The Secret Garden

One of my favorite books as a young girl was "The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett. I finally purchased the video for Megan's birthday and we are watching it this afternoon. A beautiful way to end the weekend. As it says on the video box, "magic and hope bloom."

The second movie is "A Little Princess" which is another story by Burnett. I don't remember reading the book, but sure enjoyed watching the VHS movie with Sarah when she was younger. That movie moved us both (still does) of make believe, having zest for life and loving a parent above all else.

Make believe helps one forget their troubles...wish mine could go away that easily!

Master's Degree Paid in Full

Well today my student loan payment came out of my checking account for the final time. I thought my final payment would be over $500 this month, but it ended up being only $224--bonus! I've been making those payments for more than 10 years now...sure feels good!

Not that I'll see any of the money....it will go towards my daughter's rent at college. Always a payment there....for the next few years anyway.

Still feels good though!

Easter Blessings

We were naughty and did not fight the crowds at mass this morning. Instead, we slept in a bit, read the paper and enjoyed a leisurely breakfast of bagels and bacon. Since it wasn't too cold outside,we decided to go for a bike ride.

Since Megan and I have not been for a ride yet this year, we opted for a short ride. Starting at the trail head of the Glacial Drumlin trail, we road out to Sunset Park, which is about 3.66 miles one way.

Sarah joined us too and was surprised how far 3.6 miles is in reality. She wants to run in a 5K in a month...a big step for someone who has never ran other than a bit on the tread mill. Not that I'm one to judge...I need to get my butt moving daily.

Today was a great way to welcome Spring...thank you sunshine! Happy Easter!

Sleepovers and Hangovers

My oldest is home from college for spring break. Her two BFFs came and spent the night and it is so heartwarming to hear the giggling that only young girls can do. I am so grateful she has such good friends who are good kids, come from good families and have good values. The timing on last night's adventure wasn't the best. Hubby had to go into work for an overnight change to the company's infrastructure and since all did not go well, he didn't get home until after 8 a.m. Which means as I sit here and work outside the sleeping area in my office off of the bedroom, I worry that a phone call will happen any moment and will wake him up. If the girls were not downstairs, I could set up shop down there. I feel I can focus better with snoring background noises than giggling. :-) Last night's adventures had more casualties than my hubby. My daughter ate too much junk food and got violently ill this a.m. Think Melissa McCarthy (aka Megan in the movie Bridesmaids)where stuff is coming out both ends.... Guess eating a rich Italian Meatloaf, loaded mashed potatoes, cupcakes, chips and dip, ramen noodle salad and cookies, it gets a bit much for the tummy (which is used to basic college fare) can handle. At least she is old enough to successfully make it to the basement bathroom without throwing up all over. (and if she did throw up all over, she would have had to clean up!) Another sunny day in Waukesha!