Wow I hadn't realized how much time it's been since I posted on this blog. I guess time really does fly by. The title is what it is because Zilla has gone off with his grandparents to visit his Dad for the summer. He will be gone for 5 1/2 weeks or so and its an adjustment that I hate having to make. We have been doing this for several years now and it never gets easier. Each Summer I dread this time and wish I didn't have to let him go but I know it's important that he gets this time with not only his dad but also with his other extended family on his dad's side. It's going to ddddrrrraaaagggg.
Duct Tape, Starbucks & Prozac
How This Parent Handles Each Day!!
Tuesday, June 4, 2019
Thursday, April 2, 2015
Light it Up Blue!!!
Today, April 2, 2015, is World Autism Day which is the kickoff for Autism Awareness Month. Just like Breast Cancer paints the town pink in October Autism likes to light up April with BLUE. As anyone (or the only one lol) reading my blog knows Autism touches my life everyday, just like it touches millions of others all over the world. Zilla and I are wearing blue today (I'm even sporting some blue tips in my hair!) and so are plenty of our friends and family to show support.
I've seen in many places (blogs and articles) that blast the whole "Awareness" message that gets sent out for Autism and really any of the others. These people feel like this is just a ploy for companies to sell merchandise and exploit this cause because really who isn't "Aware" of Autism or Breast Cancer. I personally don't agree these people no matter how well meaning they are. In my opinion the purpose of having an "Awareness" month is as much to spread the word as it is to show support for the individuals and families that are affected by that cause. You'd have to be living under a rock to not know what Autism is but when I see people wearing blue in April, sporting a pin or piece of clothing or just posting something about it for others to see I feel nothing but gratitude. Many of the people who will show support this month will have no clue at all what families affected by Autism really go through on a daily basis but why should I be upset by that? Just the fact that they are acknowledging my struggles IS important. So many things get brushed aside in our fast paced world but if for even that brief moment they take time out to show me and my son support I'm not going to thumb my nose at them.
So LIGHT IT UP BLUE during April!!
I've seen in many places (blogs and articles) that blast the whole "Awareness" message that gets sent out for Autism and really any of the others. These people feel like this is just a ploy for companies to sell merchandise and exploit this cause because really who isn't "Aware" of Autism or Breast Cancer. I personally don't agree these people no matter how well meaning they are. In my opinion the purpose of having an "Awareness" month is as much to spread the word as it is to show support for the individuals and families that are affected by that cause. You'd have to be living under a rock to not know what Autism is but when I see people wearing blue in April, sporting a pin or piece of clothing or just posting something about it for others to see I feel nothing but gratitude. Many of the people who will show support this month will have no clue at all what families affected by Autism really go through on a daily basis but why should I be upset by that? Just the fact that they are acknowledging my struggles IS important. So many things get brushed aside in our fast paced world but if for even that brief moment they take time out to show me and my son support I'm not going to thumb my nose at them.
So LIGHT IT UP BLUE during April!!
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
50 Shades of a Great Movie!!!
Like plenty of others I ventured out this past weekend to see the 50 Shades of Grey movie. I had actually read this when it was only a fanfiction from Twilight so obviously I'm a fan. I own and have read multiple times the books so I was excited that they were going to make a movie adaptation.
I went into the theater hoping it would be good but I didn't have super high expectations for a couple reasons. The first reason I was slightly apprehensive was because a lot of times they take a good book and butcher it in the movie leaving out a lot of good stuff and changing things they should have left alone. Another reason is that when you read a book you obviously form some thoughts of what the characters will look like and well Jamie Dornan just didn't fit my thoughts of Mr. Grey. Don't get me wrong he is very attractive and goodness his real life accent is Delicious but he just wasn't very stern and solemn looking like I thought Christian should have been.
Okay now that I've told you why I wasn't expecting much let me tell you why I was WRONG. Yep you read that correctly I was totally wrong because both Jamie and Dakota did a wonderful job. There was obviously lots of sexy time in this movie but I thought that everything was pretty tasteful (or as tasteful as you can get in a BDSM movie). There was quite a bit of humor in the movie and I liked the play of the characters. We went on Friday the 13th and the theater was pretty packed but not too bad. The first boob shot got lots of giggling and snickers, which I thought was ridiculous I mean seriously who let the 12 year old boys in the movie? They are just boobs people so get a grip. There was also a lot of commotion when we see Mr. Grey's butt the first time - I can understand that though because it was a very nice rear. :) I very much enjoyed the way these two portrayed Christian and Anastasia. They certainly won me over. I can't wait until the next movie because although I liked all three books the first wasn't my favorite of them.
Okay now that I've told you why I wasn't expecting much let me tell you why I was WRONG. Yep you read that correctly I was totally wrong because both Jamie and Dakota did a wonderful job. There was obviously lots of sexy time in this movie but I thought that everything was pretty tasteful (or as tasteful as you can get in a BDSM movie). There was quite a bit of humor in the movie and I liked the play of the characters. We went on Friday the 13th and the theater was pretty packed but not too bad. The first boob shot got lots of giggling and snickers, which I thought was ridiculous I mean seriously who let the 12 year old boys in the movie? They are just boobs people so get a grip. There was also a lot of commotion when we see Mr. Grey's butt the first time - I can understand that though because it was a very nice rear. :) I very much enjoyed the way these two portrayed Christian and Anastasia. They certainly won me over. I can't wait until the next movie because although I liked all three books the first wasn't my favorite of them.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Another Mountain
Zilla has been diagnosed for several years now and every single day is a new day with a new hurdle. Some days that hurdle is tiny and barely even registers and other days that 'hurdle' is really a huge mountain. Today's mountain is school related.
Zilla's school years started off pretty rough and that's actually how I came to recognize that Zilla needed to be evaluated. One of the teachers at his private Pre-K recognized that he didn't make eye contact and he was having a lot of problems engaging and a whole list of other things that she pointed out to me. I'm sure I would have realized that my son was "different" at some point but luckily a wonderful teacher caught it. Early prevention is beyond important for a whole host of reasons and my little monkey was diagnosed before he even entered the public school system which really proved useful for us.
Kindergarten was really really rough. There isn't any other way to describe it and honestly even thinking about that year makes me want to cry so just suffice it to say we'll leave it at that. First grade was a huge turnaround year for us and second grade continued in that same way. Luckily for us Zilla has been blessed with soooo many awesome teachers and school staff that we were able to make it through to the preset. Without them I don't know where Zilla would be academically. Even though I think this year we may have the best teacher yet, recently Zilla has been going through some problems and seems to be regressing a bit emotionally/behaviourally. Everything scares him and he has wanted more help doing things he knows how to do.
We always have his IEP meeting in December and this time we all decided that it was time to do away with the behavior plan because he'd been doing so well. I guess maybe we should have thought twice about doing that. Since December I've been called at work a handful of times because my sweet boy is freaking out and causing a distraction for the other students. Today he did something he's never really done - he threw things at one of the staff that was trying to work with him while screaming his head off. They had to clear the classroom so that everyone else could actually work and learn.
What has silent tears streaming down my face is that while she was telling me what was happening she mentioned that all the rest of the students "did really well and even just stepped over or around him when he was on the floor and in their way" and this was a positive statement. I know logically that it's a good thing that Zilla's classmates were able to work around him up to a point but the mother in me just wants to burst out in huge fat ugly tears with the thought that they have to get used to my son and things he does. At some point (and I'm guessing this is coming soon) the kids are going to stop being understanding and start being mean to my sweetface. I know it's coming and that Mountain sure looks Mt Everest sized to me.
Zilla's school years started off pretty rough and that's actually how I came to recognize that Zilla needed to be evaluated. One of the teachers at his private Pre-K recognized that he didn't make eye contact and he was having a lot of problems engaging and a whole list of other things that she pointed out to me. I'm sure I would have realized that my son was "different" at some point but luckily a wonderful teacher caught it. Early prevention is beyond important for a whole host of reasons and my little monkey was diagnosed before he even entered the public school system which really proved useful for us.
Kindergarten was really really rough. There isn't any other way to describe it and honestly even thinking about that year makes me want to cry so just suffice it to say we'll leave it at that. First grade was a huge turnaround year for us and second grade continued in that same way. Luckily for us Zilla has been blessed with soooo many awesome teachers and school staff that we were able to make it through to the preset. Without them I don't know where Zilla would be academically. Even though I think this year we may have the best teacher yet, recently Zilla has been going through some problems and seems to be regressing a bit emotionally/behaviourally. Everything scares him and he has wanted more help doing things he knows how to do.
We always have his IEP meeting in December and this time we all decided that it was time to do away with the behavior plan because he'd been doing so well. I guess maybe we should have thought twice about doing that. Since December I've been called at work a handful of times because my sweet boy is freaking out and causing a distraction for the other students. Today he did something he's never really done - he threw things at one of the staff that was trying to work with him while screaming his head off. They had to clear the classroom so that everyone else could actually work and learn.
What has silent tears streaming down my face is that while she was telling me what was happening she mentioned that all the rest of the students "did really well and even just stepped over or around him when he was on the floor and in their way" and this was a positive statement. I know logically that it's a good thing that Zilla's classmates were able to work around him up to a point but the mother in me just wants to burst out in huge fat ugly tears with the thought that they have to get used to my son and things he does. At some point (and I'm guessing this is coming soon) the kids are going to stop being understanding and start being mean to my sweetface. I know it's coming and that Mountain sure looks Mt Everest sized to me.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Feeling Sick
Ugh I hate being sick. I'm not sure if one of my super awesome co-workers or my darling Zilla contributed to my current feeling but I'd like to find the culprit and maybe smack them.
I know us gals always joke that men become huge babies when they are sick and how awesome we handle ourselves in the same situation. Well I have to say I'm not very fun when I'm sick at all because I get whiny and just want it to be over already. In general when I'm not feeling well (headache, sore, sick etc...) I tend to become impatient, okay more impatient, than I usually am and that never bodes well for anyone. I usually have too much stuff going on in my life and in my head so being sick doesn't do anything for me what so ever. Don't get me wrong I still have to do all the mom things that I have to but I'm not very fun to be around when I'm doing them lol.
Unfortunately I have an eight year old and he is around too many kids and they all carry germs so more often than not I can't smack my germ dealer around. Luckily though my little bug is sympathetic to my plight - as long as I take care of his needs anyway lol. The life of a parent.
I know us gals always joke that men become huge babies when they are sick and how awesome we handle ourselves in the same situation. Well I have to say I'm not very fun when I'm sick at all because I get whiny and just want it to be over already. In general when I'm not feeling well (headache, sore, sick etc...) I tend to become impatient, okay more impatient, than I usually am and that never bodes well for anyone. I usually have too much stuff going on in my life and in my head so being sick doesn't do anything for me what so ever. Don't get me wrong I still have to do all the mom things that I have to but I'm not very fun to be around when I'm doing them lol.
Unfortunately I have an eight year old and he is around too many kids and they all carry germs so more often than not I can't smack my germ dealer around. Luckily though my little bug is sympathetic to my plight - as long as I take care of his needs anyway lol. The life of a parent.
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
My Thoughts on Served Hot
Served Hot by Annabeth Albert is a delightfully short read about Robby and David, both of whom have been in closeted unhealthy sounding relationships prior to meeting. Robby who runs a coffee cart in a downtown area of Portland waits everyday for David to come in to get his daily dose of coffee but can't seem to make himself flirt. David comes in every day from his job but seems to be giving some mixed signals for sure in the beginning. Robby and David both come across as shy and reluctant to put themselves out there.
I really enjoyed these two characters because they were just so real and had to fight not only for each other but for themselves. Robby was in a previous relationship for several years where his boyfriend wanted to keep him a secret and controlled a lot of what happened with them. David was previously living in a very small town and in a relationship with a friend who was very much in the closet and liked it that way. David moved to Portland after his relationship was discovered in a very traumatic way. It certainly felt like Davids past 'boyfriend' was the giant elephant in the room throughout much of the book. Robby doesn't want to be a secret ever again so he has to decide if his relationship with David is worth waiting for. David needs to decide if he's ready to be out and open after so many years being pushed into the back of the closet.
I liked that both David and Robby come with some baggage (like real people) and didn't instantly fall in love and act like everything was perfect. Nothing is more annoying in a book than everything falling into place perfectly and all problems evaporate instantly with love. I mean seriously Love is not some magic potion designed to fix your life. I also liked that although it took him a little bit Robby stood up for himself and made it known what he needed. Keeping your feelings bottled up doesn't usually do very well in the end. Once David really shared what he went through I think that helped him realize what he deserved to have and allowed him to fight for his relationship. I was a little worried that Davids past might be too much for them both to get over but I'm glad I was wrong.
I really enjoyed these two characters because they were just so real and had to fight not only for each other but for themselves. Robby was in a previous relationship for several years where his boyfriend wanted to keep him a secret and controlled a lot of what happened with them. David was previously living in a very small town and in a relationship with a friend who was very much in the closet and liked it that way. David moved to Portland after his relationship was discovered in a very traumatic way. It certainly felt like Davids past 'boyfriend' was the giant elephant in the room throughout much of the book. Robby doesn't want to be a secret ever again so he has to decide if his relationship with David is worth waiting for. David needs to decide if he's ready to be out and open after so many years being pushed into the back of the closet.
I liked that both David and Robby come with some baggage (like real people) and didn't instantly fall in love and act like everything was perfect. Nothing is more annoying in a book than everything falling into place perfectly and all problems evaporate instantly with love. I mean seriously Love is not some magic potion designed to fix your life. I also liked that although it took him a little bit Robby stood up for himself and made it known what he needed. Keeping your feelings bottled up doesn't usually do very well in the end. Once David really shared what he went through I think that helped him realize what he deserved to have and allowed him to fight for his relationship. I was a little worried that Davids past might be too much for them both to get over but I'm glad I was wrong.
There were several times in the book where the author jumped time and then explained what happened in a sentence or two. That would have been great but this was important stuff we were missing! I wanted to see how the meet the parents went after all the work up for it but I was ROBBED!
Overall I enjoyed this book quite a bit and I will be checking out this authors other work for sure cause I love me some M/M stories.
This book was provided to me by NetGalley for my honest review.
Overall I enjoyed this book quite a bit and I will be checking out this authors other work for sure cause I love me some M/M stories.
This book was provided to me by NetGalley for my honest review.
Friday, January 30, 2015
My Thoughts on Gluten Free Breakfast, Brunch & Beyond
I am not allergic to Gluten although I have found that I am sensitive to it and as I've said before Zilla is Autistic and all the doctors say to get off gluten ASAP for kids on the spectrum. When I saw this book I got very excited because I felt that breakfast was so limited without Gluten but Linda Amendt sure did blow that out of the water. There are a TON of awesome recipes in this book and I can't wait to make them all. Well maybe not all of them (there is a Carrot Waffle recipe!). I really liked all of the in depth information she gave in regards to the ingredients and making your meals and kitchen Gluten free. There are a lot of variations for the recipes like for example the Banana Nut Pancakes can turn into Banana Blueberry or Banana Spice or Tropical pancakes - YUM. I never thought that sweet rolls would be remotely good when you take the gluten out but I was wrong. There was also a lot of good info in the back about making your kitchen and recipes you already have gluten free.
A few things I wouldn't mind to be different: There were pictures but none of them said what they actually were and although it wasn't hard to guess I shouldn't really have had to guess. Maybe in print this wouldn't be an issue because the picture would be opposite the recipe but in my e-book copy it was annoying. I also would have really appreciated for maybe a small picture of the finished product on the page - there was plenty of room - so I know if what I'm making was huge fail or not. I also would have liked Amendt to mention using coconut oil as a substitution but it was no where to be seen. This was definitely NOT a healthy baking book though because sugar was liberally used and there were zero substitutions offered - in fact it almost seemed like she was saying that you can't cook these things without that amount of sugar. I plan to make several of these recipes and maybe I can get Zilla to eat some of them lol.
Overall a great cookbook that I will be enjoying for some time to come!! I don't know that my waistline will say thanks but I'm sure the taste buds will lol.
I got this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
A few things I wouldn't mind to be different: There were pictures but none of them said what they actually were and although it wasn't hard to guess I shouldn't really have had to guess. Maybe in print this wouldn't be an issue because the picture would be opposite the recipe but in my e-book copy it was annoying. I also would have really appreciated for maybe a small picture of the finished product on the page - there was plenty of room - so I know if what I'm making was huge fail or not. I also would have liked Amendt to mention using coconut oil as a substitution but it was no where to be seen. This was definitely NOT a healthy baking book though because sugar was liberally used and there were zero substitutions offered - in fact it almost seemed like she was saying that you can't cook these things without that amount of sugar. I plan to make several of these recipes and maybe I can get Zilla to eat some of them lol.
Overall a great cookbook that I will be enjoying for some time to come!! I don't know that my waistline will say thanks but I'm sure the taste buds will lol.
I got this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
Why Your Gonna See A Bunch Of Book Reviews
At the beginning of the year I found, on the devil site aka Pinterest, a 2015 Reading Challenge that I decided to do with a friend. It's not really about the amount of books, for me anyway, as I'm already a crazy reader but I wanted to try and expand the subjects I'm reading about. So I'm going to be reading even more than I usually do - cause I'm not going to stop reading books I like just because they don't fit into that list!
As I just said I REALLY enjoy reading like seriously it's my fav hobby. Just like any single parent I heart free stuff so... I recently found a fun site that combines my fav hobby and getting free stuff, NetGalley, that allows you to sign up and get ARC (advanced reader copies) of books so that you can go and review them for the publisher. Well this wouldn't have worked out if they just handed you any old book, because I can't finish books I don't like, but NetGalley lets you pick books you think you'll like so I signed up. I have to post the reviews online for the publishers to hopefully get the word out about their books so ta da you get to see all the cool books I'm reading.
I thought about just doing certain book review days but honestly sometimes I read more than one book in a week and stuff might get backed up. Not to mention that NetGalley probably doesn't want you to sit on the review so that means I'm gonna post it whenever I finish. I'm actually going to probably end up refraining from posting about every book I read because it might be embarrassing how much time I spend reading lol. In fact this week I read the books I posted about so far plus two books I didn't get from NetGalley!
I hope someone enjoys my postings about these books and maybe you'll find a new fav author/book!!
As I just said I REALLY enjoy reading like seriously it's my fav hobby. Just like any single parent I heart free stuff so... I recently found a fun site that combines my fav hobby and getting free stuff, NetGalley, that allows you to sign up and get ARC (advanced reader copies) of books so that you can go and review them for the publisher. Well this wouldn't have worked out if they just handed you any old book, because I can't finish books I don't like, but NetGalley lets you pick books you think you'll like so I signed up. I have to post the reviews online for the publishers to hopefully get the word out about their books so ta da you get to see all the cool books I'm reading.
I thought about just doing certain book review days but honestly sometimes I read more than one book in a week and stuff might get backed up. Not to mention that NetGalley probably doesn't want you to sit on the review so that means I'm gonna post it whenever I finish. I'm actually going to probably end up refraining from posting about every book I read because it might be embarrassing how much time I spend reading lol. In fact this week I read the books I posted about so far plus two books I didn't get from NetGalley!
I hope someone enjoys my postings about these books and maybe you'll find a new fav author/book!!
Thursday, January 29, 2015
My Thoughts on Cowboy Delight
This short Novella by Cheryl Brooks is about Lauren who is on the way to meet her future in-laws for the very first time. Lauren decides to drive there on her own after her fiance, Fredrick, had to rush home to attend to his mother after she broke her ankle. Unfortunately Lauren's car breaks down in the middle of nowhere Texas and she has to walk several miles to a small town diner. The Waitress convinces Lauren that a Cowboy named Steve would be a suitable candidate to drive her to Houston because he'd be a gentlemen. Now Steve is a widower and agrees to drive Lauren to Houston while her car is being fixed.
During their drive Lauren begins to consider if agreeing to marry Fredrick is the best idea because she has some serious and instant chemistry with Steve that she's never felt with her fiance. Steve is feeling the chemistry and certainly isn't interested in acting like a gentlemen. Things really heat up between the two and Lauren is left to decide if she is willing to give up her life (Fredrick is rolling in the dough and his dad owns the company she works for not to mention that she doesn't live in Texas!) for someone who makes her feel the way that Steve does.
Ok I did like this book but there were a few things that bugged me. First the things that bothered me (so I can leave on a good note):
- Lauren worries an awful lot about leaving the security that Fredrick can give her and not much at all about the actual relationship. Seems like this might be related to her childhood but really the book was too short to delve into this so who knows.
- I don't really like that she seems like she wants to "try" out Steve while still keeping ole Freddy on the line. Seems unfair to both guys and I am not much one for cheating so that didn't do anything for me at all. I mean don't get me wrong I understand wanting to make sure your not giving up everything for nothing but thats still isn't right unless ALL parties are aware then they are making the choice with you but that didn't happen here.
- Lauren seems to be fine with letting Fredrick twist her into some sort of stepford type wife; she's okay with changing almost everything about herself just for security. After meeting Steve she seems more at ease with herself.
- Felt like it would have been better just being a smidge longer because she could have drawn some things out and explored their pasts a little better. It wasn't needed but I would have liked it better.
- The Butter..made me gag a little. Butter should NEVER be used as lube people!!! EVER!!!! That's all I'm saying there.
- When trying new 'things' couples really should ease into them - not use nasty lube and go full tilt. I guess in a book no one needs to prepare things.
Now the good:
- This was a short read and who doesn't love sexy cowboys?
- That's some very sexy cowboy on that cover and that's exactly what I pictured when I think of Steve!
- I do like that Lauren was honest with Steve about her feelings regarding him and Fredrick. She should have been a little more honest with Fredrick though.
- I also loved that Steve fully made his stance clear and went for the prize regardless - gotta love a man who knows what he wants and is willing to fight for you.
- Little Skipper was a trip - Always makes me laugh to see big strong guys with sweet fluffy puppies.
- Loved this:
"The local women gave up on him a long time ago. Nowadays they mostly just gaze at him and drool"
"I've got a fiance waiting for me in Houston" I said as a reminder to myself "He'll be safe with me"
Kate snorted "I hope you love that man in Houston with all your heart"
"So do I" I muttered.
- "I raise delicious beef" - makes me think of a that's what she said joke LMAO
- She did acknowledge that she 'should' feel selfish about this whole thing so I guess that's something at least.
- There was humor sprinkled in everywhere so that you could laugh at and with them.
- Loved the drama at the end - HA take that you snobby bunch!
Overall I liked the book and will definitely check out this authors other work.
I got this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
During their drive Lauren begins to consider if agreeing to marry Fredrick is the best idea because she has some serious and instant chemistry with Steve that she's never felt with her fiance. Steve is feeling the chemistry and certainly isn't interested in acting like a gentlemen. Things really heat up between the two and Lauren is left to decide if she is willing to give up her life (Fredrick is rolling in the dough and his dad owns the company she works for not to mention that she doesn't live in Texas!) for someone who makes her feel the way that Steve does.
Ok I did like this book but there were a few things that bugged me. First the things that bothered me (so I can leave on a good note):
- Lauren worries an awful lot about leaving the security that Fredrick can give her and not much at all about the actual relationship. Seems like this might be related to her childhood but really the book was too short to delve into this so who knows.
- I don't really like that she seems like she wants to "try" out Steve while still keeping ole Freddy on the line. Seems unfair to both guys and I am not much one for cheating so that didn't do anything for me at all. I mean don't get me wrong I understand wanting to make sure your not giving up everything for nothing but thats still isn't right unless ALL parties are aware then they are making the choice with you but that didn't happen here.
- Lauren seems to be fine with letting Fredrick twist her into some sort of stepford type wife; she's okay with changing almost everything about herself just for security. After meeting Steve she seems more at ease with herself.
- Felt like it would have been better just being a smidge longer because she could have drawn some things out and explored their pasts a little better. It wasn't needed but I would have liked it better.
- The Butter..made me gag a little. Butter should NEVER be used as lube people!!! EVER!!!! That's all I'm saying there.
- When trying new 'things' couples really should ease into them - not use nasty lube and go full tilt. I guess in a book no one needs to prepare things.
Now the good:
- This was a short read and who doesn't love sexy cowboys?
- That's some very sexy cowboy on that cover and that's exactly what I pictured when I think of Steve!
- I do like that Lauren was honest with Steve about her feelings regarding him and Fredrick. She should have been a little more honest with Fredrick though.
- I also loved that Steve fully made his stance clear and went for the prize regardless - gotta love a man who knows what he wants and is willing to fight for you.
- Little Skipper was a trip - Always makes me laugh to see big strong guys with sweet fluffy puppies.
- Loved this:
"The local women gave up on him a long time ago. Nowadays they mostly just gaze at him and drool"
"I've got a fiance waiting for me in Houston" I said as a reminder to myself "He'll be safe with me"
Kate snorted "I hope you love that man in Houston with all your heart"
"So do I" I muttered.
- "I raise delicious beef" - makes me think of a that's what she said joke LMAO
- She did acknowledge that she 'should' feel selfish about this whole thing so I guess that's something at least.
- There was humor sprinkled in everywhere so that you could laugh at and with them.
- Loved the drama at the end - HA take that you snobby bunch!
Overall I liked the book and will definitely check out this authors other work.
I got this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Sunday, January 25, 2015
My Thoughts on Reasons To Leave
I was provided a copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
Reasons to Leave by Lisa Hobman was a easy read and we all know I appreciate an easy read! It's about Stevie who is the daughter of a single mother, and abandoned by her father, she thought she had finally found a man she could trust. At age eighteen she thought she would be with Jason forever. Everything between them was perfect until the night of the leaver's ball when he disappeared without trace. Ten years on, can Stevie ever learn to trust again enough to give her heart? Or are the ghosts of her past determined to stop her from ever finding true love?
I liked the storyline of this book a lot but I did notice that she kinda jumped around a bit in the beginning. There were certainly some grammar issues that did grab my attention but were easy enough to ignore. There was some inconsistency regarding Stevie and Miles' marriage that bothered me a bit throuout the story. I was not a fan of Miles and didn't think it was cool that her mom interfered in her relationship like that. Stevie and Jason to me both came across as a smidge bipolar throughout the whole Book. I did very much adore the Dallas reference with Jason's nickname. I liked the setting in the story and appreciated the descriptions. I'm hoping that David doesn't cause any problems in the next book maybe Stevie will actually try to push him in Mollie's direction. I was surprised that Stevie didn't try to push David in that direction here butthen again I got the impression that Stevie didn't mind the attention. I also didn't understand why on earth Stevie didn't just explain why she wanted to stay close to her mom but then again that probably would have messed up the sequel. I didn't really appreciate the ending (hate cliffhangers) and I wanted to smack Jason a little or well actually a lot. I honestly probably won't read the next book not because this one was bad but just because it didn't grab me and I wasn't into the characters enough.
Reasons to Leave by Lisa Hobman was a easy read and we all know I appreciate an easy read! It's about Stevie who is the daughter of a single mother, and abandoned by her father, she thought she had finally found a man she could trust. At age eighteen she thought she would be with Jason forever. Everything between them was perfect until the night of the leaver's ball when he disappeared without trace. Ten years on, can Stevie ever learn to trust again enough to give her heart? Or are the ghosts of her past determined to stop her from ever finding true love?
I liked the storyline of this book a lot but I did notice that she kinda jumped around a bit in the beginning. There were certainly some grammar issues that did grab my attention but were easy enough to ignore. There was some inconsistency regarding Stevie and Miles' marriage that bothered me a bit throuout the story. I was not a fan of Miles and didn't think it was cool that her mom interfered in her relationship like that. Stevie and Jason to me both came across as a smidge bipolar throughout the whole Book. I did very much adore the Dallas reference with Jason's nickname. I liked the setting in the story and appreciated the descriptions. I'm hoping that David doesn't cause any problems in the next book maybe Stevie will actually try to push him in Mollie's direction. I was surprised that Stevie didn't try to push David in that direction here butthen again I got the impression that Stevie didn't mind the attention. I also didn't understand why on earth Stevie didn't just explain why she wanted to stay close to her mom but then again that probably would have messed up the sequel. I didn't really appreciate the ending (hate cliffhangers) and I wanted to smack Jason a little or well actually a lot. I honestly probably won't read the next book not because this one was bad but just because it didn't grab me and I wasn't into the characters enough.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Tuesday Tip
Wow it's Tuesday already and today my tip is related to a Wellness Challenge I'm participating in at work. Here are a couple tips on how to jump into a new fitness plan: First of all before you begin really take a look at yourself and decide what your realistic goals are. Start with short term goals that are attainable so that you don't get discouraged. Stay positive even in the face of set backs and make a decision to stay focused no matter what. My last tip in any new journey is support! If you have people that are behind you then you can stay on track.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Book Review - Endless Knight
Endless Knight by Kresley Cole is the second book in The Arcana Chronicles series. I reviewed it's predicesor a couple weeks ago. Here is the Summary:
Shocking Secrets
Evie has fully come into her powers as the Tarot Empress, and Jack was there to see it all. She now knows that the teens who've been reincarnated as the Tarot are in the throes of an epic battle. It's kill or be killed, and the future of mankind hangs in the balance.
Unexpected Allies
With threats lurking around every corner, Evie is forced to trust her newfound alliance. Together they must fight not only other Arcana, but also Bagmen zombies, post-apocalyptic storms, and cannibals.
Gut-Wrenching Treachery
When Evie meets Death, things get even more complicated. Though falling for Jack, she's drawn to the dangerous Endless Knight as well. Somehow the Empress and Death share a history, one that Evie can't remember—but Death can't forget.
Endless Knight starts exactly where Poison Princess left off. Evie has finially come to the point where she understands what she can do but she's still very wary of what she is capible of. She doesn't want to be involved in this war and keeps trying to find a way around the game. She is a different kind of Empress in this game that she finds out keeps replaying. Evie also finds that she should want to not only play, but win, this game at the price of anything. We find out A LOT of the Empresses past and what's gone on in games of the past. Not everything thats revealed is sunshine and roses thats for sure. Death and Evie have history thats not always pretty and this information confuses Evie and her feelings for Death and Jackson.
Now as for Jackson he stays on the edges of this book for the most part but we never forget about him thats for sure. He actually shows some more depth of his feelings in this book. I didn't think that his personality was all that becoming in the first book but he becomes a little more well rounded here I think. We do "find out" some information about him here that causes Evie some serious pain and she pulls away from not only Jackson but also Matthew as well because of it. I put that in quotes because this is something I already figured out and I'm not sure why she didn't but who knows. Jackson does eventually prove that he really does have deep feelings for Evie and will do anything for her - he showed this some in the last book but it was hard to get past his attitude to see it.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I'm quite annoyed to have to now wait for her to write the next book! I'd say read it but you kinda have to read Poison Princess first otherwise you won't recognize and apprecaite the Character development that happens here. Happy Reading!!
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Thanksgiving Works Too
Ok well in the last post I mentioned getting Zilla a little hairy B.F.F. for his 8th Birthday. Well some interesting news came may way since that post. Zilla's Grandma has a co-worker who overheard her talking about Zilla wanting a dog and offered hers up. Apparently she has a 1 year old Male Boston Terrier that dearly missed her ex-roommates 3 kids and was getting a little depressed over it. She said that although she didn't want to get rid of him he clearly needed to be around kids and what to do you know I happen to have a kid that needs a dog! So ta-da we have a new puppy! We are picking him up the week of Thanksgiving and I just know that Zilla is going to flip his lid when he spys his new pal. I'm very excited for my sweetness and his new B.F.F. who's name is Stich (we're going to see if he'll come to Zilla's preferred name -Yoshi- though). I can't wait to see his face!
Thursday, October 24, 2013
He Wants A Dog
Zilla wants a dog for Christmas. Over the summer we dog-sat my Aunt's dog for a month and ever since then Zilla has begged for a dog. He wants a dog that will play with him and even sleep with him. Now Zilla doesn't have a subtle quiet bone in his sweet little body so we'd be forced to go the puppy route so that it could grow up with him and get used to his brand of awesome. I have zero want for a big dog or any surprises so that rules out a puppy from the pound and leads us right to the land of overpriced pure breeds. My Ex-MIL raises Brussels Griffon's and those would be nice but she doesn't have any litters coming anytime soon. That news got be to looking into other breeds and I'm thinking that Miniature Schnauzers might be at the top for now. Honestly I can't really say that I want to deal with a puppy at all.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Tuesday Tip
Oh here's another Tuesday and I've got a tip that I really need to take to heart and I think that many will understand exactly what I mean! Ok that's enough chit chat here it is:
Take some time for yourself!
Ok I know that's not groundbreaking but sometimes, as a parent, we lose ourselves in our kids and let our life take a backseat to theirs. Besides reading I don't think I'd be able to answer the question "What do you like to do in your spare time?" with anything non-Zilla related! I don't really know if I 'outgrew' the hobbies I had Pre-Zilla or if I just don't even remember them. Now don't get me wrong I love my little monkey and it doesn't really bother me per say to spend my time either with him or thinking about him but I don't want to lose me either. I mean for goodness sakes for my computer background at work I have a scene from Mario Bros! I think I need to figure out something that I like to do (besides read) that doesn't involve my little sweetness.
Take some time for yourself!
Ok I know that's not groundbreaking but sometimes, as a parent, we lose ourselves in our kids and let our life take a backseat to theirs. Besides reading I don't think I'd be able to answer the question "What do you like to do in your spare time?" with anything non-Zilla related! I don't really know if I 'outgrew' the hobbies I had Pre-Zilla or if I just don't even remember them. Now don't get me wrong I love my little monkey and it doesn't really bother me per say to spend my time either with him or thinking about him but I don't want to lose me either. I mean for goodness sakes for my computer background at work I have a scene from Mario Bros! I think I need to figure out something that I like to do (besides read) that doesn't involve my little sweetness.
Monday, October 21, 2013
The Garbage Nazi
Yep that's my new nickname, well at least according to Mena, and I'm embracing it completely. Apparently now that I'm "enforcing" all of the rules she really should have been following all along I've earned the new moniker. To be fair I'm generally a rule follower (minus the speed limit lol) and she should have known better! I've laid out the recycling mandate and have pointed out on Yard Waste day what we were required to do and was met with a few not-so-nice comments. Sorry Mom but life's better when you follow the rules <~~~~ that's what I tell Zilla anyway lol.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Book Review - Poison Princess
Poison Princess by Kresley Cole is the first book in the Arcana Chronicles Series. I read this book about 5 months ago and just finished the second book yesterday but thought I couldn't very well review the second book without first giving the first its glowing Review. Here's the summary:
Sixteen-year-old Evangeline "Evie" Greene leads a charmed life, until she begins experiencing horrifying hallucinations. When an apocalyptic event decimates her Louisiana hometown, Evie realizes her hallucinations were actually visions of the future—and they're still happening. Fighting for her life and desperate for answers, she must turn to her wrong-side-of-the-bayou classmate: Jack Deveaux.
With his mile-long rap sheet, wicked grin, and bad attitude, Jack is like no boy Evie has ever known. Even though he once scorned her and everything she represented, he agrees to protect Evie on her quest. She knows she can't totally depend on Jack. If he ever cast that wicked grin her way, could she possibly resist him? As Jack and Evie race to find the source of her visions, they meet others who have gotten the same call. An ancient prophesy is being played out, and Evie is not the only one with special powers. A group of twenty-two teens has been chosen to reenact the ultimate battle between good and evil. But it's not always clear who is on which side.Who can Evie trust?
I liked the cast of characters in this book and I also liked how the Author had the Characters evolve and adapt to the new situations they were being faced with after the event they refer to as "The Flash" that changed their world. I didn't particularly like how whiny Evie came across sometimes but then I had to keep telling myself that she's only 16 and going through some major crazy. I honestly wasn't a fan of Jack as Evie's love interest in this book because he was basically a jerk the whole time. The only redeeming quality that I found was that he was protective of Evie and taught her some survival skills. There were also quite a few pages of Evie recounting her days before The Flash and although some reviews I've read didn't like this I enjoy getting a good back story. The ending of the book left me very excited to see where the story and Evie specifically were headed. I seriously enjoyed reading Poison Princess and when I was done got upset that I had to wait until October to read the next book! I will review the second book in the series, The Endless Knight, next week!!!
Sixteen-year-old Evangeline "Evie" Greene leads a charmed life, until she begins experiencing horrifying hallucinations. When an apocalyptic event decimates her Louisiana hometown, Evie realizes her hallucinations were actually visions of the future—and they're still happening. Fighting for her life and desperate for answers, she must turn to her wrong-side-of-the-bayou classmate: Jack Deveaux.
With his mile-long rap sheet, wicked grin, and bad attitude, Jack is like no boy Evie has ever known. Even though he once scorned her and everything she represented, he agrees to protect Evie on her quest. She knows she can't totally depend on Jack. If he ever cast that wicked grin her way, could she possibly resist him? As Jack and Evie race to find the source of her visions, they meet others who have gotten the same call. An ancient prophesy is being played out, and Evie is not the only one with special powers. A group of twenty-two teens has been chosen to reenact the ultimate battle between good and evil. But it's not always clear who is on which side.Who can Evie trust?
I liked the cast of characters in this book and I also liked how the Author had the Characters evolve and adapt to the new situations they were being faced with after the event they refer to as "The Flash" that changed their world. I didn't particularly like how whiny Evie came across sometimes but then I had to keep telling myself that she's only 16 and going through some major crazy. I honestly wasn't a fan of Jack as Evie's love interest in this book because he was basically a jerk the whole time. The only redeeming quality that I found was that he was protective of Evie and taught her some survival skills. There were also quite a few pages of Evie recounting her days before The Flash and although some reviews I've read didn't like this I enjoy getting a good back story. The ending of the book left me very excited to see where the story and Evie specifically were headed. I seriously enjoyed reading Poison Princess and when I was done got upset that I had to wait until October to read the next book! I will review the second book in the series, The Endless Knight, next week!!!
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Homecoming Court Got it Right
Finally some uplifting news that made me smile was in the newspaper! This past week at West Orange High School's Homecoming celebration the school voted for their Homecoming King and Queen. I know big deal every school does this each year but wait...this year was a little different. West Orange High School proudly voted in Semone Adkins as queen and Trazjuan "Bubba" Hunter was voted king of the court by their fellow students. Both students are well liked and couldn't have been happier to gets their crowns. Oh and the reason this was "different" your asking well this was news because it's the first time in Florida that two students who have Down Syndrome were both given the Homecoming Crowns!!
As the Mother of a Special Needs child this just warms my heart because it goes to prove that not all teenagers are self-absorbed and only care about themselves and their popularity. It really gives me hope that my son is growing up in a World that can see past any issues and instead can just be kind to others.
As the Mother of a Special Needs child this just warms my heart because it goes to prove that not all teenagers are self-absorbed and only care about themselves and their popularity. It really gives me hope that my son is growing up in a World that can see past any issues and instead can just be kind to others.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Tuesday Tip on Wednesday
OK everyone yesterday I guess I forgot it was Tuesday so I missed out on posting my Tuesday Tip so I just decided to slide it on over to Hump Day instead! Here is my tip for everyone:
Don't get excited about reading a book in a series unless you can then continue on to the next book right away!
I just finished the 2nd book in a series and now I have to WAIT for the next book!! I normally have very little patience and this is no different.
Don't get excited about reading a book in a series unless you can then continue on to the next book right away!
I just finished the 2nd book in a series and now I have to WAIT for the next book!! I normally have very little patience and this is no different.
National Boss' Day
Wait What? Bosses get a day where I have to give them something for making me do work? That doesn't sound good or well it wouldn't if you have a bad boss. I thankfully don't have that problem! All of the people I work for are super nice and make it a pretty awesome working environment. So Thank you Marchelle and Allan for just being you!!
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