Not Again

The kids went back to school on Tuesday.  It's funny, but only Brandi asked about staying home because Junior's dad died.  I didn't let her.  I told her that they only let you stay home if you are sad about someone dying, and because she wasn't, she had to go to school.  At the bus stop that morning, one of my neighbors asked if I had heard about what happened during the break to some of the kids in the neighborhood.  I said I hadn't, so he told me about this 16 year old boy who was arrested and charged with molesting four different little boys in our neighborhood. 

The first thought I had was that we needed to contact Express Estate Agency because I wanted to move.   I mean, who wants to live in a neighborhood with a child molester.  The funny thing is, this kid has approached Ryan about playing video games.  I think I might have written about it when it happened.  The kid told Ryan that he was on house arrest, and wanted him to come over to play video games.  Ryan, of course, said no, and came right home.  (I believe he was checking the mail for me when this happened)  A few days later, the kid knocked on our door, again asking if Ryan could go to his house.  At this point, Junior asked him what he was on house arrest for, and he said that he was "wrongly accused" with touching little boys.  Yeah, Junior told him to get out of our yard, and to never come back, then slammed the door in his face. 

Turns out there was enough evidence to convict him, which led to a search of his residence, which led to his mother and a family friend being arrested for providing him with pornographic material.  They sound like a bunch of winners, don't they? 

After thinking about it, though, we decided that we didn't need to contact Express Estate Agency.  We decided that we are going to stay right here.  The kid is in the custody of the juvenile courts, and it doesn't sound like he will be coming home.  Plus, my kids are very rarely outside alone.  They usually ride bikes and play football and stuff together, and I know they know how to protect each other.  Someday, I would love to use the Express Estate Agency's services to buy a home instead of renting, but for now, I am happy not to be packing again.  

You all remember how many boxes of elephants and books I had last time we moved.  I don't think Junior's back can take that again.

Nation What?

Have you guys seen this commercial?  It's only 30 seconds or so...

Last night, it came on during Survivor, and Brandi turns and looks at me and sang,

"NationBrandi is really handy!"

I about feel off my bed I was laughing so hard.  She's pretty clever for an eight year old.

Stunned

Early this morning, I was watching the news like I do every day while the kids are getting showered and ready for school.  Our local news is big on "teasers", and I caught a blip about an upcoming story about an 82 year former sheriff who was found dead early this morning.  They showed the building where he was found, and I recognized it. 

Now, some of you who have been reading this blog for years may remember that I used to run a produce stand for Junior's former father-in-law.  It was nothing more than a bunch of tables set up under a tent in his side yard, but he had some pretty good business.  It wasn't in the best neighborhood, and I was always nervous when I was there alone.  Right across the street from where I sat was this garage, where an old man sat trying to sell cars and all kinds of other stuff,  I don't even know how to describe it other than, maybe, collectibles.  Most days, he would walk across the street and sit with me for awhile, talking about everything and anything that was on his mind.  It made me feel safe knowing he was right across the street when I was there alone.

This is the guy who was found dead, in that garage.  And they say it is "suspicious".  Apparently, when he didn't come home last night, his family called the cops, and they went to his garage and found him dead.  So sad.  He was the sweetest man, and I can not imagine why someone would kill him, except maybe to rob him.  But, the cops aren't giving out any details.  They are just asking the community to phone in tips.

I hope they catch whoever did this, and make him (or her) pay.

Busy. Imagine That.

There are some days when I have nothing to blog about. 

There are some days when I have a lot to blog about.

There are some days when I have nothing to blog about, but I have a lot of posts that I have to do.

Those are the days that make me crazy.

Today is one of those days.

I have been sitting here, trying to put together coherent posts, and I am not sure if it's working.  I had three packages arrive today, all things I have to review.  I have a book to review, which I haven't even started reading, because I am still trying to get through the Frankenstein books.  (remind me to tell you my thoughts on those)  I have two more packages I am expecting, which means two more reviews.

I am not bragging, or complaining, I am just overwhelmed.  Did I mention I also have six or so, I think more paid posts to do tonight?  (not just one this blog)  It's almost 9pm, and I still haven't fed the kids supper!  Tomorrow night I am keeping my sweet little niece, Lylah, so I want to get all of this done before then.

I don't think that's going to happen.

$4 Each, 2 for $7

I gotta tell ya. I am so tired of making signs. The prices change more often than the days. I will say that we had the stand looking good today. Tomorrow Del is going to get the license and permit, so the stand is here to stay. He told me today that I shouldn't worry about money. He said when he makes money, I will make money. Good money. I think I'm making pretty good money now. I work when I want, I get to bring my kids, and I get free produce. Plus he insists on paying me every day. I keep telling him he pays me too much, but he doesn't listen. I didn't end up with Faith today. She didn't want to come, so Nicole let her Mom keep her. I spoke to her before and she said she'll bring her in the morning. It will be good to get back on track. I am a very "routine" person. I don't like change. It makes me very anxious. I like things the same all the time. I panic if Junior mentions quitting his job. When he left TA, I was a wreck for weeks. It was for a better job, and a smart change, but still. If I have plans and they change, I go nuts. Crazy, I know. I accept it. It's who I am.My kids were so good today. Having something for Ryan to do every day is wonderful. He is such a big help. Growing up too fast. And responsible. And respectful. Wow, I must be a really good mom. Honk, honk!! (that was me tooting my own horn!) Anyway....I'm off to find something to eat. Have a marvelous evening. Enjoy your Friday!