Whatever I Want To Say

"Thwomp"

2005-11-22T17:12:00.000-08:00

DSCF0529
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

A break from school always forces the kids to find creative ways to pass the time. Today they created a "dog" using a basketball, gatorade bottles, a sand bucket and (of course) duct tape. They named him "Thwomp". The best part for me is all of them getting along and working together happily.

My new address...

2005-08-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I've moved. My new blog address is : martha.freepressblog.org. Please make a note of it!

See you there.

Waiting for wordpress

2005-08-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to switch to wordpress for awhile. I even attempted to do it myself but didn't get too far. I wonder if there is anyone out there who will help me. Anyone?

Family Plots

2005-08-07T19:49:00.000-07:00

Family Plots

I have become addicted to this show. I can't tell you why exactly. I think those that work with deceased bodies are intriguing and they are a crazy crew at this funeral home. If you have any morbid curiosity about such things, this is the place to go. And, now that we are home Sunday nights we can be sure to catch it every time!

Thanks neighbors

2005-08-06T17:58:00.000-07:00

Our garage sale pretty much sucked. Thankfully a neighbor stopped by and spent about $100 on pictures and then one guy bought $75 of tools and lastly the contractor that built the addition on our house picked up another $65 worth of stuff. Other than that we probably had 5 customers. Maybe the fair drew people away. Oh well, a few bucks we didn't have yesterday. It was just a lot of work for that. So, We have officially retired from garage sales. We are strictly "donation to thrift store" people now. Remind me of that next time I tell you I'm thinking of having a GS.

Blue shelves

2005-08-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that i am going to be going back to teaching this year? I made a decision to take the 6-8 grade math and lit. classes at College Heights. I am really excited and have no anxiety at all...except for the amount of stuff I need to get done in the next two weeks.(IE painting shelves) It's fun though. I love the anticipation of change. It energizes me.

On side note, we're having a garage sale tomorrow. I'm kinda sick of garage sales but the extra cash will be nice. I saw some shoes on sale...

Mercy...Grace...What?

2005-08-01T15:48:00.000-07:00

I think this website forgot that these two words were in the Bible and Jesus used them.
Crazy!

Be sure to go take the quiz.

http://whowilldietoday.blogspot.com/

I WANT a squirrel, daddy! I want it NOW!

2005-08-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

We saw Willy Wonka last night. I loved it. I find many times lately in movies that I am the only one laughing. Anyway, I really thought it was great. Willy was weird, but at least you knew why and saw him come around. I thought it was hilarious how he spoke to the kids and almost threw up when he said "parents". Just the little things, and a great message. "Mumbler!" Ha ha ha!

Sea World

2005-07-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

DSCF0401
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

Here is everyone (minus me) at the beginning of the day. Click the pic to see the rest of our pictures from San Diego. Aside from traffic on the way and losing Riley once in Sea World, everything was great!

Add on: The kids had a great time. They were quite amazed by the animals. Emma decided she wanted to be a dolphin trainer. I wonder how many kids say that after they go there?

We're off again!

2005-07-28T23:06:00.000-07:00

seaworld
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

Tomorrow on our way to San Diego. Can't wait to see the sharks 'n stuff!

Maybe...

2005-07-28T17:20:00.000-07:00

There are people put on the earth just to bug the crap out of you. Couldn't be character building, could it?

Where's the beef?

2005-07-25T18:43:00.000-07:00

We were in LA today. We have gone to this particular area several times in the last seven months. I can never find any fast food places to eat. (Yes, it's Beverly Hills) So, this time we had to get gas on our way out. I decided to ask the girl at the cash register if she knew if there were any restaurants nearby. She looked at me quite confused and said "no". I paused and said "No, there aren't any or no, you don't know?" She said, "Uh, maybe on Sunset." Ok, if you have ever been on Sunset, you know that is a ridiculous answer. I just looked at her and said, "Gee, thanks." I suppose she could have just started working there, I doubt it. Maybe she lives a distance from the gas station, probably, but still. I just don't understand not knowing your surroundings. I mean, where does she eat lunch? I guess snooty Beverly Hillsians and Bel Air-ites don't patronize fast food places, so there are none. Whatever. I just went to the same Westlake Carl's Jr as always. We had to drive 45 minutes, but we all survived.

Off to the lake to camp!

2005-07-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

See you guys later!

I think my son is prejudiced.

2005-07-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

He was mentioning today that 2+2 is 6 and I said "not in this country". He replied, "Well, that's what they say in Canada."

Note to self...

2005-07-15T21:47:00.000-07:00

Don't go to the bookstore on Harry Potter release night.

PE

2005-07-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

Do I seem like a PE teacher type?

Men, and blogging

2005-07-14T15:55:00.000-07:00

I am putting my head on the chopping block here,but...

I have realized that men and blogging brings out something that may have otherwise been a "man code of conduct" that we women didn't know about. Or maybe it is just me. I have never, before blogging, seen such rude offensive treatment of each other in the name of "good conversation" or "discussion". I don't see it among the women I know who blog, just the men. What gives the license to call people vulgar names and be downright mean in the name of sharing your opinions? I'm sure some will defer to "we're only kidding" but I find it disgusting. Of course, you will prbably all say "you don't have to read it". Yes, that is true and if that makes you feel better about bashing each other, go right ahead. If you've always been this way, I guess I just wish I never knew.

Comments

2005-07-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Can a person comment whatever they want, wherever they want on a blog, provided they are not blocked or something?

New Hope and Reality

2005-07-11T21:12:00.000-07:00

I was just reading another blog of someone I don't know, but feel like I do- who has a very ill child. Although I cannot say I do or ever will know what it is like, I can say that I have empathy of the struggle in a miniscule way. As Christian has been just shy of two weeks symptom free and two days of no anti-biotics I feel a surge of hope that maybe we won't have to live with his illness forever. Which snaps me into reality, we won't have to live without him, either. How can I be grateful in what I have been entrusted, by being generous to give it all away? I want to be thankful for what I have and hold it tightly to me. I don't want to give it away, but I do want others to have what I have. Is this making sense? What is the thing we give? Is it a thing, or is it just the willingness? How do you walk on? When you know you will lose something so dear, I guess it all comes together that it really is all His.

Poll

2005-07-07T17:09:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article today about child care and church. What do you think? Should children be a part of the "service"? At what age and for what amount of time? The whole service? Music only? I'm starting to really think about this and examine my feelings. Please share yours.

Black people don't like Larry Elder...

2005-07-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

is he an "Uncle Tom" as Will Smith said? Do we care?

Super Fireworks

2005-07-05T17:50:00.000-07:00

We decided after much hemming and hawing to go to Santa Clarita to my nephew's house for the 4th. They have a fireworks show at the mall which is very close to them. So we walked over and parked it on the grass. When they started I was very pleasantly surprised. The fireworks were right over us and close. Very nice. Only drawback was they were also quite loud. My great-nephew (Nate's son, Levi) was not too thrilled with the loud bangs. (And I don't mean my kids.)Hope your 4th was...well, fun.

Live 8 Quote

2005-07-02T11:57:00.000-07:00

u2
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

Here is a quote from Bob about Bush:

(GELDOF: Bush 'has actually done more than any American President for Africa')

Another person I heard say that this fact could outweigh the tragedy created by "his" war in Iraq. That makes me uncomfortable. Can they really be compared? Can one really cancel out the other? What do you guys think?

I have now heard it all.

2005-07-01T15:45:00.000-07:00

Every excuse in the book. Thanks.

Light as a feather

2005-06-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

feather
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

I cannot describe the feeling I have when I think that what happened yesterday potentially ends a 6.5 year long struggle trying to figure out and cure Christian's health problems. My heart beats faster as I look at him and imagine not having to expereience the discomfort and frustration of being "sick". I was seriously giddy last night. I feel free. I can only set my heart to pray for others who still struggle and try to make sense of illness, and even more try to live with it each day. I thank you all who prayed and gave of yourself as we persued wholeness for our son. We truly could not have done it with out our precious Family and friends.

The Pants

2005-06-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

sisterhood_book
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

I forgot to mention that I went to see "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" last week. It was really good. If you like that sort of thing. It was an emotional experience for me I think becuase I read the books when I was in the hospital with Christian. I didn't realize until later that it had more meaning than just the movie to me. Intresting how we connect things. See it.

Dream

2005-06-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

I had a dream about Nathan & Lisa last night. I was at their house and had to hide behind the couch to use my cell phone becuase that was the only place they could get coverage. Weird. They also had a mini-version of one of those crane games that they were letting the kids play and they were actually winning. Now that IS a dream!

Demolition

2005-06-26T22:47:00.000-07:00

Dustman!
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

We started ripping out the old to put in the new. We tore out the ceiling and the flash caught all the dust. That cute hat Jared has on is his mask so he could breathe.

Headshots

2005-06-26T22:25:00.000-07:00

me
Originally uploaded by marthab30.

A friend took a few shots of me to try to use for sending to casting agents. Fun fun!

I love Blockbuster.Com

2005-06-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

I put movies on my list, they send 'em. What I love best is that I put a lot of movies on the list that I probably wouldn't rent if I went to the store. Then we watch them at times we never would have before. We always waited until Saturday or holidays to watch rentals. I have seen a lot of movies that I may not have been ables to see, ever. YAY Blockbuster.com!

Immigrants

2005-06-22T17:26:00.000-07:00

I am kind of on a non-posting thing right now, but something caught my eye. I linked to a web page about immigrants making cars into boats to reach America and I was reminded of an event I witnessed in Miami about 12 years ago. We were at a club right on the ocean (actually called "Ocean's 11", just for fun facts) when two large boats were spotted drifting ashore. As the cops rolled in, the lights showed us the hundred + Haitian immigrants as they jumped ship and tried to escape. Call me naive, but it was heart wrenching to watch those young men and women shivering on the beach in fear. They probably had no inkling of what they were in for. We were ushered back as we were told they could have communicable diseases. It makes me sad to this day to think of the desperation and determination it must have taken to do what they did. They actually reached the shore and were captured, only to be sent back. It seems so sad. As I said, call me naive. Where are the open arms...

The New Colossus by Emma Lazarus
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.

"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

Flickr

2005-06-20T18:08:00.000-07:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Check this out, Star Wars Fans

2005-06-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Funny Stuff!

www.storewars.org/flash/index.html

CRASH

2005-06-10T22:27:00.000-07:00

Great movie...check it out. Aloha steakhouse rocks, too. My husband treats me well! It was a great date. Thanks to Uncle Randy & Aunt Jacquie for taking the kids overnight!

Local Talent at its best!

2005-06-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

If you ever wanted to see a free play, now is the time. Andrew Gillespie and others from College Heights Christian School have produced a short play that is so cute! It is called "What a Day for a Daydream". I swear...those of you that know Andrew will NOT want to miss it. He is hilarious! It is at 6:30 at CHCS 6360 Telephone Rd., Ventura. Check it out!

Making a decision

2005-06-02T16:16:00.000-07:00

I was asked about returning to work at the school my kids attend recently. I am torn and having a super difficult time with this. The only reasons not to do it seem to be selfish ones. Any advice, o wise ones?

Stanley "Bampa" Shine 1919-2005

2005-06-02T11:29:00.000-07:00

Jared's grandpa, 85 years old, went to be with Jesus last night around 1:30 am. Please pray for family. Thanks.

Why...

2005-05-30T22:01:00.000-07:00

Do we care where people are from "originally?"

Star Wars, from a woman's prespective.

2005-05-24T15:31:00.000-07:00

First, over all...I liked it. It was entertaining. That is the main reason I go to movies.

Second, the first half hour was retarded. I really hate the way the droids have taken on so many human characteristics. And that Grievous guy...was he droid or not? Can droids have Emphesema?

Third, it was very sad. Whether or not the Dark Side needed to be brought into balance or not, the whole process was heart wrenching. If the dumb Jedi's can sense so much, why didn't they sense that Anakin was flipping and try to pull him back? (Save Obi-Wan) Are the storm troopers immune to Jedi sense. Shouldn't the Jedi's have known before they were killed something was wrong. If you ask me, I'd rather have Spider sense than Jedi sense.

Fourth, how was Padme dying and then 5 seconds later delivering babies. Whatever. I hate childbirth on film...it is never realistic.

Fifth and finally, how can you go wrong with Ewan?

Nuff Said.

Back to "normal"

2005-05-24T07:33:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday was supposed to be my day back to normal...Kids in school, Tennis, Groceries. We woke up to two kids throwing up. (Not Chrstian, thankfully!) So, throw out all the "normalcy" plans. I sat home with a bowl going back and forth from child to child. Emma has never had the full on flu before, so she kept asking me to give her something to make it better. I tried to explain that the flu just has to run its course, but she still moaned and whined. So, now today is back to normal day- but now I don't have anyone to play tennis with. Poo! That was the main thing I was looking forward to. Maybe I'll just go and stand out there like guys do on the basketball court. Pick-up tennis, if you will. Or maybe I'll just got to Costco...ugh- that doesn't sound like fun at all! Maybe I'll play Tennis IN Costco. Oh, I think I'm losing it. Better go do something. Bye.

Spellcheck

2005-05-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

What is up with Blogger spellchecker? Every post I do spellcheck and every post there are errors. It never works. Geeks...what am I doing wrong?

Callback

2005-05-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

Finally a callback...I thought that the moment had passed. I got the email today for the previously mentioned short film. They are down to three choices. June 4th. This is fun.

Details, yet another "d" word

2005-05-19T21:18:00.000-07:00

So, I was looking at Jared's posts from when I was gone and thought some people might like more details about what actually happened to Christian.

Monday: We arrived at 5:30. Surgery actually began at approximately 8:45 am. Every hour the doctors called me to let me know things were going well. About 11:30 Jared got there and we waited. Finally at 3:00pm the doctors appeared. The first sign I saw was one of the docs gave two thumbs up. They reported that all had gone well. No use of the intestine. They were able to get things hooked up without it. We got to the room and rested the rest of that day.

Tuesday: The day was spent resting. We were up and walking the halls by noon. The doctors and nurses were impressed and cheering Christian on. The measure of a person after surgery is when they pass gas. I swear we tried to get those intestines moving. We went to bed pretty early. We were up a lot with pressure checks and just restlessness. No pain medication.

Wednesday: We noticed Chrsitian's breathing was a bit labored. Put him on a oxygen monitor. Midday the resident noticed his abdomen was getting distended. We got up to walk but he wasn't feeling good. By the end of Wednesday, things were not going well. We were supposed to go home, but there was definitly a problem. His belly was getting harder and he was brething heavier. They finally put him on oxygen. That night he had and xray and blood tests. They were concerned his abdomen was filling with one of three things: blood, urine or lymph fluid. The xray showed something, but they still weren't sure.

Thursday: We were up and ready for an ultrasound around 9. Christian's belly was like a small pregnant woman: hard and no belly button. (I was a wreck, by the way. I felt very alone, but was trying to be supportive and encouraging.)We got the ultrasound and it confirmed the presence of a belly fully of fluid, pushing the gas in his bowels upward causing the breathing issues. The blood tests showed that it was not blood or urine, so most likely, lymph fluid. The doc said what probably happened was a lymph pathway was nicked in surgery, but not noticed. This is not totally unusual. The unfortunate thing is it didn't show up until about 24+ hours.

I was really needing the see Jared and the kids. He had been trying to come down, but Riley got sick along the way. Finally he just came anyway.

That night at about 5pm Chrstian went in for a peretoneal drain. A small tube was inserted in his abdomen to release the fluid accumulation. Jared and the kids arrived at about 6pm. When he came up to the room at 7:30, I had Emma and Riley snuggled up in my bed, (read really uncomfortable thin mattress) watching "Elf". He was pretty groggy but happy to see everyone. About 1000 cc was drained in just a couple of hours.

Friday: Sometime in the morning Christian started to feel naseated. He threw up a couple of times. They gave him some anti-nausea meds which did a total of nothing. He kept throwing up. We tried to sleep and did for about 3 hours. At 1:30am he threw up again - a lot! I was tempted to keep it to myself becuase I knew the outcome. The nurse came in and when I told her she was not happy. She said they would have to put in a NG tube. At 3am they came back and tried to insert the tube in his nose to his stomach to drain off the bad stuff making him puke. The first tube was too big and they got it in wrong. He was gagging and spewing like crazy. I was crying...it was HORRIBLE! They pulled that one out, then had to do it all over again. A kind nurse saw my pain and rubbed my back. I couldn't tell you now which nurse it was but I will always be grateful to her. He sort of slept, but no more throwing up.

Saturday: Pretty much just sat and watched TV. Chrsitian didn't want to talk. We had several family members visit which was better for me than him I think.

Sunday: A lot better. Still no food, still had the tube in hs nose, but the drain was helping. Jared came and played games with him. I went over to the mall and looked through glassy eyes at ovepriced clothing. I came back a couple of hours later with a book for me (The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants) and a joke book for Christian. It was a great break. I spent the reat of the evening reading.

Monday: 8:15 we turned off the NG tube and spent 4 hours with it off to see if he was going to throw up anymore. He didn't. By 1pm the tube was out. The drainage from the belly tube was decreasing, a good sign. He was begging for food by now. At about 3pm he was allowed water and ice chips. Finally juice and jello by the end of the day.

Tuesday: By now Christian is starving. We had hoped he would be upgraded but by 11am they were still saying clear liquids. We had put a piece of tape on his jammies that said "Feed Me". The staff was quite amused. They called the doc and decided he could eat real food for lunch. Of course his mind was ready, but his body wore out pretty quick. He took a nice long nap. By the end of the day the drain was almost empty. We had turned the corner, as they say.

Wednesday: The doc showed up at 7:05 and took out the tummy drain! YAY! Only the IV left to take out. The first time in 5 months Christian is tube free! He officially releases us to go HOME! So, we wiat 4 1/2 hours to get the paperwork and get out of there. By 12pm we are on the road! Home at 1:30...thank God. What a ride.

So, hopefully this wasn't too tedious, but thought some of you might want the tid bits and besides, it was therapeutic for me.

Shalom

Difficult, just another "d" word...

2005-05-18T19:15:00.000-07:00

We are home from possibly the most exhausting, traumatic 10 days ever. But just to put me in my place and remind me of a few things, the Chemo patients (kids) checked in next door on Monday. Talk about difficult. God, be with them.

Audition 2

2005-05-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Well, the audition was ok. It was along drive to Northridge...traffic was hell. Then the actual audidtion was about 5 minutes. Emma did well, but was not feeling very confident. She did not want to do any of the extras we talked about. I could tell they liked her, but she wouldn't break out. She was just a little embarassed. So I am not expecting a callback unless they think she can be directed to do what they want. So, we'll see. There were 13 other girls auditioning, which isn't that many. Anyway, it's only her first audition ever. Good first shot.

Another tube

2005-05-03T17:26:00.000-07:00

We had Christian's tube changed again today. Man, I'm not complaining but this is getting tiring. I just can't wait to get past Monday to see what happens.

Audition

2005-05-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

Emma got an audition for a student film at Northridge. No money but great for learning for her. It is called "Fields Far Away". Evidently it is an adaptation of a stage play. Looks like fun if she gets the project. Break a leg, Emma!

Sinner or saint?

2005-04-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

I am taking a class on child spirituality and the cultivation of the "religious potential" of children. I use the term "religious potential" becuase that is what part of the title is of the book we are reading. In the introduction they speak of children as already having a relationship with God, we are merely the facilitators of them growing closer in relationship with Him. I can easily accept this, but I'm thinking of how we commonly think, as christians, that children are born in original sin and have to be saved. I think that is why we are so adamant that we shove the Bible (stories) down their throats and stand over them piously as though they cannot teach us anything and if they do not know Noah and his 7(?) sons they will not pass into the "big church". I am beginning to see the very opposite may be true. The idea of deschooling is very interesting. The thought that we should not be passing information then checking to see if they can regurgitate what we "taught" but to put the child in touch with sources that reveal God to them and establish a relationship and grow that relationship is not something new to me, but excites me to hear it being used and grown in what most people view as the most "religious" of denominations. I think if we grab ahold of this in our community, it could spread and we could have a whole new generation of kids who actually have a relationship with God that is real and not based on bible story and memorization. Hmmm, just a thought.

2005-04-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

I'll take this one...anyone have about $900,000?

Here...

2005-04-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

So we will…dream another dream. It’s amazing how when you begin to reflect upon your blessings, your losses become like a vapor. While the scent of loss still lingers, our appetite for God’s blessings has become more unquenchable.-Tim Garrety

What the hell?

2005-04-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

Too Cute! (Sorry about the caps...I just pasted it.)

2005-04-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THE WORDING AND SPELLING.
IF YOU KNOW THE BIBLE EVEN A LITTLE, YOU'LL FIND THIS HILARIOUS!
IT COMES FROM A CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEST. KIDS WERE ASKED
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS. THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS
ABOUT THE BIBLE WERE WRITTEN BY CHILDREN. THEY HAVE NOT BEEN RETOUCHED
NOR CORRECTED. INCORRECT SPELLING HAS BEEN LEFT IN.

1. IN THE FIRST BOOK OF THE BIBLE, GUINESSIS. GOD GOT TIRED OF CREATING
THE WORLD SO HE TOOK THE SABBATH OFF.

2. ADAM AND EVE WERE CREATED FROM AN APPLE TREE. NOAH'S WIFE WAS JOAN OF
ARK. NOAH BUILT AN ARK AND THE ANIMALS CAME ON IN PEARS.

3. LOTS WIFE WAS A PILLAR OF SALT DURING THE DAY, BUT A BALL OF FIRE
DURING THE NIGHT.

4. THE JEWS WERE A PROUD PEOPLE AND THROUGHOUT HISTORY THEY HAD TROUBLE
WITH UNSYMPATHETIC GENITALS.

5. SAMPSON WAS A STRONGMAN WHO LET HIMSELF BE LED ASTRAY BY A JEZEBEL
LIKE DELILAH.

6. SAMSON SLAYED THE PHILISTINES WITH THE AXE OF THE APOSTLES.

7. MOSES LED THE JEWS TO THE RED SEA WHERE THEY MADE UNLEAVENED BREAD
WHICH IS BREAD WITHOUT ANY INGREDIENTS.

8. THE EGYPTIANS WERE ALL DROWNED IN THE DESSERT. AFTERWARDS,
MOSES WENT UP TO MOUNT CYANIDE TO GET THE TEN COMMANDMENTS.

9. THE FIRST COMMANDMENTS WAS WHEN EVE TOLD ADAM TO EAT THE APPLE.

10. THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT IS THOU SHALT NOT ADMIT ADULTERY.

11. MOSES DIED BEFORE HE EVER REACHED CANADA. THEN JOSHUA LED THE
HEBREWS IN THE BATTLE OF GERITOL.

12. THE GREATEST MIRICLE IN THE BIBLE IS WHEN JOSHUA TOLD HIS SON TO
STAND STILL AND HE OBEYED HIM.

13. DAVID WAS A HEBREW KING WHO WAS SKILLED AT PLAYING THE LIAR. HE
FOUGHT THE FINKELSTEINS, A RACE OF PEOPLE WHO LIVED IN BIBLICAL TIMES.

14. SOLOMON, ONE OF DAVIDS SONS, HAD 300 WIVES AND 700 PORCUPINES

15. WHEN MARY HEARD SHE WAS THE MOTHER OF JESUS, SHE SANG THE MAGNA
CARTA.

16. WHEN THE THREE WISE GUYS FROM THE EAST SIDE ARRIVED THEY FOUND JESUS
IN THE MANAGER.

17. JESUS WAS BORN BECAUSE MARY HAD AN IMMACULATE CONTRAPTION.

18. ST. JOHN THE BLACKSMITH DUMPED WATER ON HIS HEAD.

19. JESUS ENUNCIATED THE GOLDEN RULE, WHICH SAYS TO DO UNTO OTHERS
BEFORE THEY DO ONE TO YOU. HE ALSO EXPLAINED A MAN DOTH NOT LIVE BY
SWEAT ALONE.

20. IT WAS A MIRICLE WHEN JESUS ROSE FROM THE DEAD AND MANAGED TO GET
THE TOMBSTONE OFF THE ENTRANCE.

21. THE PEOPLE WHO FOLLOWED THE LORD WERE CALLED THE 12 DECIBELS.

22. THE EPISTELS WERE THE WIVES OF THE APOSTLES.

23. ONE OF THE OPPOSSUMS WAS ST. MATTHEW WHO WAS ALSO A TAXIMAN.

24. ST. PAUL CAVORTED TO CHRISTIANITY, HE PREACHED HOLY ACRIMONY WHICH
IS ANOTHER NAME FOR MARRAIGE.

25. CHRISTIANS HAVE ONLY ONE SPOUSE. THIS IS CALLED MONOTONY

Money Well Spent

2005-04-19T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted a 4th child. We had said that we would have 4, but I think the reality of how much work and cost of even one child is, sunk in. I was still holding out, but Jared has been pretty much a solid "no" for quite awhile. I just realized that since I started taking tennis lessons and the Improv class, I really haven't thought once about wanting another kid. I guess it is important to have a job or hobbies that fill the space that was once filled by the kids when they were more high maintenance. Thanks honey. I think you would agree that the title fits. So, why not sign up for another class?!

I'm a brat.

2005-04-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

I do not take constructive criticism well. How in the heck can I get better at something if I already feel like I'm doing fine? And, why do I get bent when someone tries to help me be better? Poop. I hate that in myself sometimes!

New Date

2005-04-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

So, May 9th is now the new date for Christian's surgery. They wanted to wait til summer but we said no way! I mean these guys have nothing else to do but surgery but my kid has a childhood to participate in. He's already been ripped off from a lot of it and we can't wait to get him back in the game. He wants to swim and play tennis (or maybe that's me!), and jump on the trampoline. Anyway, that was the soonest we could get. We are excited at the prospect of him really being better. Thanks, God.

New Phase

2005-04-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

When the kids were little-er, I was always so excited to get to the time when they would be able to and want to participate in sports or activities of some kind. That time has come and I don't think I realized that I would have to be the one getting them there, assisting them in practice and often helping the coach or instructor during the lesson. It is crazy some days. But maybe we'll have a pro soccer, tennis, actress, piano player in the family. Or maybe not, and that's ok.

My Husband & Kids

2005-04-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

They make everything ok.

Too Much

2005-04-04T16:41:00.000-07:00

Still waiting, so far it's not working. Mom broke her shoulder, I'm trying to be helpful. Riley got in trouble at school today. Someone said I made them feel like crap today. Daylight savings is a way to torture mothers of young kids. I really just wanted to play tennis today, and I couldn't.
Wah Wah Wah.
At least I get to go to my improv class tonight and pretend I'm someone else for a few minutes.
I have a house and bed and food and family who love me. How do I keep it all straight? It feels so much easier to be selfish, but makes me miserable.
Maybe I shouldn't post this...oh, what the hell!

Now we wait.

2005-03-31T14:45:00.000-08:00

Stent out...kidney tube turned off. The waiting is a pain.

What age do you act?

2005-03-28T13:41:00.000-08:00

I took this quiz and it came up with my exact age. Weird!

You Are 34 Years Old

34

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe.

13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.

20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.

30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more!

40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

What Age Do You Act?

1971...I'm as old as E-mail!

2005-03-28T13:30:00.000-08:00

March 28th, Martha Bangs was born.

Richard Nixon is president of the US

Charles Manson and 3 of his followers are convicted of multiple counts of first-degree murder

An earthquake in California's San Fernando Valley kills 64 people

New York Times begins publication of classified Pentagon papers on US involvement in Vietnam

The $70 million Kennedy Center opens in Washington, DC

A four day revolt at New York's Attica state prison ends after being stormed by 1000 state troopers

A new stock-market index called the Nasdaq debuts

Walt Disney World opens

Intel releases world's first microprocessor, the 4004

Ray Tomlinson sends the first e-mail

Libertarian party established in USA

Kid Rock, Denise Richards, Sean Astin, Winona Ryder, and Ricky Martin are born

Pittsburgh Pirates win the World Series

Baltimore Colts win Superbowl V

Montreal Canadiens win the Stanley Cup

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is published

The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour premeires on television

"Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Simon & Garfunkel wins Grammy for song of the year

All in the Family premieres

Poppies

2005-03-25T21:11:00.000-08:00

We went to see the National Poppy Preserve today. It was cool. No, it was freezing. The wind was blowing, the poppies were closed and we did not come prepared with warm enough clothing. It was still fun though. The weather was clear and it was great to get out for a bit away from cartoons, computers and other various mundane regular life stuff! I'll post a pic tomorrow.

Rescheduled

2005-03-24T16:22:00.000-08:00

Christian goes in at 9:30 on Thursday. Then we wait and see what happens...

No Rain!

2005-03-23T19:01:00.000-08:00

I thought maybe if I blogged it...there would be more of a chance that it would happen. I am supposed to play tennis the next two days and I seriously am sick of getting rained out. One problemn being, when I get put off from playing for too long, then I finally get on the court again- I play long and hard, then can't move the next two days. Oh, poor me. The perils of my life! I'm extra excited too becasue my kids have taken an intrest in learning how to play. So, this gives me live-in hitting partners when I need one! Also, I told Emma how much Serena Williams earned by winning the Australian Open and she thought she might change her career goals from acting, singing and fashion design to Tennis pro. Fun stuff!

Surgery...wait, no surgery! Argh!

2005-03-22T17:31:00.000-08:00

So, here is the next installment in "Tales of a Blocked Kidney.
Ok, I got a call from the doctor today...who I love. Did I mention that? Anyway, he said he had met with a bunch of doctors from the west coast area and presented Christian's case. Yes, my son's ureter is a celebrity. The are not convinced that he should do the surgery just yet. They recommended that we take out the stent, clamp the tube from his kidney and give it a little time to make sure that what is left in there is really cause for blockage still. So, instead of the major surgery on Monday we will be doing a stent removal and then the wait. I guess this is good, in the sense that he may not have to undergo surgery at all, at this point. But it still feels like we are prolonging the inevitable. God is still on the throne...as my dad always used to say. He'll handle it.

Emma's Room

2005-03-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

I have pretty much finished the room. Emma tends to be a clutterbug so the one picture shows all the junk I try to keep organized and clear out what I can seasonally. But overall I am very happy with it. Now the boys want their room done, and Riley really likes the canopy, so i have to come up with an idea to give him the same feel but more masculine. Any ideas?

Heres the pics, too. I did it all by myself. I will have to learn how to resize and organize them next.

pink

More pink!

Window view

Flowers

green

DVR - what?

2005-03-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

I have 900 channels and can't do a thing with them. Hopefully I can figure this thing out. Crap that's a lot of channels. Our DVR system was hooked up today. So far I hate the pause it makes when I change the channel, but I guess I can get used to that. I can't believe all the movie channels I have now. Back in the day I used to think that only the cool people could have movie channels. Could that mean that now since I have movie channels, I'm....cool? But, I can't be that cool becuase I have no clue how to record anything. All this stuff about codes and stuff. Why did we get this set up while Jared is on a trip? Only three more days...I miss him, and not just because I want to learn how to record stuff either. OK...that's all.

ne·phros·to·my

2005-03-13T18:40:00.000-08:00

That is, a tube inserted through the skin, into the kidney to drain it because of blockage, created in our case by tumors and a calcified stent.

That's what I did this weekend.

I am pooped. I find it interesting that when your kid is in the hospital, they give the parent a torturous cot to sleep on, hence no sleep. Then they expect you to be up and around at the crack of dawn doing I don't know what since you are in the hospital for pete's sake. Can't we just rest? "We need to get up and around. Ready to go home." OI! I didn't sleep! Remember the crying baby, the IV alarms, the slamming doors, the squeaking air conditioner? Remember that "Miss I'm used to being up all night"? (No offense Kristi, I'm sure you will be a considerate nurse.) Ok, I'm just exhausted. Pay me no never mind atall.

Thanks again for your care and prayers. We are tenatively scheduled for March 28th to get that damn tumor ridden ureter out of there. Stay tuned for more tales from the 4th floor. Love, Me.

And the beat goes on...

2005-03-08T14:15:00.000-08:00

Surgery today was uneventful. They got a closer look at the tumors. Laser removal is not a practical solution what with the scarring that would take place and all. Now on to the more complicated measures. The one that looks to be most hopeful is taking out the piece of ureter, which is most of it and replacing it with a piece of his own intestine. They say they've done it, it's rare, but it has been done. This brings me to evaluate healing and what it means. God told Christian he was going to heal him. Does that mean "poof" it's all gone? Obviously not in our case. In the case of blind man in the Bible, when the disciples asked why he was blind, well here is what it says,

John 9:1 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”
3“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. 4As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me.

I am fully open to the possibility that God allowed Christian (and us) to go through this for His Glory.

So the end of the month poses another operation, more extensive, but hopefully another step closer to the goal. Thanks for always praying! xoxo

Regaining focus.

2005-03-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

I was frustrated a few days ago about something which now seems a bit mundane and irrelevant. Grandpa isn't doing so well. When you have to completely remove focus from your own self preservation and what makes you "feel good", it really helps you let go of those little things that mean nothing in the full scheme of life. God is always faithful to show you if you ask.

Info-mercial

2005-03-06T10:13:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post about this before...On Thursday Emma and I were invited to be in an infomercial for a real estate service of some sort. They help people who are in foreclosure to sell their house without losing a bunch of money and not go into bankruptcy. It was a long day, a lot of waiting which is what filming is usually, in my limited experience. Anyway, a few of my family members said I was a liar because I am considered "Testimony 5". So, when I say I was in foreclosure, that it isn't true and that is lying. But it's acting. Right? We don't actually think that all the commercials that the people come out and say, "I have ben suffering from Irritable Bowl Syndrome for years, now I have relief," are actually people who have that problem? Do we? I don't know. I don't really care. We got on the camera. I got some great coaching and it was totally worth it, even if I didn't get paid. So there.

Family

2005-03-04T07:56:00.000-08:00

This living with extended family has turned out to be way more than I prepared for. It is a huge challenge that I don't feel equipped for. The day to day is not so tough. The elder care is the hard part. When did I sign up for this? Somebody must have slipped somethig in my corn flakes and put a pen in my hand. Now, I just feel trapped and helpless. Man, I really don;t sound like myself. I need to go get on my knees and listen! Have a great day everyone out there in blog land.

ARGH!

2005-03-03T19:38:00.000-08:00

I think I posted this title once before. There is no other word for parts of my life unless I use foulf ones and Jared doesn't approve of that.

GMail

2005-03-03T09:26:00.000-08:00

I just realized I have 50 gmail invites if anyone wants one. Let me know. Is there anyone out there that doesn't have one? Seems to me that most do now, but ya never know. So for the small price of asking nicely, I may ablige you.

painting again

2005-03-01T16:16:00.000-08:00

I finally painted Emma's room and am now ready to do my tissue paper wall attempt. It is actually starting to look decorated in there. She oredered a netting canopy thingy for over her bed with her own birthday money. It is really looking cute, better than my room -dangit.
So now my next painting project is to finish the kitchen, but first the rest of the wallpaper has to come down...ugh! Why wallpaper? Who thought of it? Crap it is pain and not that cute. Anyway...the projects are coming together. When you have to do a little home improvement at a time it sure does take a LONG time!
So, I'll shut up now. Bye.

But I love him.

2005-02-27T10:43:00.000-08:00

He puts up with my crap.

Argh...

2005-02-26T16:21:00.000-08:00

My husband is a know-it-all!

Nothing and something

2005-02-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

We had no plans today. No parties to attend. No meetings to be at. No shopping or cooking to do. What? Can it be? I stayed in bed until 10:15. I ate a donut and drank diet coke for breakfast. I felt like I was young again. Ok, I'm not that old, but donuts and diet coke for breakfast is a rare occasion for obvious reasons. I painted the baseboards that have been taped and ready for about 3 months or maybe more. I pulled out a dead palm tree in my living room and replanted a new one. I made a list of other projects I want to finish before my neice-in-law's bridal shower is here. And as of now, I blogged. We go to dinner tonight, and stop by the blogoversary party at the Strykers. Ahhh, a day well spent. See you next time!

Scheduled

2005-02-24T22:58:00.000-08:00

The next procedure is scheduled for March 8th. The plan is to do it with a laser, no incision. I'm hopeful that it works, but nervous. Even though the other option is way more invasive at least it would be all gone for sure. I'm putting my trust in this guy. God cover him!

How mature...

2005-02-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

My son amazes me continually. Actually, the resiliance of children is fantastic! I was really worried about telling him that he was going to have more surgery. Jared and I sat with him and explained it. I waited for the tears, the fit...all he said was, "Ok." Then to top it off, he was supposed to go to a birthday party today for his best friend. He was really anticipating it. He came into our room this morning and said, "Mom, I don't think I should go to the party. I'm not feeling up to it." I wish I could say I was so respsonsible at 8 years old. I probably would have dragged myself there and tried to act like everything was fine! Kids are amazing!

Endure

2005-02-18T19:17:00.000-08:00

Dammit! Pardon my language but as I sit here with a bad taste in my mouth from eating the words I typed last night, I am frustrated.

What a day of disappointment. We went to the hospital excited for the prospect of Christian leaving through the doors somewhat like one of those soap ads of a guy running through the fields. This was going to be it! (Cue ominous music) The phone rings at the nurses station. "Mrs. Bangs Dr. Freedman would like to speak to you."
ME: Hello
HIM: In doing the xray we found a lot more lesions (tumors). Its too much to deal with today.
ME: What do we do now?
HIM: We removed the stent, it was difficult, but we decided to put in another one. I wouldn't want the remaining lesions to cause him to be symptomatic again.(Throw up) But, these are totally benign.
ME:(almost in tears) OK
HIM: I'll be out to show you the xrays when I finish and talk about what's next.
ME:(Barely holding it together)OK, goodbye.

So, our excitement was dashed and thoughts of telling Christian were hanging over my head.

So, more surgery is in order. I'm thankful it's treatable at this point. It is really difficult to watch your baby undergo the drugs and tubes and ...everything.

Thanks to everyone who reads this and has been praying. Could you tarry one (more) hour? For all the babies...for Kai Terentieff, for all the sickness and the struggle that life offers. He's called me (and you) to endure...endure...endure!

With Love

The final phase!

2005-02-17T19:28:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow Christian gets the stent removed and gets checked for any re-growth or other growth. Pray for clear sailing, so to speak!

Thanks!

SURVIVOR!

2005-02-17T19:26:00.000-08:00

It's that time again! Hope this one "outplays" the last one.

I'm doing it!

2005-02-17T15:55:00.000-08:00

I decided to continue the Improv classes! I am so excited. I really love it! So, maybe you will see me on SNL, Michel...hee hee!

Apprentice

2005-02-10T22:52:00.000-08:00

Did you watch apprentice? I missed it but realitynewsonline.com has a great recap..if you're into vegetable porn. It's funny!

Google

2005-02-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

Does anyone ever use my Google search bar?

Another sick kid

2005-02-07T08:25:00.000-08:00

Riley has a fever and cough. I just get one back to school and another one gets it. I must say though, with all the times Christian puked, I'm not sure he has ever had a traditional virus or earache or anything. Weird...knock on wood.

My Porn Site Name List

2005-02-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share the great people who send me suc neato sites to visit, too. Michel, it looks like we might have some of the same "friends".

Interstice S. Quaalude
Hyperventilated H. Teeter
Belarus R. Fetches
Trinity G. Pocketed
East A. Magdalena

just a sampling...

Post of no posting.

2005-02-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

I have lagged lately here. So I post to say I haven't quit, just had a lapse in time to sit and crappy internet service for a few days. I will return. I know you were all waiting on the edge of your seats.

Tumor Photos

2005-01-25T13:11:00.000-08:00

Here are links to the tumor pics finally. Due to the graphic nature of the images viewer discretion is advised. Hee Hee...i stole that from a TV show!

Passive Aggressive?

2005-01-25T13:10:00.000-08:00

Anyone have any tips on dealing with a PA person?

I did it!

2005-01-23T21:15:00.000-08:00

I actually had 1.5 hours with noone else in the house. What did I do? Nothing really of any importance. Why was it great? It was quiet. No blasting TV, no kids calling me, no old people hacking or anyone asking me what I'm doing. It was me in the quiet of my home. Yay. It was good.

Staying home.

2005-01-21T09:32:00.000-08:00

I was home all day yesterday. I went out only to pick my kids up from school. I really had no choice becuase of caughing children and sthings to do here. I realized though, I really dislike days like that. I need to go out for something at least once a day. I felt all depressed at the end of the day and going crazy hearing, "MOM" continually. It tends to grate on you after 5,000 times. Anyway, I've got a full day planned today. Thought you'd like to know.

Success!

2005-01-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

The "No Puking" Party was a huge success! It was fun and disgusting all in one! Wew had fake vomit and Dry Heave Punch and much more! If you missed it, you really missed out. Thanks to all that did come, Christian was really excited, in his own special way! Pictures to come later.

One word story

2005-01-12T14:06:00.000-08:00

At my acting class we played a game called "One Word Story". Anyone want to try it on here? Just comment one word that makes sense with the last one and the title. Here is the title of our story:

"Jimbo's First Day of School"

I'll start...

One

Life in the Fishbowl

2005-01-11T01:11:00.000-08:00

I want a day, I'd even settle for a few hours of time alone in my own house. But, how to get rid of everyone...? Hmmmm? I also don't want to have to report to any one what I'd do with that time. No one could/would ask and I won't feel guilty about not telling.

That's it.

PARTY! You are invited!

2005-01-06T21:49:00.000-08:00

So, LET'S PARTY! We want to celebrate Christian's recovery with a "No More Puking Party"

When: January 15th at 2 pm
Where: 8726 North Bank Drive. (That's Jacquie's House)
Who: Everyone who wants to celebrate this momentous occasion in Christian's life.
Bring: Your Barf Bag and Your Dancing Shoes

Let me know if you can come so we have enough Puke Punch and Balls of Bile! GROSS!

Throwing up NO MORE!

2005-01-05T15:32:00.000-08:00

Well, as pretty much everyone knows, surgery went well. It was not as expected but did result in a good outcome. A tumor was the obstruction and these tumors are almost always benign. The weird thing is that this kind of tumor is usually found in 60 year old men and usually growns down the ureter (tube from kidney to bladder), his was growing up the ureter. I am going to try to get the pictures of this chaos causing growth for any who like that kind of stuff.
Christian is doing great, enjoying playing video games and not having to take any forced breaks yet. Unfortunately he still has the catheter in place so he doesn't want to move around much. We took the bandages off and they are the tiniest little Barbie incisions you ever saw. How do they do that?! Medicine baffles and amazes me as does the human body and its ability to withstand and rebound from stuff.

So in conclusion, thanks everyone for your prayers and thoughts! I know they were and will continue to be answered for us and Christian!

Why Bother?

2004-12-30T14:29:00.000-08:00

At risk of uncovering people, I feel I must share this quandry I have run into. Here goes.
I wonder at what point a person discontinues their feelings of concern about what people think or how what they do affects others. When does one decide that being rude is ok and the politeness of your youth can be flushed down the crapper. It seems that some never get to a point of being polite at all, but others at some point in their lives, usually when they get older, talk about things and do things that they would not have felt comfortable doing so in earlier years. My dilemma is, is that ok? The elderly are entitled somehow to do whatever they wish becuase they put in their time here on earth. I'm not sure I wholly agree with that sentiment. Common politeness and decency in public situations should be required at all ages, unless the mental capacity is limited. Making others comfortable is important and when time is spent with a person who has abandoned that almost comlpetely, it tends to be frustrating and border on breeding resentment. Is is rude to say,"That is ofensive to me. Please don't do it" Nothing harsh inteded here, I'm just learning to live life in a different way. I'm trying to grow, but one must ask questions to learn.

Or here's another thought, maybe it's just MEN. (I'm sure my husband will chime in here with his wisdom.)
All I know is I am holding to my position, I would really rather not get too old.
75 sounds good.

Throwing up again! Part III

2004-12-24T10:58:00.000-08:00

We saw the urologist yesterday. It was a great visit, if visiting the pee-pee doctor can be great. He confirmed the problem found on the ultrasound, which is that there is a urinary tract obstruction, causing the kidney to become full and distended. He recommended surgery to remove the obstruction and rejoin the tube. His kidney will still function and this should clear up his vomiting cycles. I have been reading that this is very common in kids and so this brings me to, WHY THE H*** DIDN'T SOMEONE SUGGEST THIS TEST BEFORE NOW-6 YEARS AGO!? Anyway, surgery is scheduled for January 3rd at 7:30 am at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in LA. All prayers are appreciated.