Let the Prom Drama CONTINUE . . . . . . . .

[horseshowmom]

Man, this girl sounds very high-maintenance. She's not particularly thoughtful either, is she?

DD's DFi has made the comment that she's lucky to have her DFi, because he doesn't know of any other guy who would put up with her attitude and level of maintenance (keeping in mind that they're from the same town, and he's known her for years). I really felt sorry for him when he bought her engagement ring. While I don't know what it cost, I do know that she told DD that it was two or three thousand more than he had meant to spend, so I wonder how much he meant to spend to start with (this guy does not work in a high paying profession either). I'm sure he's making payments on it and will be for awhile (not a good way to start off IMHO).

Sounds like a roommate situation that is getting close to running its course. The jealousy factor can be very hard to deal with. Our DD has had to deal with that in the past (not with her roommate, thankfully) so I empathize. It gets frustrating because there are times when you would like to "brag" a bit about their accomplishments/grades, but you just KNOW that there are so-called "friends" who take it the wrong way and try and cast negative characteristics on your children or on you. So you keep quiet.

You know, I really appreciate your making that particular comment. That is one thing that we (and DD) have had to deal with over the last several years, and it's good to know that we aren't alone. She has accomplished a lot through horseshowing (both riding and non-riding events), but it was all done through hard, hard work (hours spent working in freezing weather or blistering hot weather depending on the time of year). People don't recognize the work, they just want to make negative remarks.

She's been blessed by much more experienced adults assisting her due to her work ethic. Her trainer is a national AQHA director who has a lot of horses/riders that he trains (most of whom live in his barn and are worked daily by him or his staff). DD and her horse were able to go down one day a month (334 miles round trip, DH and I took month about taking off to take her), because we could not afford to have the horse in full time training. We would leave home at 5:30 a.m to get there by 8:30 or so. The trainer would work her and the horse all day (until 6 or 6:30 p.m.) just so they could get the most out of her day that they could because he was so impressed with her work ethic - his words, not mine (believe me, he didn't have to put in those kind of hours if he didn't want to, and he didn't charge any extra than the regular daily rate).

That said, we have also had several very sad occurences of both jealous parents and jealous kids. We had another adult (not related to us in anyway) who got very angry over how some people had behaved toward her and made the comment that DD was the most helpful, humble kid that she had ever seen and that it really burned her how some people behaved. (DD once was in a Queen competition and found out that one of the other contestants had left her saddle pad at home and was about to panic. She went into our trailer and found one that would match the other girl's outfit her for her to borrow. DD wound up winning, and that girl's mother was later heard to make some sarcastic remarks. The same girl who had been so grateful for the pad to borrow. )

All the scholarships and good grades are also something that we mostly don't talk about because, as you said, you know that a lot of people really aren't glad for your child (even though you would be glad for theirs - and I just don't understand that). If DD didn't win a class, she always tried to congratulate the winner (if possible).

By all means, brag here all you want to. We're all happy to celebrate together!

I admit that I know NOTHING about raising horses, or horse racing. They all look like beautiful animals and I like that. But I can see how hard it is on the young horses and the toll it can take on their bodies.

I don't know a lot, but I make a habit to try to learn from those who do (and I know a lot more than I did several years ago - as I joke and say, I have the canceled checks to prove it! )

 

[Sandy V.]

DD's DFi has made the comment that she's lucky to have her DFi, because he doesn't know of any other guy who would put up with her attitude and level of maintenance (keeping in mind that they're from the same town, and he's known her for years). I really felt sorry for him when he bought her engagement ring. While I don't know what it cost, I do know that she told DD that it was two or three thousand more than he had meant to spend, so I wonder how much he meant to spend to start with (this guy does not work in a high paying profession either). I'm sure he's making payments on it and will be for awhile (not a good way to start off IMHO).

Well, we know who wears the pants in that relationship. And always will! I like nice jewelry as much as the next girl, but when DH and I got engaged, he could only afford a small diamond. But we picked it out together, and it was something I loved. Through the years, I would have a few people tell me that I should get a bigger stone. I never wanted one.

Several years ago, DH had a client that owned a jewelry design business/jewelry store. He couldn't afford to pay DH for his legal services, but he offered a ring as a trade. DH accepted, and I got to pick one out. Even then, the stone I liked was just under a carat - it is plenty big and I'm just not into big "rocks" (No offense to anyone who is!! ). So I have a "new" wedding ring that I like, but I still wear my original one from time to time, as I think it's very pretty, even though the diamond is small.

You know, I really appreciate your making that particular comment. That is one thing that we (and DD) have had to deal with over the last several years, and it's good to know that we aren't alone. She has accomplished a lot through horseshowing (both riding and non-riding events), but it was all done through hard, hard work (hours spent working in freezing weather or blistering hot weather depending on the time of year). People don't recognize the work, they just want to make negative remarks.

She's been blessed by much more experienced adults assisting her due to her work ethic. Her trainer is a national AQHA director who has a lot of horses/riders that he trains (most of whom live in his barn and are worked daily by him or his staff). DD and her horse were able to go down one day a month (334 miles round trip, DH and I took month about taking off to take her), because we could not afford to have the horse in full time training. We would leave home at 5:30 a.m to get there by 8:30 or so. The trainer would work her and the horse all day (until 6 or 6:30 p.m.) just so they could get the most out of her day that they could because he was so impressed with her work ethic - his words, not mine (believe me, he didn't have to put in those kind of hours if he didn't want to, and he didn't charge any extra than the regular daily rate).

That said, we have also had several very sad occurences of both jealous parents and jealous kids. We had another adult (not related to us in anyway) who got very angry over how some people had behaved toward her and made the comment that DD was the most helpful, humble kid that she had ever seen and that it really burned her how some people behaved. (DD once was in a Queen competition and found out that one of the other contestants had left her saddle pad at home and was about to panic. She went into our trailer and found one that would match the other girl's outfit her for her to borrow. DD wound up winning, and that girl's mother was later heard to make some sarcastic remarks. The same girl who had been so grateful for the pad to borrow. )

All the scholarships and good grades are also something that we mostly don't talk about because, as you said, you know that a lot of people really aren't glad for your child (even though you would be glad for theirs - and I just don't understand that). If DD didn't win a class, she always tried to congratulate the winner (if possible).

By all means, brag here all you want to. We're all happy to celebrate together!

Your DD sounds like a gem. Too bad for her that the girl's mother was such a shrew.

DD had a poster up in her room that rings so true: "The Harder You Work, The Luckier You Get." I really subscribe to that motto! One of my favorite sayings is "Happy are those who dream dreams and are willing to pay the price to make them come true." A reminder to those malcontents that good fortune usually doesn't fall into someone's lap!! There's usually a considerable amount of effort behind the scenes.

As for the grades, some of our closest friends are the biggest offenders. They call DD a "brainiac" and it's not really meant as a compliment. Sorta like she's one-dimensional, and I know I'm biased, but she ISN'T. Fortunately they have many more positive qualities, so DH and I have learned to say when we go out as a foursome that our kids are doing "fine" in school and give no further detail!!

I don't know a lot, but I make a habit to try to learn from those who do (and I know a lot more than I did several years ago - as I joke and say, I have the canceled checks to prove it! )

I am sure that you do!!! Like I have all of the cancelled checks for sporting gear!!

 

[horseshowmom]

He couldn't afford to pay DH for his legal services, but he offered a ring as a trade. DH accepted, and I got to pick one out. Even then, the stone I liked was just under a carat - it is plenty big and I'm just not into big "rocks" (No offense to anyone who is!! ). So I have a "new" wedding ring that I like, but I still wear my original one from time to time, as I think it's very pretty, even though the diamond is small.

Now, you sound very much like my DD. After quite a bit of searching, she accidentally found the ring she wanted on (are you ready?) Overstock.com. The ring is valued at about $4000, but they paid less than $2000. After it arrived, I advised DFi to have it appraised "just to be sure" (I buy a lot from overstock.com but never had bought jewelry). The appraisor at the jewelry store was very impressed with it, and he got the written appraisal for the insurance coverage. It has a princess cut center stone that's just under a carat too (with the pave settings on the side, it's a carat in weight). She gets compliments on it everywhere she goes (remember when I told you about the female dean commenting on it on the stage when DD was being inducted into Phi Kappa Phi ).

Your DD sounds like a gem. Too bad for her that the girl's mother was such a shrew.

I suspect you may be like us. You just keep your mouth shut and consider the source.

DD had a poster up in her room that rings so true: "The Harder You Work, The Luckier You Get." I really subscribe to that motto! One of my favorite sayings is "Happy are those who dream dreams and are willing to pay the price to make them come true." A reminder to those malcontents that good fortune usually doesn't fall into someone's lap!! There's usually a considerable amount of effort behind the scenes.

That's hilarious - yet another commonality! That was the motto that I used to use when I worked with the 4-H horse club. There's a guy who does horsemanship clinics named Pat Parelli. One of the things that he says is that those who are truly committed know how few are truly committed. There's a lot of truth to that.

As for the grades, some of our closest friends are the biggest offenders. They call DD a "brainiac" and it's not really meant as a compliment. Sorta like she's one-dimensional, and I know I'm biased, but she ISN'T. Fortunately they have many more positive qualities, so DH and I have learned to say when we go out as a foursome that our kids are doing "fine" in school and give no further detail!!

Oh yes, we've had that sort of thing too. Almost like there's something wrong with them because they actually do well. (An example of the roommate that happened recently: They were in class and had gotten a very difficult test back. One of the guys asked DD how she did, and she said okay - leaving it at that as you said. He asked if he could see it, and she gave it to him. He had made a 60 something but was thrilled for DD over how well she had done - DD says he's a really nice guy. RM walked up right after that, and he asked her how she did, and she said okay too. He - not knowing any better - said, "I'll bet you didn't do as well as DD, she made like 130!" Again, he was just joking (test was only 100 points, and DD made in the 90's - don't remember what exactly). RM looked up and said in a somewhat nasty tone, "Well, yeah, of course, they use her tests as the key to grade by."

(Off the subject, but another example of RM and DD: They are supposed to be in each other's wedding [which I did not think was a good idea to start with for several reasons]. DD found very nice dresses that would have been great bridesmaids dresses at Ann Taylor online. They had been about $200 and were on clearance for $75 each. RM told her that it was ridiculous to order them now - this was about 3 weeks ago. Yesterday, DD got an email telling her that RM had found her bridesmaids dresses and to get ready to buy hers - their weddings are a week apart.

DD is seriously considering backing out of RM's wedding. It's a year away, so she's got plenty of time to replace her, but she knows RM will sulk. I've told her [just like I told her to start with] that she cannot afford to be in RM's wedding. The dress is going to be at least $150, and it's being held down on the coast. When you factor in transportation, hotel for 2 to 3 nights in a very ritzy beach community, meals, her part in giving showers and the bacherlorette party the girl wants, it's going to add up to a substantial amount of money and is the weekend before her own wedding. I'm sure DFi will decide that he doesn't want her to go by herself [we aren't going] and will wind up having to pay for another room. Not to mention that RM won't even be at DD's rehearsal because she'll be on her honeymoon. What happens if she doesn't get back in time for the wedding? Not an issue for her, I'm sure, because I'm paying for their dresses and hotel rooms myself.)

I am sure that you do!!! Like I have all of the cancelled checks for sporting gear!!

EXACTLY! But you know what, I wouldn't trade a minute of it. All of that is what has gone into helping make them who they are, and I enjoyed it myself along the way (because most of it was great with only a few of those nasty episodes! ). DD learned a lot about sportsmanship (because sometimes she needed a lesson herself! and dealing with problems and disappointment when things don't go your way (like when your horse injures himself the night before you're leaving for the biggest show of the year and has to have his forehead sewn up and has a swollen eye leaving him in no shape to compete after weeks of getting ready). All of it helps them grow up to be a resonsible adult. Yay!

 

[Sandy V.]

Now, you sound very much like my DD. After quite a bit of searching, she accidentally found the ring she wanted on (are you ready?) Overstock.com. The ring is valued at about $4000, but they paid less than $2000. After it arrived, I advised DFi to have it appraised "just to be sure" (I buy a lot from overstock.com but never had bought jewelry). The appraisor at the jewelry store was very impressed with it, and he got the written appraisal for the insurance coverage. It has a princess cut center stone that's just under a carat too (with the pave settings on the side, it's a carat in weight). She gets compliments on it everywhere she goes (remember when I told you about the female dean commenting on it on the stage when DD was being inducted into Phi Kappa Phi ).

It sounds beautiful and exactly my style!

That's hilarious - yet another commonality! That was the motto that I used to use when I worked with the 4-H horse club. There's a guy who does horsemanship clinics named Pat Parelli. One of the things that he says is that those who are truly committed know how few are truly committed. There's a lot of truth to that.

I always knew I liked you!! As a former Nebraska farm kid and 10-year 4-H member, we do have a lot in common.

Oh yes, we've had that sort of thing too. Almost like there's something wrong with them because they actually do well. (An example of the roommate that happened recently: They were in class and had gotten a very difficult test back. One of the guys asked DD how she did, and she said okay - leaving it at that as you said. He asked if he could see it, and she gave it to him. He had made a 60 something but was thrilled for DD over how well she had done - DD says he's a really nice guy. RM walked up right after that, and he asked her how she did, and she said okay too. He - not knowing any better - said, "I'll bet you didn't do as well as DD, she made like 130!" Again, he was just joking (test was only 100 points, and DD made in the 90's - don't remember what exactly). RM looked up and said in a somewhat nasty tone, "Well, yeah, of course, they use her tests as the key to grade by."

Now that was snarky!!! Jealousy does not become the young woman!!

(Off the subject, but another example of RM and DD: They are supposed to be in each other's wedding [which I did not think was a good idea to start with for several reasons]. DD found very nice dresses that would have been great bridesmaids dresses at Ann Taylor online. They had been about $200 and were on clearance for $75 each. RM told her that it was ridiculous to order them now - this was about 3 weeks ago. Yesterday, DD got an email telling her that RM had found her bridesmaids dresses and to get ready to buy hers - their weddings are a week apart.

DD is seriously considering backing out of RM's wedding. It's a year away, so she's got plenty of time to replace her, but she knows RM will sulk. I've told her [just like I told her to start with] that she cannot afford to be in RM's wedding. The dress is going to be at least $150, and it's being held down on the coast. When you factor in transportation, hotel for 2 to 3 nights in a very ritzy beach community, meals, her part in giving showers and the bacherlorette party the girl wants, it's going to add up to a substantial amount of money and is the weekend before her own wedding. I'm sure DFi will decide that he doesn't want her to go by herself [we aren't going] and will wind up having to pay for another room. Not to mention that RM won't even be at DD's rehearsal because she'll be on her honeymoon. What happens if she doesn't get back in time for the wedding? Not an issue for her, I'm sure, because I'm paying for their dresses and hotel rooms myself.)

A case of "Do as I say; not as I do".

I think that your DD and her fiance/husband should find a way to extend their honeymoon for a day or two so they "can't" make it back for the wedding!! This girl sounds like a real piece of work!!! I would definitely considering backing out and doing it as soon as possible. The friendship sounds a little strained anyhow.

EXACTLY! But you know what, I wouldn't trade a minute of it. All of that is what has gone into helping make them who they are, and I enjoyed it myself along the way (because most of it was great with only a few of those nasty episodes! ). DD learned a lot about sportsmanship (because sometimes she needed a lesson herself! and dealing with problems and disappointment when things don't go your way (like when your horse injures himself the night before you're leaving for the biggest show of the year and has to have his forehead sewn up and has a swollen eye leaving him in no shape to compete after weeks of getting ready). All of it helps them grow up to be a resonsible adult. Yay!

You are exactly right. After all, what do we have if we don't have our memories and the stories we can tell!!

 

[horseshowmom]

A case of "Do as I say; not as I do".

I think it was also a case of her not wanting DD to make her selection first.

I think that your DD and her fiance/husband should find a way to extend their honeymoon for a day or two so they "can't" make it back for the wedding!! This girl sounds like a real piece of work!!! I would definitely considering backing out and doing it as soon as possible. The friendship sounds a little strained anyhow.

I didn't describe it well. RM is getting married first and won't be back in time for DD's rehearsal dinner. I tried to tell DD that along with not being able to afford all of it, she didn't need to be out of town the weekend before her own wedding (too much stuff that comes up and needs done). I think this is one of the times that she's regretting not listening to what I told her.

You are exactly right. After all, what do we have if we don't have our memories and the stories we can tell!!

BTW, I told DH yesterday about the deal you got with the cars. He was impressed! If we could do without our truck (which we can't - have to have it to pull the trailer, even if we're not showing, horses get sick sometimes), we would be very tempted to look into other options. My station wagon is fine for around here (only driven back and forth to work which is about 6 miles one way), but we always go in the truck if we go anywhere very far (the car makes my back hurt). I would probably look into a small SUV, I think (due to that back issue).

 

[Sandy V.]

I think it was also a case of her not wanting DD to make her selection first.

Gamesmanship!!!!

I didn't describe it well. RM is getting married first and won't be back in time for DD's rehearsal dinner. I tried to tell DD that along with not being able to afford all of it, she didn't need to be out of town the weekend before her own wedding (too much stuff that comes up and needs done). I think this is one of the times that she's regretting not listening to what I told her.

Oh, sorry I misunderstood. Well, anyhow, I hope it all works out. I agree that your DD will have MORE THAN ENOUGH to do for her own wedding!!! If she can back out now, it might be good. But those kids, they just don't think Mom and Dad have a brain at times, do they?

BTW, I told DH yesterday about the deal you got with the cars. He was impressed! If we could do without our truck (which we can't - have to have it to pull the trailer, even if we're not showing, horses get sick sometimes), we would be very tempted to look into other options. My station wagon is fine for around here (only driven back and forth to work which is about 6 miles one way), but we always go in the truck if we go anywhere very far (the car makes my back hurt). I would probably look into a small SUV, I think (due to that back issue).

You have to know us - my DH loves cars!!! And gets tired of them very soon. When he was in his late 30's/early 40's and we were starting to see some men we knew go into "mid-life-crisis", I told him, "You can do cars, but you CAN'T do women." So that's his thing. If I were single, I would definitely be hanging on to them longer, but this is his "thing" so I go along with it. If it's his worst vice (and thankfully it is), then we're okay.

The Mercedes was something DH thought he wanted and would really like, but after he got it, he wasn't nearly as impressed. Then, with the price of gas going up, we saw the Volvo C30 and really liked it. It's not fancy at all, but it has a great little engine and with the front-wheel drive, it will get us everywhere we need to go with better gas mileage. Plus, my DH loves "the art of the deal" and since he negotiates for a living, it's truly his forte. I just sit back and watch him go to work!!

We have a SUV; you really can't be without one here at 7200 feet. We are just south of Monument Hill, which is where many of the large Colorado Front-Range storms dump their highest amounts of snow. (The Front Range is the large strip of metropolitan areas just east of the Rocky Mountains - from north to south: Fort Collins, Denver, Castle Rock, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo.) We have a hitch on it and it gets used a lot hauling stuff. We probably wouldn't have one if we lived "in town". But with our snowfall, you really need the ground clearance on some blizzard days.

So, how is your horse?

 

[mamacatnv]

Dang, did you both get your desks cleared off or what

I was not in the office yesterday. There is no way I can play catch up with your posts individually and get some work done......so in summary, here goes!


Sandy:
Sounds like you had a really nice weekend.
I got all excited reading the update on your DS's game! I so get that feeling and it is one of those things I will really miss with being done with kids sports. Good luck on the next round in Ft. Collins! What a terrific way to continue the season and hey, brag away.

I love what you did with the cars! Hope things work out for DS and a summer job. I know my DS is set with his Life Guarding but his GF is having a heck of a time and that child really needs a job. I am more worried about him finding a PT while in college job.

How is the fish tank coming along?

Sheila:
I continue to cross my fingers that the horse gets better, sounds painful to me I can't imagine what the horse must be going thru. I didn't see the incident at the derby until last night on the evening news and they had someone speaking who sited a lot of the same things as your DD. The story also discussed how the big money is no longer in racing it is in breeding and thus the animals are being treated like they are expendable, very sad.

I see your point about the RM situation, that is a sticky one and sounds like the RM is not being reasonable. Does your DD plan to live with her next fall?

Nibbles seems to be hanging in there, still has a large lump but that does not seem to hinder her activity so we are leaving it alone.

Deckster is definately a girl, lil hussy she has been trying to entice our 2 neutered males the past week or so. She is howling up a storm and we have had no luck trapping her to take her in and get her fixed. I have started coercing her into the garage at night so we can sleep in peace.

Rings:
I'm with you guys on this one. I do not have a center diamond, I have a 3/4 or so carat gem quality(has something to do with the color) sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds. I had a good friend who was a jeweler and he made DH's and I's sets - I still have the original setting. Every once in awhile I look at bigger, fancier sapphires, but I love mine. I love what it means and why I have it. For our 15th anniv. DH got me an anniversary band.

I have mixed feelings on what one should spend. On one hand I do not think a young couple needs to start off with heavy debt. On the other hand I do susbscribe to the idea that the ring on the finger should be substantial enough that when he is being a jerk as they all can be that she can look at the ring, and say to herself "ok, I'll get over it"

Bragging/wedding:
I'm thinking we may need to rename this thread the Dueling Weddings, someone better hire a banjo player, this could get really interesting

I think at this point, they should mutually agree that due to the closeness of their respective events, that taking on the duties of a bridesmaid is more than either one can handle at this point and agree to attend, but not be an attendant.

I so get what you guys are talking about. We all know that parent, the one who never shuts up about what a genius their kid is and has to 1 up everything your kid does regarless of whether you brought it up or not. I think that stinks. I think it shows insecurity and the inability to be realistic. Plus, it is usually the parent of an "average" kid who is looking to ride someones coat tails.

DS's best friend is a very focused "achiever" I tell him he is a "suck up" but I mean it in the most loving way Funny, his Mom is always defending my DS when I am on his back about his laziness. I give my DS crap all the time and lots of cudo's to the best friend. I'm not afraid to tell my kids they are being lazy and at the same time I do not praise them for getting up in the morning. (Okay, maybe a little with DD if there is no drama ) But, I have over the years seen lots of people take stabs at Best Friend. He is not any smarter than the rest of the kids, he just is very focused and works hard. He needs to be patted on the back, not slammed for that. So, I always make sure I point it out and pat him on the back, especially when DS is within earshot!

Gas:
Oh, don't get me started! Has anyone bought a gallon of milk or a dozen eggs lately? Thankfully, we have 2 small Honda's (Civic & Accord) and the Honda mini van. Nothing huge and gas guzzling like so many people we know. This is big 4 wheel drive country (stupid and unwarranted IMO, front wheel drive works just fine) but then again I am pretty frugal. DH and I will take his Civic when running errands and park the van as much as possible. The economy here is more dismal than I have seen it in the 15 years we have been here. We were having such a housing boom and now we have housing developments that are just sitting uncompleted. There are 2 foreclosures on my block and my house is pretty much worth what we paid for it 11 years ago. Meanwhile, we have a big population of Tradesman due to all the construction that was going on who cannot find work. It is really scary. My DH works in the gaming industry, on the manufacturing side which is fairly recession proof and my company while slowing with homebuilders has enough commercial work to keep us busy for awhile. My BFF and her DH both work in the car business, the high end (Porsche, BMW, Mercedes and exotics)he is a GM and she is in sales. They have seen sales fall thru the roof and I worry about them. Sandy, probably the kind of place your DH likes, they do alot of consignment and then spend a lot of time looking for cars for customers and then shipping them to where ever the customer is. I guess they have a pretty broad market base and get a lot of interest off their website. I love your "you can do cars, just not women" classic Where is the tag fairy, that one is pretty worthy.

My boss and I were discussing the state of affairs the other day. We are actually looking to increase wages because we know that our employees are hurting just with gas & groceries.

Graduation:
Is one month away I got the wallet pictures from the photographer on Sunday when we met for some family portraits. I am working on my announcements list and now need to order portraits.
We along with the BFF's parents who we are tight with will be hosting a BBQ following graudation for basically all the family and our close friends. None of us have local family, so we thought we would have a BBQ for both families. They have 10 acres and lots of room, most of our friends are mutual and then add in the family elements. between the 2 families there are about 70 on the guest list. I was in charge of ordering all the rentals: couple of different sized tables along with linens, cloth napkins, chafing dishes and 40 chairs to spread around the various areas around the house. Still working on the menu and decided to order a cake with the boys's Kindergarten grad pictures and their Sr. pictures side by side then in the middle, when the boys were 6th or 7th grade we did a baseball "buddy" picture of the 2 of them, we are going to have that picture be put in the middle of the cake.

Well, I had better get back to work.
Have a great day

 

[Sandy V.]

Dang, did you both get your desks cleared off or what

I need to play some catch up, so I got inspired. The weekend was so good I had to spill my guts!!!

Sandy:
Sounds like you had a really nice weekend.
I got all excited reading the update on your DS's game! I so get that feeling and it is one of those things I will really miss with being done with kids sports. Good luck on the next round in Ft. Collins! What a terrific way to continue the season and hey, brag away.

I love what you did with the cars! Hope things work out for DS and a summer job. I know my DS is set with his Life Guarding but his GF is having a heck of a time and that child really needs a job. I am more worried about him finding a PT while in college job.

How is the fish tank coming along?

Fishies are fine. We are letting everything "settle in" for a couple of weeks before we decide to introduce some new creatures.

Thanks for the well-wishes on the lacrosse. I am looking forward to tomorrow's game very much!!!

Rings:
I'm with you guys on this one. I do not have a center diamond, I have a 3/4 or so carat gem quality(has something to do with the color) sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds. I had a good friend who was a jeweler and he made DH's and I's sets - I still have the original setting. Every once in awhile I look at bigger, fancier sapphires, but I love mine. I love what it means and why I have it. For our 15th anniv. DH got me an anniversary band.

I have mixed feelings on what one should spend. On one hand I do not think a young couple needs to start off with heavy debt. On the other hand I do susbscribe to the idea that the ring on the finger should be substantial enough that when he is being a jerk as they all can be that she can look at the ring, and say to herself "ok, I'll get over it"

Good logic!!!

Bragging/wedding:
I'm thinking we may need to rename this thread the Dueling Weddings, someone better hire a banjo player, this could get really interesting

I think at this point, they should mutually agree that due to the closeness of their respective events, that taking on the duties of a bridesmaid is more than either one can handle at this point and agree to attend, but not be an attendant.

That makes a lot of sense to me as well. Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that the roommate will be as mature as WE are!!

Gas:
Oh, don't get me started! Has anyone bought a gallon of milk or a dozen eggs lately? Thankfully, we have 2 small Honda's (Civic & Accord) and the Honda mini van. Nothing huge and gas guzzling like so many people we know. This is big 4 wheel drive country (stupid and unwarranted IMO, front wheel drive works just fine) but then again I am pretty frugal. DH and I will take his Civic when running errands and park the van as much as possible. The economy here is more dismal than I have seen it in the 15 years we have been here. We were having such a housing boom and now we have housing developments that are just sitting uncompleted. There are 2 foreclosures on my block and my house is pretty much worth what we paid for it 11 years ago. Meanwhile, we have a big population of Tradesman due to all the construction that was going on who cannot find work. It is really scary. My DH works in the gaming industry, on the manufacturing side which is fairly recession proof and my company while slowing with homebuilders has enough commercial work to keep us busy for awhile. My BFF and her DH both work in the car business, the high end (Porsche, BMW, Mercedes and exotics)he is a GM and she is in sales. They have seen sales fall thru the roof and I worry about them. Sandy, probably the kind of place your DH likes, they do alot of consignment and then spend a lot of time looking for cars for customers and then shipping them to where ever the customer is. I guess they have a pretty broad market base and get a lot of interest off their website. I love your "you can do cars, just not women" classic Where is the tag fairy, that one is pretty worthy.

My boss and I were discussing the state of affairs the other day. We are actually looking to increase wages because we know that our employees are hurting just with gas & groceries.

You've got a good car situation there. Glad you like my "you can't DO women" line.

Graduation:
Is one month away I got the wallet pictures from the photographer on Sunday when we met for some family portraits. I am working on my announcements list and now need to order portraits.
We along with the BFF's parents who we are tight with will be hosting a BBQ following graudation for basically all the family and our close friends. None of us have local family, so we thought we would have a BBQ for both families. They have 10 acres and lots of room, most of our friends are mutual and then add in the family elements. between the 2 families there are about 70 on the guest list. I was in charge of ordering all the rentals: couple of different sized tables along with linens, cloth napkins, chafing dishes and 40 chairs to spread around the various areas around the house. Still working on the menu and decided to order a cake with the boys's Kindergarten grad pictures and their Sr. pictures side by side then in the middle, when the boys were 6th or 7th grade we did a baseball "buddy" picture of the 2 of them, we are going to have that picture be put in the middle of the cake.

Well, I had better get back to work.
Have a great day

You've got all the graduation party stuff figured out - good for you!!! DS just wants to graduate and GET OUT of there!!!

I'd better get back to work as well, but glad to hear from you again!!

 

[mamacatnv]

I need to play some catch up, so I got inspired. The weekend was so good I had to spill my guts!!! Thanks for the well-wishes on the lacrosse. I am looking forward to tomorrow's game very much!!!

I'm so glad you did and I can't wait to hear the outcome, hope the weather cooperates

Fishies are fine. We are letting everything "settle in" for a couple of weeks before we decide to introduce some new creatures.

will it be more fish or the coral type creatures - Are there different terms for the swimming fish and the more "fixed" creatures in a tank?

Good logic!!!

Just one of the little tricks that has kept us married for 20 years and DH still walking upright on the planet

That makes a lot of sense to me as well. Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that the roommate will be as mature as WE are!!

True, the roommate has a ways to go on the maturity scale. Hope her future DH knows what he is getting Sounds like it might be time for 2 Mothers to have a chat and set the girls straight. Realistically, being in a wedding the weekend before or after your own is a crazy idea.

Glad you like my "you can't DO women" line.

Soooo, whose crisis was the Harley???

You've got all the graduation party stuff figured out - good for you!!! DS just wants to graduate and GET OUT of there!!!

So does DS, he can't wait and is doing the 30 day dance! We just have so many family members coming from out of town since none of them live here.

Oh I almost forgot! A new girl?????? Any details???????

 

[Sandy V.]

I'm so glad you did and I can't wait to hear the outcome, hope the weather cooperates

I hope it does too!!

will it be more fish or the coral type creatures - Are there different terms for the swimming fish and the more "fixed" creatures in a tank?

Both. The fish are called "fish" and "invertebrates" (like the shrimp, snails, crabs, and starfish) and the stationary creatures are called "coral". There are both hard and soft corals.

Just one of the little tricks that has kept us married for 20 years and DH still walking upright on the planet

Always a desired outcome. They can make us mad at times, though. I do have some of the same concerns you posted earlier about how much conversation is going to go on between DH and me when DS leaves in August - stay tuned!!!

True, the roommate has a ways to go on the maturity scale. Hope her future DH knows what he is getting Sounds like it might be time for 2 Mothers to have a chat and set the girls straight. Realistically, being in a wedding the weekend before or after your own is a crazy idea.

I agree; it just adds one more element of stress that's not necessarily needed.

Soooo, whose crisis was the Harley???

Actually, it was probably more MY idea than his. But he certainly didn't protest!!

So does DS, he can't wait and is doing the 30 day dance! We just have so many family members coming from out of town since none of them live here.

Oh I almost forgot! A new girl?????? Any details???????

Might be a false alarm, from what I heard last night. Sigh . . . I am very much out of the loop on this one!!

 

[horseshowmom]

You have to know us - my DH loves cars!!! And gets tired of them very soon. When he was in his late 30's/early 40's and we were starting to see some men we knew go into "mid-life-crisis", I told him, "You can do cars, but you CAN'T do women." So that's his thing. If I were single, I would definitely be hanging on to them longer, but this is his "thing" so I go along with it. If it's his worst vice (and thankfully it is), then we're okay.

Very wise woman, aren't you!

So, how is your horse?

I talked to DD a little while ago, and she thinks he may be a little better. I will say that he's more cheerful. He's been hanging his head in the corner of his stall, but last night, he did hang his head over the front and greet us when we went to the barn. DD said this morning he came out of his stall and walked to the gate on the back of the barn to visit with his buddy Cisco (the one DFi's mother gave her for Christmas). She said that he walked pretty fair as long as he walked straight but was limping pretty bad when he turned around to come back to his stall. We're still hoping for the best.

Just got off the phone with DFi's mom. She called to check on the horse too. She just got through (a few months ago) putting between $3000 and $4000 into one of hers between her regular vet and the equine specialist (DD says he's her third "son" ) and would you believe that they never did figure out completely what was actually wrong with him? He is doing better now, but his face is still somewhat paralyzed. Fortunately, he's able to eat and get around okay though, so he's at least happy and comfortable.

Dang, did you both get your desks cleared off or what

Honestly, I've been so worried about this horse that I'm having trouble concentrating, and a lot of what I do has to be done exactly right or the auditors will come looking for me eventually. So, I haven't worked as hard as I should have (don't worry, I'll have to pay for it by staying late before too long ).

I know my DS is set with his Life Guarding but his GF is having a heck of a time and that child really needs a job. I am more worried about him finding a PT while in college job.

Any chance of her getting lifeguard certification? Also, if the shortage is anything there like it is here, he might could guard at the indoor pool at the college (assuming they have one).

Sheila:
I see your point about the RM situation, that is a sticky one and sounds like the RM is not being reasonable. Does your DD plan to live with her next fall?

The fact that family is part of the equation does NOT make it any easier (does it ever? ).

Right now, DD wouldn't back out because it's really too short of notice for RM to get anybody else (everybody is pretty much matched up). While she would be happy to live in a one BR, she wouldn't do that to RM. Also, when they have to go to Jackson, it would be better if they could live together. I would rather she didn't live alone (and she doesn't want to either), and most of the people that are living together now will move down there together too. I really think they are stuck with each other!

Nibbles seems to be hanging in there, still has a large lump but that does not seem to hinder her activity so we are leaving it alone.

So far, so good!

Deckster is definately a girl, lil hussy she has been trying to entice our 2 neutered males the past week or so. She is howling up a storm and we have had no luck trapping her to take her in and get her fixed. I have started coercing her into the garage at night so we can sleep in peace.

Good luck!

Rings:
I'm with you guys on this one. I do not have a center diamond, I have a 3/4 or so carat gem quality(has something to do with the color) sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds. I had a good friend who was a jeweler and he made DH's and I's sets - I still have the original setting. Every once in awhile I look at bigger, fancier sapphires, but I love mine. I love what it means and why I have it. For our 15th anniv. DH got me an anniversary band.

I love sapphires!

I have mixed feelings on what one should spend. On one hand I do not think a young couple needs to start off with heavy debt. On the other hand I do susbscribe to the idea that the ring on the finger should be substantial enough that when he is being a jerk as they all can be that she can look at the ring, and say to herself "ok, I'll get over it":laughing:

Bragging/wedding:
I'm thinking we may need to rename this thread the Dueling Weddings, someone better hire a banjo player, this could get really interesting

That's funny, that's kind of what DD thinks too...

I think at this point, they should mutually agree that due to the closeness of their respective events, that taking on the duties of a bridesmaid is more than either one can handle at this point and agree to attend, but not be an attendant.

That is absolutely the most sensible thing. I honestly think they should be able to not even attend. DD would have to be 500 miles away the weekend before her own wedding, and RM would have to come back a couple of days early from her honeymoon. I don't see any reason for either of them to make a sacrifice when they really aren't even good friends to start with.
DD is not totally innocent in all this. She had assumed that RM's BFF (who she has grown up with her whole life) would be RM's MoH. Instead, RM picked the other girl that she and DD are friends with in pharmacy school (the 3 of them kind of hang around together in class, etc.). DD said, "I'm a little offended. If she isn't going to pick BFF as MoH, why didn't she ask me since I'm her roommate?" I said, "Excuse me, DD? The two of you don't even get along half the time, WHY would she pick you as her MoH? I can't even figure out why you're in each others weddings. "

DS's best friend is a very focused "achiever" I tell him he is a "suck up" but I mean it in the most loving way Funny, his Mom is always defending my DS when I am on his back about his laziness.

I know what it is. She just doesn't want your son to do as well as her son.

(Just kidding, BTW! )

(Okay, maybe a little with DD if there is no drama )

Speaking of DD, how is she doing with the stomach aches these days?

Gas:This is big 4 wheel drive country (stupid and unwarranted IMO, front wheel drive works just fine) but then again I am pretty frugal.

Okay, be careful here, some of us live in glass houses!

Just kidding , I do know what you mean. It's kind of like that saying they have down in Texas - "He's all hat and no cattle." I do see people who ride around in these vehicles who have absolutely no use for them at all. We're lucky that ours gets 20 mpg, or I don't know what we'd do (a lot of them don't do nearly that well).

I love your "you can do cars, just not women" classic Where is the tag fairy, that one is pretty worthy.

At least ya'll have tags!

Graduation:
Is one month away I got the wallet pictures from the photographer on Sunday when we met for some family portraits. I am working on my announcements list and now need to order portraits.
We along with the BFF's parents who we are tight with will be hosting a BBQ following graudation for basically all the family and our close friends. None of us have local family, so we thought we would have a BBQ for both families. They have 10 acres and lots of room, most of our friends are mutual and then add in the family elements. between the 2 families there are about 70 on the guest list. I was in charge of ordering all the rentals: couple of different sized tables along with linens, cloth napkins, chafing dishes and 40 chairs to spread around the various areas around the house. Still working on the menu and decided to order a cake with the boys's Kindergarten grad pictures and their Sr. pictures side by side then in the middle, when the boys were 6th or 7th grade we did a baseball "buddy" picture of the 2 of them, we are going to have that picture be put in the middle of the cake.

That sounds great! We're having a graduation banquet at church for the 6 or 7 students who will be graduating. I need to come up with some small gift for them. Not to sound cheap, but I actually only know one of them, and I really don't want to spend much money. I'm leaning toward a gift card. Since I don't know them (literally, I could only pick one of them out of the crowd), I don't have a clue as to what would interest them. Any cheap ideas out there?



Ya'll have a great evening!

 

[horseshowmom]

Just one of the little tricks that has kept us married for 20 years and DH still walking upright on the planet

True, the roommate has a ways to go on the maturity scale. Hope her future DH knows what he is getting Sounds like it might be time for 2 Mothers to have a chat and set the girls straight. Realistically, being in a wedding the weekend before or after your own is a crazy idea.

Well, you didn't hear this from me, but the apple didn't fall far from the tree...

However, I am considering doing just that. (I guess I just like to live dangerously. )

Soooo, whose crisis was the Harley???

The fish are called "fish" and "invertebrates" (like the shrimp, snails, crabs, and starfish) and the stationary creatures are called "coral". There are both hard and soft corals.

Hmmm, see this board isn't a waste of my time. I'm learning new things!

Always a desired outcome. They can make us mad at times, though. I do have some of the same concerns you posted earlier about how much conversation is going to go on between DH and me when DS leaves in August - stay tuned!!!

That's funny, I've wondered about that too...


Ya'll take care!

 

[Sandy V.]

Very wise woman, aren't you!

Yes I am. And DH has been smart enough to follow this advice!!!

I talked to DD a little while ago, and she thinks he may be a little better. I will say that he's more cheerful. He's been hanging his head in the corner of his stall, but last night, he did hang his head over the front and greet us when we went to the barn. DD said this morning he came out of his stall and walked to the gate on the back of the barn to visit with his buddy Cisco (the one DFi's mother gave her for Christmas). She said that he walked pretty fair as long as he walked straight but was limping pretty bad when he turned around to come back to his stall. We're still hoping for the best.

Just got off the phone with DFi's mom. She called to check on the horse too. She just got through (a few months ago) putting between $3000 and $4000 into one of hers between her regular vet and the equine specialist (DD says he's her third "son" ) and would you believe that they never did figure out completely what was actually wrong with him? He is doing better now, but his face is still somewhat paralyzed. Fortunately, he's able to eat and get around okay though, so he's at least happy and comfortable.

Glad to hear that things seem to be looking up for the horse!!!

Honestly, I've been so worried about this horse that I'm having trouble concentrating, and a lot of what I do has to be done exactly right or the auditors will come looking for me eventually. So, I haven't worked as hard as I should have (don't worry, I'll have to pay for it by staying late before too long ).

Same here. I'll have to do some catch-up down the road, but it's worth it!!

Right now, DD wouldn't back out because it's really too short of notice for RM to get anybody else (everybody is pretty much matched up). While she would be happy to live in a one BR, she wouldn't do that to RM. Also, when they have to go to Jackson, it would be better if they could live together. I would rather she didn't live alone (and she doesn't want to either), and most of the people that are living together now will move down there together too. I really think they are stuck with each other!

. . .

That is absolutely the most sensible thing. I honestly think they should be able to not even attend. DD would have to be 500 miles away the weekend before her own wedding, and RM would have to come back a couple of days early from her honeymoon. I don't see any reason for either of them to make a sacrifice when they really aren't even good friends to start with.
DD is not totally innocent in all this. She had assumed that RM's BFF (who she has grown up with her whole life) would be RM's MoH. Instead, RM picked the other girl that she and DD are friends with in pharmacy school (the 3 of them kind of hang around together in class, etc.). DD said, "I'm a little offended. If she isn't going to pick BFF as MoH, why didn't she ask me since I'm her roommate?" I said, "Excuse me, DD? The two of you don't even get along half the time, WHY would she pick you as her MoH? I can't even figure out why you're in each others weddings. "

Young adults!!!!

At least ya'll have tags!

Yeah, and you've been around longer than we have and you've got more posts. What's up with that?!?!

That sounds great! We're having a graduation banquet at church for the 6 or 7 students who will be graduating. I need to come up with some small gift for them. Not to sound cheap, but I actually only know one of them, and I really don't want to spend much money. I'm leaning toward a gift card. Since I don't know them (literally, I could only pick one of them out of the crowd), I don't have a clue as to what would interest them. Any cheap ideas out there?

I'm a big fan of the gift cards myself. That's what we did for graduation, and it worked out well.

Ya'll have a great evening!

You too!!

 

[mamacatnv]

Both. The fish are called "fish" and "invertebrates" (like the shrimp, snails, crabs, and starfish) and the stationary creatures are called "coral". There are both hard and soft corals.

So, are anenomes (sp ) considered soft corals?

Always a desired outcome. They can make us mad at times, though. I do have some of the same concerns you posted earlier about how much conversation is going to go on between DH and me when DS leaves in August - stay tuned!!!

You can come join me at my friends house, her DH never shuts up and she is more than willing to share since her DS is moving out in July.

I agree; it just adds one more element of stress that's not necessarily needed.

I didn't realize the wedding was 500 miles away - no way, send a gift! Evidently Sheila has not shared with her DD that she is planning on being able to just "show up" if DD is gone the weekend before, hah! That isn't going to happen.

Actually, it was probably more MY idea than his. But he certainly didn't protest!!

Just as I suspected.

Might be a false alarm, from what I heard last night. Sigh . . . I am very much out of the loop on this one!!

I talked to DD a little while ago, and she thinks he may be a little better. I will say that he's more cheerful.

I hope he continues to improve.

Honestly, I've been so worried about this horse that I'm having trouble concentrating, and a lot of what I do has to be done exactly right or the auditors will come looking for me eventually. So, I haven't worked as hard as I should have (don't worry, I'll have to pay for it by staying late before too long

See, this forum IS good therapy!

Any chance of her getting lifeguard certification? Also, if the shortage is anything there like it is here, he might could guard at the indoor pool at the college (assuming they have one).

That was thought of and she could have gotten a job. The issues: She has no transportation other than DS and it is about 15 miles away. Unless their schedules were identical he would spend everything he makes on gas. Wait, I pay for his gas, this would impact me! Her Dad is still not working and he won't chauffer her around. Other issues: He will be a supervisor this summer, he has 5 years in and is the most Senior Guard they have. That could get sticky. We all (including him) agreed that it would not be a good idea.

I am sure the Univ. has a pool somewhere. DS has started to look into working at one of the city pools in the winter. They are Red Cross trained and he is Ellis trained. In his opinion, Ellis is superior but until this year the City Pools did not agree. Now, all he would have to do is take a test and he could be dually certified. The City pays their guards better but it is not as fun. The water park is more fun but it closes right after labor day. So, we shall see.

The fact that family is part of the equation does NOT make it any easier

That is an understatement in my family

I love sapphires!

My DH was surprised way back then, I too love sapphires and didn't want a diamond solitaire.

That is absolutely the most sensible thing. I honestly think they should be able to not even attend. DD would have to be 500 miles away the weekend before her own wedding, and RM would have to come back a couple of days early from her honeymoon. I don't see any reason for either of them to make a sacrifice when they really aren't even good friends to start with.

I'm confused, no way is any of this a good idea. One delayed flight and everyone is in trouble. Send a gift!

"Excuse me, DD? The two of you don't even get along half the time, WHY would she pick you as her MoH? I can't even figure out why you're in each others weddings.

Warning: snide, snarky sarcastic comment ahead: Ummm, there is a dress involved, duh

I know what it is. She just doesn't want your son to do as well as her son.
(Just kidding, BTW! )

She as well as I know there is no chance of that happening
She and I had a conversation at the end of 8th grade when her DS passed the CBE for Algebra and mine did not. I don't remember what score you needed to pass, I think it was a 70 or so. We were sitting at a baseball game watching the boys play and here is a snipet of the conversation:
Friend: "he can study a little and take it again this summer"
Me: "Um, it's Algebra, the kid just barely passed the class"
Friend: "Well, BFF can help him, come on, he can do it, I know he can" (told you she was his cheerleader) "How close was he to passing?"
Me: "He got a 41"
Friend: (long dead silence) "well, at least he will be ahead of the others in his beginning Algeba class in high school"

Speaking of DD, how is she doing with the stomach aches these days?

She was fine the entire month she was off and then one day last week DS was in charge of getting her happy butt to school. (You should see the nightly negotiations that take place as to who gets this duty ) DS calls me, "she is throwing up" now he doesn't buy it anymore than the rest of us but he also knows how she gets so worked up and then there is no getting her to school. So, he takes her temp (none) and tells her she is going to school. He calls me shortly thereafter to inform me that he gave up, she was at home and he was on his way to school. I called her, told her I would be home in 20 minutes and that she was going to school. I showed up and she was pretty much resigned to going and I took her to school. But, before we left we had a conversation about anxiety, what it is and some of the symptoms.

Okay, be careful here, some of us live in glass houses!

I know it can be a hot button. I live in a subdivision about a mile and a half from the interstate(plowed 1st) and only a block off of the school bus route (plowed 2nd). In 15 years I have rarely (twice that I can think of and the snow was so deep, everyone was stuck) been stuck and I have always had front wheel drive Honda's.
Now, my BFF has a gas guzzling, super expensive Land Rover which she is currently complaining about. Her DH wanted it (status) and now they can hardly afford to drive it (they work on commission, car sales ). We bought the van for 2 reasons: DS was over 6' and was not comfortable in my Accord and we wanted to buy a pop-up camper and needed something to tow it with. Thus, the van.
Another friend has a big diesel truck, she also has horses and other assorted creatures, she has a need as do the friends who live on steep dirt roads and have huge long driveways. I am not anti SUV, I just find it funny that the folks that bought it just because it was in style and now can't afford the gas are screaming. Like my hair girl, who lives 2 blocks from me and owns a salon that is another 2 blocks. I can practically hear her start the beast up in the morning It did come in handy when we needed a ride to the airport last summer! We are all screaming of course. My Dh and I are the only ones on the block that do not have some sort of SUV and 8 out of the 10 don't need them.
Bff's hubby, is a car guy and they can't get rid of the Hummers and the Land Rovers, Escalades etc. that are sitting on their lots.

Interesting fact:
Couple years back, BFF's hubby worked for Dodge and he confirmed what I read. The Reno market is one of the largest truck/SUV markets in the country.

At least ya'll have tags!

Yeah, and you've been around longer than we have and you've got more posts. What's up with that?!?!

"Well behaved women, rarely make history!"

It took me a long time and then I got the 3 in very quick succession and have had them now for quite awhile.

That sounds great! We're having a graduation banquet at church for the 6 or 7 students who will be graduating. I need to come up with some small gift for them. Not to sound cheap, but I actually only know one of them, and I really don't want to spend much money. I'm leaning toward a gift card. Since I don't know them (literally, I could only pick one of them out of the crowd), I don't have a clue as to what would interest them. Any cheap ideas out there?

Per DS: Food Gift Cards & Cash - since it is church kids, how about some type of inspirational book for a young adult, or a personal devotional type item.

 

[Sandy V.]

So, are anenomes (sp ) considered soft corals?

Yes, they are. They are really cool to watch. You feed them a small piece of silverside (type of fish) once a week (about 1/4 inch long and you offer it to them with a long tweezers-like tool and the legs grab the food and move it down to its mouth).

Here's a picture of one: http://www.vividaquariums.com/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=02-1518-10

"Well behaved women, rarely make history!"

By the way, I have a Harley shirt that says that!! Got it on our cruise at Christmas time in Grand Cayman.

DS got a callback from Home Depot yesterday afternoon! He's interviewing with the store manager on late Thursday afternoon. Fingers still crossed.

I guess he's got two girls he's interested in, but DH and I are NOT privy to the grand scheme (probably a good thing!).

I'll be here until early afternoon, when I need to get ready to take off for DS's game.

 

[horseshowmom]

That was thought of and she could have gotten a job. The issues: She has no transportation other than DS and it is about 15 miles away. Unless their schedules were identical he would spend everything he makes on gas. Wait, I pay for his gas, this would impact me! Her Dad is still not working and he won't chauffer her around. Other issues: He will be a supervisor this summer, he has 5 years in and is the most Senior Guard they have. That could get sticky. We all (including him) agreed that it would not be a good idea.

I agree with you completely. You (no matter how fond you are of her and want to help her) really can't afford to provide her transportation (particularly not with the current cost of gas). Hopefully, something will come up.

I am sure the Univ. has a pool somewhere. DS has started to look into working at one of the city pools in the winter. They are Red Cross trained and he is Ellis trained. In his opinion, Ellis is superior but until this year the City Pools did not agree. Now, all he would have to do is take a test and he could be dually certified. The City pays their guards better but it is not as fun. The water park is more fun but it closes right after labor day. So, we shall see.

Hmmm, let's see, money vs. fun - I would say it just depends on how gas gets!

Honestly, I'm like him (and would tell DD the same). I would do the waterpark as long as I could and then switch to the city. I'm sure at the waterpark the patrons are more actively involved which leads to less problems (horsing around) than you would have to deal with at the city pools, and I'm all in favor of reducing the "hassle factor" if at all possible (and would consider job satisfaction worth a little less salary).

Warning: snide, snarky sarcastic comment ahead: Ummm, there is a dress involved, duh

I consider that remark neither snide, snarky, nor sarcastic! In fact, I would say that it's very factual!

The fact that the wedding is in Destin (which is gorgeous ) didn't hurt any, but I told her all along that it won't be the same when she's there with RM and entourage, and everything is about RM. She agrees now (would have been much simpler if she had agreed in the beginning ).

I told her last night that I had discussed it with the two of you and had gotten the suggestion that the mothers need to have a talk and that I had decided to do that. I expected her to be insulted, but she said she thought that would be a great idea!

She did ask that I wait until Friday after the last exam, so she didn't have to deal with RM getting an attitude about it.

She as well as I know there is no chance of that happening
She and I had a conversation at the end of 8th grade when her DS passed the CBE for Algebra and mine did not. I don't remember what score you needed to pass, I think it was a 70 or so. We were sitting at a baseball game watching the boys play and here is a snipet of the conversation:
Friend: "he can study a little and take it again this summer"
Me: "Um, it's Algebra, the kid just barely passed the class"
Friend: "Well, BFF can help him, come on, he can do it, I know he can" (told you she was his cheerleader) "How close was he to passing?"
Me: "He got a 41"
Friend: (long dead silence) "well, at least he will be ahead of the others in his beginning Algeba class in high school"

You know what, my perspective has always been that everybody has their own strengths. I cannot for the life of me do something like programming VCRs, etc. DH handles the computer stuff at church (that is projected onto the screens during the service). The sound guy is taking a break this year (he's done it for a very long time), and DH asked me about taking it on. I told him that I would love to, but I know myself too well, and I would NOT work out. With DH, we know that I need to be the one handling the map if we're traveling or there's no telling where we'll wind up.

She was fine the entire month she was off and then one day last week DS was in charge of getting her happy butt to school. (You should see the nightly negotiations that take place as to who gets this duty ) DS calls me, "she is throwing up" now he doesn't buy it anymore than the rest of us but he also knows how she gets so worked up and then there is no getting her to school. So, he takes her temp (none) and tells her she is going to school. He calls me shortly thereafter to inform me that he gave up, she was at home and he was on his way to school. I called her, told her I would be home in 20 minutes and that she was going to school. I showed up and she was pretty much resigned to going and I took her to school. But, before we left we had a conversation about anxiety, what it is and some of the symptoms.

Poor girl (and poor family! ). Maybe she'll grow out of it to some extent.

I know it can be a hot button. I live in a subdivision about a mile and a half from the interstate(plowed 1st) and only a block off of the school bus route (plowed 2nd). In 15 years I have rarely (twice that I can think of and the snow was so deep, everyone was stuck) been stuck and I have always had front wheel drive Honda's.

I love front wheel drive cars. As I've said before, we don't get much snow but do get ice sometimes. A front wheel drive car will really hold the road even with the ice.

Bff's hubby, is a car guy and they can't get rid of the Hummers and the Land Rovers, Escalades etc. that are sitting on their lots.

I read an article this week that some dealerships won't even accept SUV's and big trucks as trade-ins right now due to the fact that they can't sell them.

"Well behaved women, rarely make history!"

Ahh, that's been the curse of my existence...

Per DS: Food Gift Cards & Cash - since it is church kids, how about some type of inspirational book for a young adult, or a personal devotional type item.

I did consider the book idea (and still am) if I can find one. My dilemma is that old "I live 50 miles from everything" problem. Unless I'm going for something else, I try to keep my trips to a minimum these days (yes, that old cost of diesel thing). I did find a couple of things online at Family Christian Bookstore which I may pick from (when you live where I do, you get very good at googling for free shipping and/or online discount codes ).

OTOH, the food gift card idea is an excellent one. Our church draws from a pretty large area, but McD's or Subway should be available to everybody. Tell your son THANKS! He may have just solved my problem!



Update on the horse: He was better yesterday afternoon. When he walks in a straight line, he's not limping as bad. When he turns, it's still not great, but any improvement is a good thing. He has developed a runny nose on one side that concerns DD (could be a sign of a systemic infection - please, no). It could also just be a runny nose. Nonetheless, he's on antibiotics, and I'm hoping that will help regardless. (Melissa, the antibiotic is a powder, and I would send you some for Nibbles, but the last thing you and I need to be doing is sending white powder through the U.S. Mail! ::cop: )

Ya'll have a great day!

 

[mamacatnv]

Sandy:
Thinking about you and wishing you all luck

Sheila:
Glad the horse is showing signs of improvement

White stuff in the mail Love it!

Gotta run, yep you guessed it, I'm processing payroll

 

[Sandy V.]

Well, the lacrosse update is not good. DS's team lost 12-2. The Fort Collins teams was VERY good - they have a single program that puts together the best players from 4 high schools, so it is very much an "All Star" team. We were back on our heels, playing defense most of the night. DS played pretty well and our goalie had another great game. DS was very tired last night, a little sad, but partially relieved to have "his" time back. No lacrosse today; they turn in uniforms tomorrow and we have the banquet/picnic for the team on Saturday afternoon.

DS has his interview with the Home Depot manager later today, so I hope he gets the job!!!

Good to see DD yesterday. She's coming home sometime today and I'm taking tomorrow off to go shopping with her. I'm looking forward to that!!!

Well, back to work. I am dragging today. Got home around 11:15, sped through the American Idol results to see who got voted off (gotta love TiVo) and waited up for DS to come home so DH and I could talk with him briefly and give him hugs.

Talk to you later!!!

 

[horseshowmom]

Well, the lacrosse update is not good. DS's team lost 12-2. The Fort Collins teams was VERY good - they have a single program that puts together the best players from 4 high schools, so it is very much an "All Star" team. We were back on our heels, playing defense most of the night. DS played pretty well and our goalie had another great game. DS was very tired last night, a little sad, but partially relieved to have "his" time back. No lacrosse today; they turn in uniforms tomorrow and we have the banquet/picnic for the team on Saturday afternoon.

DS has his interview with the Home Depot manager later today, so I hope he gets the job!!!

Good to see DD yesterday. She's coming home sometime today and I'm taking tomorrow off to go shopping with her. I'm looking forward to that!!!

Well, back to work. I am dragging today. Got home around 11:15, sped through the American Idol results to see who got voted off (gotta love TiVo) and waited up for DS to come home so DH and I could talk with him briefly and give him hugs.

Talk to you later!!!

Ohhhh, I'm so sorry about the game... It's really tough when you get worked up and then have to come back down so hard. I do understand about the partial relief though. When you're involved so intensely, it is pretty much all consuming.

So, if I've got this right, he's been called back for a second interview? That sounds promising. We'll keep our fingers crossed (and I know that would probably cheer him up considerably).

I agree about the TiVo. My husband doesn't do commercials well (honestly, he really carries on about them to the point that he's worse than the commercials ).

I know you'll enjoy your time with DD (and I'm sure she will too)!


Update on the horse:
Yesterday was very encouraging. The day before I was pretty sure he was doing better, but yesterday I was positive that he was showing improvement (enough so that I'm not still thinking about a trip to the equine specialist). The runny nose is gone too, so that's one less thing to worry about! He still has a ways to go, but at least I'm not worried about losing him anymore. I'm going to try to find some pictures of him to show ya'll. He's such a sweetie.

Update on the wedding:
Yesterday, DD looked at the three dresses online (remember our internet is spotty at home, so DD checked her email when she got to school) that RM emailed the girls to look at (bridesmaid dresses for RM's wedding). When DD got home yesterday, she told me about them, and she wasn't happy. Would you believe that RM has now changed her mind and is using the colors that DD had already picked out... (Melissa, it looks like you called it just right - dueling weddings ).

I told DD that I honestly don't know why she cares. None of the same people will be at both weddings (except one girl who is in both weddings), and it's very doubtful that any of the same people will even see the wedding pictures. Shoot, I say let's pick the same dress, and the girl who is in both weddings will save me having to pay for one dress! (You probably won't be surprised to hear that DD took a very dim view of that suggestion. )

 

[Sandy V.]

Ohhhh, I'm so sorry about the game... It's really tough when you get worked up and then have to come back down so hard. I do understand about the partial relief though. When you're involved so intensely, it is pretty much all consuming.

Thanks. We SHOULD have a lot more time after this weekend!!!

So, if I've got this right, he's been called back for a second interview? That sounds promising. We'll keep our fingers crossed (and I know that would probably cheer him up considerably).

You're correct - it is a second interview. I'm hoping that it's a very good sign.

I agree about the TiVo. My husband doesn't do commercials well (honestly, he really carries on about them to the point that he's worse than the commercials ).

My issue is with the "male enhancement" ones like the guys singing "Viva Viagra." Poor Elvis would turn over in this grave if he knew what they were doing to his song!!!

I know you'll enjoy your time with DD (and I'm sure she will too)!

Yes, I need my DD "fix".

Update on the horse:
Yesterday was very encouraging. The day before I was pretty sure he was doing better, but yesterday I was positive that he was showing improvement (enough so that I'm not still thinking about a trip to the equine specialist). The runny nose is gone too, so that's one less thing to worry about! He still has a ways to go, but at least I'm not worried about losing him anymore. I'm going to try to find some pictures of him to show ya'll. He's such a sweetie.

Good news!!!! Glad to hear it!!!!

Update on the wedding:
Yesterday, DD looked at the three dresses online (remember our internet is spotty at home, so DD checked her email when she got to school) that RM emailed the girls to look at (bridesmaid dresses for RM's wedding). When DD got home yesterday, she told me about them, and she wasn't happy. Would you believe that RM has now changed her mind and is using the colors that DD had already picked out... (Melissa, it looks like you called it just right - dueling weddings ).

I told DD that I honestly don't know why she cares. None of the same people will be at both weddings (except one girl who is in both weddings), and it's very doubtful that any of the same people will even see the wedding pictures. Shoot, I say let's pick the same dress, and the girl who is in both weddings will save me having to pay for one dress! (You probably won't be surprised to hear that DD took a very dim view of that suggestion. )

Dueling weddings is right!! You're right, though - no one would even know. And deep down, your DD would KNOW that she chose the colors first anyway.

I do like your "same dress" suggestion, even if your DD didn't!!!

Have a great weekend!!!