The Color of the Sky in My World

Yuba Community College Fall 2009 ADN Graduating Class

2009-11-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

Prayers Needed

2009-10-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/sammiehartsfield

AC Barker

2009-10-07T11:17:00.000-07:00

Jason on the job.

The Story of Tank

2009-09-03T18:18:00.000-07:00

Have your tissues handy, you’re going to need them! The Story of Tank
They told me the big black Lab’s name was Reggie as I looked at him lying in his pen. the shelter was clean, no-kill, and the people really friendly. I’d only been…
The Story of Tank –

Wow....that's all I have to say!

Small Town Coach, Big-Time Hero

2009-09-02T13:27:00.001-07:00

People like this make me want to be a better person. Rest in peace Keith Howard, you made this world a better place. No one can ask for more.

Small Town Coach, Big-Time Hero

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Diabetes

2009-08-04T14:57:00.000-07:00

Last week I went for a physical. I had several things about my health confirmed...aka officially diagnosed, things that I already knew in the back of my mind. Because I am overweight I have developed diabetes. I knew it was coming, since I had gestational diabetes. If you have gestational diabetes you are at a 60 percent greater risk of developing Type II diabetes than someone who did not have it.
My weight is something I have struggled with since high school. I have had success when I followed Weight Watchers and exercised. But, I always seem to find an excuse to "take a break" or get too busy. My favorite cartoon shows a doctor speaking to his patient; "What fits your busy schedule better, exercising one hour a day or being dead 24 hours day?" That pretty much sums it up!
I am in my final semester of nursing school, you would think I would know better. Which, I do. I know I am not the only one. There are plenty of overweight healthcare professionals! I don't want to be one of them. One of the most important things that nurses provide for their patients is teaching. I don't want my patients to look at me and think "Yeah, right, you don't follow the rules, why should I?
I found a website/blog that really motivated me today. http://theantijared.blogspot.com/
This guy has it figured out!

Latest Endevours

2009-05-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

I have passed third semester in nursing school. After our final, most of the class got together for a celebratory lunch at a really great bar and grill in Yuba City, the Happy Viking.

In the fall I begin my preceptorship here in Woodland. I am so happy to not have to drive to Marysville so much anymore! Fourth semester also includes a psych class. The instructor is a former nursing supervisor for Woodland Memorial who I adore, so I am really looking forward to that class.

Since school ended I have been decompressing. I have been just enjoying my family and hanging around the house. Although it may be a little late in the season we have put in a garden. My father has been so wonderful, doing all the rototilling and teaching me all about the plants. Thanks Dad! I also fulfilled a long time dream and planted an herb garden. I ended up using an old animal trough that has been in the barn since the last great depression!

Firefighter of the Year

2009-03-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

Jason was chosen to be Dixon Fire Department's Firefighter of the Year. The award was bestowed upon him at a dinner at Dixon Fire last week. This week there was another dinner for all of Solano County's Firefighters of the year. He received a plaque from Dixon Fire, a trophy from Solano County, and several certificates of recognition from the California State Assembly, the California State Senate, the County of Solano, and the United States House of Representatives. It was very cool. I am very proud of my husband.

Jason accepting the award at the Dixon Fire Department's Awards Night.

At the Solano County Dinner in Fairfield.

Winter Break

2009-01-17T14:23:00.000-08:00

I pretty much shut down during the Winter Break. I did nothing related to school (until this weekend). I spent time with the kids and became a computer and video game addict. My latest "drug of choice" has been Animal Crossing, City Folk on the Wii. I also managed to get Jacob and Mark addicted.

I went to a couple movies, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Bedtime Stories. Both were great movies. I wanted to see Marley and Me, but never got back to the movie theater.

The boys, Jason, my parents and myself spent a day in San Francisco. We met Mark and Ari there and Mark showed us the "Full House" house. You know the row of Victorians during the opening credits.

Ari, Mark, and Jacob

To keep a promise to Jacob, we headed over the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum near Fisherman's Wharf. It was interesting, but not really my cup of tea. Definitely interesting to a 12 year old boy, however.

My Mom and Jacob

We headed over to one of my favorite restaurants The Cliff House for lunch. The food is great and there is such history surrounding the site. I always have a crab sandwich called the Ben Butler Sandwich. Then we wandered around taking in the view. I would have loved to have been there years ago when the amusement park was just down the road.

Jason and I in front of the Cliff House.

Jacob checking out the pelicans on the rocks.

My Parents near the Camera Obscura (picture by Jacob)

After lunch we went down the road (Highway 1) to Golden Gate Park. I had been dying to go to the Academy of Sciences that just reopened in September. It holds the Steinhart Aquarium, a Rain Forest Biosphere, and Planetarium. We missed the Planetarium show but we really didn't have time since there was so much else to see. It was really an all day trip squeezed into half a day. I need to go back this summer!

Jacob checking out the T-rex skeleton

Mark and Ari checking out the starfish at the tide pool.

Jacob in the Rain Forest exhibit.

Nana and Popie check out the roof of the California Academy of Sciences building.

The roof is a living roof...all 2.5 acres.

Well, that is about it! I will keep you posted and share how school is going!

Cards for the Troops

2008-12-09T07:48:00.001-08:00

Take a few minutes and say thank you to the men and women who are putting their lives on the line for our freedom.

Another year has passed...

2008-12-08T09:02:00.000-08:00

I am 41 today. This year has gone so fast. I have almost finished my first year of nursing school. Jason has done a wonderful job of keeping the house together while I study my heart out. Mark is completing his first semester of college. I have discovered that I will be a grandmother by the summer. Amanda and Aaron are expecting. I worry that they are not ready, but ready or not....

I reflect on all of the things I want to get done but haven't. I still haven't lost weight. I still haven't done things around the house. We haven't taken those vacations. The yard is falling apart. I keep saying that I will work on these things when I am done with school, but then I think about all the things I have said in the past....after the kids get older, after this football season, after we make more money. Slowly, these chances are slipping away. The kids are growing up and away. My grandfather always told me "if not now, when?". He is always good for an appropriate saying!

So anyway, I guess that is my goal for the next year. What I can fit in between school work and the kids...I will make things happen!

Jacob's School Project

2008-11-25T19:42:00.000-08:00

Jacob had to perform a community service project for one of his classes at school and document the progress. Jacob decided to collect recyclables and use the money to donate food to the local food closet for the holidays.

Bagging up the goods.

At the recycling center.

Money earned...

Mission Accomplished...

Fulla Bologna

2008-11-03T17:09:00.000-08:00

Here is Jacob in his Halloween costume. I didn't have my camera due to leaving the house in a hurry for a family emergency. It soon resolved thank goodness, but all I have is my cell phone image. I still think it is worth a post though!

2008-11-01T20:06:00.000-07:00

Notice to All Employees As of November 5, 2008, IF President Obama is officially elected into office, our company will instill a few new policies which are in keeping with his new,inspiring issues of change and fairness:
1. All salespeople will be pooling their sales commissions into a common pool that will be divided equally between all of you. This will serve to give those of you who are underachieving a fair shake.
2. All hourly employees will be pooling their wages, including overtime, into a common pool, dividing it equally amongst yourselves. This will help those who are too busy for overtime to reap the rewards from those who have more spare time and can work extra hours.
3. All top management will now be referred to as the government. We will not participate in this pooling experience because the law doesn't apply to us.
4. The government will give eloquent speeches to all employees every week, encouraging its workers to continue to work hard for the good of all.
5. The employees will be thrilled with these new policies because it's good to spread the wealth. Those of you who have underachieved will finally get an opportunity; those of you who have worked hard and had success will feel more patriotic.
6. The last few people who were hired should clean out their desks. Don't feel bad though, because President Obama will give you free healthcare, free handouts, free oil for heating your home, free food stamps, and he'll let you stay in your home for as long as you want even if you can't pay your mortgage. If you appeal directly to our democratic congress, you might even get a free flat screen TV and a coupon for free haircuts (shouldn't all Americans be entitled to nice looking hair?) !!!
If for any reason you are not happy with the new policies, you may want to rethink your vote on November 4th.

2008-10-29T15:01:00.001-07:00

Just wanna say hi

2008-10-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

Hello! I am taking a couple hours for myself. I have been doing school work non-stop 12-14 hours a day when I am not in clinical and I have to take a bit of a break. I actually popped open a beer. I should be asleep in a couple hours since I had 3 hours sleep last night! A special thank you to my husband for taking care of me. I wouldn't have any clean clothes if it weren't for you honey! You are such a great Dad, keeping that youngest kid of ours on track....

Bet you can't wait for your turn? Don't worry it's coming!

FRHG Cancer Center

2008-10-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

I am the biggest fan in the world of Woodland Healthcare. However, today I was so very impressed with the Cancer Center in Marysville that I had to say something! I have never seen a more beautiful setting for cancer patients to receive their treatments. There is beautiful landscaping (Japanses garden like) outside of each treatment room so the clients have something nice to look at instead of an ugly parking lot. The people that work there are just as amazing as the setting. Not only were they kind and helpful, they are so knowledgeable. I learned so much today. If I wasn't so set on being an emergency department nurse, I would definitely consider going into this field.

Made me laugh....

2008-10-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

Tell me I did the right thing...

2008-10-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for the last couple days to see how I did on our second exam in Med Surg. I hate waiting. I got home from lecture today and quickly signed on to the class website to see my grade. Wahoo 84%! So, I go through the test to see which ones I missed. I get to the bottom of the test and notice that one of the questions say I got 11/2 points. That is impossible! I quickly scroll up and count the number of questions I got wrong...wow, way more that the 9 I originally thought I missed. I stare at the test...what do I do? I want that B real bad. But, Katie, I say to myself, you always pride yourself on your honesty and integrity. I know but... No buts, I say to myself. I sigh as I pick up the phone and call my instructor. I am thinking that I got a D on the test. After she corrects the error, she calls me back and lets me know that I actually did pass with a 71%. Not my proudest moment, but at least I passed and I can sleep at night!

Interception, Again...

2008-09-28T12:11:00.000-07:00

Once again I was so wrapped up in the action I didn't take a picture till well into the play. He just caught the ball and although it looks like his teammate is knocking him over, he is actually trying to pull him up so he can make some yards....

Oh well, at least we got the ball!

Ain't it the truth...

2008-09-28T12:10:00.001-07:00

My Daughter, The Hero

2008-09-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

From the Daily Democrat

Residents evacuated from College St. blaze
By LIZETH CAZARES/Democrat staffwriter
Article Launched: 09/23/2008 08:06:06 AM PDT

Woodland firefighters battle a blaze in an old home off College Street near Main Street Motors late Monday afternoon. (Jim Smith/Democrat) Local families were evacuated from their residences after a fire broke out in a single-family house on College Street, Monday afternoon.
Fire crews arrived at the home, located immediately north of Main Street Motors, 454 College St., at 3:44 p.m. after receiving a call stating that smoke was emitting from the house, said Fire Battalion Chief Russ Cole.

Flames and black smoke were visible when fire engines arrived at the scene. Crews concentrated water cannons to the upper level of the house and a nearby tree which also caught on fire.

Due to the severity of the fire, engines from Willow Oak and Davis soon arrived to provide backup.

In all, five fire engines, ambulance crews and Woodland police arrived on scene to fight the flames and offer assistance

Fire Battalion Chief Russ Cole inspects the scene after a large house fire on College Street.
The cause of the fire was still under investigation as of Monday night, Cole said. He added that the fire began in the attic of the home.

Art Heras, owner of Main Street Motors, was one of the first people who noticed smoke coming from the house.

After realizing that there were children still in the house, his brother, Augie, ran inside and told them to get out. The four children were evacuated safety, but were worried about their cat, which was still inside, said Art Heras.

"They ended up going back in for the cat," he said.

The children and their cat is safe, Heras said.

Other bystanders were also making sure that nearby residents were safe.

Amanda Talamantes, a daughter of a firefighter, was driving to work when she saw the flames.

She ran into an multi-residential home immediately east of the burning house, after noticing that the smoke was moving toward it.

"There weren't fire officials on scene so I ran to the home in front to make sure all the occupants were out," Talamantes said.

Talamantes helped evacuate six residents who were inside the two-story home which fronted College.

While the fire was contained to the house, some were taking extra precaution to make sure

In search of any smoldering items, a Woodland firefighter tosses clothing out of the second floor of a house that caught on fire Monday afternoon.

I Won't Forget

2008-09-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

Crossroads

2008-09-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

I am at an emotional crossroad today. I have come to realize that in my life I have never ventured outside the my little box, my comfort zone. Nursing school is all about doing things you have never done, while someone is watching you, and when you could potentially harm someone, talk about pressure. The stress is caving in on me today. I wonder if I am going to be able to continue on, or do I even want to. I am giving up so much to go to school, being with Jacob, with Jason, just having a normal life. I hate staying up all night the day before clinical writing a bunch of paperwork so you instructor can figuratively rip it apart. I feel like they expect us to know everything already, when in fact, we are there to learn. At this point I hate school, and I am terrified to go to clinical. On the way home I heard Kenny Loggins singing "This is it". It sure hit home. If I don't make a conscious decision to step out of my friggin box, I am going to fail. I need to grow up and act like a professional. Is it in me? What am I made of? I really don't know. School has been a process of getting to know myself...my deep inner self, the core, what I am made of. Self awareness is difficult, especially if you are not sure you like what you see.

Detour

2008-09-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

I take Jacob to school down College Street. The city is doing road work on Lincoln Ave (a cross street), and so sometimes the road is closed and I have to find another route to get to Douglass Middle School. Last week I was going down College Street and there was a detour sign sending me to the left to go down Bush Street. I turned left and was shocked to see another detour sign on the next block sending me back the way I came! What the heck! Then today, I was sent right on Main Street and then I turned left down Elm...to another detour sign sending me back the way I came. Can't the crews communicate!

Interception

2008-09-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

This could have been a great series of shots had I actually got a picture of him catching the ball. Unfortunately he was behind another player when he actually caught it! Also, remind me to keep taking pictures after the play...there was some cute celebration afterwards...some belly-bumping, hugging, and one kid even picked him up...and then dropped him (on accident). This interception ended the game pretty much, there was not enough time for the Chargers to get the ball back.

Dear Mr. Obama

2008-09-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

Remember

2008-09-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

Big Math Test

2008-09-09T21:23:00.001-07:00

Big math test tomorrow. If I fail it, I get another try. If I fail again....see ya later alligator!!!

Update: I PASSED!!!!

Brothers

2008-09-07T17:09:00.000-07:00

Mark wanted to have a romantic candle light dinner with his girlfriend....out behind our barn (eww). So he asked his little brother to be maitre de and waiter. He dressed up in one of Mark's old suit coats (just a little bit too big) and helped his brother out. I thought that was very cute. I was dissappointed in one little detail however, they stiffed him....that's right, no tip!!!

I am a Princess

2008-08-29T06:25:00.000-07:00

You Are Cinderella!

Dignified and hard working. With a gentle and soft-spoken manner you have something many people don't. Patience. Even through the moments of heartbreak you're still able to hold onto all of your hopes and dreams. Bide your time; your dream will come true.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Pioneer Junior Patriots- Junior Midget Team

2008-08-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations on your first win. Jake and I wish we could have been there! Being sick sucks!

Pioneer Junior Midget 30 vs. Chico Jaguars 16

This Little Girl is Twenty Today!

2008-08-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Isn't she the cutest! Happy Birthday Amanda.

This Little Boy Goes to College...

2008-08-19T21:49:00.001-07:00

Mark left for college today. Yes, I cried.

I can't believe he is gone...

Study hard. Mom loves you!!!

Winters Mini Jamboree

2008-08-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

Second Place

2008-08-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

I entered some photographs in the fair again this year. I placed second with this picture in the "Farms of Yolo County Division".

Football

2008-07-25T21:33:00.001-07:00

The Pioneer Junior Patriots have begun practice. Hell week is over and regular practice will start on Monday. Jacob and several other members of the Junior Midget Squad attended a football camp in Sutter last weekend. They had a good time and the coaches learned some new drills.

Wow Factor of 10

2008-07-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

I don't even know what to say. This video came as a link with an email I received today. It's a good cry and makes all of your problems seem so trivial. Here is the email along with the link.

Subject: A real IRONMAN
Subject: Amzaing Ironman

This is a true story! The son asked his father, 'Dad, will you take part in a marathon with me?'. The father who, despite having a heart condition, says 'Yes'. They went on to complete the marathon together. Father and son went on to join other marathons, the father always saying 'Yes' to his son's request of going through the race together. One day, the son asked his father, 'Dad, let's join the Ironman together.' To which, his father said 'Yes' too. For those who don't know, Ironman is the toughest triathlon ever. The race encompasses three endurance events of a 2 .4 mile (3.86 kilometer) ocean swim, followed b y a 112 mile (180.2 kilometer) bike ride, and ending with a 26.2 mile (42.195 kilometer) marathon along the coast of the Big Island Father and son went on to complete the race together.
NOW WATCH THIS VIDEO: http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=8cf08faca5dd9ea45513

I am so touched.

I Made Jason Mad

2008-07-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Sacramento (Weekend Edition) was requesting pictures of local firefighters to honor them. So being the loving wife that I am, I emailed a couple pictures to them! They showed them on the air during the 7am hour. One of the pictures is on the Good Day Sacramento Website. He is number 12 in the slide show. They got the caption wrong. He wasn't fighting the Humboldt Fire (which is in Butte County). He was fighting fires in Humboldt County. (and they spelled Humboldt wrong)

Anyway, because his picture was in the news, he will owe ice cream I am sure. Cody was commenting about how firefighters always have mustaches, and he said how Jason "rocked the mustache". I cracked up!!! Jason's friend Chris called later to give Jason a hard time. Here are the pictures I submitted.

Alcatraz

2008-07-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

Jacob, my mother, my father, and I took the train to San Francisco on Monday. Jason was supposed to go to but he is off fighting fires again. Well, actually, I just spoke with him and they are doing the difficult job of standing by at a spa in Mendocino County. Wish I were there! Anyway, back to the subject. Jacob has never been to Alcatraz so I promised him this summer we would go. It was great weather and we had a nice time.

Here is a new fact I learned while there...this is copied from the national parks website: http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/wwIIbayarea/alc.htm

The first European exploration of the site was by Juan Manuel de Ayala's expedition which sailed the Spanish frigate San Carlos into the San Francisco Bay in 1775. Making cartographic observations by small boat, his Lieutenant, Canizares, described an island "so arid and steep there was not even a boat harbor there: I named the island de los Alcatrazes because of their being so plentiful there." Alcatrazes is archaic Spanish for cormorant, a seabird noted for its long neck, wedge shaped tail and a hooked bill. By 1826 the name Alcatraz was applied to the island.

Nana, Jacob, and Popie on the way to the Alcatraz Cruise.

Jacob on the ferry with Alcatraz in the background.

Popie takin care of business the convict way.

(I was so afraid it was gonna crumble because it is so old!)

(the toilet, not Popie)

Jacob listening to the headphones for the self guided tour of the cell block.

After the trip back, at the end of Pier 39, Alcatraz in the background.

Skydiving

2008-06-26T07:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, while I was at school, Mark was jumping out of a perfectly good airplane! I made him text me so I would know he made it down alive! Mark and his friends went to Skydance out by Davis. He said they were nice and he enjoyed his experience. The only bad part was that it was so smokey from the fires you didn't have as good of view had it been clear.

Mark has a whole checklist of things he wants to do this summer. He is also going to take dance lessons with his friend Ari. Isn't that cool! I need to make a list...

The Old Man is Home

2008-06-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

Jason is home and resting.

Jason Number Three

2008-06-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

Jason is staying in a motel in Fortuna and is going to be coming home tomorrow. Poor Baby, finally he gets to go on a strike team and he gets sick. Thank you to Chief Jaramillo of the Davis Fire Department for keeping me informed and thank you to Chief Froman for bringing my poor darling husband home. Jason called and said that the people at Redwood Memorial ER were very nice to him and told him I was lucky because he was such a nice man..OMG!!! He told them that he wasn't as nice to me...at least he is honest.

Jason Update Number Two

2008-06-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

Last night when Jason called he mentioned that he had thrown up and thought it was from a "bad" sandwich. I thought in my head, oh yeah sure, you are just getting old and can't handle the heat like you used to. Although normally he is like a billy goat and keeps on going. Well, as usual when it comes to my husband's health, I way underestimated it! Jim, the Willow Oak Fire Department Cheif just called to tell me that Jason was taken to a hospital because he probably does have food poisoning. I am such a horrible wife. Jason when you read this, honey, it's just an abrasion. (smooch).

Jason Update

2008-06-22T20:37:00.000-07:00

The fact that my husband can call me from the fireline at 2500 feet in the forest in Humboldt County amazes me! He is working for 24 hours, I can barely stay up late, I can't even image working straight for 24 hours! He said they may call his group back in because the fog is rolling in. I don't know if that is because of the visibility or because the moisture from the fog will help the fire slow down. Jacob was very happy to talk to him, he told him "I have been having a bad attitude since you left. You need to come home." Then he went on to tell his Dad that he had to take another week of vacation to make up for this one, and that he wanted to go camping at Middle Site.

Some Vacation...

2008-06-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

I was looking forward to having 2 weeks off with my husband. We had no great plans, maybe a few day trips and to catch up on "us" time. The fire gods had other plans for us. Jason is off gallivanting around Humboldt County (his old stomping grounds) fighting fires. Lightening strikes have started like a gazillion fires up in Humboldt and Shasta County. So much for time together. Jacob was very unhappy about the turn of events as well. He was in a horrible mood when he found out Jason was leaving. He even went out to Jason's truck and hid his keys. Luckily for Jason he had a spare set of keys, cuz I don't think Jake would have given them back!

I plan to make the most of my time off. Mark, Jake, and I went bowling yesterday. The balls are sure heavier than I remember! You know, the benches are the same ones that were there when I used to go watch my Dad bowl when I was little. I don't think they have updated anything in that bowling alley other than the computer for scoring and the video games in the last 40 years! Good old Woodhaven Lanes.

Last night I went out for an evening of wine tasting and music at the Woodland Opera House. There was a silent and live auction as well. But, as you all know, since I am a student and I am getting ready to send Mark to college, I am my own favorite charity right now!

Enjoying a little vino.

By the way, my favorite wine from the event was from The Berryessa Gap Vineyard.

I don't see it on the website but it was a Tannat, the woman at the booth said it is an obscure grape grown in Uruguay and South France. It is usually used in mixing. I thought it was really a nice wine by itself, very mellow.

What a horrible picture. It was so hot, I was sweaty, my hair was blowing around...blah, blah, blah. I was having a wonderful time though. The music was great. Dr. Baker (in the background) played piano music. (I grew up across the street from him, I used to love listening to him during the summer evenings.) Then Paul Coker and the Melody Makers played. They were marvelous!

Paul Coker and the Melody Makers

If you want to catch them they will be at the Car Show at Bagel City on July 5th.

Today Jacob and I headed over to Bagel City for breakfast to see our favorite Bagel Sales Associate. (Markie) I finally decided to take the plunge and buy the San Francisco. Because of the moratorium on salmon fishing, prices on salmon (and lox) are getting pretty high, and this was reflected in the price of the sandwich. However, I consider it money well spent, cuz it was delicious! It was also an educational experience, because I learned what the heck capers are. I had no idea. I have eaten them before and liked them, just didn't know what they consisted of!

So for those of you who are unsophisticated like me....wikipedia says: The caper (Capparis spinosa L.) is a perennial spiny shrub that bears rounded, fleshy leaves and big white to pinkish-white flowers. A caper is also the pickled bud of this plant. The bush is native to the Mediterranean region, growing wild on walls or in rocky coastal areas throughout. The plant is best known for the edible bud and fruit (caper berry) which are usually consumed pickled. Other species of Capparis are also picked along with C. spinosa for their buds or fruits.

After breakfast we loaded up and headed over to the Best Show on Tracks. I enjoyed watching the mules pull the harvester and looking at all the old farm equipment. I imagined life as a farmer's wife back the in late 1800-early 1900's, watching your husband out harvesting the crops, bringing him his meal...(yes I have an active imagination) Jacob was interested in looking around for as long as his corn dog lasted, then he was bored. We got into a little tiff and then left.

On the way home I decided I better get a few sunflower pictures before they wilted all away. I think I will enter one in the fair. What do you think?

Freshman Orientation

2008-06-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mark and I were at Sonoma State the last couple of days for Freshman Orientation. A couple of Mark's friends rode up there with us, as well as one other mom, my friend Susan. The boys stayed on campus in a dorm, we went to the Best Western down the road.

We checked in and then went and got the boys ID card pictures taken. We discovered that we were going to be attending different activities from the kids, even eating meals separately. I was kinda bummed because I was looking forward to spending a little time with Mark. So off we went, our different ways. I found some of the classes to be interesting and informative. I did end up skipping out on some classes because I couldn't stand the stupid questions that some of the parents were asking.

We had a great dinner at a restaurant called Lattitudes. I had the crab cakes (of course). They were pretty good. The restaurant was on a small lake with geese and had a covered outside dining area overlooking the lake. It was very peaceful. The waiter was a recent Sonoma State graduate so we got the student's view of the college from him.

The second day we started out having better attendance but then we blew off the afternoon classes and went to check out the campus. We found a butterfly garden, and a lake with ducks and geese, we checked out the library, and Charlie Brown's Cafe. I took lots of pictures of the ducks and geese but none really turned out that good.

I feel that I have finally matured enough to go away to college! I am very envious of Mark and his exciting future. I am so glad that I am in school too. I wish that I had taken the opportunity in my youth, but better late than never! I was just not mature enough to handle that at the time. Oh well, I don't think I would like having a roommate anyway. (besides Jason and Jacob that is!)

We joined up with the kids at 330 at an informational fair, I grabbed all the pamphlets my purse could hold. I have tons of information about Sea Wolf Bucks (money card you can reload), studying abroad, meal plans, book store information (Barnes and Noble), student health (I was impressed with their facility), job information (GET ONE MARK), and ultimate Frisbee. There was lots of other booths too, but Mark wasn't interested in joining sports or a fraternity.

After we left we went to a little hole in the wall called the Redwood Cafe in Cotati. I had a Spicy Thai Shrimp Wrap that came with mango salsa. I have to tell you a secret...this meal was ten times more tasty than the restaurant with the great atmosphere. I will even go as far as saying that it was amazing. I can't wait till August 23rd when we move Mark to school and I can go back and have another one!!!

Yolo County Sheriff's Deputy Killed

2008-06-16T07:34:00.000-07:00

Last night a Yolo County Sheriff's Deputy, Tony Diaz was shot in Dunnigan during a traffic stop. He was transported to Woodland Memorial Hospital and pronounced dead. Here is a picture of Marco Topete, the murderer. As I watched a news report interviewing a family member, I could not believe as the woman said that the man was such a good man, and she couldn't believe that he did this....yet the man was just released in November after a 12 year sentence for, get this, SHOOTING SOMEONE. Hello....

Rest In Peace Deputy.

Moving On

2008-06-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

Jacob was promoted from 6th grade to middle school on June 3rd. They had a nice little ceremony and received a certificate. Jacob is showing his unique fashion sense early in life. This is that hat he bought with his own money in San Francisco awhile back. One of my favorite parts of the ceremony is when the kindergarten class sang a song from The Sound of Music. I can't remember the name but it goes...So long, farewell, auf weidersehen , goodbye.....It is the song they sing when the kids are going to bed during the big "party" scene. It made me cry. There was a picnic for the kids afterwards. The boys played football. Mark came over after school and played football with the boys

Then on June 6th, my little Markie graduated from high school. It was a good ceremony. The speeches were not too long, they were interesting too! I ordered the video from the WAVE because I knew I would not get a good video myself.

Baseball is finished, Jacob's team came in second for the season and second in the tournament. Closing ceremonies were on Saturday, but I haven't downloaded the pictures yet. His last game was on the night of graduation, at least it started on that night! They were down, 1-9 against the Brewers. They caught up and tied...but then at 10:30 they announced that the lights were going out at 10:40, so we had to finish up in the morning. So at 11am, they went back at it. They were outfield first...3 up, 3 down. Then Marcus was up and singled....then Gabriel....Marcus stole all the way to third, Gabe hit one out to left center, Marcus scored and the rest is history! The A's went on to have a similar game against the Cardinals, down 1-9, they caught up, but they Cardinal's kept scoring too. The final score was 8-11, a very good game. I will post pics when I finally get around to it!!!!

Picture Field Trip

2008-05-30T21:06:00.000-07:00

I went on a picture taking field trip with Jason today. We started out on Old River Road, after miles and miles of driving and arguing...I only found one duck.

After making up we drove out to one of my favorite places, the Cache Creek Conservancy. One of the only animals I could find stirring around was the cool turtle in the guest center.

Wandering around the wetlands at the Conservancy, the only sign of life was this little fellow.

Later in the evening Amanda and Aaron came to visit. I had to get a picture of the them with the lovely colored sky in the background.

Baseball and Badminton

2008-05-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

Jacob and the A's played a great game today. They finally beat the one team they had been unable to beat all season. Jacob got four outs and scored twice. Most definitely his best game all season. We had just been talking the other day, he mentioned that he had not gotten a "game ball" this year. I thought for sure he would get one today. So did he. Guess what....no game ball. It is really hard when you are a parent and you are trying to explain why things happen the way they do. I just tried to stay positive and told him how great he did. Then we stopped at Little Cesar's after the game and I let him go buy at "Hot and Ready" Pepperoni Pizza. (that has to be some of the worst crap ever). Then we went home and set up the badminton net that I bought the other day. We played till it was so dark we couldn't see the birdie anymore. He never mentioned the game ball again!

Cool side note....this is what we saw while we were putting up the net:

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T11:17:00.001-07:00

Thank you.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

2008-05-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

Right after school today Jacob and I raced to Davis to catch the 4:00 showing of the new Indiana Jones movie. We went to the Regal Cinemas 5 in Davis (the one G Street). It is a nice theater, but the popcorn sucked, lot of small broken pieces, it must have been the bottom of the barrel.

The movie was pretty good. Indiana has some age on him now, but still a believable "hero". I won't give away anything, but my least favorite part of the movie is when Mutt Williams, (Shia LaBeouf), is riding his motorcycle along the railroad station platform...it is absolutely the worst special effects I have ever seen. I could have used Microsoft Movie Maker and done a better job editing. I enjoyed the part in the warehouse when the object from another Indiana movie "makes a cameo".

The rest of the movie was typical Indiana Jones, lots of chase scenes, cobwebs, and restless natives. Like they always say, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

New Street Sign

2008-05-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

Wintun Drive, where the CHP office is located in Woodland, has a new name. I heard they even changed the address to Officer Steven's badge number. Rest in Peace Andy, they got him.

Summer Promises.......

2008-05-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

OK......here is what I want to accomplish this summer.

1. Get in to the habit of going to the gym. I don't expect miracles, I just want to get some form of exercise every day.

2. Use my Mother's Day present of having a consult with a professional organizer. My goal is to get rid of half of my belongings so it is easier to keep the house clean!

3. I need to go purchase my books so I can start my reading for next semester. I don't want to get behind.

4. Get some really cool pictures taken for the fair. I just love taking pictures!

DONE!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

My final is done...got an A on it, B in the class overall. I am looking forward to being off for the summer, but I will miss my friends!

First Semester Coming to a Close.

2008-05-13T13:15:00.001-07:00

I have attended my last class of the semester, all that remains is the final exam on May 19th. Nursing school has been such an amazing experience. I have never put so much effort into something in my life. I spent at least nine hours the night before clinical doing my "prep", studying for tests for 12 hours straight, and reading, reading, and more reading. I have learned that I can read pretty good on a treadmill and it helps me stay awake reading the dry nursing theory text! I have fallen asleep countless times on the couch while trying to keep up with all that reading!
I have made new friends, shared in their triumphs and despairs. We have become a close group, and it was painful for each one of us when someone didn't make it. One person in particular was hard for me to take losing, we had taken several of our pre requisite classes together. I was hoping to finish up the long bumpy road with her. I have made a new friend, Tammy. Although she is much younger, 24, we seem to understand one another.
Next semester we are being broken up and integrated into 3 new groups with the Marysville students. I am grateful that I am going to still be with Tammy so we can commute (she lives in a nearby town). I enjoyed my instructor. I felt that she was fair and I appreciated her frankness.
I enjoyed my clinical time at Woodland Memorial. It was comforting to be around people I knew and a place I was familiar with. Moving on to a new hospital next semester will be good for me too. Perhaps the cloak of anonymity will give me more confidence.
I look forward to working this summer, I miss the ER and all my friends.

Prom

2008-05-04T05:43:00.001-07:00

Mark attended his Senior Prom last night. He was voted Prom King. Isn't that cool!

Picture Day

2008-04-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

After work on Sunday I took some pictures of a training burn Jason was at and on the way home I found some pretty flowers.

Pioneer Patriot Volleyball

2008-03-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

Mark is playing volleyball and having a good time. I find taking pictures in the gym is really hard. The lighting sucks, almost as bad as taking pictures at the night football games! There is lots of action, so everything is blurry. I am looking forward to the day when I can take photography classes! Here are the best of the bunch!

San Francisco.....Again

2008-03-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

I love going to San Francisco. I took the boys and we met Mark's friend who goes to school in SF.

See Coit Tower and the TransAmerica Pyramid in the background? This is on top of the parking garage by Pier 39.

I love the colors in this picture even though Jake's eyes are closed! This at Pier 39.

One of our favorite places to eat at Pier 39 is Bubba Gump's. Mark is pointing to the list of all the ways to fix shrimp, you know, lemon shrimp, shrimp gumbo, shrimp sandwich......

Ari took my picture with the boys, I never get to be in the pictures (most of the time that is fine with me) I don't like to be reminded how "voluptuous" I am. This was taken at Baker Beach.

Mark and his friend Ari. This picture was taken at the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park.

Ari, Mark, and Jacob. This was taken in front of the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. It is going through a major remodel, scheduled reopening is Sept 27th. I really want to go and check it out.

http://www.calacademy.org/index.php

Helpful hint while driving in SF, be flexible in driving, you almost never get to make left hand turns, unless you are on a one way street, so plan on lots of rights!

Easter at Our House

2008-03-23T10:40:00.001-07:00

Easter at our house consists of a brunch and the traditional egg hunt.

Photography...My Relaxation

2008-03-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

I LOVE THIS FACE!!!

Called it!

2008-03-13T16:40:00.001-07:00

Ok, so you know how I said I would make up for it by having a stupid day? Nuff said.

Today I am Smart

2008-03-11T18:33:00.000-07:00

Today I am smart. I passed a test I had been dreading. I feel great, I am on top of the world. The only problem is that it is fleeting feeling. Tomorrow I will make a horrendous blunder and I will be the dumbest person that ever existed. I will be in tears. I will want to quit the nursing program.
Are you catching on that I am an emotional person? Oh well, that is just me! Feelings are a part of life. They make life worth living. I would rather have a roller coaster of a life than a dull, gray, monotonous existence.

I like this saying I received in an email-

Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - wine in one hand, chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming ‘WOO HOO, What a Ride!‘

This Could Have Been My Son.

2008-03-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

A seventeen year old high school football player was gunned down outside his home because he didn't answer the question "correctly" that was asked by two gang members. His mother was serving her second tour of duty in Iraq. I don't get it. Why do people feel they have the right to take someone's life away from them? RIP Jamiel, and God help your family heal from the pain.

http://www.knbc.com/news/15500074/detail.html

Picture Day

2008-03-07T17:54:00.000-08:00

I declared today picture day for the Woodland Group of Yuba College ADN program, First Semester! I love my group SO MUCH!!! These were taken at Yuba College in Marysville. The moment I saw these structures, I knew that I had to have pictures of us in front of them! A big thank you to Heather for taking the pictures for me!

I'd Like to Thank...

2008-03-04T06:42:00.000-08:00

Good news, I passed the exam with a B. I am so relieved. All of our group from Woodland passed, so I was doubly happy. Today is a day off, but I have to write my clinical paper. Jacob has a half day so I will go pick him up and have a special lunch with him, then I will have to crawl back in the office and "ignore" him for the rest of the day. He has been very good about me going back to school. He has started helping around the house more and not complaining (much). When I was feeling really down about the exam, he said "Don't give up Mom!". The whole family has been very supportive, my parents have been helping with Jacob, Jason has been doing the laundry and other chores around the house, he even makes me dinner on Wednesdays when I have to stay up late and prep for my clinical day on Thursday. Thanks everyone!

My Brain Hurts

2008-03-02T11:46:00.001-08:00

It seems like all I do anymore is read nursing books. Sometimes they are interesting, others are difficult reading. I have to go jump on the treadmill just to stay awake while reading! I have my first big exam tomorrow and I have been studying for days. It doesn't seem to make any difference, I still don't know all the things I need to know. I pay attention in class, read all the chapters I am supposed to, make sure I understand all the "theory objectives" listed in my syllabus, but I still feel as empty headed as I did before studying.

Any advice???

First Day at the Hospital

2008-02-14T19:30:00.001-08:00

We did our first day at the hospital yesterday. Wow. We did a prep, which is gathering lots and lots of information on a patient to prepare to care for them the next day. Luckily it was a mock prep and we didn't have to come in to do patient care yet. There is so much to know. I love learning, it has been so interesting. I am so exhausted though, my brain is fried, I am really looking forward to this weekend. Of course, I have lots of reading to catch up on, and videos to watch! It is a 3 day weekend though, so that really will be nice!
Another really nice thing about being at the hospital was seeing all of my friends/coworkers. I miss everyone so much. My classmates were making fun of me because I couldn't make it down a single hall without hugging someone or another! Woodland is such a great place to work. I am so glad that Alice made me go apply for that job I didn't think I was qualified for 17 years ago!

Nursing School

2008-01-30T16:07:00.000-08:00

I am almost through my second week of school. I can't believe how much I have to read every day. I have at least 4-5 chapters every day. I have learned quite a bit in the last week and a half. For instance, you can put a tube in pretty much every hole in our bodies. I have practiced on our poor gender confused mannequins in the nursing lab. We've done nasogastric tubes, Foley catheters, enemas, feeding tubes. I have learned the right way to make a bed, to roll people around in bed and bathe them. I am pretty sure that the real patients I have will want me to be much gentler than I was to the dummies! Jason allowed me to practice vital signs on him last night, he said I was rough too. I am going to work on my bedside manner! I promise!

San Francisco

2008-01-22T18:38:00.000-08:00

Sunday my parents took Jason, the boys, and I to San Francisco to celebrate our 12th anniversary. We took the Amtrak from Davis to Emeryville and then a bus to Pier 39. It was seamless, I recommend this trip for everyone.

We had lunch at Bubba Gump's, it was surprisingly good, I figured it would be all style and no substance. Jacob and I managed to embarrass Mark by reciting all the ways you can cook shrimp, per Bubba.

We browsed at all the cool shops (especially the ones with televisions so we could catch peeks at the Patriots game) and Jacob bought a really cool hat.

I was finally able to ride a cable car. Isn't that funny, all the times I have been to S.F. I have never ridden a cable car. I think that was my favorite part, when the car finally cleared out, I was able to jump out of the inside and run up front with Jason, who was standing on the the side.

Another really good part about taking the train is that you can have a glass of wine on the way home!

Thanks Mom and Dad, we had a wonderful time!

Check it out!

2008-01-14T18:29:00.001-08:00

Can you believe it? One week from tomorrow! I am so flippin' excited!

The Storm

2008-01-10T09:13:00.000-08:00

I am finally getting around to posting about the big storm that came thorough last Friday. I had a front row seat at work. My desk faces the ambulance doors, so I got to watch the wild weather all day. I felt so bad for all the police, fire, and ambulance crews, going from one problem to the other. The clinic was closed due to the power outage. Some of the doctors came over and opened up an impromptu clinic in our fast-track area. They even brought over their own staff. I was very impressed with the IT department, they were there quickly, installing all the programs the clinic would need to use on our computers. The ER was relatively slow for the whole day.

I went home to see what damage had been done. Jason had gotten off work that morning and had prepared me for it somewhat. I was very sad to see that my ivy "tree" had been blown over. This is an ivy plant that grew on my clothes line post. It has to be as old as the house, about 93 years. Some of the branches were 10 inches thick. What surprised me was not that it had blown over, but that the metal post that was holding it up bent.

Weight Loss Shakes are Stupid.

2008-01-03T09:39:00.001-08:00

I have come to the conclusion that weight loss shakes are stupid. Since I have been on the wagon, I have been eating oatmeal for breakfast. This morning I grabbed one of Jason's shakes because I wasn't really hungry, but I knew that if I didn't eat/drink something I would pig out at lunch. I popped it open and had a couple sips...mmmmm chocolate for breakfast, yummy! Then I started reading the can. A can of Kirkland Weight Loss Shake (Costco Brand) has 230 calories, with 38 grams of sugar and 360 mg of sodium.

Here is what a cup of oatmeal has:

Nutrition Facts
Calories 147
(Kilojoules 616)

% DV**
Total Fat
2.3 g
4%
Sat. Fat
0.4 g
2%
Cholesterol
0 mg
0%
Sodium
2 mg
0%
Total Carbs.
25.3 g
8%
Dietary Fiber
4 g
16%
Sugars
0.6 g
Protein
6.1 g
Calcium
18.7 mg
Potassium
131 mg

I think I made the wrong decision for breakfast this morning!!!

Perfect Patriots.

2007-12-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

I was very worried yesterday at half time during the Giants/Patriots game. Thank goodness they readjusted and came back from a 10 pt deficit and won. My favorite play was when Hobbs got an interception.

Here is the story from Patriots.com

http://www.patriots.com/search/index.cfm?ac=searchdetail&pid=29933&pcid=41&rss=1

and isn't Wes Welker a dream...

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T14:46:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas to everyone. I hope you are having a wonderful day. We had our usual Christmas with everyone coming here in the morning, although earlier than normal, because Jason had to work. So at 6 o'clock this morning we were up and opening presents. After Jason headed off to work, we got busy making breakfast. Our traditional Christmas breakfast includes Pannekoeken ( I really have no idea to spell it), which are Dutch pancakes, similar to crepes. We always include bacon, which everyone eats faster than I can make! My grandmother brought over some berries from her and Papa's garden and some sliced up oranges from my Mom and Dad's tree. After everyone took off we settled down to some toy playing. The boys played Madden 2008 and then we all played Guitar Hero III. Mark went to go see his girlfriend and I took a nap. It is time to prepare dinner now, so off I go!!!

Lots of Christmas love and cheer to you!

Christmas Spirit

2007-12-23T07:34:00.000-08:00

Where is it? I used to get such a wonderful feeling around Christmas. It was an actual feeling I would get in my chest. It was warmth and good feelings. I haven't been able to capture that feeling in several years. I wonder how to recapture that feeling. Is it because of the stress of the holidays? Is it because I have to worry that everyone gets what they want? Was it only a feeling I could have as a "young person", one with less worries and cares? Can I find it at church, would I find it volunteering at a homeless shelter, is it to be found if I ran away with the family for a day trip to somewhere fun?

Does anyone know what I am talking about???

Football Banquets

2007-12-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

Jacob and Mark both had their football banquets last week. It was great to see all my football friends. Jacob and his team got their first place trophies for the season. Mark received a 4 Year Football Award, which was great since he played his freshman year at Woodland. He also received the Teammate of the Year Award. I think this was very special since it shows a lot about his character and not just his athletic ability.

Jacob receiving his trophy from Coach Mario.

Mark with his 4 Year Award and his Teammate of the Year Award.

Busy Busy

2007-12-13T07:45:00.000-08:00

I got 70 percent of the office clean. I still need to organize the boxes and whatnot, but at least I can walk around and I can find the keyboard! I ended feeling yucky last night, I had body aches and chills, so I skipped the ER Christmas party. I took a Tylenol and hit the couch. I feel much better this morning.
Today is a shopping day with the girls. We're hitting the mall in Roseville and having lunch. Then, tonight is Jacob's Awards Banquet for football, tomorrow is his team party, and then Saturday is Mark's Awards Banquet for football. Whew...I am exhausted already! Sometime between all this I have to fit in my online final! I guess that will have to be on Saturday.

Ok, here is what I'm gonna do today...hopefully

2007-12-12T09:56:00.000-08:00

If you know anything about me, it is that I am a procrastinator. I am gonna take that bull by the horns today and clean out the office. Since I have gotten my beloved office I have absolutely abused it and treated it like a storage unit! I can barely type on my keyboard due to the large number of various papers and magazines that I "have to go through". Why can't I just throw anything away??!!!??? You, of course, realize that this blog is yet another way of avoiding working on the office. So here I go!!!

Today

2007-12-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

I am 40 today! I don't wish I was younger, I wouldn't want to go back. I have earned every gray hair on my head and I will not cover them up! I consider today as the beginning of my new life. I am starting nursing school next month. I am excited for all the adventures that are ahead of me! Watch out world, here I come!!!

FOURTIETH BIRTHDAY

2007-12-06T12:49:00.000-08:00

My 40th birthday is in 2 days. My mother is turning 60 at the end of the month. We are having a "We are 100" Party on my birthday. I am very excited. However, I am also very nervous. What if no one comes, what if there isn't enough food/water/beer/wine/soda/food/chairs, etc. What if the caterer doesn't show up? So nerve wracking! I just hope that everyone comes and has a good time, and gets enough of whatever they want.
Just to add a little bit of stress...the parade is that morning, the Junior Patriot end of year banquet, may be that day...haven't heard anything yet. Actually, I haven't heard about the kids being in the parade officially yet either!

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!

My new computer

2007-12-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

I got a lovely new Dell over a month ago. It is set up right next to my old Dell here in my office. Why the heck have I not started using the new one? Is it because I am to lazy to transfer all the files off of my old computer? Probably. I really need to get motivated.

What Shall Become of Me?!?!?

2007-11-27T11:26:00.000-08:00

I finally received my coveted letter from Yuba College with my invitation to begin the nursing program. It came the day before Thanksgiving while I was prepping the house for my Thanksgiving visitors. I sat down right away and filled it all out. I get to have a criminal background check, and credit report check, and I also have to have a physical and drug test. I have my physical today, and just to make today a little brighter I also have my dentist appointment scheduled.
I must tell you that I am rather nervous about the big change coming up in my life. I have worked full time for the last 16 and a half years at the same place. I have lived in the same house for 13 years, same haircut, same clothing type, etc. I have to drop down to working every other weekend, and attend school the rest of the time. This is absolutely terrifying to me. I do not like change. I suppose I adjust okay, we will see.
I think the biggest adjustment will be financial, we have always been dual income. Guess what kids....no more extras!!!

The End of Football

2007-11-13T16:47:00.000-08:00

I know everyone expected me to report right away after the Pioneer-Woodland Game. Honestly, there were just too many emotions and it has been hard to organize them into words. I know you think it is stupid to feel that way about football. This is more than sports to me. This is the game that my son has been playing since he was in fifth grade. We have travelled all over the Sacramento Valley for the last 6 years, cheering him on. The game on Friday was the last time he will ever wear a football uniform. It was the end of a part of his childhood. There are no more "next seasons".
So if you came here looking for a report on the game, I am sorry to disappoint you. We did lose, but really it didn't matter. I would have been sad anyway.

Something I am Proud of...

2007-11-01T13:58:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to show you a sight that I was kind of surprised about at the last football game. Those of you who know me, know that we are not active in any church. I raised the older two kids to be Catholic as I was, going to CCD and receiving the Sacraments up until they started Junior High. I was very proud to see my son on the sidelines with one of the pastors of Bayside Church in Woodland before the game. I hope that he finds his way to a good church someday. I wish I would have been a better role model.

Happy November

2007-11-01T13:34:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is already November. Pretty soon it will be Thanksgiving and then Christmas. The next nursing class begins in January. I called the Nursing Program and the lady said I was on her list and I should be receiving my letter of acceptance into the nursing program in a couple of weeks. I am so excited. I am also very nervous. They can dismiss you from the program at any time if you make a mistake. I know someone that happened to. How embarrassing would that be. Some of the nurses at work who recently graduated told me that I should concentrate on keeping my mouth shut and just listen and nod even though some of the things the instructors may say are not how things work in the real world. I guess I have learned a lot by just being around emergency nursing for the last 16 years, but I have no illusions that I really know anything. I am looking forward to the hands on part of nursing. Learning something is great, but putting into to action is what I really want to do.

Football and College

2007-10-27T15:57:00.000-07:00

Jacob's football season came to an end today. With the Junior Patriot Pee Wee's loss to South Siskiyou Pee Wee team, our hope for a league championship was ended. The boys had a great year and were first in our division. I look forward to next year as Jacob moves up to the Junior Midget team with all his friends.

Mark is at Humboldt State University this weekend. He applied there earlier this month and found out today that he was accepted. Wow, my little Markie is going to college. He will be there all weekend on different tours and checking out the dorms, going to a jazz concert, and finding out all kinds of information.

Mark's football team lost to Inderkum last night, but I was very proud of the boys, they really showed up to play last night and didn't get dominated by a team that has been doing much better than them.

Here is a picture from Mark's game, I will post some from Jacob's game later.

NorCalFed Div 2 Pee Wee Champs

2007-10-22T16:22:00.001-07:00

I am so proud of our boys!

Photo by Roger Long

Patriot Pee Wees overwhelm Wheatland
By Democrat sports staff
Article Created: 10/22/2007 08:22:07 AM PDT

The Junior Patriot pee-wees hammered Wheatland on Saturday, 38-0 at home.
The Patriots (6-3, 5-1) buckled down on defense behind cornerbacks Anthony Lopez, Jacob Barker and Matthew Clark, who shut down the run to the outside. In all, their defense only allowed one touchdown during six league games.
Jose Guittierez scored three touchdowns and Junior Cardenas, Anthony Bosser and Alex Zaragoza each scored a touchdown.
The Patriots finished in first place in the NorCal Div. II and open the playoffs at noon on Saturday at Woodland Community Stadium.

Patriot Pride

2007-10-19T16:37:00.000-07:00

Another weekend is here. Mark was cleared by his doctor to play tonight. We are playing against Natomas, and Maxpreps.com has predicted that they will win. I hope they do. We need some Patriot Pride! Jacob and the Pee Wee Junior Patriots play against Wheatland tomorrow, they should win, as Wheatland is 0-5. This is their last regular season game, playoffs start next weekend.

The annual Dixon Fire Department Prawn Feed is tomorrow night. I am looking forward to see my Dixon friends, especially the Draytons. Jason really misses Chief Drayton at work. Jason said that Frank was the heart of Dixon Fire. I hope they find someone to replace him and Chief Dorris soon, things are not as wonderful for Jason as they once were. Transition time is hard. I know I really missed my boss Bebe when she left. Sherri has done a great job though, and I am glad to be working for her.

P.S. I prayed that both team will make it through the game injury free.

Praying for Football

2007-10-12T23:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you never know what you are going to get when you pray for something. Tonight before Mark's football game, I prayed that God would protect his knee. Some of you may know that Mark had a knee injury at football camp and has been trying to nurse it through the season. Well, in the second quarter, after a play that I really couldn't see what happened, Mark came stumbling out, and fell, I thought "Oh, crap, his knee gave out on him!" Then he got up and stumbled around again, and fell again. I knew right then that he had a head injury. The doctors went out there and after a very long couple of minutes they helped him up and off the field. I went to the sidelines and sat with Mark. He seemed almost drunk, his speech slow and didn't make much sense. Amanda and I sat with him awhile, and he seemed to improve so we went back in the stands. After the game (we lost by the way), I took Mark home, instead of him driving. He seems much better now.
I guess you have to be careful what you ask for....his knee is fine.

Growing up...

2007-10-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

My Markie is growing up. We filled out his first college application today. He really wants to go to Humboldt. Jason went there, he still has some family up there. It would be a very nice place for Mark to go. He also was able to practice a little bit today. His knee is feeling ok. I hope he can play this week. We start playing league games this week. Everything starts counting NOW! By the way, go to kcra.com and vote for Pioneer to be one of the games of the week. We are hecka losing right now, we need all the votes we can get!

Amanda has started her job. Aaron was offered a job today. I hope things start improving for them. They have to grow up sometime. They have to realize...you get married...you are considered a grown up...get used to it!!!

Amanda works here at the front desk!

Jacob is gone for the whole week. He went to Sly Park with his class. I am really having a hard time (it has only been since this morning). I do everything with this kid! The other two are self sufficient and don't need me. Jacob has been my buddy for a long time now, especially with Jason gone a lot. I think this will be good for both of us. He will have to be self sufficient, and I will be able to break the cycle of doing everything for him!

40

2007-10-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

One of my very good friends turned 40 today. We graduated the same year... 1985! We have a good time talking about the music, the clothing styles, and things we did as teenagers. It doesn't matter that she was in Oklahoma and I was here in California. The stories are pretty much the same. I am turning 40 this December. Everyone asks me how I feel about turning 40. I guess because it is the time that you are officially middle aged. I don't feel bad about hitting this milestone. I am very content with my life. I have a husband that I love so very much and I feel very loved. For the most part the kids are turning out OK. Our family is very supportive. We have a wonderful place to lay our head every night. Jason has reached his goal to be a firefighter and I work in a wonderful place. I am looking forward to starting nursing school in January. I am a bit nervous, I will have to cut way back at work, and I will miss that security. Not just financially, but emotionally too. All of my best friends are there at work with me. They are my sounding board, they know all of my worries. I thank God for all of these things.

Children

2007-09-30T16:55:00.000-07:00

Remember how I said Amanda couldn't move in? Well, guess what! I know, I know. Sometimes a mother needs to be flexible. You never know what life is gonna throw at ya.
The silver lining was that I was able to spend a day with all three of my kids together. So ya know what I did? I made them pose for pictures! Imagine that!
We had a nice dinner and watched a movie...it was a nice day.

Melancholy

2007-09-23T19:54:00.000-07:00

I am not sure how I am feeling. I have many things weighing on my mind. I am worried about Mark. He hurt his knee again in the last game. He is planning on sitting out this week, in practice or the Rio Linda game. I am not sure if he should even play anymore. They lost the game this week to Casa Robles, but it wasn't a league game so it doesn't count! He got another touchdown in the first quarter. He played until the fourth quarter when his knee really started hurting.

Democrat Story- http://www.dailydemocrat.com/sports/ci_6970938

Mark and Patty broke up a couple weeks ago. I am not sure how to feel about that. I think he should just stay single go on dates and enjoy his senior year. That kid has had a girlfriend since seventh grade...he needs to just enjoy himself.

Jacob is sad because he isn't getting much playing time in football. I am kind of annoyed by this. He does good. He is a tackling machine. I have a feeling it is because I made him late to a couple practices because he hadn't finished his homework. In the rules I was told they can't be punished for that. I will have to check that out and decide whether I should talk to the coach. I don't want to be one of those kind of parents that complain about their kid not getting enough playing time. But when you lose a game because tackles are being missed and you know that your kid could have gotten them...what should you do? They lost to Marysville 12-6. They weren't there in the first half, but they came back in the second half, just not soon enough. Oh well not a league game!!! Jacob was happy though, Amanda came to his game!!!

Maxpreps Game of the Week

2007-09-17T20:37:00.000-07:00

Click on the link to see Mark's touchdown!!!

Check out this video on MaxPres.com

Beach Day

2007-09-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

We went to a family reunion in Santa Rosa after Jake's game on Saturday. I had actually never met any of these people. It was kinda cool. I was really annoyed at myself after we left because I didn't talk to them more, I felt kinda shy/awkward. I brought my camera because I wanted to take everyones pictures, but I was too chicken to take any. I really wish I could change that about myself. So anyway, we spend the night in Rohnert Park and then headed off to Bodega. We hit the beach for a bit, then ate lunch at the Tides.

I know I look mad, but the sun was just in my eyes.

The whole gang (minus me of course).

Big brother gets in the way of checking out the scenery.

Pioneer vs Florin

2007-09-16T21:08:00.000-07:00

Mark had the game of his career, so far, on Friday night! I have never seen him so animated on the field. He got a touchdown and had like 9 carries and several tackles. Pioneer won 20-18. Coach Butterworth was quoted in the paper that "Misener played his heart out." I think that was pretty cool.

Mark diving in for a touchdown.

Mark is in the Democrat!!!

2007-09-11T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here is the article....http://www.dailydemocrat.com/sports/ci_6862013