because we didn't get it yet. At least it will be fresh for Christmas. DD2's best friend is Muslim and would like to come over to our house on Christmas. Apparently it's okay with her parents, so it's okay with me. She is a very nice girl and it will be wonderful to have her here.
Well , I'm off to spend time with DS, feed him, etc - then take out the mail, then draw.
Thanks for stopping by and sorry for the art rant.
Darla
Not really together because I got my schedule out of whack. I'm not even sure what time I fell asleep last night, because I fell asleep in the living room in the circa 1978 Barcalounger. Hey, don't laugh, it has 'good bones' as the designers say! Someday I will have it reupholstered, and who will be laughing then! It is hard to find a wingback chair that is a recliner. It's pretty neat.
So anyway, I was cold and wrapped up in a blanket just to get warm, and then I was going to do the dishes and do some drawing. Last thing I remembered, I was watching Curb Appeal on HGTV. They were turning a gray house (one that was last updated in 1954) into a Swiss cottage look. I think I stayed with them until they got it completed, but next thing I knew, it was 1:30 am and Debbie Travis' Painted House was on. As I trudged to bed, I realized I would have to do my artwork today, while DS naps. I'm listening to him complain in his crib now - perhaps there won't be a nap this morning. At least I was able to get the kitchen cleaned up this morning, and the dishes done, while DS was in his high chair. If he's not restrained like Hannibal Lecter, then he wants to 'help,' which is great, if you have all day! But time is a priority these days. I definitely want him to learn and to want to help though. He was so cute in his high chair this morning, he did some coloring. I drew some squares and circles on the paper, and he tried to fill them in. Did a pretty good job of it, too.
I am almost done with AH's family portrait. Her son is giving me fits. Ok, not the real fits, there hasn't been any foaming at the mouth or anything like that, but I am looking at his picture right side up, sideways, and upside down to get his likeness. I am almost there. It would probably be okay with AH at this point, but I have a vision in my mind, and it's not quite there yet. I will work on it some more today. i will also look at the artwork in a mirror. That usually helps me pick out things that need adjusting. Then I will start on SW's portrait. It will be quick and easy. It's just a one subject portrait. The multiple subject portraits, and the ones that require composition of several people from individual photos take the most time, naturally.
If I could be a slapdash artist and just do art quickly to make a buck, I would certainly be more profitable, but I sure couldn't live with myself if I did that. When I see the designers on HGTV and they are picking out a painting to put in a room, all they care about is the size, style and the colors - will it match the room? Many of the art pieces they use seem hideous to me, yet they pay hundreds of dollars for them. I guess I can slap some paint on some canvasses this summer in my garage and sell them to designers. The art will be meaningless and emotion-less. Kind of empty if you ask me. Is that the art people want now? They don't care about the meaning, they just want something to match?
Thomas Kinkade's artwork is now on Glade Air Freshener candles.
Can you guess that I am sort of down on the state of the art world? I realized yesterday that as an artist, I am in a gray area - as a pencil artist, I'm not as respected as 'painters' who do things the old school way, but I don't fit in with the modernists either, because my work is very traditional. So I sit here on my fence in blog world and probably think too much. How would my artwork look on Glade candles anyway? Um, nahhhh.
I'm okay with Thomas Kinkade's art being on those air fresheners - but if John Singer Sargent's art gets merchandised that way, I will definitely get upset. Sargent is one of my all-time art heroes. Oh my, I have an art hero. How nerdy could I be?
On to other things, The girls are very excited because we may have some snow flurries this weekend (we live near Atlanta). The ground is super cold, so I'm hoping if it shows, it will stay awhile. DH has Monday through Christmas Eve off work. It' s going to be very fun. We'll get our Christmas tree tomorrow night, because we didn't get it yet. At least it will be fresh for Christmas. DD2's best friend is Muslim and would like to come over to our house on Christmas. Apparently it's okay with her parents, so it's okay with me. She is a very nice girl and it will be wonderful to have her here.
Well , I'm off to spend time with DS, feed him, etc - then take out the mail, then draw.
Thanks for stopping by and sorry for the art rant.
Darla
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
|
Your Dominant Intelligence is Spatial Intelligence |
 You've got a good sense of space and how the world around you looks. You can close your eyes and "see" images. You have innate artistic talent. An eye for color and shapes, you're also a natural designer. Since you think in pictures, visual aids and demonstartions help you learn best. You would make a good navigator, sculptor, visual artist, inventor, architect, interior designer, or engineer. |
I plan to finish up AH's portrait of her family today. I am really liking how it's coming out. Need to work more on her husband, (just a bit), then her daughter, and then her son. I am working on this artwork in a clockwise pattern - which is the best to avoid smudging. I have many more to do, but I am trying to stay focused on JUST what needs to be done for Christmas. I can sometimes get overwhelmed by the wait list, and I tell myself that I have to be like a horse with blinders on, and just focus on what's right ahead of me - for now. I am going to be doing some age regression portraits for an adoption group, and that is exciting but there will be a lot of them.
Seems like I have a lot more to say, but I am too ccccold right now. I'm off for some breakfast and to do some drawing while listening to Christmas music.
As always, I appreciate you dropping by!
Darla
Pencil Portrait Art and Illustration
http://darladixon.com
Seems like I have a lot more to say, but I am too ccccold right now. I'm off for some breakfast and to do some drawing while listening to Christmas music.
As always, I appreciate you dropping by!
Darla
Pencil Portrait Art and Illustration
http://darladixon.com
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
You're the rennaisance artist. True genuis of your
time. You really are ahead of your
generation... A solid rock of a writer and
artist all around. Very eloquent in all that
you do...
What type of artist are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
Monday, December 13, 2004
Proof that I am indeed a Domestic Engineer.
There is a downside to trying to clean. Aside from the normal downside of it being work, here is what I just discovered today. As you may know if you're stalking me via my blog, I have 'vacuum the bedroom' on my to-do list for today.
I needed to vacuum behind the dresser. Not only are there the normal dustbunnies etc there, but one of the kids dropped a whole deck of playing cards (52 pickup, anyone?) behind there. I tried using the vacuum cleaner attachment to pick up the cards. It was working great, once I adjusted the suction so the vacuum cleaner wouldn't be so intense about everything...
....until it got hold of a clear comic book bag. Whooompzzz! A very cool sound, actually - better than a lot of stuff I hear on the radio. But argh, too late, it was already in there. Stuck in the hose. Waaaay stuck in the hose. The hose doesn't detach.
Well I have a household hint for this that even Heloise never thought of. I took my FlyLady feather duster and put packing tape on the end of it (the wood handle) and put the tape on so it would be sticky at the end. After using the flashlight to identify the comic book bag in the hose, I carefully eased it down the hose until it hit the bag. I then wiggled it around to get it stuck pretty well.
It worked amazingly well and all is right with the world again.
I think I can just forget about filling out that Bissell warranty card.
There is a downside to trying to clean. Aside from the normal downside of it being work, here is what I just discovered today. As you may know if you're stalking me via my blog, I have 'vacuum the bedroom' on my to-do list for today.
I needed to vacuum behind the dresser. Not only are there the normal dustbunnies etc there, but one of the kids dropped a whole deck of playing cards (52 pickup, anyone?) behind there. I tried using the vacuum cleaner attachment to pick up the cards. It was working great, once I adjusted the suction so the vacuum cleaner wouldn't be so intense about everything...
....until it got hold of a clear comic book bag. Whooompzzz! A very cool sound, actually - better than a lot of stuff I hear on the radio. But argh, too late, it was already in there. Stuck in the hose. Waaaay stuck in the hose. The hose doesn't detach.
Well I have a household hint for this that even Heloise never thought of. I took my FlyLady feather duster and put packing tape on the end of it (the wood handle) and put the tape on so it would be sticky at the end. After using the flashlight to identify the comic book bag in the hose, I carefully eased it down the hose until it hit the bag. I then wiggled it around to get it stuck pretty well.
It worked amazingly well and all is right with the world again.
I think I can just forget about filling out that Bissell warranty card.
Here is today's to-do list, yes I know, pretty boring for you, the reader (sorry), but it will help me be organized to do this (and I need all the help I can get!) Who knows, might help me in an IRS Audit, to show I actually work. hahah
For Work
1 email JC (done) ; 1b: email contest winner C. Ingram(done)
2 Finish AC's portrait
3 email new customer
4 Work on AH's family portrait
5 Mail checks & Artwork
6 & 7 whenever - figure out how the digital camera works (help); figure out how the fax machine works (help)
I might leave 6 and 7 to sometime whenever...I am feeling non-techy and non-coping today. My father in law gave me the fax machine, it's a used one, but appreciated nontheless, and he even gave me the instruction booket. I have of course, used a fax machine before, but every one of 'em is different so I just need to play with it a bit. Maybe hooking it up would be a good start. LOL. I did plug it in, but not the phone jack part.
For Home
laundry (ongoing, hey I have 3 kids, laundry is my LIFE now)
Make the bed so there's a clean place to throw all the laundry!
vacuum bedroom (done, with casualties - see post above)
(have to do while DS is napping later this afternoon, he is so fascinated by the vacuum cleaner)...note to moms, children have gotten 3rd degree burns from upright vacuum cleaners tipping - the brush bars/friction/speed causes it - ever since I read that in Good Housekeeping magazine, I avoid vacuuming when the toddler's around, or I make sure he's in playpen or high chair.
I would love to get back on my FlyLady kick again...I will in January I guess, but for now, all I can do is tread water around here.
Thanks for stopping by, we'll see how I do today.
Darla
For Work
1 email JC (done) ; 1b: email contest winner C. Ingram(done)
2 Finish AC's portrait
3 email new customer
4 Work on AH's family portrait
5 Mail checks & Artwork
6 & 7 whenever - figure out how the digital camera works (help); figure out how the fax machine works (help)
I might leave 6 and 7 to sometime whenever...I am feeling non-techy and non-coping today. My father in law gave me the fax machine, it's a used one, but appreciated nontheless, and he even gave me the instruction booket. I have of course, used a fax machine before, but every one of 'em is different so I just need to play with it a bit. Maybe hooking it up would be a good start. LOL. I did plug it in, but not the phone jack part.
For Home
laundry (ongoing, hey I have 3 kids, laundry is my LIFE now)
Make the bed so there's a clean place to throw all the laundry!
vacuum bedroom (done, with casualties - see post above)
(have to do while DS is napping later this afternoon, he is so fascinated by the vacuum cleaner)...note to moms, children have gotten 3rd degree burns from upright vacuum cleaners tipping - the brush bars/friction/speed causes it - ever since I read that in Good Housekeeping magazine, I avoid vacuuming when the toddler's around, or I make sure he's in playpen or high chair.
I would love to get back on my FlyLady kick again...I will in January I guess, but for now, all I can do is tread water around here.
Thanks for stopping by, we'll see how I do today.
Darla
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Congratulations to C. Ingram of Raleigh NC for winning this colored pencil artwork. Ms. Ingram has won the original artwork, not a print.
I am now trying to think of a new contest to run, because this has been very fun.
Please continue to check back at my blog or site for more promotions.
Posted by Hello
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
This post isn't going to be about art. I should probably rename this blog: Stuff From My Brain, because that's all it basically is, and there will be some art thrown in too somewhere...and now, on to the show.
Last night, the City of Snellville GA had the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Briscoe Park. Ah yes! I know! Now that you have seen the pictures, you want to live here too! Snellville - our motto is "Snellville, where everybody's somebody." I always like to make an Orwellian version of that: "where everybody's somebody, but some are more somebody than others." Of course that's more from Animal Farm
than 1984 , but now I've really gotten off topic!
The main reason I brought it up is because my DD2 sang in the lower-school chorus.
I would really like to link the school here, but there are unfortunately weirdoes in the world, and I'd really rather they didn't know where my daughter goes to school. I'm sure you understand :) The school has a really nice website, so it's a shame I can't share it.
Anyhoo, what a windy and cold night it was! (Hey, that's like Snoopy, typing on top of the doghouse: "It was a dark and stormy night.") I sat on a cold, wet chair. The two tissues I had could only absorb so much water.
The lower school chorus did great. Snellville Middle School was there too, but they were on the other side of the stage so I couldn't hear them as well. All those proud parents with their cameras under umbrellas. It warms my heart to see so many proud parents. The Snellville Keenager's Club (a senior citizen group) hosted the whole thing. A lot of work, and they did a great job, refreshments of punch and cookies provided by Bill Rhodes Bakery.
Santa Claus was there - he arrived in a white carriage, drawn by a white horse - with police escort. As I saw the blue light, I wondered if Santa had gotten busted again for breaking employment and immigration laws with the Elves again. Those Elf Unions mean what they say, even though everything they say is in those high pitched Elf voices.
So DD2, her friend Jamilla and I had a fun time there. Justin Webb sang "I'll be Home for Christmas," Rachel Parker sang "Silent Night" beautifully, and Mayor of Snellville, Jerry Oberholtzer did the countdown for the tree lighting. Amazing that Snellville has only 15,000 residents, and yet we have such talented people here (don't forget Diana DeGarmo of American Idol fame is from Snellville).
And now, the Ad for Snellville is over. I hope you enjoyed reading about our city :)
Next year, the tree lighting will be held in our new downtown City Center. We have vowed to tax everyone as they drive through the city to pay for it (hee hee) .But isn't it pretty? It's just a wee wittle tax, you'll hardly feel it, we promise. So c'mon down and spend your money!
I would also like to take this moment to thank Mayor Oberholtzer for my Occupational Business License.
I didn't vote for you, but now I kind of wish I had, you do seem like a nice guy. Maybe next time, eh?
So no art done last night, I was out in the rain and I still have my cough.
The month of December goes by really fast, but I will get caught up...eventually!
Last night, the City of Snellville GA had the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Briscoe Park. Ah yes! I know! Now that you have seen the pictures, you want to live here too! Snellville - our motto is "Snellville, where everybody's somebody." I always like to make an Orwellian version of that: "where everybody's somebody, but some are more somebody than others." Of course that's more from Animal Farm
than 1984 , but now I've really gotten off topic!
The main reason I brought it up is because my DD2 sang in the lower-school chorus.
I would really like to link the school here, but there are unfortunately weirdoes in the world, and I'd really rather they didn't know where my daughter goes to school. I'm sure you understand :) The school has a really nice website, so it's a shame I can't share it.
Anyhoo, what a windy and cold night it was! (Hey, that's like Snoopy, typing on top of the doghouse: "It was a dark and stormy night.") I sat on a cold, wet chair. The two tissues I had could only absorb so much water.
The lower school chorus did great. Snellville Middle School was there too, but they were on the other side of the stage so I couldn't hear them as well. All those proud parents with their cameras under umbrellas. It warms my heart to see so many proud parents. The Snellville Keenager's Club (a senior citizen group) hosted the whole thing. A lot of work, and they did a great job, refreshments of punch and cookies provided by Bill Rhodes Bakery.
Santa Claus was there - he arrived in a white carriage, drawn by a white horse - with police escort. As I saw the blue light, I wondered if Santa had gotten busted again for breaking employment and immigration laws with the Elves again. Those Elf Unions mean what they say, even though everything they say is in those high pitched Elf voices.
So DD2, her friend Jamilla and I had a fun time there. Justin Webb sang "I'll be Home for Christmas," Rachel Parker sang "Silent Night" beautifully, and Mayor of Snellville, Jerry Oberholtzer did the countdown for the tree lighting. Amazing that Snellville has only 15,000 residents, and yet we have such talented people here (don't forget Diana DeGarmo of American Idol fame is from Snellville).
And now, the Ad for Snellville is over. I hope you enjoyed reading about our city :)
Next year, the tree lighting will be held in our new downtown City Center. We have vowed to tax everyone as they drive through the city to pay for it (hee hee) .But isn't it pretty? It's just a wee wittle tax, you'll hardly feel it, we promise. So c'mon down and spend your money!
I would also like to take this moment to thank Mayor Oberholtzer for my Occupational Business License.
I didn't vote for you, but now I kind of wish I had, you do seem like a nice guy. Maybe next time, eh?
So no art done last night, I was out in the rain and I still have my cough.
The month of December goes by really fast, but I will get caught up...eventually!
Sunday, December 05, 2004
This cracks me up...a duct tape wallet. This is the perfect gift for most men I know, and I have to admit, it's pretty cool. I just wonder what we should patch it with if it gets torn or anything...I guess duct tape. It would never get old.
Duct Tape Wallet
If you have a music fan on your list, these bowls are pretty cool...they are actually made out of old records - so they are 'earth friendly' too! Just don't forget and put them in the microwave - Just a guess, but I bet that would be a bad move.
Record Bowls
Duct Tape Wallet
If you have a music fan on your list, these bowls are pretty cool...they are actually made out of old records - so they are 'earth friendly' too! Just don't forget and put them in the microwave - Just a guess, but I bet that would be a bad move.
Record Bowls
Saturday, December 04, 2004
I am getting over the flu, we are all coughing and sore throats around here...but, we're intrepid and I think today we'll go out and get a tree. Our first 'live' (killed) tree. We have had artificial for a long time but last year we pitched out the raggedy old fake tree. It had that annoying white stuff sprayed on it, and it would get everywhere!
DS hasn't gotten sick because he received the flu shots. He is climbing up on the couch now. He is also pushing buttons on the microwave, so we'll have to move it. So far, he only pushes the 'clear' button, which can be a real pain when you are actually trying to heat anything :)
He likes to hear it go 'beep' over and over.
He is 15 months old. When he needs his diaper changed, I say, 'let's go and change your diaper - c'mon, let's go!' and he will go and lie down and wait on the changing pad. He has also patted his diaper front after he has gone, and he has also gone 'woooooaaahhh' after - so I know he is starting to realize what's going on.
He always goes into the bathroom with me anyway, so I take off his diaper and he'll sit down on his toddler potty too. No pressure, just like a mimicing game.
I give him a little toilet paper to 'wipe' and he wipes his nose with it! He likes to play with the toddler potty because it has a flushing handle and a realistic flushing sound and a little song that plays. (Big thank you to my friend Donna S. for that potty!!!) This Training Rewards Potty Seat by Graco is very similar but lacks the music and flushing noise. Ours does have the detachable soft seat as this one does, which eases transition from the toddler potty to the 'grown up' toilet. I only let him in there to play with the potty if he sits on the potty, so hopefully we will get somewhere with that eventually. Diapers are $15 for a pack, so since he is smart enough, I figure why not encourage it. Any parents out there want potty training advice - I am glad to give it...it is simple. Keep it like a game, they will eventually figure it out. No kid ever went to Kindergarten in diapers, at least none I've ever heard of. Parents approach potty training with trepidation, but it's just a learned skill, just like eating with a spoon is a learned skill. Let them try it and let them learn. I'm not pressuring DS at all to learn, we are just playing. I realize he might be almost 3 yrs old before he totally 'gets' it.
He is eating really good with a spoon, and he can say 'yes' (not that clear, it's more like yeee-ahz'), Mommy, Da-da, and we think he has said DD1 and DD2's names but it's not very clear. One time I could have sworn he said 'outside.' Some days, like today when he is up early, we watch Old Yankee Workshop Classics and I think he is getting to like Norm Abrams. He recognized him today, waved at him and said 'hi.' I told him that that man's name is Norm. He seemed to like him. I don't think he likes the host, Steve, too much. I don't either. haha! Hmmm I don't see Steve on the site, so maybe he isn't with the show anymore. But who couldn't like Norm?
The girls just turned 11 on November 30th. They received money, books, jewelry, toys (pop guns and GameBoy Advance
). They are really growing up!
I have been able to work on artwork a little bit. I keep trying but then the coughing fits start up and I have to lay the artwork aside. Having the flu has decreased the amount of art news I have to share, that's for sure.
Thanks again for stopping by!
Darla
DS hasn't gotten sick because he received the flu shots. He is climbing up on the couch now. He is also pushing buttons on the microwave, so we'll have to move it. So far, he only pushes the 'clear' button, which can be a real pain when you are actually trying to heat anything :)
He likes to hear it go 'beep' over and over.
He is 15 months old. When he needs his diaper changed, I say, 'let's go and change your diaper - c'mon, let's go!' and he will go and lie down and wait on the changing pad. He has also patted his diaper front after he has gone, and he has also gone 'woooooaaahhh' after - so I know he is starting to realize what's going on.
He always goes into the bathroom with me anyway, so I take off his diaper and he'll sit down on his toddler potty too. No pressure, just like a mimicing game.
I give him a little toilet paper to 'wipe' and he wipes his nose with it! He likes to play with the toddler potty because it has a flushing handle and a realistic flushing sound and a little song that plays. (Big thank you to my friend Donna S. for that potty!!!) This Training Rewards Potty Seat by Graco is very similar but lacks the music and flushing noise. Ours does have the detachable soft seat as this one does, which eases transition from the toddler potty to the 'grown up' toilet. I only let him in there to play with the potty if he sits on the potty, so hopefully we will get somewhere with that eventually. Diapers are $15 for a pack, so since he is smart enough, I figure why not encourage it. Any parents out there want potty training advice - I am glad to give it...it is simple. Keep it like a game, they will eventually figure it out. No kid ever went to Kindergarten in diapers, at least none I've ever heard of. Parents approach potty training with trepidation, but it's just a learned skill, just like eating with a spoon is a learned skill. Let them try it and let them learn. I'm not pressuring DS at all to learn, we are just playing. I realize he might be almost 3 yrs old before he totally 'gets' it.
He is eating really good with a spoon, and he can say 'yes' (not that clear, it's more like yeee-ahz'), Mommy, Da-da, and we think he has said DD1 and DD2's names but it's not very clear. One time I could have sworn he said 'outside.' Some days, like today when he is up early, we watch Old Yankee Workshop Classics and I think he is getting to like Norm Abrams. He recognized him today, waved at him and said 'hi.' I told him that that man's name is Norm. He seemed to like him. I don't think he likes the host, Steve, too much. I don't either. haha! Hmmm I don't see Steve on the site, so maybe he isn't with the show anymore. But who couldn't like Norm?
The girls just turned 11 on November 30th. They received money, books, jewelry, toys (pop guns and GameBoy Advance
). They are really growing up!
I have been able to work on artwork a little bit. I keep trying but then the coughing fits start up and I have to lay the artwork aside. Having the flu has decreased the amount of art news I have to share, that's for sure.
Thanks again for stopping by!
Darla
Thursday, December 02, 2004
One of my favorite pet portraits. I just wanted to see it here again. I loved drawing that fur!
Posted by Hello
I am cold. I am sniffling. I am cold. Oh by the way, I am cold. Did I mention I am cold? I am wearing a flannel shirt over a T-shirt (The Al Borland 'Tool Time' look is so 'in' now!)and I am wearing my husband's thick gray Pittsburgh Steelers socks.
(the rest of this message has been deleted because it was just too whiney).
Darla
(the rest of this message has been deleted because it was just too whiney).
Darla
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
My friend Donna W. sent this to me - it is great to send to any mom who is feeling overwrought, it certainly was great for me to read. These last few days of very little quality sleep, trying to take care of the toddler and myself. I don't know who wrote this but I'd like to give him/her credit, so if you know who wrote it, please let me know. :)Darla
The Night before Christmas for MOMs
'Twas was the night before Christmas, when all thru the abode,
only one creature was stirring, and she was cleaning the commode.
The children were finally sleeping, all snug in their beds,
while visions of Nintendo 64 and Barbie, flipped through their heads.
The dad was snoring in front of the TV,
with a half-constructed bicycle on his knee.
So only the mom heard the reindeer hooves clatter,
which made her sigh, "Now what's the matter?"
With toilet bowl brush still clutched in her hand,
she descended the stairs, and saw the old man.
He was covered with ashes and soot, which fell with a shrug.
"Oh great," muttered the mom, "Now I have to clean the rug."
"Ho-ho-ho!" cried Santa, "I'm glad you're awake."
"Your gift was especially difficult to make."
"Thanks, Santa, but all I want is some time alone."
"Exactly!" he chuckled, "I've made you a clone."
"A clone?" she asked, "What good is that?
Run along, Santa, I've no time for chit-chat."
The mother's twin. Same hair, same eyes,
same double chin. "She'll cook, she'll dust, "
she'll mop every mess. You'll relax, take it easy,
watch The Young & the Restless." "Fantastic!" the mom cheered.
"My dream come true! "I'll shop. I'll read., I'll sleep a whole night
through! "
From the room above, the youngest began to fret.
"Mommy?! I scared... and I 'm wet."
The clone replied, "I'm coming, sweetheart."
"Hey," the mom smiled, "She knows her part."
The clone changed the small one, and hummed a tune,
as she bundled the child, in a blanket cocoon.
"You the best mommy ever. " I really love you."
The clone smiled and sighed, "I love you, too."
The mom frowned and said, "Sorry, Santa, no deal. "
That's my child's love, she's trying to steal."
Smiling wisely Santa said, "To me it is clear, "
Only one loving mother, is needed here."
The mom kissed her child, and tucked her into bed.
"Thank you, Santa, " for clearing my head.
I sometimes forget, it won't be very long,
when they'll be too old, for my cradle-song."
The clock on the mantle began to chime.
Santa whispered to the clone, "It works every time."
With the clone by his side Santa said, "Goodnight.
Merry Christmas, Mom, You'll be all right.
The Night before Christmas for MOMs
'Twas was the night before Christmas, when all thru the abode,
only one creature was stirring, and she was cleaning the commode.
The children were finally sleeping, all snug in their beds,
while visions of Nintendo 64 and Barbie, flipped through their heads.
The dad was snoring in front of the TV,
with a half-constructed bicycle on his knee.
So only the mom heard the reindeer hooves clatter,
which made her sigh, "Now what's the matter?"
With toilet bowl brush still clutched in her hand,
she descended the stairs, and saw the old man.
He was covered with ashes and soot, which fell with a shrug.
"Oh great," muttered the mom, "Now I have to clean the rug."
"Ho-ho-ho!" cried Santa, "I'm glad you're awake."
"Your gift was especially difficult to make."
"Thanks, Santa, but all I want is some time alone."
"Exactly!" he chuckled, "I've made you a clone."
"A clone?" she asked, "What good is that?
Run along, Santa, I've no time for chit-chat."
The mother's twin. Same hair, same eyes,
same double chin. "She'll cook, she'll dust, "
she'll mop every mess. You'll relax, take it easy,
watch The Young & the Restless." "Fantastic!" the mom cheered.
"My dream come true! "I'll shop. I'll read., I'll sleep a whole night
through! "
From the room above, the youngest began to fret.
"Mommy?! I scared... and I 'm wet."
The clone replied, "I'm coming, sweetheart."
"Hey," the mom smiled, "She knows her part."
The clone changed the small one, and hummed a tune,
as she bundled the child, in a blanket cocoon.
"You the best mommy ever. " I really love you."
The clone smiled and sighed, "I love you, too."
The mom frowned and said, "Sorry, Santa, no deal. "
That's my child's love, she's trying to steal."
Smiling wisely Santa said, "To me it is clear, "
Only one loving mother, is needed here."
The mom kissed her child, and tucked her into bed.
"Thank you, Santa, " for clearing my head.
I sometimes forget, it won't be very long,
when they'll be too old, for my cradle-song."
The clock on the mantle began to chime.
Santa whispered to the clone, "It works every time."
With the clone by his side Santa said, "Goodnight.
Merry Christmas, Mom, You'll be all right.
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