Running Red Momma

We have been doing a much bigger remodel than even I thought. Our basement basically sits on steel poles as we re-do the foundation. I have really enjoyed the dirt pile/ramp for the whole summer. We even killed a rat. The kids have enjoyed king of the mountain. Not only did we want to dig the back, I really wanted to tear the front lawn out, shut down the street, sidewalk and dig out the sewer. I wouldn't call it project creep. It is more like project run-away. Old houses have to LOVE them. One morning I knew it was running away from me when we had at least four trucks in the FRONT of our house. Helpful to remember that ,originally, we were just doing the back. We went backpacking just to say we could. The kids "hiked" in a mile. But, they did carry their belongings. It was amazing how heavy packs were even for just an overnight hike. It was beautiful and full of mosquitoes. You could drink them while walking! My little girl did not connec...

I love my husband....so, I accompanied him to his twenty year high school reunion. We attended the picnic and fancy hotel dinner. I smiled, I looked people in the eye and repeated their name, I said nice to meet you and I tried to "work the room". But, really who wants to work the room with someone you don't know? I tried to be mellow and have low expectations. The food was yummy and conversation was doable. Near the end some guy got up and started introducing everyone at the tables. Uhhh, the whole room. I went to the bathroom. When I returned, the intros were done. We had moved to some quick speeches. Thereafter, it was to be a night of crazy dancing and talking. As all people know there are married people rules. When I touch your arm, SAVE ME for Pete's sake. Rescue me from funky strangers or boredom. This can be tricky. I had invented a variety of conversation points, but my energy was ebbing. I had run through all of my instant "I don't kno...