A Little of This and a Little of That

I was just reminded that I haven't posted since Thursday, so I guess I need to get my act together. January and February tend to be a bit like that. Less posts per month as there aren't as many "preserve in the memory books" activities. But, for the record, (Kelli and Julie), I was planning on posting today - I just had to finish the ugly chore of paying bills for the month! =(

Rewinding a bit, Friday was a fantastic day with Michele - nothing over the top, but just super relaxing. We hit the 30% off the entire store sale at Old Navy and were able to score some "Orlando Bound" items. Patrons there nearly witnessed a catfight between the two of us over what appeared to be the last Mickey Mouse t-shirt (a size that would have fit Mikayla or Ellie) - but thankfully, an employee was able to unearth just two more t-shirts - exactly the sizes needed for Michele's two girls. (Note, I said Michele's two girls, as I had won and taken custody of the one we first found).

It was bittersweet as 5pm rolled around and everyone was whining that Michele and the kids had to go home (Michael wanted their company, afterall). It just goes to show how much we all treasure being together. Fortunately, for me and my kids, Travis and Stephanie had agreed to give me a pity invite to their house for the viewing of a Blazer Game with Julie and Will. I was kind of pleased when I wasn't the only party crasher when Aaron showed up too. (John was gone from Friday through Saturday late afternoon for a leadership retreat). I spent my time trying to shush my kids to shutting them in the other part of the house with the dogs - they were so wound up!!! Throw in their maddening pleas and requests to Aaron and Will for wrestling, and its downright embarrassing. Are they happy children? oh yes! Are they quiet children? Oh no!

The next morning brought another fine basketball game from Brayden and his team - and while watching, Mom brought up the movie, "Avatar". Her and Dad LOVED it - so she's been itching to have me see it. Only problem with that is my husband is anti-sci-fi - so he was not at all willing to go with me. Hmmmmmm, day to kill with the kids. Coupons about to expire for up to $12 in theater costs. John gone for the day. Travis and Stephanie game to go with...... Deal sealed. We didn't check the movie times until about 11:30 - both of the major cinemas in town showed the 3D version at noon, so the five of us literally raced to get to the theater ASAP. Unbelievably, after, what, 6 weeks? - at the box office - the lines for the tickets, concessions - and unavailability of seats in the auditorium shocked me. Fortunately, the Whites, kids, and I worked well as a team, and I was able to walk in with all snacks in hand just as the previews started - a real MUST for my movie going experience.

Regarding the movie- Well, for sure, I can see what the hype was about. I do think it deserves Oscar's Movie of the Year. I always think that ought to happen when the crowds and critics actually agree on a movie. If you are able to go in and put aside any stereotypes, religion, politics, or propaganda that you think the movie is trying to sell - I think it would be hard not to be "wow'd". I enjoyed it a lot. So did the kids, although Stephie got some rare cuddle time with Mikayla over some of the scary parts. I talked to the kids about some of the issues that might be of concern before we walked in, and they accepted the movie for the entertainment it was, rather than being "taken" by some subliminal message. I think I'll let it go at that - I sure don't want to spark an "Avatar" debate on my blog.

Needless to say, the timing was perfect - as John came home just about a half hour (of major cleaning time) after we did. The Whites joined us last night for some X Games and about 4 DVR'd episodes of "Flash Forward". I hope ABC continues that program - as the four of us are all very sucked in. This week, "Lost" - I'm so excited......

This morning brought church - and a visit from Will and Andrew - and later this evening, I will actually attend CCF for the first time this year......

So, that's about it. Now you can see why I usually just eliminate these kind of posts, it's all a bit boring - but at least now it's down in the memory books......