Birds... :(

So, I guess today is blogapalooza, huh? I suppose I've told some of you about my battle with the birds here at home. Here is what is now in the planter right outside my front door. The mommy bird has smooshed my flowers to make her nest, AND I live in constant fear that she will peck out my eyes every time I try to water my plants. Now, for those of you tempted to say "aahhhh, isn't that little sight of nature heartening and lovely?" Let me remind you of the previous territory war: my car. No matter where I parked, it would be COVERED...I mean COVERED people...in pooh, and I mean lots of it. People wouldn't ride with me.
No, actually, I don't think it's funny. Deathmatch I is in the works.

A few pages...

It feels good to get back to hard-core scrapbooking. Used some new stuff and some kit contents as well as my GIGANTIC stash of old stuff. I can't believe how many packages of rub-ons I have. I'm a little bit embarrassed about it...


Obviously, we've got a left page and right page here. It's taken me forever to get to these pictures. I'll be taking Lickity Slip in August, though to get through Europe and the Yucatan.

Scott's Office

Here's the "before" of our room addition. We closed in the patio to make an office for Scott, and he constructed built-in bookcases. We've finally recovered from the laquer fumes (whew!) and are enjoying the results. :) Of the added storage, NOT the laquer. The French doors lead into our bedroom, and I took the picture from the dining area.

Our next project is converting the laundry room to a scrapbook room. Hooray!

Sedona Vacation

It is amazing how much there is to do in our fantastic state of Arizona. Yes, it is hot, but such gorgeous scenery is just all around us. We just returned from a long weekend in Sedona--so fun! Scott and I hiked some great trails; this photo is in front of the Vultee Arch, which Scott actually scrambled to and stood atop. Now...it is back to reality.

Seriously? It's been a MONTH?!

Where in the world did the time go? Let's see, happenings that I can remember (in no particular order).

1. We went to San Diego for 4 days. Spent a little time on the beach, went to the zoo, Balboa Park (for museums), and Sea World. Got DRENCHED on Atlantis at Sea World. Tip: two big people in the front seat is maybe not the best idea. :) Saw the Georgia O'Keefe show at the art museum (sigh-didn't want to leave). I am not the biggest fan of her flowers but the landscapes are amazing.

2. Got bifocals (the progressive ones--no line). I hate them a little bit.

3. Went to the fabulous Laurie Notaro reading on July 11th with my friend, Sara. Laurie is my very favorite writer, and she is so funny and kind. She said she remembered me from previous readings. Uh, no, she wasn't "just being nice."

Whoa...

When Scott was driving the girls back to their mom's last night (we got to spend Father's Day together), Sonja said, "ah, Dad, I miss Ann already." I think yesterday was step-mom day, too! :)

This whole step-mom journey has been long and challenging. It is a process of learning and discovery and compromise and tongue-biting. It is the hardest thing I've ever done and the most rewarding experience I've ever had. The hugs and little talks are becoming daily, and I frequently feel a hand take mine as we're out and about. It's like being a mom and nothing like being a mom all at the same time. A therapist told me that the best thing I can be for them is a "calm in the storm," a place where there is room to breathe.

I'm workin' on it! What a day, you guys. I'm overwhelmed with emotion...

Williamsburg, VA & D.C. trip...

Just a few pics from our trip. We're visiting Williamsburg, and D.C., and we stopped at the aquarium, too. Lots of fun stuff for the kids to do, and interesting stories for the grown-ups.