$2.50 can buy you a lizard army. Yesterday we met family at Rocky Rococo's to celebrate a cousin's birthday. I told the boys they could bring $2.50 from the spare change jar to use for games. DS9 used all his tickets to buy lizards.
The ride to the party was a death defying feat. The roads are still covered with layers of ice. We saw a Uhaul truck completely flipped over. I only hope they had completed their move and their valuables were not upside down!
I voted today. I know my guy has officially backed out, but his name was still on the ballot so I didn't have to write him in. I cherish my right to vote and to vote for who I want, not who the media says are front runners. We have below zero wind chills, the parking lot was a skating rink, but I found a way there and cast my ballot. I did it in remembrance of all the women past, present and future who didn't/don't have this right. Surprisingly, I was the youngest person I saw. Most of the other people voting were seniors who had shown up for the free community meal.
I'm so ready for spring! Even DS12 said to me yesterday, "I want to grow something." Maybe this will be the year we have a real garden. Maybe we'll look into starting baby plants indoors.
Our days have been off and I'm blaming the weather. DS12 has even watched "Becoming Jane" with me. How's that for a bored kid?!! He thought the movie was depressing. I could take it or leave it. I felt like I was watching a really bad remake of P&P. DS12 was surprised to learn during that time women hoped for a good marriage because supporting themselves was unheard of.
Last night I watched "The Nines" with DH. Maybe it was because I was tired but I didn't get it. I need the cliff notes for this movie.
Our movies weren't a total loss. I enjoyed "A Long Engagement" even though it had disturbing war stuff in it.
Well, my computer turn is up. DS9 wants to go back to Poptarts.com and see if anyone has beaten my top score on Breakfast Blast Off. I'm hoping no one has because then I'll be tempted to play again. :)
We're back from ringing bells. It went very well. I organized a few homeschooling friends to help us and each family took 30 minutes. We were touched by the generosity of some. We saw not only 1s but 5's, 10's and 20's make their way into the red kettle. I needed to see this. My boys needed to see this! Lately I feel like I'm living in a world with people who don't care for the welfare of others.
There were people that didn't make eye contact with you, but some people took the time to stop and share greetings even if they had nothing for the kettle. It felt good to thank everyone and to wish them a "Happy Thanksgiving!" The boys each had a bell and really got into it. We used a paint stick to push the dollars down and by the end of our shift, the kettle was heavy! We're looking forward to ringing again next Monday. If you feel funny about passing by a Salvation Army Bell Ringer empty handed, just smile and wish them blessings. Even a smile spreads joy and encouragement.
I watched Sicko yesterday with DH. I was moved to tears when he was interviewing the parliament member from England who said people don't vote out of fear or hopelessness. This is so true. Here in the U.S. we have become a nation ruled with fear and we feel hopeless!
I have always voted, since I became 18. I even vote in primaries. I bring my children with every time. DH votes too, although we do not always vote the same. One woman I know always votes whichever way her husband does. She said she didn't believe in canceling out her husband's vote. So you see, not all of us in the U.S. know how to correctly vote! Voting is your chance to have your voice heard!! If you can't think for yourself, please don't vote!! I think of all the women before me that didn't have this chance, and the women who fought for it. How can you not embrace your freedom to vote?
I'll get off my soapbox now and chillax.
I'm listening to Sarah McLachlan's Wintersong CD. Its putting me in the mood to go downstairs and dig out the decorations.
Today the sun is hiding. We actually have fog right now, but I love fog. Its romantic. I keep daydreaming I'll see Mr. Darcy come walking my way across the field! Actually my real Mr. Darcy, (DH), brought me beautiful carnations Friday. They are a purply pink. I love how carnations last and last!
Along with my flowers, I've lit candles so its nice and cozy in my nest. I'm grateful I don't have to work tonight, and the week will be a short one. I'm looking forward to family time on our extended weekend!
One more thing to mention, and then I'm off to brew a cup of Bija Echinacea Elderberry with cranberry and Rooibos. Last night we read Santa's Twin by Dean Koontz. DS8 wanted me to recommend it to you and you should check it out from your library. Its really good. I just love when we read books before bed, and then the next morning their noses are stuck back in them!
Peace and blessings.....
