I've been up since roughly 3 AM (don't ask), and since I was home today, I decided it was time for some much-needed reorganization of my files/email/software. I've been letting e mail pile up to ridiculous proportions (between work, life, Babble and other pursuits, something definitely had to give.) So when I finally got around to really looking at my e mail, it was huge. I've read, sorted, deleted and replied to more e mail today than I have since early June. Now it's back to manageable size again, and should be easier to maintain. The problem has to do with information overload, I think. I subscribe to several newsletters having to do with blogging, software/freeware reviews, computer tips and the like...things that look interesting, when I have time to really look into them...and I decided I either needed to clear up the backlog or (horrors!) unsubscribe to some of them.

I came across some good freeware in the process, plus a couple of blogging hacks I do want to implement. See the right sidebar for links to the freeware.

In the process of cleaning house, Jay and I collected a number of new, unread paperbacks and hardback books that are now in a neat stack on a shelf that I can reach quickly. I'm working on finishing one book before I begin another. (Time management 101: never have *too* many projects going at a time, unless you are in college, then all bets are off).

Jay and I are thinking about and discussing a possible weekend trip we may take in late September/early October to celebrate a major personal milestone of his. We are thinking about taking Dylan with us to visit The San Antonio Zoo and the Alamo.
The girls will be boarded at the vet's for the weekend of the trip; it isn't fair to take them with us.

Last weekend, we went shopping. I bought myself a new toy that should make holiday cooking and baking a breeze.

My office has relocated as of ten days ago. The new space is much larger, lighter, brighter, and quieter than our former office ever was or could be. Evwn the lighting is better. The new phone system is cutting edge, which is also a huge help, and more new staff will be hired. It took all summer for contractors to renovate and prepare the new space, and about a month to six weeks to get ready for the actual move. It was totally worth it.

Lauren has her first visit with her obstetrician this week; she has promised me she will provide an update as soon as she knows anything.

Currently reading: Seizure, by Robin Cook; I also bought The Husband, by Dean Koontz. What fun! I have several other good books waiting when I'm finished with these.

I gave all of my crocheting supplies to Lauren, so she can work on things for the baby. Despite my best efforts, my hands just would not cooperate with the program, and I couldn't hold the yarn correctly to do any good. I ended up with significant pain from my wrist to elbow, and it just isn't worth an injury. So I will be content with baking.

I did start a new hobby, however: Container gardening. Currently, I have aloe vera, an ivy, bell pepper, tomatoe plants, and an avocado, and they are all thriving. I did not think anything would grow because I've never had much luck before, so it's a nice surprise. I'm planning to create my own herb garden in the spring, since it's so late in the year now.