The Weekly Beginning the season

[spookineer]

Well that holiday is finally over, except fo maybe a few straggling leftovers.
Black Friday has passed, hope all survived and completed your shopping. (huge laugh)
By now, most of Halloween should be packed away. (bigger laugh)
So let the games begin... out-decorating the neighbors! MORE LIGHTS!!!

[Mummy deer-est]

lol spookineer....and by the way, I have a TON of leftovers still! Will that stop me from making a ridiculous amount of paper snowflakes or paper chains? Never!

(Only make me waddle to hang them....) :)

[Sickie Ickie]

I'm more into props, so I'll be making those and not many lights. :)

[spookineer]

Good morning all, went to a Christmas Tree lighting last night in a nearby town. It was very nice except for the other 15,000 people there, shoulder to shoulder, pushing and shoving, children crying, and then some cretan nearby cut the cheese. Kind of killed the aroma of chestnuts roasting. Oh well, Saturday is the tree lighting in our town. A much more civilized affair with a bonfire, hot apple cider and chestnut vendors, and a lighted boat parade. 'Tis the Season!

[BlackRose]

Morning. I think I pretty much finished my Christmas shopping last night. Except for a few things I need to get for Hubby but those are online purchases.
I'm supposed to be in our big Children's parade Saturday morning. I'm wondering if being pregnant gives me an excuse to bow out this year. It's not like it's going to mess anything up if I'm not there..........

[spookineer]

Women "with child" should be given every accomodation necessary for their comfort. If you do not wish to be in the parade, people should understand. Although it might be fun to hang the camcorder from your belt, a "tummy cam" if you will, to show your new offspring the parade they were in before birth.

[BlackRose]

LOL - that would be tempting if I had a video camera. LOL I was in the parade last year and it's just that to get into Atlanta in time I have to get up at about 4:00am. And it's windy in the city and it's chilly when you're standing around for hours waiting for them to inflate the balloon. And now I sound like a whiny butt. :)

[spookineer]

Not at all Rose, That doesn't sound like fun to me either.

[Sickie Ickie]

I second what spook said.

[BlackRose]

Whoo hoo!!! Guess that means I don't have to go!

[SantaPaws]

I can't get the spider pig song out of my head this morning. "Spider pig Spider pig, does what ever a spider pig does. Spins a web, thats all I know."

[spookineer]

Try this to get that out of your head... "It's a small world..."

[BlackRose]

Oh man!!!!!!!!!!! I hate that song. Thanks a bunch.

[SantaPaws]

Man! Now I have both of those songs stuck in my head. Along wth On top of old Smokie.

[Mummy deer-est]

We'll write you an excuse note, rose :)

Just found out their is a tree lighting in our neighborhood this weekend - hopefully it will be less smelly than yours, Spookineer!

[Sickie Ickie]

A bit of Vicks on the upper lip helps. :p

[BlackRose]

A bit of Vicks on the upper lip helps. :p

My FIL is a mortician and I asked him if he really does that. He said that he used to but he's been doing it for so long that it doesn't bother him anymore (mostly). I can't imagine getting used to that smell.

[Mummy deer-est]

eww.....

Have you guys noticed our incredible ability to totally change the subject on almost every thread, in mere moments? It's hard to follow all these twists and turns sometimes! I love it.

Here comes one now.

We are getting the chimney swept today, so I will finally have a roaring fire to look at this year, instead of the "yule log show" on TV!!

[Ice Princess]

Ah, a fireplace to sit by and watch. That is soo relaxing especially with a glass of wine.

[BlackRose]

I wish it would get cold enough here for me to crank mine up. It would be nice to sit in front of the fire and wrap some presents.

[Sickie Ickie]

Just use your fire cauldrin! LOL

[Mistress Muffy]

hey hey......and I got the piece to my flue today that broke off......so now to fix it & we're ready to fire away!!!

the Muffster

PS......Mummy I love those turns & curves our threads take too!!!

[spookineer]

Isn't that what this particular thread is for? Anything and everything as long as we play nice.

[Mummy deer-est]

We do "anything and everything" in most threads! Well, some of us do....:o

Bad news, the fireplace is a no go. It was inspected when we moved in, but the flue was rusted shut, so the big cracks that they found today must have been missed. Boo hiss. They can fix it, but for 2000 plus. Will get another opinion, but geez...there is always something. And the budget was tight enough as it was. :(

[Sickie Ickie]

I know about the tight budget thang. I've always wanted a fireplace, but I must admit that I'm too lazy to clean one routinely.

[spookineer]

Good morning all, Happy Friday!
I had a culinary revelation this morning. After pouring my bowl of Cheerios I discovered there was no sugar. Brown sugar did not seem proper, so while searching for a substitute I spied a refill package of strawberry Pez. Hmmm, I said reading the ingredients, nearly pure processed sugar. A quick mashing and sprinkling gave a whole new flavor to my morning Cheerios.
It's going to be a good day...

[Sickie Ickie]

You're nothing if not resourceful Spook. :)

[Mummy deer-est]

lol spook - that really speaks to how you must be a super creative person!

So, more bad news...if you don't want to listen to me be debbie downer, then keep movin'....

My little-est little one is sick now! Same thing the elder one had, but now hers is stuck in her throat and chest and the doc says it's croup. Poor thing barks like a seal and is not talking b/c it hurts so bad. :( Hopefully the meds will have it licked by weekend end.
But, I guess things could always be worse, so I'll cheer up now...:)

[Nancj]

Sorry to hear that your little tyke is sick Mummy, I had received an e-mail about rubbing vicks vapor rub on kids feet at night when they have a bad cough and they're cough goes away in minutes allowing them to get a good night sleep I have'nt tried it my self yet, but I've told my family and friends about it and they have tried it and said that it works. especially handy since my son hates cough syrup.
as for the fire place hubby and I love to sit by fire pit and roast chestnuts although we don't like the taste we just like to see them pop. cheaper then trying to replace the flute in the fire place.

[Mummy deer-est]

Yeah, we have been wanting a fire pit...but I'm hoping Santa can give us a fixed fireplace for Christmas! :rolleyes:

My babe is so pale, but she seems to be getting better, even though she took her first dose of prednisone only a few hours ago. :)

[Sickie Ickie]

Sorry to hear that mummy. :( hopefully she'll be better soon. Will hot cocoa help her soul?

[bethene]

I'm glad your little one is getting better, Mummy. Poor lttle tyke! I always hated when my kids were sick. I guess that although they are grown, I still want to do the ole' mother thing- take your medicine, vitamin's drink lots of liquids and juice, etc. Hope every one has a nice week end. I am so tired after this week at woek. I work at a small bakery/factory. and we have a new product going out for General Mills, who had people ther all week(so we had to be on our best behavior- hard for me!) I had the job of running big racks on wheels of croissants from the freezers (the freezers are about as big as a house) to the people packing the product, stacking the product on a skid, (26 pound boxes)and hauling the skid back to the freezer, and keep track of the paper work. I seriously walked for 9 hours a day. The good thing is that it made me exercise (lol) - the bad thing is I am so far behind what I want to get done during the week, to tired at night to do much. Of course, here I am, sitting down while on the computer, instead of getting other things done, but oh well, what is another hour going to hurt.Well- now that I got the whinning out of my systerm, Have a great week end!!

[Mistress Muffy]

Bethene - That being on your feet like that all day sure takes a lot out of you. Can truly understand why you want to sit & relax when you get home. Its hard knowing how much work we all have. I had a pretty severe attack yesterday with this neuropathy & literally sat on my butt all day, with candy orders to finish & decorating to do.

Finally around 8 last night it let up & man when it does I fly into gear working cause I'm not sure how long it will last before it flairs up again. I got a lot done last night before I went to bed. I do the same thing w/ the computer, I come here when I absolutely have to sit down for awhile & find this very theraputic reading & visiting here with you all. Many a night I sit here with a big grin on my face reading what you all share! Makes Xmas more wonderful!

Mummy - Hope the wee one recovers quickly!

Muffster

[Sickie Ickie]

Muff, this is an all year forum, so you'll have fin times this Dec and past it. :)

Do you have diabeties at all?

[Sickie Ickie]

Had a small snow storm today. Roads were pure ice. Better now, but parking lots are pure ice. Had tickets to see the show "Sister's Christmas Catechism." (or something like that.) Very funny and interactive with the audience. Unfortunately the parking lot there, and at Gram's house were pure ice and very difficult to walk on.

Did I say that pure ice was abundant???

[spookineer]

Good morning all. We went to the Christmas tree lighting in our town last night. A much nicer time than earlier in the week. Big bonfire, lots of hot cider and cocoa available, and a boat parade!

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j201/thathouseonventura/oldtownxmas012.jpg

[Mistress Muffy]

Oh how neat Spookineer.......i love those boat parades. They use to have them in Chicago in July...its called Venetian Nights & all the boats decorate to a Christmas theme! There is usually quite a few of them in the parade. Its held right on the lakefront across the street from Buckingham Fountain. Thanks for the pic!

Muf

[spookineer]

It was quite an affair Muffy. They even sent a guy up in a boom truck with a snow maker (soap suds), then it rained candy canes! There were probably 20 or so boats from a guy and his dogs in a kyack with battery powered lights to a 60 footer with a whole light show going on. Of coarse Santa arrived by boat as well. The high school choir singing carols, and the childrens theatre group doing skits. Had a great time and it will be a lasting memory of our last "Christmas in Old Town Suisun". It's too bad that not all comunities do these kinds of things.

[Sickie Ickie]

Good morning all. We went to the Christmas tree lighting in our town last night. A much nicer time than earlier in the week. Big bonfire, lots of hot cider and cocoa available, and a boat parade!

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j201/thathouseonventura/oldtownxmas012.jpg

We used to see those when we visited my grandparents in Penn. :)

[bethene]

Wow Spookineer, that soundsand looks fun. The weather looks great too. The boat is lit up beautiful! In case you missed it from Sickie, we've got ice. Actually this after noon ice and fog. It was a sit in the house day. Muffy, hope you stay feeling better to get your candy out! I got most of my inside decorating done. I am having a hard time totally getting into the mood, which is so strange for me. I think it is a combination of things, empty nest syndrom(spelling?), issues with hubby, and working long and hard. I am getting better though.Did a little wrapping too this week end. So hope your week end has been good, and everyone take care to start the week off!

[BlackRose]

Hello everyone.
Had my parents over for the first Christmas dinner of the season last night. Lots of fun and hubby even cleaned up the dishes while I was sleeping. :)

How is everyone?

[Mummy deer-est]

Okay, I think if we all starting caroling for bethene, she might feel better....ready? one two three..... :)

Muffy -- sorry to hear about the flare-up. I am not familiar with neuropathy, but I do get nerve pain in my wrists due to a cist that I have that flares up pretty darn big sometimes. (When I was pregnant last time around, it got so that I couldn't feel my last two fingers) Hope it lets up when you want, and until then, we'll be here....can carol for you too!

Sorry to here about all the ice -- sounds like you kept your power, at least?

I love the boat, Spook...reminds me of disney! We had our tree lighting too, but it was doing a "freezing rain" thing outside, so only my older daughter and I went for a few minutes. Santa was there, but my girl seemed to think that it wasn't worth sitting on his lap being that there were so many kids, it was cold, and it was not the real Santa. (The fire department light up a truck and send a few men/women with "Santa" and an "elf," but they aren't very good costumes!) So we got our hot chocolate and said a few hello's befor zipping home.

Little one is still sick, and she has passed it on to my MIL, but they are dealing okay. Thanks for all the well-wishes. It's not too bad.
We did, however, try to brave it to Target and Michaels yesterday. (Making a few wreaths) And I refuse to take both children (probably neither) out again durring the weekend. Everybody and their mom was out. People were polite, but rather oblivious at times. And the girls were good enough, but too hard to manage with so many people around. So babysitting and online the rest of the way out....

Okay, I'm done....sorry :D

[Sickie Ickie]

Still have power here, ice melted some due to rain, streets salted, working on my nutcracker, cleaning house. Dealing with a family challenge regarding my oldest stepson's eyesight. Other than that, everybody's fine.

[spookineer]

Just another sunny day here in Geezerville. I feel badly for those of you who have inclement weather to deal with. Especialy those who have incurred injury or illness as a result. Send all that bad weather to Jack, he needs the overtime!

[spookineer]

What a difference a day makes... Getting some much needed rain, Finally! Maybe this will turn to snow by the time it gets to Denver. Happy trails Jack.

[Mummy deer-est]

Burrrrr....it is cold and windy. And I hate that if if isn't snowing!

I'm hoping to get an inch or two here too, b/c I got good news from a new chimney company today! Still need a re-line, but came in at about half the price and said that the other company was using scare tactics (which we guessed) to get us to use them. So, it is okay to burn a duraflame log, if we want to get the christmas mood! And we should be able to get the liner done way before christmas! Yay! It pays to shop around sometimes.

[Ice Princess]

I'm pretty excited - I ordered a Mrs. Claus dress, glasses, and wig. For the past ten years I have been the elf while hubby is Santa Claus and my MIL is Mrs. Claus. We go around on Christmas Eve to family, friends and neighbors to visit them. I'm the one who schedules the times for each home and keep Mr. & Mrs. Claus looking good and providing them with water (Outfits are hot when in the house for a time). About two years ago, my MIL had to stop coming with us so I felt funny in becoming Mrs. Claus because I didn't want to offend her. Hubby and I talked it over and he thinks it's about time that I stepped up and became Mrs. Claus.

I haven't said anything to anyone else about this and because the MIL and I haven't been speaking to each other for two years, but I think once I get out there and circulate, I won't feel so awkward about doing this.

[Mummy deer-est]

Sounds like fun, Ice Princess...and makes more sence too, for you to be the Mrs. clause, not his mom! :)

[Sickie Ickie]

Amen!!! .

[BlackRose]

I'll second that! It should have been you all along!

[spookineer]

Claim your rightful throne Ice Princess!!!

[bethene]

Ice Princess, that sounds like alot of fun, I agree, you shous be Mrs. D.! It is really cold here, we have a couple of inches of snow, with ice under it, and the wind, oh my gosh, I hate the cold wind that goes right through your coat, BRRRR! I can't believe it is already Thursday. Last night I went with a bunch of the women I work with out to dinner, a sorta Christmas get togather, it was alot of fun, we just enjoyed being together in a way we can't so much at work. Now we think why not more often! Have a great day!

[BlackRose]

That sounds nice bethene. By the time 5:00 rolls around, I'm done with the women I work with!!!

[Sickie Ickie]

Amen, BlackRose. not so much because I don't like my co-workers, but because I'm a loner. I really don't require much socialization other than work. It seems ironic then, that I'm trying to break into the professional actiing field. I love to act, but not big on socializing. Go figure.

[Nancj]

It does seem ironic Sickie, I figured you to be such a social butterfly considering your probably the first to nearly reach a 1000 post.:D

[Ice Princess]

You're right Nancj - The Mirth Maker above your post has been racking up posts here since the website started.

[Nancj]

How does he get around??!!

[Mummy deer-est]

I asked him this question the other day ladies! SI might not be a social butterfly at work, but he sure does "get around" here!!! :D
And he likes it!
I think, though, that friendships online can be much less complicated than in person. I'm begining to like it better...:)

[Sickie Ickie]

Don't get me wrong, I truley enjoy people at times. I can get along with just about anyone, and have tons of laughs- it's just that I'm so painfully shy, and have low energy, that I enjoy my alone time. :)

[spookineer]

Good morning and Happy Friday to all!

[Ice Princess]

Gooda Morning to you too Spookineer and fellow members. Last night, I got home and my new Mrs. Santa costume, wig and glasses was waiting for me. I checked it out and will be taking a swatch of the dress with me to the fabric store to get some fabric to make a red velvet shaw with fur around it. I can't wait to do this!

[spookineer]

Can't wait to see pics... be sure to post them!

[Mummy deer-est]

yay, Ice Princess! Enjoy your reign...:D

Good news -- now have an offically working fireplace! Pass the Chestnuts!!!!

[spookineer]

Congrats on the fireplace Princess!

[bethene]

Ice Princess, I can't wait to see pics of you as Mrs. Claus. I can't believe it is the week end again, where does the time go? The night I went out for dinner with the ladi8es from work was alot of fun. We work at a bakery/factory and wear hairnets and no jewelery, so it is fun to see every one looking normal. Every one looks so nice, the most common statement is, oh, you do have hair, or you look so different with hair. We basically were the last ones in the resturant! Well have a great weekend all!

[Mummy deer-est]

Morning all...
Not much to report on in my neck of the woods, but I have been thinking about Sickie and hoping his family is doing well. Also wondering where Muffy has been and hoping her illness hasn't been keeping her away - maybe just busy?
And I hope the rest of you are feeling well and enjoying the season. Only 15 more days!

[BlackRose]

Hello all. Georgia weather is so strange. It was in the 30th last week and this week the temp won't drop below 70. Talk about killing the Christmas spirit! Guess a white Christmas is REALLY not in the cards this time!!!
Office "holiday" party this wednesday. We have it in the middle of the day at a restuarant in Atlanta so that's a freebie work day at least!
Got a bad head cold today. Can't take anything for that when you're pregnant. Even my pre-natal vitamins have a warning on them to talk to your Dr before taking if you are pregnant. Go figure.
Good thoughts and prayers to those who need them.

[Mummy deer-est]

I feel for you, Rose...I remember having a horrible cold when pregnant. Just drink lots of OJ! And keep the tissues close. It does seem like every year they add something new to the "you cant do this when pregnant" list. Meanies.

[BlackRose]

Thanks Mummy!
I know what you mean about that list. And it seems that everyone has their own opinion about if those lists are really acurate. But being a first time pregnant mom, I suppose I'm overly cautious!

[Ice Princess]

I hope you get better Rose. My friend had the "list". I couldn't believe all the things she couldn't have. How the hell do they expect you to gain any weight!!!!

[Mummy deer-est]

One thing I do have to say, that I thought was a load of BS, is the "don't eat peanut butter rule" seems to maybe be a good idea. I love pb. And while preg. I couldn't get enough of it -- now both of my girls are allergic to peanuts. Granted, my hubby's side of the family has a lot of food allergies, but neither one of us is allergic to foods. So, maybe there is a little bit of reasoning. :)

[spookineer]

No PB? That's just wrong!

[bethene]

I seriously am eating a PB sandwich while reading this!LOL Mummy, that is a curious thing with your girls, and you eating PB while pregnant, I never would og figured that. We didn't have all the rules when I had my kids, don't drink, no diet pop, that was about it. I think only tylenol for head aches. I hope you are feeling better Rose, If you can(this time of year doesn't help) get as much rest as you can, for me that helps more than anything. I also keep thinking of sickie and his son, what a very scarey thing to be happening. I bet , as far as Muffy not being on so much, she is probably busy with her candy business!

[Mummy deer-est]

lol, bethene. Well you know you get a little more "lax" with each kid, so I don't think I will listen to the list too closely if I have a third....did I just say third?!! Someone hit me!

So, I don't know why, but I am feeling rather down today. And I notice that I have been really looking forward to reading here, but have been sad to not read too much. What is with me? Maybe I need more social outlets? :) No, but I really haven't seen too many people since moving, and that is how I de-stress. I have plenty of people to see that I don't want to see, but not too many that I do! Ugh.
Anywho....
How much longer till vaction, Spook....I'm going to live vicariously...:D

[spookineer]

I'm sorry you have the blues Mummy, wish I had something clever or funny to help you through. This seems to be a bad couple of weeks for our friends here. I use the term "friends" because most of us who frequent this place know more about each other than we do about our neighbors, and even some relatives! Most importantly, at least for me, we seem to care more about our friends here than neighbors. In most cases, people whom we've never met in person. Is that odd? I don't think so...
We leave on Saturday morning so I guess I'd better finish packing soon.
Have a better day...

[Mummy deer-est]

Thanks, spook...it always helps to hear from friends :) And I agree - it isn't odd, it is wonderful to have you all.

Feeling better today, but my trip to walmart was of no help!!! To try to make a lvery long and annoying story short: I Was trapped on all sides by people and carts in the check out lane (with my 2 year old) when the lady in front of me smacks down about 50 or so gift cards to be rung up. OMG I almost went bizerck (sp?)!!! The cashier tried to get the manager to open a lane just for her, but the lazy woman wouldn't do it. I stood there for almost 20 minutes. Everytime I tried to go to another lane, I would be cut off by someone else. I looked like a fool, dancing and singing to keep my babe happy (and she was, thankfully, an angel.) Now while I was not upset with the cashier (she tried her best) or even the customer (who, really, if just to be polite, could have done this in segments or given me a warning) I was flamming mad at the manager. And I calmly told her that she could have (in the very least) given the rest of the line a warning and that the whole thing was rather ridiculous. And I really wanted to be mean, but I held back b/c I know her day could have sucked as well, but she obviously wasn't trying at that point. But what is funny about all this, is that I feel much better tonight than I did last night! Guess it was the bonding I had with my fellow line-mates at Walmart! :D :rolleyes: Not that I want to do it again, anytime soon!

[bethene]

Oh wow, Mummy, what a pain, check outs this time of year can be so crazy, and people so rude, that gets me the most, we are all in line, trying to make the best of it, and some one just something so rude or selfish, cut in line or what ever, it bugs me. I guess one of my pet peeves is people that think that what they have to do is so much more important than what anyone else has to do, and acts accordingly. I see that so much. Sometimes, everyones does things not thinking, but it happens so much it can't be all that! Now that I vented, glad you feel better Mummy. I know what you mean about friends on the forums, and also when not much is going on with them. Spook, what a great place to go on vacation- Hawaii!! I am jealous! ( I don't know if I got that from this forum or H.F.- the Hawaii part) Have a great and safe trip!! Every one have a great day! We are having our Christmas lunch today at work, company buys pizza, gives a extra half hour for lunch Wo-hoo! It is amazing how happy every one gets for that! I guess we don't get many extras there!

[BlackRose]

Greetings from the walking dead. I'm back at work today because it's our firm holiday party and I need to be there. Tylenol and Robitussin are my friends. :) Although I may be sitting my myself at the party today since I sound like a bullfrog!!!

Walmart at this time of year??? You're braver than I am Mummy!!!

Spook - Have a great time in Hawaii! I've never been there. Maybe one day!

I think I've only eaten peanut butter once since I've been pregnant. But if you read the pregnancy magazines at my OB's office (and what else is there to do while you are sitting there waiting) the things you are and are not supposed to eat change every month! I just read an article on murcury in fish a couple of days ago and now they thing that you should be eating more fish than they said before. So, who knows? I think you just have to avoid the common sense things and hope for the best! And Mummy - that's not the first time I've heard that about eating nuts or peanut butter during pregnancy. Same thing happened to a friend of mine and not her daughter is allergic to peanuts.

[Mummy deer-est]

I know, what was I thinking?? I did go out again today (sans baby) and had a very merry time! No rudeness, found a bunch of gifts and drooled over the jumbo pvc pipes for the giant candy canes I hope to build one day!

Yep Rose, first rule of parenthood = just use your common sense. I should have listened to the little voice that said eating a jar of pb was not a good idea! ;)

Hope you enjoyed your work perks today, bethene! I always loved those when I was working -- now the perks are a few moments alone, and quick dash into starbucks while shopping!

[bethene]

Thanks Mummy- yes had a good time, ate too much, of course, but mostly relaxed and was happy that when I bell for the end of lunch rang- we still had a half hour to sit. It's the little things in life!! Plus got my bonus check, so tonight I will be braving the stores. A stop at Kohl's anf target, then grocoeries- which is the scariest shopping of all! Have a great day every one- I'm off to work, no longer lunch today, just same o ,same o. Rose, hope you are feeling better!!

[Ice Princess]

Good morning all!!! Today is my work's Christmas Party. Today is also payday and hopefully, a bonus with it that will do the trick. Today is also my last day at work until Jan. 2nd. At least I can tackle Christmas shopping in the morning when everyone is a work next week. This weekend hubby and I will go a pick up our tree at the farm. Sunday is my monthly Pokeno Party (Christmas theme of course). The hostess is making the turkey and everyone brings a sidedish to go with it. I'm bringing the garlic mashed potatoes and biscuits. We are also exchanging pollyanna that day at Pokeno. I think it's going to be a crazy but fun weekend ahead.

[Mummy deer-est]

Okay, first, that is so awesome to get that much time off!
Second, what in the world in a Pokeno Party?
And pollyanna -- like the movie? I'm guessing not! :)

Spook -- if you're still reading, then have a great trip!

[BlackRose]

I was about to ask those same questions Mummy!!!

I am finally feeling a little better today. My ears are clogged and they pop everytime I blow my nose but unfortunately they don't stay that way!

This weekend we have our Christmas gathering with hubby's family. He was actually able to get the day off which is amazing in and of itself! We haven't seen a few of his aunts in a few months and I'm desperately hoping that no one will feel the need to come over and touch my stomach. I have a t-shirt at home that I was going to wear to the Christmas party that says "If you didn't put it here, don't touch it" but I'm thinking his family gathering is propably not the place to wear it. Maybe a little uncouth. :)

Good luck with the bonus Princess. Sounds like you have a busy week planned! We'll all be jealous thinking of you next week when us poor slobs are stuck at work!

[spookineer]

In case I am unable to get on-line in the next couple of weeks, I want to wish you all an Excellent Christmas and a Safe & Healthy New Year. I will think of you all as we sail accross the Pacific to lay upon the beaches of Hawaii.
Boat Drinks for All and to All a Good Night...

[bethene]

Spookineer- have a fun and safe trip as well as a Merry Christmas!! Princess, hope you got your bonus and had fun at your party, I aslo don't know what a Polkeno Party is Or exchanging Pollyanna. Rose glad you are feeling better- Hopefully no one touches your tummy- I just never understood why people think they have that right, they wouldn't think of it when your not pregant, so why do the bounderies change just because you are with child? Hope you have fun any way!!!

[Mistress Muffy]

Hi All,

Just wanted to quickly stop by & say Hi & that I miss you guys! Candy orders have been keeping us in the kitchen around the clock & to make matters worse Jerry's Mother died last week so things have been rather hectic. On top of that the company from Phoenix insisted on coming so we were unable to go back to Nebraska & attend the funeral. Company was here for 9 days so I'm behind with everything. Open house is gonna be on the 19th....thats my birthday. I told Jerry we should not do it cause I know he is really upset right now over his Mom.

He told me "No!", we are gonna do this! I asked him>>>>"You Sure?". He wants to go ahead with it so I guess we will try. I have tons of stuff to get done before we can be ready......still have decorating inside & outside the house. Plus baking & candymaking for this thing. I'll be back on the boards as soon as we get done with the open house.

Everybody take care & try to swallow a little bit of spirits to enjoy the oncoming holiday!!

Love Ya all

Mistress Muffy

P.S. DaveintheGrave....if you read this...it sounds like everyone can get together for the Halloween Dinner on the 6th of January. Got responses from Scareisburg,Trioxin & Spookineer....think you might be able to come? You may have sent a message over on the forum but my darn message box was full & I need to get in there & empty it out.

[Sickie Ickie]

Sometimes it's nice to keep busy in times of stress, Muff.


Rose, please feel better. I hate it when friends are sick.

I'm reading old posts, and I just got to the peanut post when on Iron Chef the secret ingrediants were unveiled as...Peanuts!!! LOL What are the odds of that?

[Mummy deer-est]

Muffy! Sickie! Glad to see you....you make me happy just to see your names!

Rose -- I remembered not caring about the touching of my preg. belly, but my husband said, "are you kidding, you hated that!" But I do know, that it's like trying to keep a moth away from the flames....:)

We went to my husbands office party friday -- really good food, and the cheesy santa, as always. It was fun. But this morning, my eldest woke up with another bad cold! I swear, I think that school is just a germ factory. Every morning at the bus stop, all the moms are telling "sick" stories. It's just not fair. And then we tried to go to an open house in our new neighborhood tonight, but it was packed and she with her cough (and maybe their dog) she just couldn't take it, so we didn't stay for long. Shame, b/c we could have met the half of the neighborhood that was there. But, hopefully we'll all be healthy by christmas!

[Sickie Ickie]

Colds- the bane of humans and cold weather's best friend. Yuck! Studies have shown Zinc and vit C make colds finish sooner than not taking them at all. Not cure, but at least it doesn't last forever.

[Mummy deer-est]

Yeah, I have sworn by AirBorn since last year. It seems to really boost up my immunities.

[bethene]

Muffy- I am so sorry to hear of your mother in laws passing. It is hard at any time but this time of year is especially hard. I Will add you also to my prayers, Being busy is probably some what helpful. I was glad to see your post, missed hearing about the candy bizz! Mummy, hope your daughters cold is better. I haven't tried air born yet, I should though. Any one try the new yogurt that is supposed to help the immune system? Well, have a great Sunday. We have a bunch of snow here, as I am sure Sickie does too, looking at the weather maps, the wind is supposed to kick in this after noon,, we'll see how bad it gets.

[Sickie Ickie]

Over a foot of snow here. Ugh! I've had almost 40+ years of snow and wouldn't mind in teh least moving to someplace warm like CA. Really!

My wife tried the yogurt, but couldn't stick to it. It didn't taste bad, she just couldn't remember to take it. LOL

[BlackRose]

Morning everyone! It's actually chilly in Georgia today. 28 degrees. Whoo hoo!!!

Muffy - I'm sorry to hear about your MIL. I know it will probably put a damper on this Christmas for your hubby. Maybe he needs to keep busy and that's why he doesn't want to cancel. Good luck with the open house.

I'm feeling better but I still have this darn cold. Guess they hang around longer when you are pregnant. We had a good time on Saturday and hubby's extended family Christmas. Of course everyone touched me but I just plastered a grin on my face while hubby snickered beside me. Sometimes I could just smack him! I hope everyone decided to keep the extended Christmas on a day other than Christmas day next year. This is the first year they have done it and it was only because hubby's dad has to work Christmas day. But I refuse to run all over the place on Christmas next year with my little boy. He should be around 9 months old by then but I want to set a precedent for the years to come.

[CandyCane]

Aw Muffy, I'm so sorry to hear of your MIL's passing. My condolences to you and your family.

[Sickie Ickie]

I can't help but wonder if there's some type of closure your husband may be able to have onhis mom since he can't get to the funeral?

[Mummy deer-est]

If I forgot to say it on your pm Muffy, I am sorry for your husbands (and your) loss.

We lost our power last night (for over 12 hours) due to winds. Slept in sweat pants, sweat shirt, socks, 2 blankets, a quilt, and a pillow over my head, and I was still freezing! And found out that Sara (the sick child) is having a sever asthmatic response to a probable bacteria that has caused an infection. Husband is out now getting stuff for nebulizer treatments, zithromax, and steroids. So hopefully she will be okay be the weekend.

Rose -- good for you! I didn't put my foot down, and regreted it everytime I had to drag a baby or two out and about on a day that is supposed to be for lounging and togetherness. Not hassles and headaches. Pat yourself on your back b/c I am just now giving that gift to me and my family.

[BlackRose]

Thanks Mummy but it's still just a plan! We'll have to see what happens next year! You know what they say - the road to hell is paved with good intentions!

[SantaPaws]

Well the weather outside is frightfull, but chocolate is so delightfull. LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

I want schokinag! :)

[Strange1]

Its been in the teens at night and 30 during the day around here for several days now.
Today it is in the low 40s and the snow is melting.
However, I still plan to plant my happy little butt in front of the fireplace , peer out the window, and enjoy the peace and quiet with my wife.:)

[Sickie Ickie]

I welcome the 40's strange 1 :)

[bethene]

Hope every one has a great Wednesday, I am heading off to work, just wanted to stop and say howdy, hope all is well with every one. I am hanging in there, some times by the tips of my fingers but at least I still am holding on! I would welcome 40 degrees, would seem like a heat wave!

[Sickie Ickie]

I hear ya! If it make ya feel better, I work outside all day! :eek:

[Mummy deer-est]

I know how you feel, bethene. There is not enough time in the day sometimes, and then sometimes it's like the day never ends. Just waiting for my eight millionth "second" wind.

[bethene]

Sicki- I work indoor- but walk into a freezer every 10 minutes or so- the thing is bigger than my house and set at zero, and to top it off, they have a fan on so the product I deal with gets froze faster- talk about wind chill- some times i have a coat on, some times i don't have time to grap the coat, I need to get the product and run it quick to the gals packing. You would think i would be used to it, but no I still complain about the cold outside! Sickie- what do you do outside? Everyone have a great day!

[BlackRose]

Morning everyone! Today is my last day at work before Christmas. My best friend is moving to Florida Saturday morning so I will be over there all day tomorrow helping her out. I have a lot of work I need to finish before quitting time today, so if I don't get the chance to check back, everyone have a fabulously Merry Christmas!!!!

[Sickie Ickie]

Well, I was woke up unwillingly at 2am today by my 3 yr old who decided he had enough sleep. He just crashed at 9am. (sigh)

Found out more about my son, but I'll post that in the post about my step-son. heh

Bethene, I work at U-Haul- pulling up trucks, doing inspections on them, making sure fluids are full, finding trucks for customers, etc.

At work we have yet ANOTHER change in manager. 4th one in a year. Kinda like going through the dating process all over again. Wears ya out!

[Mummy deer-est]

Good afternoon, ya'll...
I am so behind on everything that I really shouldn't be on the computer, but here I am anyway! But at least I know I won't be fanatically checking to look at new posts today, b/c my mom is coming over to help out. I did do a few wreaths and a card hanging decoration while administering nebulizer treatments, but now I have to get to the unfun stuff -- cleaning, dishes, laundry, and the last few gifts. Wish me luck!
We were going to have a dinner here on sunday for my husbands side of the family, but since Sara may still be contagious (and there will be young ones and elderly) we decided to push it off to the 30th. Which is a huge relief. So, now I have a few more days to tidy, so I should be fine as long as I keep up with the caffine!
Hope you all are relaxing enough for yourselfs and me combined!
-Mummy

[Clarice]

I finished up gift baking on Wednesday, yeah! I've spent the last 2 days getting caught up on grocery shopping. We're having our granddaughter's 2nd birthday party here Sunday, Christmas with her, step daughter, SIL and hubby's ex here Christmas eve day, going to my mom's that evening, then having family and friends here for dinner Christmas day. The house is a mess and at this point I don't exactly care. We'll get it presentable enough tomorrow. As long as step daughter cleans up after the b'day party Sunday all should go well, if not oh well, everyone knows I'm a messy housekeeper any way. As long as the kitchen and bathroom stay clean I'm good to go.

Happy Yule Y'all

I may not get a chance to log on til after Christmas so...

Merry Christmas to you and yours! May you all stay safe and healthy.

[Nancj]

Mummy, cleaning, dishes and laundry? you mean we were supposed to do all of that while we decorated, created new props and decorations, visited with family and friends who we'll probably won't see again till next year, shopped for gifts that no one will like and end up returning anyways, wrap gifts, get over the flu three times, took the kids to the doctor for the flu shots, baked baked and ate untill your pants are too tight to zip, stood in horrendous lines at the stores to returns items you didn't mean to buy, did I mention my pants don't fit so I'm in a frantic frenzy shopping for a mumu that'll fit me and I'm having a hard time finding one because I think they only sell them in Hawaii where I wish I could be just about now. so Spook if your reading this and you can help a girl out with a mumu it would be much appreciated . (something festive would be nice). And now I have to clean the house and do about two weeks of laundry because I just found out that were having a dinner party at our house. ( dishwasher don't fail me now!!)
Aaahhh..... I'm feeling much better now that I got that off my chest. Thanks for allowing me to vent :)
Spook- I was just kidding about the mumu, I heard that duct tape can do wonders;)

Hope Everyone has a Wonderful, Safe and Prosperous Christmas.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!!!:) :)

[Mummy deer-est]

LMAO, Nancj! You said it all....but didn't you know that for the holidays, the one thing you must invest in (no matter what in jeans, skirts, dresses, or slacks) is SPANDEX!!!!

Forget diamonds....spandex is a girls best friend!
Good luck to you, gal....and a Merry Christmas to all of you!

[bethene]

Nancj- it's ok-vent away- now that you feel better, good luck with all that you have going on!I am pretty much finished- ran around yesterday like a mad woman, now just have to do some baking, and make potato salad to bring to my sister in laws. We have a winter warning for tomorrow(thanks to the big lake I love so much in the summer-wel I guess I love it all the time-just wish it wouldn't give us lake effect snow storms)I am supposed to get my hair cut tomorrow, if it is too bad(supposed to be alot of blowing snow too) I will just go without, and hope I don't look to terrible. to everyone--just in case I don't get back on before the big day, MERRY CHRISTMAS-and God bless us -everyone!!

[Mistress Muffy]

Greetings My Dear Xmas Buddies,

I'd like to thank all of you for your considerations during the passing of Jerry's Mom. She died Dec. 4th & that just seemed to push everything off track even tho he was unable to attend the funeral. Then the company coming from Phoenix for 9 days & the amount of candy orders we were making .....well it all just caught up with me & unfortunately it pushed this darn Neuropathy I have to its next level. I tried to control it but had no luck.

It started in on the 16th, Hubby got sick that afternoon & we had to take him to the VA hospital & we ended up being there half the night as he had that virus going around & it completely dehydrated him so they had us stay there till the IV bag was empty. They did a bunch of tests & also a chest x-ray. The clock was ticking & I was getting concerned about not getting done for the open house.

We got home & my neuropathy started in. On the 17th I had 3 really bad attacks which caused me to be stuck in the chair the next 2 days. May have been brought on by working such long hours on my feet with all the orders we had. Sometimes these attacks are so strong I just cannot walk afterwards. Thank God they were not that bad thru most of the candymaking.

Anyways I was unable to pull off the open house & it made me sad, so I put a huge sign out in front of my house re-scheduling the open house for the 29th. Both Hubby & Ex are yelling at me to just take it easy cause I still have some decorating to wrap up. The villages & getting my garland up, still some boxes to unpack. This is the 1st time my neuropathy is just staying put....I can't seem to get it to calm down this time. Meds just not working. Anyways I thought about cancelling the open house all together......but I can't!

I won't give into this situation & give up what I love to do. Got a bunch of doctors appts. in Jan. Hopefully we are gonna get this pain under control.

SO!!!!I'm still being a crazy woman trying to get my house decorated & enjoying every minute of it that I can stand!lol As soon as I get done I'll start shooting pictures & get them posted. Merry Christmas to all of you as I have so enjoyed all of you on this board!


Sickie.....so sorry to read about your son & his condition.

I have some serious reading to catch up with you guys!!!lol

Mistress Muffy

[Mummy deer-est]

Hey, Muff -- sorry it isn't calming down for you, hon. I know that must be stressful and annoing and a whole lot of other unpleasant verbs. Hang it there, and listen to those men in your life -- you don't have to do it all! It would be better to be healthy, sit and relax with an empty mantle (or what have you) then to be stuck in a chair stressing about it.
Have a great Christmas with those that love ya!

[Sickie Ickie]

Muff, do what you can, and then sit back and enjoy your family and friends. Just think how impressed they'll be next year, when you have everything under control and are able to outdo yourself from this year! :D

[Mistress Muffy]

Thank You my dear friends....I'm doin ok today!!lol I can't stand so I'm decorating with a chair in hand!!!lol Working on the dining room villages & spent some time last night working on the living room village. Darn these things are growing.... I keep saying I'm not buying any more village stuff but then I see something and its like..."OH!!!!I have to have that!!". This year I added a winter carnival & a wilderness creek w/ animals.... even got a mountain goat!!

I also added to my log cabin set up, turned it into a working ranch full of cattle and such. Found a bull riding setup so I had to get that for hubby!! My problem is not staying out of the TOY!! depts..

I just sat here & as I ate a steaming bowl of goulash I tried to catch up on my reading here so I don't miss a thing. As twilight approaches here I am heading outside as Ex is coming and he is going to hang my garland on the front porch. Tomorrow morning I will cut the evergreen branches and insert them into the wire garland for the REAL BUSHY look! lol Guys said I should not do it this year but ya know what?......its the most enjoyable, relaxable thing I do for the Xmas season. I love getting out there & cutting boxes of fresh evergreen along with picking up pinecones and making my fresh garlands!YUP...its my favorite thing!!

the Merry Muffster!!

[Mistress Muffy]

Hey Sickie ...did you survive the FOG!?? Chi-town family said it was might misty there!!

Muf

[Sickie Ickie]

Yep. Although yesterday it was kinda freaky. It was only mist coming out of teh woods. Prob because the weather was warmer than the snow still on teh ground in there. I was a perfect horror movie scene! :D