And this is life....

My tip for the day

2011-03-08T14:45:00.003-05:00

I was cleaned out my pantry today. And by pantry and I mean the big cabinet that my parents bought us when we lived in our last rental house. :) I found two half bags of marshmallows, two bags of almost empty chocolate chips and half a box of Multi Grain Cheerios. I was trying to figure out what I could do with this stuff....

-The smallows may get ate at some point.
-The choco chips can be used in cookies.
-The Cheerios? Well the box had dust on the top if that tells ya anything.

So I decided to make a trail mix of sorts for the monkeys. They LOVE and go nuts when I do this. (which isn't very often) I combined some cheerios, smallows and a few choco chips and viola! A perfect snack for lunches or after school! I have done this before, but used m&m's, nuts and dried fruit (more like a real mix).

Now there is around 25 bags just sitting in the cabinet waiting to be ate. No more fussing when someone asks "what can I have for a snack??" :) :) :)

********************************************************************************

I was semi cleaning out the freezer's this weekend and you would not believe how many half full containers of ice cream there were! I think it was up to 9. *ducks and runs* Ok so most weren't HALF full, more like almost empty. You know what I am talking about! The container gets so low, that you just put it back in the freezer so that the grocery shopper AKA Mom will notice and buy you more. Or that you put it back in hopes that it will automatically fill up after you shut the door. You know.... lol

One container was never opened. The expiration date was 6/09. LMAO I know when I bought it....Marsh's was going out of business and they had like 90% off everything remaining in the store. I got that container of Edy's ice cream for like $.25 I kid you not. Figured we would eat it someday. Well we never did, and it got shoved to the back of the freezer. Story of my life!!!

*****************************************************************************

And my hives are still around. It blows. The doc said they might go away, then resurface. Then go away. I am hoping they GO.AWAY.VERY.SOON. I hate them. It's like the Zrytec is not even working. I itch all the time, and the blotches just keep jumping. Yesterday I had a fat upper lip. It looked like I had a collagen injection. Today it's gone. This sucks suck sucks!!! We were thinking of taking the kids to the Great Wolf Lodge on Spring Break (in 4ish weeks) and I DO NOT want to wear a bathing suit with red blotches everywhere. People will think I am a leper! I keep praying that they will go away for good.

I am completely tired too, which after googleing, apparently comes with hives. Speaking of google, omg I don't want to do that for hives again! The pictures were ok, the talk of hives and how they form and such was fine...it was the fact that some people get them and have them consistently for months...if not YEARS!!!!!!!!!! Freaking out people, fuh-reak-ing OUT!

Talk me down, talk me down please.

?????

2011-03-06T15:54:00.002-05:00

I couldn't come up with anything good for a title so there ya go!

As I said, I have been subbing at the kids' school on and off. I like it to an extent. The pay is horrible, but the hours are good and I get to eat lunch with 2 of my monkeys so I guess that makes up for it!?? And our babysitter is really cheap, so sending Tyler there is not really an issue either.

Would I take a job there if they offered me full time? Maybe. Like I said, the pay is crap, but the hours are cool. Plus the insurance from the school district is waaay better than we have now, and cheaper. So I would be making less money, but we would be getting more each week from Denny's check. Our insurance through him is astronomical.

I honestly don't know why I am even thinking of them hiring me. Pipe dream I guess.

So this weekend has been not so fun. Tyler was home "sick" Friday, due to having a fever at 8:45am on Thursday, that resulted in him getting sent home from school. Although he was perfectly fine, and could have went to school, rules say he had to stay home. I digress. Anyway, I had promised him a full bath. He normally gets a shower type bath. So this was a BIG deal to him. The tub was ahem a bit dirty. So I got out the cleaner and cleaned. And cleaned. And cleaned. Did I mention I cleaned? The boy was thrilled and had a blast having his full bath. I began itching a bit afterwards, but didn't think to much of it.

Fast forward till the evening, around 6:30ish. I realized at that point, I had really been itching. Everywhere. I go into the bathroom and look at my face and I couldn't believe what I saw. Along side my eyes were these huge red welts. Down the left side, all the way to my chin were more. I freaked a bit. Then realized that they were hives. I haven't had hives for over 10years! I checked the rest of myself, and saw more around my lower back, and a couple around my legs. I found some children's benedryl, and took it, since that is all we had. I figured I was allergic to the cleaner used to clean the tub. I quickly hopped in the shower, to try and remove any of the cleaner from my body.

I took more benedryl before bed. I woke up Saturday and seriously could not open my left eye. I had to pry it open with my fingers. I went into the bathroom and about passed out. My eyes were so swollen and my face had red blotches all over it. I checked myself over and found hives everywhere....head to toe. I freaked out even more. I knew I had to make a drs appt and get something stronger than benedryl.

To make this long story a bit shorter, I got into the doctors. I left with a script for prednisone (the evil wonder drug). He also told me to get Zyrtec, as it's a better antihistamine than bendryl. I felt like crap, so I ended up missing the girls' basketball games and sat in my chair trying hard not to itch.

By last night around 7, I was back to normal. No more hives! Yay! Until today, lol. I woke up fine. After about and hour, I began to itch. The Zyrtec is only good for 24hrs and I think it was just wearing off. It's 4:30 now and my hives are gone again. I took the pill at 11:45. I just hope the hives decide to disappear for good. The doc said stress does not help. And let's just say the stress level has been on high today. Joyous.

Other than that, the good news is that I bought a dishwasher last week! Denny installed it Thursday, and we ran it and it leaked. He checked it today, and found out it was not level. A quick fix and we were back in business. I will NOT miss doing the dishes. Not one bit.

Later taters!

Snow day

2011-02-22T10:25:00.002-05:00

*This post was originally started on 2/22/11. It's 3/6/11 now, but I figured I might as well post it*

Today is a snow day for the kiddos. We got around 4" yesterday, then it looks to be another 1 or so overnight. We had freezing rain and sleet in the morning yesterday. So both of those together made for one messy day. The kids even got out one hour early.

I know I haven't posted for a bit, I have been busy..........WORKING!!!!!!! Yes that's right folks, working! Ok, it was temporary, but hey it paid! Last Wednesday, I had just gotten up when the school called. It was Mrs. Henry asking me if I could come in and be a substitute! I was like, omg, are you serious? I checked with Denny to make sure he could come get Tyler off the bus, and began getting ready for my day as Mrs. Sheets.

I worked until 2:30 as a Gen Ed Para Professional. It was somewhat challenging, but good. Definitely reaffirmed my decision to NOT be a teacher. :) While I was there, I was asked if I could sub on Friday for Mrs. Lahr. I was like sure!

Wednesday night, I received a call from Mrs. Carroll. She asked if I could sub for her Thursday afternoon. Once again, I said sure! So I ended up working all day Wednesday, Thursday afternoon and all day Friday.

Oh my goodness

2011-02-10T23:30:00.003-05:00

I logged on here and it reminded me to check the spam part on my comments. That I may have comments that Blogger thought was spam. So I go check. (btw all comments have to be moderated before posted)

I went to that page and saw 69 comments. I was like HUH??? I just started blogging again a couple of days ago, how the heck could there be that many already? I am not that popular.....or am I? (LOL)

The comments I was seeing was the comments people had made previously. Crazy part? I HAVE NEVER READ ANY OF THEM!!!!

omg

Where the heck had I been? For awhile there I was blogging consistently. Why I never saw the comments, I have no idea! I did see one that was some spam ad, so that's when I switched moderated comments.

I think I am just losing it.

It was certainly fun to read all those though.

Ok, it's late and I have to get up early.

Later taters.

Do you ever have one of those moments

2011-02-09T19:37:00.002-05:00

where you are doing something, and your mind begins thinking of something totally random? My crazy brain does it constantly.

For instance, tonight I was putting socks in the washer. Which I hate doing by the way. Laundry itself, no. Socks, yes! I hate touching them to turn them right side out. Skeeves me out just thinking about it. Ugh. If we could afford it, I would just continually buy new socks. Then I would never have to wash any!

Anyway, I was putting them in, thinking of how disgusting they were, when I started thinking of Tyler's birthday party. I had made a cheeseball the night before. (Tip--always make it the day before you need it. Makes them taste soooo good. I have a darn good recipe too..I will have to share it some day) Everyone was getting their food and Denny's Grandma gets some of the cheeseball and proceeds to yell out "OMG Do you really think I want hair in my food?" in front of everyone. Thank God, it was just our close family here. I was so embarrassed! And I rarely get embarrased. She walked up to me holding a scoop of cheeseball, with a long hair hanging out, with more cheeseball hanging from that. In reality, it was quite classic and hilarious. I was mortified. I quickly apologized to everyone, grabbed it out of her hands and disposed of it. I then proceeded to check the rest of the cheeseball over to make sure I didn't see any more hairs. Oh good Lord, I couldn't believe that just happened.

Makes you think about the cleanliness of others, ya know?

I just find it odd how I was putting socks in the washer and I started thinking of the hair that Denny's Grandma found in the cheeseball.

The way my mind works sometimes is insane.

On another note, one of my friends could certainly use prayers right now. She and her husband are on an adoption list, and yet another birth mother passed on them. I think this is really beginning to get to her. She is one of the most wonderful people I have ever known. Her and her DH will be fantastic parents. So an extra prayer for her would totally be appreciated.

Later taters.

Wow

2011-02-08T11:56:00.003-05:00

I haven't posted anything here since April 2009. That was dang near two years ago! Geesh! I almost forgot this existed.

Here's to keeping the blog up to date!

What has been happening since 04/09???

Weeeeellllllll.........................

Tyler turned 5 in January and is now in preschool. He goes to the preK at the school he will attend in the fall. The one the girls go to. He goes everyday, for 2 1/2hrs. It's wonderful and FREE! Yes, you heard me right, FREE!!! Why we didn't send the girls there, is beyond me. Ok, it's not really. We had no clue Lincoln had a preschool, lol! Had we known, we would of definitely saved some dough. He is doing excellent there. They say he is a joy to have in class. Sure wish he would be a joy at home.

Olivia turned 8 in December and is in second grade. She has changed quite a bit. We haven't had the evil Olivia in quite some time. Probably since around the time I last posted here. She has tons of friends and is currently deciding what boy should be her boyfriend. She is back in dance, and is doing basketball with Upwards. When it comes to basketball, she does fabulous! We just need to teach her to not ball hog all the time.

Madison is now 10 (omg I can't believe it) and in 4th grade. She is actually in a 4th/5th grade classroom. It's great for her because it challenges her more. Her grades definitely slipped compared to previous years, but she worked hard and got them back up to all A's. She is quite the social butterfly. Every weekend, she is either at her friends house, or they are here. She is taking dance again, and is also in Upwards basketball, Choir and the Math Bowl Team. Definitely makes me run around a lot!

Denny is still the same. He is still working at the same place. He doesn't work quite as much, but does. KWIM? He still does all the towing around here. And with all the snow we have had, it's kept him rather busy.

Me? Well I am a stay at home Mom again. As of August. My glorious job decided to lay me off, "due to the economy". More on the whole Manpower debacle another day. So I have been enjoying being at home, doing the whole unemployment thing. It's been nice, really nice. I get 2.5 kid free hours a day. If this continues until the next school year, I will get 7 kid free hours a day! WOOHOO! I really hope it doesn't, as I miss working. And the money, lol. Having all this free time has allowed me to get things done that would not have, or would of taken a bit more time. For instance, Tyler's room. We completely re-did the kitchen upstairs and made it into his bedroom. His old bedroom is my new office. My old office is the kids homework room/office. It was something we had been wanting to do for awhile, but just never did. Now it's done!

So there have been some crazy changes around here, but for the most part, things are good. One would think that me being home would mean our house was constantly in the "people can drop by" stage. WRONG!! LOL I will admit I have become more Monica Gellar since being off work. I am not at 100%. I would say around 80% Monica. I normally do the dishes every day, keep everything picked up, make sure the laundry is done, etc etc etc. But not the last few days. My laundry room looks like the tables at Goodwill....clothes everywhere! The dishes are not a Defcon 4.....yet. The kids were off school last week for 3 days due to snow. That just totally messed up everything. It threw my schedule completely off. And yesterday was my birthday so I did absolutely nothing, lol. So today I am playing catch up.

Ok, well that's enough for now. I am really going to keep this blog up, I swear. Promise.

Later taters.

It's so beautiful

2009-04-24T12:57:00.003-04:00

Outside! The sun is shining brightly! And I am stuck inside.

As usual, things are nuts around the household.

Tyler is as ornery as ever. He is going through this extreme whiney phase. If something doesn't go his way, or he gets the wrong color of cup, it's like his life is over. He has learned this wondeful trait from his lovely sisters. I am sick and tired of hearing it and normally just ignore it. No really, I take him and look him in the eyes and ask him to explain why he is upset. Then try to help. He got mad at another kid at the sitters, and ripped the kids glasses off. The mom tells Denny that the glasses will cost $125 to fix. And they were brand new in February. Denny brings them home to see if we can fix them. The one earpiece is broke off the frame. It's not fixable. The lady still swears we have to pay $125. Denny took them to the kids eye doctor and walks out after paying $12 for a new ear piece! He said she was the type to take someone for every penny.

Olivia is enjoying every day of kindergarten. She loves Mrs. Fahl and has tons of friends. I cannot believe how far she has come! She is reading completely on her own now! It's amazing. She is still having her meltdowns. But now that it is warming up, and she is able to go outside, things have been more tolerable. Maybe she has the seasonal depression. We still need to contact the counselor her pedi recommended. I think she still has some issues that need worked out. But for the most part, things do seem to be getting better.

Madison It's hard to believe that she is 8 1/2! She is just amazing. She still loves to cuddle with me and sit on my lap, yet is so independent. She is loving school and her teacher Mrs. Mast. She is one of the top students and just keeps on excelling. I am shocked at the things she knows, lol! She is playing soccer this summer, instead of softball. I think soccer has always been her best sport, but we felt it was her decision. So last year she chose softball. And I think she really missed soccer.

Denny hasn't been working near the hours he used to. And THAT is wondeful. Of course, I don't get to see him as much, but we seem to get along better than ever. He is now responsible for getting the kids up, getting them ready for school/sitters, taking Tyler to the sitters and on some days picking Tyler up. He seems to see them more than me now!

I have been really swamped with work. The Vera Bradley sale starts next week and I have been super busy finding workers for it. I get to work it again! YAY! Actually I am volunteering, lol. But hey if that gets me the discount and being able to shop Sunday before it opens, I AM THERE!

Well it's Tuesday

2009-03-31T08:17:00.002-04:00

The weeks sure fly by now. Now that I am a working woman again. I really don't think they went this fast when I was working 6 years ago. I know for a FACT they didn't. Somehow time has sped up.

We have all seemed to settle down into a routine now. I think everyone has adjusted to me going back to work. Tyler has had a few bad days. But nothing to major. Denny says he cries sometimes when he drops him off. But when I pick him up, Pat says he did that for like 2 mins and then happily went and played.

When I come home at night, and I see him, I feel so guilty. I get that "oh I should be home with him, I missed so much!" feeling. Then he throws a tantrum and the guilt goes out the window.

Ok seriously, I do miss him. And I do feel slighty guilty. But he is 3. It's not like he is 3 months and I am leaving him. Madison was 6 mons when I went back to work. She turned out just fine. Well maybe.

I think it's just a Mother thing. We feel that we need to be home, yet we need to be at our job. I took off last Wednesday to go with Madison on her field trip. All I could think about was how Jennie was in the office all by herself! I felt horribly guilty for taking a day off. But I think that is partly because this job is so new, I hate to ask for time off. Ok scratch that. It's not because the job is new. I used to feel that way at the dialysis center. And I worked there for 4 years!

Enough rambling. It's Tuesday and we (actually Jennie) has 10 testers coming in here, in about 30 mins. I need to get ready.

Until next time America. :)

So Tyler says

2009-03-16T22:52:00.002-04:00

"Momma, those sparkles are pretty! What do they eat?" as he looks out the window, up at the stars.

I love that boy.

Is it sad

2009-03-13T10:15:00.002-04:00

that I am bored?

I don't have much to say. But I am bored out of my gourd. Really.

For some strange reason I am having a hard time coming up with something to say. Yes, to those who know me, that is a crazy thing. Me, speechless? :)

I guess I am glad it's Friday. I love my job, but it will be nice to (hopefully) sleep in tomorrow and Sunday.

Long time

2009-03-11T11:33:00.002-04:00

No see! Yes I know it's been forever since I have updated this thing. But I am a working woman again! I have no extra time anymore. Jennie keeps me really busy, lol.

Work has been good. Busy, very busy but I love it. I think this is exactly what I needed. I miss seeing Tyler as much, but we try to make up for it on weekends.

The kids have been doing okay. A wee bit more frustrating, but it's a change for all of us.

They got their Wii last weekend. omg it's so much fun! We only have 2 games, the one that cam with it and Wii Play. I did put Mario Kart and Wii Fit in layaway. A guy from Denny's work let us borrow Mario Kart. I.LOVE.MARIO.KART! We have it for our 64, and for Maddie's DS. So I cannot wait to get it out of layaway! Can you believe that our kids actually SAVED their money for this? Really, they did! We only put about $5o in it.

Working has certainly had it's ups and downs. But it's ok, because I got one of my old best friends back! Jennie and I have been friends since 1994. We live 45mins apart, and would only get to see each other occasionally. Maybe at scrapbooking, or someone's birthday. Now we see each other every day. It's wonderful and I love having her "back" in my life. Plus she makes work fun!

Bad thing is I have slightly "lost" a best friend. She is still one of my best friends, but we don't get to talk like we used too. Michele and I would chat daily about this and that. Well with me working, we don't get to chat. She does call me a couple times a week, on her way to work. We still see each other at scrapbooking once a month. But it's not enough. I miss our daily, long talks. LOL It's so funny...we would talk almost every day, and for at least an hour each time! I guess it's good we can still text, lol.

I HATE NOT LIVING CLOSER TO MY FRIENDS! I love you all!

I changed my background

2009-01-04T22:35:00.002-05:00

To VW bugs...lol

I really want a yellow bug, with flower cutouts on my tail lights. So every time my kids see a bug, they yell "MOOOOOM! It's your car! Only it's (insert color here)!!!!! It's really cute and they love doing it.

I start my first full time week tomorrow. I am so ready. The money is going to be soooo nice. I am a bit worried about the time away from the kids. I have to be at work at 8, so that means I need to leave at 7:30 if not sooner. The kids normally get up at 7:30. So I have been getting them up 15mins early, just to see them. Mondays and Tuesdays, I get off at 3, so I will see them more. But Wed-Fri I won't get off till 5, not getting home till 5:30, doesn't leave much time for us time. I hate to not keep the job, because I really need it for my sanity. lol But if it takes too much time away from my kids (as much as I want away from them) it's not worth it. I don't want to be the parent they only see a hour or so a night.

I know I am thinking way to much into this. I suppose it's just working again jitters.

Our Christmas was good. The kids were totally shocked that Santa left gifts. There had been 7,925 calls to Santa to let him know the kids had been bad. Heck even on Christmas Eve, we gave him a call. The loved opening the gifts and seeing it all. The expressions were priceless. Mom and Dad even had gifts from Santa! He even filled our stockings (that NEVER happens).

The kids had stayed with Mom and Dad Sunday till Tuesday, because I had to work. She let them go through her gift stash and each pick out something for us. They even wrapped everything! Denny got a Jeff Gordon bear from Tyler, a Jeff Gordon sweatshirt from Olivia and a Jeff Gordon mug from Madison.
I got a neat Christmas towel from Tyler, scrapbook paper from Maddy and a wonderful smelling candle from Olivia.

It was the best.

We went to Mom and Dad's later that day. The kids had fun opening lots more gifts. Jon and Becky were there too. Unfortunately, Michael was with his Mom. We probably won't get to see him until March.

Friday night we got together with Linda, Mike, Christa, Tim, Devon, Jeanne, Gary, GG, Emily, Issac, Noah, Billy, Kylie, Chase, Zach and Blake. It was oh so much fun (note the sarcasm). All the kids, except ours and Devon, were awful. We didn't leave quick enough. We went to Christa's afterwards and exchanged gifts. The kids were even more excited that they got MORE gifts!

Saturday, we got together with all of Linda's brothers and sisters, and all their kids...etc. It's always a huge gathering and I like to go. Denny's family is great, and I love seeing everyone.

Our New Year celebration consisted of Tyler going to bed at 10:30, Olivia falling asleep on the chair around 11, me taking her to bed, Madison staying up till midnight, me falling alseep around 11:45, Olivia coming downstairs at 11:50, me waking up at 11:59, seeing the ball drop, kissing Denny and the girls and to bed I went. Oh what fun. lol

We didn't go anywhere because Denny was working on my truck. We bought it knowing some gasket needed replaced. We decided to save a few bucks and have Denny change it. He has done them before, no problem. After he got it all back together, it began to make a ticking noise. He took it to Corey's (our mechanic that fixes the things Denny can't or won't or what he broke) on Friday and we got the bad news.

Denny put the long rod in the short rod's hole. Therefore causing the valve to break. So currently my truck is sitting in Corey's garage, torn apart. They said we may get it back the earliest Tuesday, latest Wednesday. The $500 we were saving by having Denny doing it, we now have to spend. Story of my life.

So I am driving Mom's van again...which I am eternally grateful for.

We had our last Christmas gathering on Saturday. This was with Linda and Mike (yes for the third time) and all Mike's kids. It was nice seeing Trish & Shane, Amy, Miranda, Art & Mackenzie, Perry & Dee. Mackenzie is so big...she is almost 7 mons old and so cute. Miranda is such a laid back first time Mom. I love it! I have never seen someone so relaxed with their first baby. We would of stayed longer, but Tyler didn't get a nap and was being awful.

I GOT A NEW PHONE! Yuppers I sure did. I got a Blackberry. A PINK blackberry. It's so wonderful. I can surf the web anywhere! I feel so special, lol. It's pretty cool!

So that's the update for now. My goal is to update AT LEAST once a week...lol. We will see if that happens.

I just realized

2008-12-16T15:12:00.002-05:00

I HAVE 2 FOLLOWERS! O M G

I feel so special! Thank you, you 2 followers. I appreciate it!

I will admit, I don't "follow" anyones blog. I read A LOT, but don't subscribe and follow them. You should see my blog favorites list. Waaaaaay too long. I have found a bunch more to add to my sidebar as well. Just need to update it.

Work is good. Very very busy, but good. I will officially go full time Jan 5th. We can really use the money, and then I will be eligible for health insurance. We have it now, but through my new job it will only be like $60/week. We pay over $600/month now. Which is down from the $1000+ we paid last year! Working for a small company like Denny does, really has some disadvantages.

So not only will I be bringing in a steady paycheck, we will also have the extra money from not taking the ins. at his work! What will we do?

FINALLY GET CAUGHT UP ON BILLS that is for sure.

Did I mention we got a new vehicle? A 2002 Buick Rendezvous. It's blue and so pretty. I LOVE driving it. Not a lot of room in it. I am used to my mini van, where we had TONS of room. But the price was right, so we can't complain.

I am going to get my hair done tonight. Color and cut. It needs some highlights. We did chocolate, blond and red last time. The red faded out too quickly. So I think we are going to go back to just blond and chocolate. I love Tonya. She is the best. That's the gal who cuts my hair btw. She is fabulous. I can trust her to make me look gorgeous. ;)

wow

2008-12-14T21:12:00.002-05:00

Here it is Sunday again...and I have to work tomorrow! Do you know how LONG it's been since I have said that? 6 flipping years. 6 years.

6 years ago, in November, I left my good job at Tri Counties Dialysis Center to become a SAHM. I don't regret leaving. Well ok, in some ways I do. I had no idea what being a SAHM was. I thought it would be so easy!

Boy was I ever WRONG! It was THE HARDEST thing I have ever done, no doubt. When you have kids, there is no manual. There is no way to figure out if what you are doing is right or wrong. People who don't stay home, have no idea what it's like. I have had the opportunity to work and stay home, and I will say for certain that staying home is much much harder.

My first day at Manpower was last Thursday. It went great! All I did was staple some papers together, and input applications into the computer. Like a million. But you know what? The time flew! Before I knew it, it was 12:30. Then, in what seemed like minutes, it was 2:30. My computer locked up and I couldn't do any more.

I have to work tomorrow. As for the rest of the week, I don't know. My guess is possibly Wednesday and Thursday. Next week I know I only have to work Monday, and then the following Monday as well. After that, I am also unsure. They are really wanting to get the office open 5 days a week in January. Once I get trained, I will open it up to that.

I am nervous. Nervous that I will totally screw something up. Nervous because it will be my office! EEKS!

Tyler did great at the sitter's. He cried a bit when Denny dropped him off, but Pat said he calmed down shortly. She baked cookies with them and fed him popcorn as a snack. He said he had fun. We will see what he says tomorrow.

I took the kids' picture Friday night. Had them all gussied up in Christmas garb. I think I took over 40 pics just trying to get 1 good one. I think I actually ended up with 2 good ones. I am downloading them right now, and will put up a few. Tyler wouldn't cooperate at first, then Madison wouldn't smile. Then Olivia threw a fit.

A typical photo shoot with my kids.

Holy job hunting Batman!

2008-12-03T14:21:00.003-05:00

It sure pays to have connections!
I have an interview on Friday, for the Manpower job. Jennie called me last night and asked how soon I was ready to start. Jokingly, I said how about Monday. She firmly said yes.

ARE
YOU
SERIOUS?
????????

Monday? As in less than a week from now?
Omg
I don't think I am ready for this!

They want me in there asap. It freaks me out. Really.

I had called daycares and babysitters a few weeks back, but didn't really set anything in stone. So this morning, I made more calls. One is a licensed daycare and is $88/week. We paid $80/week or $20/day when Maddy went. And that was over 7 years ago. I was thankful prices haven't gone up to much.

The lady who sits out of her home charges $1.50/hr. WAAAAY cheaper.

The other daycare, licensed, is $90/week. She will do daily rates of $20/day.

I don't know what to do, or who to pick. I am going to see all 3 tomorrow in hopes to get a good "feel" on them. All 3 came with great recommendations.

I am just freaked out.

I promise

2008-11-25T23:51:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow I will post Madison's after pic with her braces. It's 11:51 and I need to go to bed.

I am test driving a new van today. Well new to me.

It's another Windstar. A beautiful pearly green color. 2 years newer than ours. WITH DUAL SLIDERS! The one and only thing I request in another vehicle.

They let us keep it overnight, and it goes back tomorrow. On Monday we get to take home a Olds Silhouette.

Both are in our price range.

I was really hoping for a Envoy/Trailblazer, but the price is right on these two. We are going to another dealership tomorrow. *crossing fingers* they have what I want!

But I will take one of these vans. Beggars can't be choosey! lol

Monday Monday...

2008-11-24T15:39:00.003-05:00

And it is flipping COLD out! I hate it.

Maddy got braces today! I cannot believe it. Here is her before shot: (I forgot to take a pic at home, so this is with my phone)

She was so brave! I am so proud of her. She wanted me to come back at first. But once I was there, she told me I could go sit with Grandma. I will post her after pic when she gets home from the Boys & Girls Club.

She goes back in January to have everything finished up. She looks adorable in them.

Now I have to dig up a pic of me in mine. omg I looked awful...for real. So awful you readers will probably stop reading, lol!

I am in love with a man who is not my husband

2008-11-21T10:26:00.003-05:00

His name is Edward Cullen.

He sparkles.

He drives a silver Volvo.

He has the most amazing eyes.....

LOL YES! Twilight was awesome! I am so glad I went and saw it! 1. because I haven't been to the theater to see a movie (that I actually payed for--took the kids to a free movie this summer) since last Thanksgiving--Mom and Dad took myself and the kids to see Happy Feet! Before that it was House of Wax--Denny and I went on a date. Before that? Legally Blonde 2.

*hanging head in shame*

2. Because it was another chance for me to get out with my girlfriend. Michele and I had fun. I told her we need to do this more often! We were not tired and ready to go do something once the movie was over. Really sucked that it was almost 2:30am!

I will have to say, I was a wee bit let down. I know movies are NEVER as good as books. There did seem to be a bit missing. But if you had never read the book, then the movie makes perfect sense. I know I am probably confuzzling the heck of you, but I know what I am saying.

My beef?
1. Edward didn't sparkle like SM made him sparkle in the book.
2. Kristen Stewart didn't have chemistry with Robert Pattinson. It was like she was acting too hard to like him. On the other hand, you could tell RP had it BAD for KS!
3. It was kinda weird to see how they fell in love so quickly. If you didn't read the book, you would be like how the heck....?
4. Rosalie, Emmet, Alice, Jasper and Esme pretty much got no play. They were barely in the movie. I was like why are they here again?
5. The guy who played James, Cam Gigandet, is hot, no doubt. But he seemed better suited for Carlisle. And vice versa. No matter what, I cannot see Peter Facinelli as no one else but Mike Dexter in "Can't Hardly Wait". He looked creepy as a blonde. I did not know until this morning, that he is married to Jennie Garth! WOW! PF seems like really good bad guy.
6. Jasper---does the dude have to go around looking like he has to poo ALL THE FLIPPING TIME? lol I was like man, chill...here is the bathroom...lol...take a laxative or something, geesh!

I know there is more, but it's really starting to look like nitpicker list, lol.

Final thought: Excellent movie, whether you have read the book or not. Stays true to the book. Go see it, for sure. Two thumbs up!

It's about Twilight time!

2008-11-20T16:25:00.002-05:00

In a few short hours I will be heading to the theater...I simply can't wait! EEEEE! I am so stoked! The sucky part is, the weather. It's been snowing on and off, and when it officially stops the roads are going to be awful. The theater is about 30 mins from here. I will be the person in the right lane, driving 10mph. Please don't honk at me, unless it's to honk to say I am cute, lol.

I am playing it very safe. I have my Mom's van and I would feel awful if something happened. I have driven in worse weather, that is for sure.

Did I ever mention how I LOVE Indiana weather?????????????????????????

(the above statement is a LIE)

As for the situation with the hubbs, it's just there. We are speaking (see I told you!) mainly because we have too. There hasn't been any apologies (from either side) nor any attempts to talk about things.

And guess what????? Jennie called me yesterday asking if I wanted a job!!!! A real leave the house during the day type of job! It would be part time at first, which is what I want. She is talking it over with Nicole, and they are going to call me tomorrow.
I can't believe I might actually start WORKING again. My News America job doesn't "feel" like a real job. I mean, I have no one watching over me, no one to interupt me, no time clock....see what I mean?
I am scared. Really scared. Is this really what I want? Hell yes it is! I think this is exactly what I have been needing. I need to find me. Of course, this isn't what I see myself doing in 20 years, but it sure is a start.
I just hope that I can do a good job and be what they want.
Wonder how this will affect me working at the Vera sale in the spring.....Oh yeah the job is to work at Manpower! Not for them, like in temp work...for them like at their office! This is how Jennie started 9yrs ago and now look at her! Miss Big Wig I Run An Office! LOL!
Really, I appreciate the offer Jennie and cannot wait to start. Thank you so much.

Oh and one question Jen, can I wear jeans to work? ;)

Well it's Monday

2008-11-17T20:26:00.003-05:00

And it sure feels like it!

Still driving Mom's van.
Still have no clue what we are going to do for a vehicle.
Still am crazy busy.

We had a Girl Scout mtg tonight, and Michele's troop came over to help. They are earning a certain badge, and needed to help a younger troop out. 5 of her girls came, and I think they had a good time. Our meetings are rather chaotic, so it's hard to tell.

Did I ever say I am addicted to Facebook? Cuz I am! It's awful the way it sucks you in. My fave thing now is My Farm and Yoville. I love meeting new people through Yoville. I have met some crazy people, that I love to chat with. And then there are the crazy people who I DON'T want to talk too! LOL

TWILIGHT!
TWILIGHT!
TWILIGHT!
TWILIGHT!

Yes I have my ticket for the midnight showing! Michele and I are going. And I cannot wait! Oh Edward Cullen, what you do to me. mmmmm yummy! I am going to come home at 3am and not be able to sleep, I just know it!

Life around here

2008-11-12T15:28:00.002-05:00

Has certainly gone to pot. lol

I have so busy I cannot think straight. My goal of updating this at least 3 times a week, is not going so well.

My previous post stated that bad things happen in 3's. Unfortunately, it's happening AGAIN here.

1. Last Friday, as I was heading to Fort Wayne (I am always heading there when all hell breaks loose!) to meet Michele, I noticed my temp gauge was nearly pegged. I quickly pulled over and called Denny. He was frustrated, as it was Friday and he was really busy. He came to the rescue rather quickly, bringing along water and antifreeze.

He began pouring some in, then looked underneath....and saw all that he had put in...flowing nicely onto the pavement. He told me I wasn't going anywhere, and to start driving home, and hoping I could make it.

I couldn't.

I got about 7 mins from home and the temp gauge started going back up.

Long story short, a freeze plug is bad. If our mechanic fixes it? $1500 If Denny fixes it? Around $100, but it would require 4 FULL days of labor...taking the engine and transmission completely out of the van....not happening.

So I am van-less.

We bought this van in 2004 for $400. Wrecked. Bought another van in 2005 for $500 for parts. Sold the rest of the parts off the 'parts' van and actually MADE $500-600. That is after paying ourselves back the original $900.

It's been to Canada 3 times. Actually been a decent vehicle, despite having no heat or air in the back, sometimes not having heat in the front, passenger window doesn't work, no clue if the airbags worked, non working antilock breaks, no cd player, only 1 sliding door, tires that constantly go flat no matter what type you put on....etc etc etc. LOL

And now it's going to van heaven....it's awaiting the crossover at Pearson's bull pin.

2. SO Chris tells Denny he can drive the Saturn. We head out there Saturday evening. I am driving Denny's beastmobile back home. It's misty outside. Roads are wet. The Beastmobile has no brakes. I slide down Jefferson St like it's icy out.

BAM!

Actually just a nudge and smack.

I hit the lady at the stoplight. Bust up her taillight, and mark up her pretty white car with some scratches. Scare her to death. She says she has never been in an accident.

FTR: This is actually only my 2nd one ever, that I have had while driving. Was in one with Emily many many moons ago... and she was driving.

Long story once again shortened, Denny's truck has hardly any damage, the cop gives me crap about not having proof of insurance (which we do have BTW) and my husband yells at me, in front of the lady and the cop, telling me how much damage I have done to her car and how stupid I am, how he told me to be careful.........Had I thought of it then, I would of put the truck in drive and ran right over his pompous ass. He freakin deserved it.

3. The cop tells me I can leave. I wait for Denny to pull out, then go myself. I get home and he is nowhere to be found. My parents are there, freaking out and wondering if I am ok. He comes home a bit later. Come to find out, the Saturn quit on him! He had to walk about 3 1/2 blocks home. So then he proceeded to moan and whine about that.

I darn near went and filed for divorce on Monday. No joke. I don't deserve to get treated with such disrespect as I did on Saturday. No matter what happened. He never did once ask if I was ok. I am sick and tired of him treating me like dog shit and thinking it's ok. I get mad, we don't speak, then we have to for some reason and wham, he thinks all is well.

Yes I am very angry with him right now.

So that's how my life has been going. My parents were nice enough to loan me their van until we figure out what they hell we are going to do.

Bad things happen in 3's, yes?

2008-10-26T13:52:00.002-04:00

1. Friday, Mom and I headed to Ft Wayne to do some shopping. We had been driving about 10mins, and I noticed a very loud sound, coming from the right front. As we passed the next town, it got louder. I pulled over, thinking it might be a low tire.

I checked every one, and they were fine. As we continued, it got even louder and began vibrating the van. I told Mom I was turning around, heading to Roanoke and pulling over. Denny could come look at it there.

He got there, looked at the tire, then took it for a drive. He came back and said he thought it was the wheel baring. Great. Told me to drive it on home and he would order the part.

I start driving home, all the while the noise is getting SO LOUD. I could only drive 35-40mph. He called me and said to pull over at the shop, so he could jack up the van, just to double check it was the baring.

We get there and he jacks it up. Grabs the wheel and it darn near falls off in his hands! MY LUGNUTS WERE ALL LOOSE! Had we driven much more, the whole thing would of come off. Mom and I were thrilled we had not gotten on the Interstate (a very busy one, at that!) Denny tightened them all back up, and I made him check the other 3 tires too!

PSA for today? Check your lugnuts!

2. We go back to the house quick for a bathroom stop, as we were right down the road. Mom walks into my kitchen and says "Lora, there is water all over the floor!" I was like WHAT? Thinking my fridge quit working, or that I ran the dishwasher that morning and it was bad, I ran in. My ceiling was leaking. Pouring out above my stove! O M G. We replaced the other side of that roof a couple of years ago, (in October of all things) and apparently now this side needs replaced.
Sometimes I love being a home owner!

We put out some bowls and Dad, who was there to work on the bathroom, promised to check on it while we were gone. I called Denny, who was much less than thrilled.

3. Denny comes home from work and tells me he almost quit. In fact, he actually locked up his toolbox and walked out. He had a legitimate reason. I won't be posting the details, as I don't feel comfortable. His boss stopped him though. Things are ok now, but it still scares me. He is the moneymaker here and we can't have him quit.

I could exchange #3 with the fact that I have been sick for a week now. And that the house is an absolute disaster, as no one else knows how to pick up or clean up after themselves.

*******************************************************

On a lighter note, I have a new Oliviaism! Been awhile, right?
Denny was helping her with the homework Thursday night. He was asking her what type of punctuation was needed for the sentence she just wrote.

She sat, thought about it, and said " A pastor's fart!"

Denny and I burst out laughing and looked at her saying WHAT????

She said, "Ya know a pastors fart the little thing that looks like this"...and she proceeded to draw an apostrophe.

If that doesn't make you smile, I don't know what will!

Stay tuned for pics from Veggie Tales Live! Yes, I had the pleasure of taking the kids, along with my Dad, to see that yesterday.

Being sick sucks

2008-10-23T17:37:00.002-04:00

I hate it.
I hate the fact that I just don't get sick, I get S I C K.
A common cold throws me for such a loop.
I have virtually no immune system.
That and the med I am taking, pretty much wipes me out.
My doctor told me to live in a bubble.
Seriously.
Now I see why.
I have been sick since Sunday.
With. A. Cold.
Not anything huge, just a cold.
But a cold to someone like me is like bronchitis to a person with asthma.
Not good.
Why don't I have any immunity?
Crohn's Disease people. I am in remission, but it still seems to reek havoc on the immune system. That, along with the medication I am on, makes it nearly impossible for me to stay healthy. The med is a cancer drug. Pretty potent I might add.
I am off to buy my bubble.
I wonder if I can get a pink one....

Ever feel like a failure?

2008-10-16T20:00:00.003-04:00

I totally have to be the worst person in the world.

I am failing everyone.

From my kids, to my husband, to my friends.

I can't stand knowing I am not doing the right thing. Or at least what I feel is the right thing.

I know parenting didn't come with a manual. But I could really use one right now. I am so tired of my kids' whining and constant fighting. Everything is a competition to them. EVERYTHING. If they can't have the bowl they wanted for cereal, a meltdown ensues. And it's not just one. It's all three! I don't know why they don't listen to me. No, I don't mean listen by 'pick up your socks'. I mean really listen. I will tell them no (for a certain reason) and they will meltdown. I try and explain why I said no, and they can probably eat (wear, use, have, etc) that certain item later. But they don't hear me. All they heard is no. And it frustrates me to no end! UGH!

As for marriage, well who really gives a rats azz? If he is unwilling to make a change, why should I? Should I stay and keep on living the lie? Why should I just be okay with the way he wants to be? WHAT ABOUT ME?? When do I get a say in things? Oh, that's right. The hired help doesn't have a voice.

And to my friends, I am sorry. I know I haven't been the best one lately.

I have royally screwed up one friendship so much, I don't think my friend will ever talk to me again. To this friend, I am so sorry. It was a total miscommunication. I felt attacked. My first think was to defend myself. I am sorry. It should of never went on that way. I care about you very much, and I can't stand the thought of you not speaking to me. I told you that you were going to have to make the next move. I have said my part, now I just have to wait and see what you think. I know our friendship is worth saving. We have been through so much and to let one little mistake get in our way, would be stupid. Please know I am always here for you, NO.MATTER.WHAT! I know you are hurting right now. If time is what you need, then fine. I am willing to wait. You are definately a friend worth waiting for. You are someone special.

I am just a big ol' failure.

Ok so I switched up

2008-10-16T16:13:00.001-04:00

Because I couldn't stand the darkness of it! So now you all are stuck with pumpkins.

Beryl over at House of Paper is starting daily blog prompts for us!

Yesterday's was What are a couple of your simple pleasures?

Right now here are mine:
1. warm fuzzy blankets
2. a McDonald's coke
3. hearing my kids laugh as they play together
4. uninterrupted Mommy time
5. scrapbooking supplies
6. time with the girl friends
7. long talks on the phone
8. pumpkin spice lattes
9. looking at the beautiful fall colors
10. the dvr (lol!)

Playing around with the blog

2008-10-15T23:16:00.004-04:00

And I found a neat Halloween background. I like it. But some of my sidebar items are still coming up black, even though I have the color listed as white. Maybe I just don't know what to do?

Probably.

Oh well.

This background works since it's close to Halloween. Go on over to The Cutest Blog on the Block and get one for yourself!

2008-10-15T15:46:00.001-04:00

(this was typed up on 10/12)

I am finally getting control over my office/scrap room. It's been a disaster since we moved the girls out and me in. Unfortunately for me, this room is quite a bit smaller than my old one. I still can't believe the girls shared this room. No wonder it was always a mess! It's so small!

Part of my problem is that I have a ton of scrapping things. A ton. Did I mention I have a ton of supplies? There is still so much more upstairs, that I am unsure WHERE it will go.

Oh and don't forget I have all my crazy work stuff. I hate storing it all. Makes my room look so messy. I don't know of a better way to keep it. It's organized to the best of my talent. I guess I could get some rubbermaid totes and try those. They would be a lot more prettier than these stupid boxes.

What to do, what to do.

A funny

2008-10-10T11:16:00.002-04:00

Ok, so Denny and I were getting the monkeys supper last night. I decided to make some mozzarella cheese sticks for us, to go with the spaghetti. (strange I know)

I got the pizza sauce out, poured some into a small bowl and was going to move the bowl to a plate, when all hell breaks loose.

I somehow dropped the bowl on the floor. My kitchen looked like it was raining pizza sauce! SERIOUSLY!

Crazy thing was, I dropped the bowl in front of me, and yet the entire wall BEHIND me got splattered! The floor, wall and ceiling had a nice coat of red. I got some on my jeans, butnot near the amount that somehow went flying behind me.

I just laughed and laughed. Denny helped me clean it up.

I didn't even take any pics! If the kids had done something like that, first thing would of been to grab the camera!

Not a whole lot

2008-10-09T15:26:00.002-04:00

Going on at the household today.

The girls had a half day of school, because conferences are tonight. I am really interested to see how Olivia is doing. I know she has improved in her reading since the school year began. But it's nice to see the teachers perspective. I also want to know how she behaves. I haven't heard anything yet, so I am guessing no news is good news.

I know Maddy is doing great, and I can't wait to her Mrs. Mast say it!

I have to vent a bit....I am really sick and tired of a certain someone, we will call A. A is bullying another person (we will call B) into doing something, making them feel bad, etc. Not that B doesn't want to do it, it is just B doesn't have the time or finances. A is all up in B's face telling B that B better do this. Frankly it's annoying and mean. B is such a nice person and the fact that A is being all snarky, makes me want to scream. A does the exact same thing to others (wanting to do something, but not having time), but if you call A out on it, all hell breaks loose. B is really down and is getting fed up. But, B, being the person B is, will go ahead and do said thing. Sometimes I wish I could just smack A.

It's just a sickening situation. Sorry to be cryptic, but sometimes you have to!

It was a really long weekend....

2008-10-07T10:39:00.000-04:00

(this was typed up on Sunday)

Probably the longest of my life. I am so tired. I could literally fall asleep right here.

Friday, we went to Hilger's Farm Market for Liv's field trip. It was great fun and I got some neat pics. Came home and did some work, did laundry and had to pack up the kids for a weekend at Grandma & Grandpa's. After the kids left, I was off to work. Ended up working till midnight. But stayed up till 2am.

Got up Saturday at 6:45, as I was working the VERA BRADLEY FALL OUTLET SALE!!!!!!!!! I have the ins with a good pal, and she hooked me up. Worked the sale 9-2. Shopped the sale from 2-3 with Michele, Christa, Beth, Karen and Stephanie. Came home and crashed. Not for long as I had to work....again. Went off to do more ad change about 5:30. This time I only worked till 8. Got myself some supper and came home. Ended up staying up till 2am AGAIN. (I need to stop doing this!)

Got up today at 7, as I was working the VERA SALE again! Today was a madhouse up there. And it was totally fun! I didn't sit down all day. Literally! I sat on the drive up (8:05-8:45), sat for 15 mins for lunch, then didn't sit again till the drive home. oh my goodness my feet hurt. bad! My tennis shoes SUCK! I would of been better wearing my crocs.

Best parts of the day? First getting some really good deals, as we were allowed to shop before the sale opened to the public.

Second, seeing Carla. I used to work with her at the dialysis center. I haven't seen her in at least 5 years. I was so happy to have just a few minutes to chat with her. She named her daughter Madison...!!! And she is absolutely adorable too.

Third, and probably the best... was seeing Sara. Sara and I met our freshman year in college. We took a math class together. We became instant friends. We had kept in contact on and off, she even came to my wedding. But things got crazy for the both of us, and we lost touch. In 2001, we met up again. Then lost each other again. Haven't seen her since. But seeing her today, I was so excited! She is such a wonderful person and I love having her as a friend. I have missed her terribly and cannot wait to reconnect. I have her email and phone #, and we are NOT losing contact again! I MEAN IT!

Some new blogs and sites I have stumbled upon

2008-09-29T14:40:00.003-04:00

I just have to post these:

FAIL blog This is one of the most hilarious sites I have found in a long time. The night I found it, I stayed up till 3am looking through every page!

Cake Wrecks Just what the title says, cake wrecks! Check it out!

BBC Post Secret Started by a BBC gal. If you love Post Secret, you will love this too. Same thing, only secrets come out more than Sundays!

eBaumsworld This site is similar to FAIL, and has tons of funny's and pictures!

Boners Another funny crazy site

Tales from Labor & Delivery This blog is an absolute crack up! Written by a L&D nurse, it tells all sorts of tales of women and childbirth. It hasn't been updated since April, but I keep checking, just in case.

I also found a really really interesting one, but until I get permission from the owner, I won't post it. But let's just say it's one of the best blogs I have EVER read. I wish they would post hourly, it's that good.

Enjoy!

This is not good

2008-09-28T21:48:00.002-04:00

Soooo not good.

It's pure torture.

I can't let myself go.

No. Must. Stay. Away.

lol

What am I talking about? A coffee house. 2 doors down from my house. A coffee house. COFFEE HOUSE! DID YOU HEAR ME??? Why oh why, does a coffee house need to be near me? It's bad enough that the Party Shop is within walking distance, but now one is only 2 doors down???? And it's open every day 4p-midnight. I have a feeling I will be spending quite a bit of my money there.

Guess it's better that it's a cutesy little college coffee house than a Starbucks.

**********************************************

Yes, that is my other new obsession. The Twilight series. A damn good one too. I cannot wait till the movie is out. It's all Michele's fault. She got me hooked. Like I need another addiction. Thanks best friend, thanks a lot. :)

So I am not

2008-09-19T14:34:00.002-04:00

(This post was saved on 9/9--figured I would post it today, as I have no time to type up anything else)

Updating with pictures.
I really don't feel like messing with that right now.

I went Sunday night to get some milk at CVS. I open my car door and on the ground is the little pamphlet that comes in condom boxes. I get out and shut the door and see on the sidewalk an empty condom box.

Apparently somebody was in a hurry.

Can you imagine? Doing it in a CVS parking lot? At 6pm?

*ducking head* I can, lol.

***************************************
I am soooo tired. I stayed up till around 4 am on Saturday and I am STILL paying for it. Damn late nights.

***************************************
We had a Girl Scout recruitment night last night. It was held after our Fall Product training. I stayed long enough for the training, long enough to sample the products (yummy!) and then got the heck outta dodge. Denny had to work. Missy and I, that is if all who 'want' to be in our troop stay, will have 22 girls.

Yeah, I am a freaking out too.

***************************************
I am completely frazzled about my work. This job is the easiest job since sliced bread. I can work whenever I want, my boss lives almost 2 hours away, and I get PAID to have internet. BUT (you knew that was coming) it royally sucks when I was supposed to have all my materials shipped by Thursday. Today is Tuesday and I got them about 3hours ago. I had these fabulous plans of working Friday and Saturday, and even Sunday if need be (big ad change this time). But alas, I couldn't.
April was kind enough to bring me what was left of her ads, so I could at least attempt to work. Just after I was sorting for 2 hours, UPS shows up. Great. Now I have to resort.

Another craptastic day

2008-09-14T15:46:00.003-04:00

Is upon the household.

I had a fabulous time with the girls last night. My dear friend Jennie was there. I don't get to see her very often, so it was great she came. Her and I have been friends since 1994. We used to be very very close. Life has gotten in our way, and we don't talk or see each other a lot. But when we do get together, we pick up where we left off, and have a ton of fun. She is the type of friend that makes you laugh about something that happened yesterday. And you laugh for several hours about it. I still consider her one of my very best friends. Love ya Jennie! :)

We seriously laughed all last night. It was the best. I even text'd Christa at midnight to see where she was. She immediately came over and stayed till 3am.

Yeah, I didn't get home until 3:45am. Tyler proceeded to wake me at 7:30. THAT was not fun!

About the craptastic part, Denny is being an azz. I know I am not being Mary freakin Poppins either, but still.

*****************************************************

I wanted to post on 9/11 what I remember. And I just couldn't that day. So here is my story.

I remember waking up and hopping in the shower. I didn't turn the tv on, because I didn't want to be distracted. I was getting ready, as Madison and I were heading to Fort Wayne to get her 1st birthday party decorations. (every year since, I shop for her bday supplies on or around 9/11--this year I did it 9/12) I remember loading her up and heading out. My regular radio station was broadcasting news. I flipped through several channels and everything was news. I was getting a little irate at that point.

I finally settled back on my original station. It was then that I heard something about a terrorist attack. I instantly felt guilty for being mad that there was no music on. I listened intently the entire 30 min drive. As I pulled up in front of the store, I just sat and cried. I couldn't even imagine what was going on.

I went ahead and did my shopping and headed home. I immediately turned on the tv and watched. Every.single.station was broadcasting the event. I think I only found 1 that was not. I then stayed glued to the tv well until the next morning. I remember going to bed somewhere around 5am.

I was just in shock. It was such a horrific thing. I remember getting online the next day, going to my normal MSN chat room to see what my friends had to say. That is when I was told, that one of the regulars' Uncle was on the plane that hit the Pentagon.

Once again I cried.

7 years later I still cry. My heart goes out to all those affected by 9/11. We will never forget.

The History channel had some very good documentaries on Thursday. I taped '102 Minutes That Changed the World'. It happens in real time, the time from that day. It has taken 100's of eyewitness accounts and piled them into a documentary that I feel is very powerful. I haven't finished watching it, but what I have seen is amazing. I liked to see the different perspectives. See the people standing in Times Square, watching the events unfold on the jumbotron screens. Calling their loved ones, to tell them they are ok.

If you haven't see it, I highly recommend you do.

9/11/2001

2008-09-11T22:28:00.002-04:00

9/11/2001

We will never forget.

Enough said.

Ok I have been

2008-09-04T23:09:00.005-04:00

Playing around with Scrapblogs. I made two more headers. And I am unsure of which to use. These are more "me". Maybe I will leave up the beach one (cuz I wish I was there NOW) for a few days, then switch out. Readers it's up to you. Tell me which is your favorite!

I spiffed up the blog a bit

2008-09-04T16:22:00.003-04:00

And added a new header. I found Scrapblogs and started playing around with it. I like what I have, but it isn't pink. Since pink is my signature color I kinda hate not having it be pink. At least my signature is! I am going to play around with the scrapblog thing later, once the monkeys are at rest.

I know I promised pictures. THEY ARE COMING! Plus more! Things have just been nuts around here.

Girl Scouts is starting and I am freaking. I am still not ready for it, and I am pushing it off as long as possible. I have a birthday party to prepare for, dance classes, job hunting, PAC meetings and so much more looming over my head, that GS is the farthest from my mind.

Ok I lied. It's not.

I just don't want to deal with it right now! UGH!

Just wanted to update the ol' blog quick. I hope to update it later with pictures! STAY TUNED!

Okay, it's been nearly a week

2008-08-26T15:24:00.003-04:00

And the pictures I talked about aren't posted. SORRY!
I get so caught up in things and WOOSH! Time flies.

That, and I have been sick. Maddy and I both. We must of caught what Olivia had. I woke up around 11:30pm Saturday night so sick to my stomach, I thought I would hurl all over myself, if I moved.

I ended up being in the bathroom darn near all night. Maddy came down several times, to tell me her belly hurt. The next time I hear her go to the bathroom, then open my door, start to say "Mom" and all hell breaks loose. I could barely get out of my room! Add that to the fact that I am extremely nauseaous. It was *horror* to clean up.

Oh yeah, Denny was out of town. Not coming back until sometime on Sunday.

Fun.

Fun.

I called him and he came home around 10. I laid in my bed all.stinking.day.

Damn.

It felt good.

It's 2 days later and I am finally feeling better.

The house looks like crap. Of course! No one but Mom can do anything around here...but I digress.

Crazyness I tell ya!

2008-08-20T22:11:00.002-04:00

First off, I want to give a shout out to Sasha for the idea of the cutesy signature! I have loved hers since I began reading her blog. Now I have one of my own! Mine does look a lot like hers, but hey! She has good taste in color and font! Thanks Sasha!

Saturday evening, I headed over to Michele's for our monthly scrapbooking night. I was very excited for this! This SAHM gig can really be the pits sometimes. It was going to just be Michele and I, but Christa ended up being able to come! I was even more excited! Time for just me and the girls. Except for Jennie. WE MISSED YOU JEN! Anyway, we had fun. I didn't get home until 4am. We laughed. Danced. Ate. Talked. Devulged our deepest secrets. Husband bashed. It was the best night I have had in a loooong time.

I was up bright and early on Sunday around 8:30. We had company coming at 11:30! Linda, Mike, Christa, Tim and Devon were coming over to go to the lake. I have lots of pictures, but I will put them in the next post. (I can't configure out how to post pics where I want them. Crazy blogger!) We had a great time! Denny, Tim, Christa, Olivia, Devon and even me went tubing! It was so much fun! Even just riding around in the boat was great. The kids had fun at the beach. I don't know why we haven't done this before. Here is where we went. 10 mins from our house, and this is like the second time we have gone. For real.

[oh back up a few days] Last Wednesday (Aug 13th) was the girls' first day of school! Madison is now in 2nd grade, and Olivia is now in Kindergarten. Fortunate for Momma's sanity, Livy goes all day every day. It's amazing how much better I feel only having one child to tend to. And when he naps? 2 hours of uninterupted bliss. Oh joy. Oh fun. I love you Lincoln Elementary for having all day every day kindy! GOD BLESS YOU! I will post the first day pics in the next post, along with the day at the lake pics.

Facebook. Yes I joined. I really like it! I now am up to 31 friends! WOOHOO! It's really cool finding people I went to HS with. I like to see what they are doing. Michele and I were discussing this today. We can't believe that most of the people we are finding, aren't married yet. Or they just recently got married. Heck I have been married 10 years. Michele 11! We are both done having kids and those people haven't even begun! Really crazy! Although, most of them have really good jobs, thanks to college. I am a loser who didn't do the college thing. Ok, I did. But I went one year, met Denny at the end of that year, and never went back. It wasn't for me. NOW I want to go.

So dear readers, if you are on Facebook and you want to be my friend, please LET ME KNOW! lol I would love to have more friends. It would be nice to "see" who the readers are.

I leave you with my new siggy, (thanks again Sasha!)

Just one of those days

2008-08-19T10:34:00.003-04:00

****WARNING*****
Throwing up is mentioned several times in this post. Just wanted to let you know!

I should of known.

I should of paid attention to the red flags I saw last night.

If I had, I would of known today would be one of those days.

I was putting the kids to bed, and Olivia announces she is thirsty. (we go through this darn near every night, so the kids get a warning when it's 5 mins till bedtime...this way they can get their drinks, bathroom time, etc in before the actual going to bed part)
I explain that she knew it was bedtime and she wasn't getting a drink.
You would think that I told her that she couldn't ever play outside again. Or that her bike was being sold.

The fit began. Crying. Yelling. More crying. Throwing herself down on the floor.

*side note* Denny let her sleep about 30mins between 5 and 6pm. This is a HUGE NO NO. If it happens, Liv is not tired at bedtime (8:30pm) and throws the fit that is mentioned above. Every. Single. Time.

She finally went to bed, crying. But came down 20 mins later, stating she was still thirsty and her tummy hurt. Knowing she was upstairs crying all this time, I sent her back up. Figuring her tummy hurt from crying so much. 30 mins later, she returns with the same arguement. Once again, I send her back up.

*side note* My kids like to play this game. It happens at least 2x week. Per girl. I get soooo tired of it.

20 mins later, I hear her STILL crying. I go to the stairs and there she sits, sobbing. She tells me she spit up a bit on her blankey. I get her a tissue and tell her to get a new blanket and go back up stairs to sleep. It's very late and she has school in the morning.

Suddenly a lightbulb goes off. She told me earlier that Rebecca (friend at school) had spit up during class. I immediately run upstairs and yup, you guessed it.

She threw up. Not spit up. All over her blanket.
[insert horrible Mommy feeling here]

I bring her back downstairs, give her some water, clean pj's and give her a new blanket. She tells me she feels better and so I tell her to try and get some sleep.

This morning, I go up to get the girls up. Low and behold, there is more puke all over the floor. Everywhere. I darn near puked myself.

*side note* Puke never used to bother me. Nothing did. I used to work in dialysis and would have people puke, sh#t and even squirt blood all over me. And it would never phase me. Even when Ed would puke up his sardines. (remember him Michele?) Then I got pregnant with Tyler, and everything changed. Certain smells make me so nauseaous, so bad I could swear I was pregnant, when I knew I wasn't. Must be something about having all that testosterone hanging out in your body for 9 mons that screws ya up. Ever since him, I haven't been able to tolerate anything that I used to. Heck watching surgeries makes me so sick, I have to turn away. (and I think I want to be a nurse???)

Long story short, the monkey is home today. No fever, no other symptoms than throwing up. So my plans got changed around today.

I just now was able to make myself go upstairs and clean up the mess. Fortunately it didn't reek as bad as I thought it would. I managed to get it all cleaned up, and get the nasties in the washer, without making some nasties of my own.

In my almost 8 years of parenting, I have not really ever had to deal with puke. Sure when the kids were small, they would puke up formula. But that was nothing compared to a 5 1/2 yr old who eats everything under the sun. Madison has only thrown up a few times in her life. This makes Olivia's 2nd time. I remember when I was pregnant with Tyler, Liv was sick. I was rocking her, when she sat up and out it all came, all over me. Oh boy was THAT fun.

So now, she is on the couch, watching Sponge Bob. Loving all the attention from Mommy.
Let's hope the puking is done.

I feel so special!

2008-08-15T20:18:00.008-04:00

I noticed I am getting more traffic to this blog. My counter just keeps climbing (finally) and I didn't know why!
I know I have been posting more and more on the bargain board at bbc. And there is a link in my siggy. But I didn't think that was reason.

So, I just noticed that over at www.mamadramauncensored.com I am listed on their blogroll!

OMG I feel so cool!

MDU is an AWESOME website! It was started by some BBC momma's who wanted to keep the rest of us informed, when a really good drama thread got deleted. They do a great job keeping everyone in the loop.

It also gives you drama from other sites too.

Their store is great! I really want one of those "Wow. Just wow." shirts.

A big THANK YOU goes out to whomever listed my blog on the MDU Blogroll!

Lurve ya!

Ok

2008-08-14T00:14:00.003-04:00

So here is a larger picture of my new man.

Yum-o.

That is one fine specimen of man.

What a tasty dish!

2008-08-13T19:25:00.006-04:00

This boy is my newest kindergarten crush. It's Ryan Lochte. He is such a fine piece of man! He is a member of the US Olympic Swim Team. Yes I still have a crush on sweet ol' Michael, but LOOK AT THIS MAN! He is so fine.

{looks up at God} WELL DONE!

I love the summer Olympics just for these men.

Eye candy fo sho!

I saw this on a shirt tonight

2008-08-11T21:53:00.002-04:00

They say I have ADD.
But they just don't understand.
Oh look! A chicken!

omg I cracked up! LOVE IT!

My Service Unit Manager for Girl Scouts was wearing it. Too flipping funny!

**********************************************************************

Do you ever have days where you just wish you could rewind your life? Flip back awhile and change things?
Because I sure do.
I have been struggling with some issues lately, that all seem to point back to one moment in my life. Had I decided differently, I think ( I use that word loosely, as do we really ever know?) things would be so much better.
It's really complicated to get into on this blog, so I won't bore you with details.
But the fact of the matter is, I wish I could rewind my life.
I certainly DO NOT regret my children.
By rewinding my life, and choosing 'A' instead of 'B', I highly doubt they would be here. So I kinda hate saying I wish I could rewind. But I do.
Geesh I am not making much sense here, am I?
Daily I struggle with the thoughts of picking 'A'.
I fight back the tears and try to think that what I did was right.
But I know I was wrong

It's already August

2008-08-03T10:10:00.003-04:00

Can you believe it? I sure can't. Where has the time gone?

I have been so busy lately. And school hasn't even started yet. Once that does, I will be on the spinning merry-go-round, begging to get off.

Things have been crazy around these parts. I won't bore you with all the details. ok, just a few ;)

I decided to have a yard sale this weekend. The forecast was for sunny days both Friday and Saturday. Mom and Dad took the monkeys Thursday afternoon, and would keep them till Sat. This way I wouldn't have to deal with them.

Got everything ready on Thursday night. Woke up bright and early Friday and did the last few things. And I was ready. I sat. And waited. And waited. And waited. Finally about 3 hours after opening, I had a customer. That was how the day went. Hardly anyone came. In the past, Friday's always did very well. I would normally make the majority of my $$$ then. I did crap. I made a whopping $70. It's my own fault, as I didn't get the ad to the paper in time.

So I packed up at 2pm. Got everything to fit under our canopy. I knew that it was forecasted to rain/storm in the evening, but the radar was looking really good. (the original forecast was for sun--it changed Thursday to chance of rain) Denny came home and it started looking really dark out. I mentioned to him that maybe I should pack the stuff up. He looked at me and said "It's already raining, and has been for quite some time." I was like HUH????? The darkness I was seeing was the actual storm over our house. I had no time to do anything. The rain was DUMPING and I mean DUMPING on our house. A huge storm decided to settle right over the east side of Huntington.

I was screwed. So I said forget it, and we will just survey the damage in the morning. It couldn't be that bad, could it???

I get up Saturday to see what happened. (note that it stormed MORE through the night, like ALL NIGHT LONG)

oh

my

lanta

Everything was soaked. Soaked. Like if you stop your washer before the spin cycle and take out the clothes. We literally had to wring out the water on each clothing item.

I decided to say the hell with it. I covered the tables back up and went inside.
Screw the sale.

Denny and I went out later and did what we could. We moved the tables towards the back yard, and figured we would let the sun dry it all out.

Just ridiculous.

************************************************************
On a lighter note, my computer went down yesterday. LOL I was online one moment and then bam! It wouldn't connect. Tried everything I knew to get it working. Resorted to calling AT&T. After 2 hours on the phone (wasn't too bad--I got to talk to a nice man from Texas with a lovely southern drawl) I found out that the problem was not mine, it was from something in South Bend, where my connection is made. Several hours later, I was able to surf the net.

Speaking of southern drawl, what is it with a man and an accent? Why does it make women fall at their feet? I am one for an accent. Don't really wanna quote Paris Hilton, but man that's hot! I could call him up every day and report a problem, just to hear him talk. It's awesome.

It's called baby steps!

2008-07-17T11:29:00.003-04:00

I FINISHED MY FIRST TASK! And ahead of schedule.

I did it last night. I took pics, and I will post them later when Tyler takes a nap. It took me about 4 hours to do it. *ducking head in shame* It was harder than I thought! Normally when I clean (clean as in someone is coming over) I just stash things somewhere. I really took the time to put everything away, where it went. Except for Tyler's toys. Those are on a chair in the dining room. But everything else was put away.

I cleaned, I swept and mopped under all the furniture (except the entertainment center--way to hard for me to lift alone--and found tons of crap under the couch), swept and mopped under the rugs, dusted (I won't mention how many inches of dust where on things--Madison was like ewwwww what is that?) everything including the tops of the picture frames, took off the couch cushions and swept all the crumbs up.....you get the picture.

So Michele, I am sorry. No $5 for you.

I want to work on my dining room, but tomorrow and the weekend will be so busy, I don't think I will have "time" to get it done. I will probably start that on Monday.

I can sure feel the love!

2008-07-16T10:58:00.003-04:00

I mean, seriously people! ONE FREAKIN person posted a comment? Guess my blog doesn't get much traffic. OH well.

Michele, yes you did post one hour after the deadline, but because you are my best friend and I lurve you, you are entered! And you know me so well, that you know you may very well GET that $5!

I worked yesterday for 1 hour on the living room. It's looking so much better. So much that Denny actually SAID something about it!

I need to change my timeline a bit. I said that since I started at 11am on Tuesday, that I had to have it done by 11am on Thursday, being that I have 3 days to do the task. What it should of said, was I have until 8pm on the 3rd day to finish the task. So I now have 7 hours left to clean the living room, top to bottom. And it must be finished by 8pm tomorrow night, or Michele gets $5.

Remember all it takes is one comment to win! Comments must be posted the same day I post the task!

TASK TIME!

2008-07-15T10:20:00.005-04:00

Ok, here it goes, the beginning of my clean house! Today I am going to attempt to clean my living room. And I mean C L E A N!

The east wall looks like this:

The entertainment center is the biggest mess. It's the place we put everything under the sun. It needs cleaned off and dusted. The bench/bag/coat holder needs organized too.

Here is another view of the room:

Right now, the toys that were on the couch are gone. I made the girls take them up yesterday. But the toys on the chair are still there. The bookshelf over there on the left needs organized, as does the stand by my chair. THe shelf above the couch will be dusted too. I plan on pulling out the couch and chair, and sweeping and mopping underneath. I think the last time I did that, was.....um.....never? Maybe when we moved in.

So this task is not to bad. I am actually not to embarrassed to show this pics. But there are other areas in my house.......

I am putting the start time as 11:00am est. So I now have 8 hours to do this. Remember the 8 hours can be spread over the next couple days. But I must have it completed by Thursday at 11:00am. If you are confused, please read the post below.

Post a comment if you want a chance at $5!

Since I can never accomplish anything

2008-07-10T23:02:00.002-04:00

I have devised a contest of sorts. Maybe this will actually hold me accountable for once!

What I want to do, is make a plan for the day. I must complete said plan within 8 hours. The 8 hours does not have to be on one day, but must be completed within 3 days. Make sense? So if I start the plan on Monday, I can finish it on Monday. Or keep a few hours to spread over the next two days. So then the plan must be finished on Wednesday, and only taking as long as there are hours left. Clear as mud?

I will be Honest Abe throughout this entire process. Once I post I am starting, I honestly will only allow myself 8 hours to complete said task. I am going to take before and after pictures of each task I start.

The contest? Well for every task I do not complete within 8 hours, some lucky reader will win $5. I know what you are thinking. 5 frickin dollars? Hey I am not Donald Trump! I am a sahm with one income! But this will entice me to GET MY LAZY AZZ OFF THE DAMN COMPUTER AND DO SOME FRICKIN WORK AROUND HERE.

If I do complete the task within the time frame, the $5 goes into a scrapbooking/clothes/shoes/purse fund for me. I will get to buy myself something nice with it. (I am aiming for a Cricut!)

So, once this starts, I will post the task I am attempting. I will take a before picture of the task. Yes, I am risking embarrassment and the threat of CPS being called. But I NEED this. I NEED to be motivated. I live in a house of clutter. But not for much longer!

In order to have a chance at the cash, you must post a comment once the task is posted. If the task is not completed, I will place everyone's name in a hat and my kids will draw one out. That lucky person will be sent the $5. You must post a comment the day I start the task. If I start it on Thursday and you post on Friday, you are ineligible.

A couple of addendum's: My life is in a constant state of turmoil, or so it seems. I will be stopping the time in order to fix lunch/supper/snacks/mend boo-boos/round up the heathens. If I know we will be gone a certain day (like we were yesterday, gone from 8am till 7pm) I will be granted an extra day. There are exceptions for trauma and unforeseen outings. With 3 kids, this is an every day occurrence.

All in all, I will be honest of keeping the time frame. I told myself when I started painting the girls' rooms, I would have my house organized and the way I wanted it by the end of summer. Well it's July 10th and I am no where NEAR that goal. I am hoping this will help. I really don't wanna lose the cash and I really want a CRICUT!

So keep stopping by, and if you see me post a task POST A COMMENT. Hey you could win $5 and buy yourself a gallon of gas.

The Story of Me is still coming, it's just getting late and I really need to hit the hay.

Later tators. :)

My good deed for the day

2008-07-09T22:05:00.002-04:00

Ok, the monkeys and I went down to Portland today. We met Mom and Michael (my nephew) at the theater to catch the free Wednesday movie. Today's movie was the Bee Movie. Really cute, btw! We will definately have to buy this one!

Anyway, we went to Walmartz to pick up some lunch and buy matching shirts for all the kids, so we could get their pictures taken. Getting back into my van, I notice what looks like a credit card laying on the pavement. I pick it up and see it's actually a Wamu Debit card. Good till 1/09.

I tell Mom to hang on, I am going to call this in. After pushing several numbers (damn recordings) I finally reach a REAL person. I explain what happened. The lady at Wamu says the card is not yet reported missing, but she will close the account and get ahold of the account holder. She tells me to take it back into Walmartz, and she will let the lady whose card it is, know this. She thanks me for being honest and I *grin*. Half heartedly expecting a reward, free Wamu gift card or at least some flowers. But no such luck.

I would so hope someone would do this for me. In reality, I wouldn't get that lucky.

Well Lynette Dowlen you are lucky. I found your card. I did the right thing and turned it in. I hope you haven't lost anything else, because someone else probably won't be as nice. Someone else will probably use up what dinero you have left on some silly string and yoo-hoo.

Well it's Tuesday

2008-07-08T13:49:00.003-04:00

And I really don't have much to say. It's raining. And thundering a wee bit. Looks pretty orange over top Hgtn right now, on the doppler.

We got our "new to us" fridge hooked up. Finally. It's only been sitting in my dining room for almost 2 weeks now. Now I have our old one sitting in my kitchen. Makes it real easy to do things with it sitting right in the middle of everything!

I was reading Michele's new blog (check it out it's over <------------ there) and she was giving some backstory on herself. And I thought, hmmmm. Anyone that reads this, doesn't really know me, except maybe a few people. They only know what I have typed on here for about a year. So I decided I would start The Story of Me.
This will probably get long and windy, so go grab some popcorn, a nice cool drink and set back enjoy the show. Or ignore till I post something more witty!

The Story of Me Part 1
I was born in 1976 in Portland, Indiana. I was raised in a wee little town, Bryant, that is about 7miles north of Portland. It's so small, that if you blink, you miss it. But they do have one blinking light!
I remember growing up in such a small town. I would spend my summers outside, from sun up till sun down. Playing with Tara, Stephanie, Mandy if she was at her Grandparents and even some of the unruly neighborhood kids. I would ride my bike out Co Rd 30, and meet Steph halfway. We would then go to her house and play. Her parents and mine were (and still are) very close friends.
My best friend growing up was Maranda. We were friends from the start, far back as I can remember. Our parents are still friends, even go to the same church. And Mom and Sherry (Maranda's Mom) teach at the same school. I remember being in afternoon kindergarten. Maranda would come over in the mornings. We would eat Totino's pizza and french fries darn near every day for lunch. Then head of to kindy. We were best friends till some time in high school. (that will be explained later on)
I remember going to her house to spend the night. It was almost a daily occurance--her staying with us, or me staying with them. They had a neat house. 5 bedrooms! They had a huge pond too. We would always be swimming. Maranda had 2 younger siblings, Andrew and Libby. They were constantly with us, annoying the crap out of us! The thing I liked best about her house, was that they had a computer. It was so cool! I could play Oregon Trail anytime I wanted there! And they had this cool program were you could make banners! SWEET! (fyi: my parents didn't own a computer till I was off and married! so this was a pretty nifty thing)
We did everything together. Almost every Sunday after church, we would go to Southtown Mall in Fort Wayne. It was so much fun to walk around. We were only in like 2nd grade and our parents would let us walk off by ourselves. You could do that then. I barely let Madison out of my sight when we are at the mall nowadays! And she is almost 8!
Most of my childhood involved Maranda somehow. I would of never guessed we would stop speaking later in life. I assumed we would be BFF.
We took lots of vacations when I was younger. My grandparents lived in Tennessee on and off. So many trips were to there. One year we hit DollyWood. So much fun! My Aunt Diane lived in Maryland, and we took a few trips out there to see her and her family. We had relatives in Florida, some who worked at Disney. We took a trip when I was in 6th grade to Disney. I had to walk around with my brother (yuck) but I still had fun. It was so cold when we went--December. We bought sweatshirts when we got to the park. Big baggy clothes were SOOOOO in style then. The sweatshirt I got was a size XXL. Remember I was in 6th grade! (I was skinny then!) It was huge. Ok, huge isn't exactly the word. Enormous is more like it. I laugh when I see the pics. I will have to see if I can dig them out.
I remember elementary school being fun. I went to Bloomfield Elementary School. We didn't have a popular group or loser group. Everyone was friends with everyone. My teachers were Kindy= Mrs. Loy 1st=Mrs. Hunt 2nd=Mrs. Keller 3rd=Mrs. Meinerding 4th=Mrs.Horn 5th=Mrs. Loy (different one) 6th=Mr. Eads.
Kindy=Mrs. Loy was great. I was in afternoon kindy. I remember loving to paint. The playground was huge, but fun. I will never forget the reading corner. It was sunken area were we had story time. It was also the place to go when the tornado siren went off.

1st=I liked Mrs. Hunt too. I was in the top reading groups. I don't really remember much about 1st grade, except for the fact that I kissed Jeff Burk on the cheek!

2nd=Mrs. Keller--she was one of those teachers where she either liked you or didn't. I did get in trouble with her one time. I was only in 1st and Maranda and I decided it would be fun to get in the wrong line, at recess line up time. Mrs. K was not happy. We got a stern talking to. I was once again in the top reading group, along with Maranda and Chad Minch. I will never forget the time we were reading in our group, and Chad said he felt sick. Next thing we know, he puked all over the table! It was so gross! Why that moment has been etched in brain, I don't know.

3rd=Mrs. Meinerding Nothing really stands out about this year, except maybe that Mrs. M was a dingbat? lol I did have a boyfriend this year, Chad Minch. He gave me a ring and matching necklace set. I think I still have the ring. OH! We went to Happy's Place (or maybe in 2nd grade, I don't remember!) anyway HP was a cheesy show onWFFT 55 that was kid centered. You went to the studio, and were part of the audience. Check out wiki http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happy%27s_Place\ Or this youtube link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_7p4CZ6ERY. When it was my turn to talk to Happy, he asked me if I had a boyfriend. To which I replied "YES!" Happy wanted his name and I said "Chad Minch". Needless to say Chad was not to happy I announced his name on tv. He didn't break up with me though! :)

4th=Mrs. Horn. The things I remember are 1)I loved Mrs. Horn 2) this was the year the Challenger exploded and 3) I had Jeff Burk as a boyfriend.

5th=Mrs. Loy. I didn't care for her. I did fine, but didn't like her.

6th=Mr. Eads. I liked him and was really glad I didn't get Mr. Keller, who picked his nose. For serious! I believe this is the year that Maranda, Jeremy Keller and I went to MediaFair. We did this crazy broadcast thing where my name was Heather Heatwave and I did the weather. My report included that Hawaii was getting snow, and Alaska was having a heatwave. We had sound effects and everything! We won first place at the school, and went on to the regional. We only lost 1st place there because we didn't have our list (an official list of everything we used and did) typed up. We hand wrote it. I have so got to dig up those pics. You will all laugh at my outfit. It is rockin I tell ya!

And that is where I will leave you for today. I am going to go search for some pics to accompany this story. So look out, there may be a new post later on!

To the mutha fockers

2008-07-06T20:06:00.002-04:00

Who called the cops on us last night, around 1:30am.

Are you freakin SERIOUS?????? We got the stupid dog because someone tried to break in. She only, and I mean O N L Y barks when people are walking by, or when another dog is around. She was barking when I went to bed, but that's only because your dog (if you are the ones who called, which I think you are) started it first!

You scared the shitballs right out of me, by making the cops call me at that frickin time. My heart nearly jumped out of my chest.

Let's just say it's on like Donkey Kong. Any little sound hear, any dog bark or loud music will result in a nice chat with the Hgtn popo. Let's see how you like it.

***************************************************************************

Ok, here is the story. I go to bed at 12:45am. Scooby is barking, so I go to the kitchen and yell at her out the window. I know she started barking, only because the mf'ers next door's dog, was out to pee. She quieted down, and I went to the bedroom. I hear the stupid mf'er dog next door begin barking. So what does Scooby do? Bark back! (I don't blame her!)

It stops after a couple of minutes, and I fall asleep. Mind you, Denny was out fishing. All the sudden I hear the phone ringing. I look at my clock, and see it say 1:30freakin something. My brain was not yet registering that the phone was actually ringing. I could of swore it was a dream.

I run into the living room and grab the phone and see "City of Hgtn" come up. Looking towards the window, I see a car parked outside and a flashlight beam going all over my flowerbed. The phone call goes something like this (to my best recollection)

Me: Hello?
HPD: Hi this is Angie with Hgtn PD, we have had a complaint that your dog is barking. Could you please go talk to the officer outside?
Me: Ummm ok.

(my heart is pounding so loud in my chest I could swear the lady on the phone and the officer outside could hear it!)

I walk out and talk to the officer. He is like, hey we got a complaint about your dog. He doesn't appear to be barking now, nor did he when I arrived, but we have to follow up on the complaint. I completely understand, apologize to the cop, explain why my heart is beating so loudly. He understands, apologizes for having to wake me up. He tells me to bring the dog inside, to calm him down. I explain that he is really a she, and that the neighbors dog was barking earlier. And that she only barks if people are out walking or if she sees another dog. I continue to tell him about how our stupid neighbors across the street always have a dog tied up out front and it barks consistently. He told me next time it happens, to give them a call. He apologizes again, and tells me good night.

Denny finally comes home around 3, and I tell him what happened. We have a pretty good idea who it was. And like I said above, it's on like Donkey Kong.

We are back!

2008-07-05T14:07:00.011-04:00

From our little mini vacation to Kings Island! We had so much fun! The kids had a blast! It was their first time. And I found out it was DH's 3rd time! I was like HUH?? I couldn't believe it. I have been there several times, more than I can count.

I didn't get near the pictures I wanted to. It was so hard! We often split up and each took a couple or one kid(s). Madison was too tall for most rides in Nick Universe. And Liv and Tyler could only ride mainly those.

Our original plans were to hit the rides on Wednesday, and go to the water park on Thursday. Wed was great, no rain and beautiful skies all day! We got up Thurs and the clouds looked awful. It was even chilly. So we decided to ride rides again. We were there about 3 hours when it let loose. It poured for over 2 hours! We went back to the hotel and ate. Came back around 4:30 and rode till 10pm.

All in all, we walked (almost consistently) for over 20 hours. My feet feel great, thanks to my Crocs!

****warning pic OVERLOAD!****

Here is a cheesy ride, Shake Rattle and Roll. It is more like a carnival ride, but still fun. The girls loved it. I was hoping the Vortex would be going in the background, but no. This was on Thursday, when every single coaster only had one train going... :(

Here is my injury from Flight of Fear. Mind you, I haven't been to KI for over 10 years, so I had no idea what this ride was. Somehow (I still don't know how) Denny convinced Madison to go on it. For those not in the know, this ride goes upside down 4 times, all in complete darkness. For people like Denny and I, it sounded like a totally AWESOME ride! Anyway, they rode it first. Then I parent swapped and rode with Madison. She told me the only way she would ride it again, was if I held her hand. Fair enough. Well she kept her arms down so far, that mine was forced into the seat separator thingee. With that and all the banging around, I got this:

Here is Madison's favorite ride. She was scared at first. I don't blame her, it was her first time riding a REAL coaster!

This was Tyler's favorite ride, Swiper's Sweeper. He LOOOOVED it! His face when it went around the turn, was absolutely priceless! Liv liked it too, but not as much as Tyler.

Here is Denny and Madison on the Zeypher. She is in the pink on the outside. Denny is kinda next to her, in a grey shirt. Really hard to see in this pic.
This turned out to be Olivia's favorite ride. It was always be the Beastie to me!

Here are the kiddos in front of the fountains.

I was mad because every vacation picture never has me in it. Denny grabbed the camera and snapped this before the train took off.

Some sights in Nick Universe. Where Sponge Bob is, is a walk through where you get totally drenced. Olivia did it twice.
Shockingly, this IS a kids ride. It's the Rugrats Runaway Reptar and yes, your feet dangle. I am underneath it, waiting to ride. My girls LOVED it, much to my surprise.
This is another 'omg I can't believe this is for kids' ride. It's Avatar: The Last Airbender. It was fun!
Here the kids got to meet Scooby Doo. They also met Sponge Bob, Dora the Explorer, Diego and several characters from the Fairly Odd Parents. Of course, I couldn't get my camera ready fast enough for anyone but Scooby.
This pic was taken Thursday, after the rain. It looked like more rain was coming, but it just passed over. We were SO glad!
Here is Madison, studying the map, figuring what ride she wanted to ride next!
We were walking through Nick Universe, and Olivia began shouting "I see a hummingbird!" Sure enough, there it was!
This is Denny and Madison on Flight Deck (to the old KI goers, it's Top Gun) You can only see the top of Mad's head, as I was trying to snap the pic as they went by. I was really suprised Maddy rode it. More surprised she rode it TWICE!

All in all, we had a great time. I love the fact that they have Parent Swap. Makes riding more of the bigger 'adult' rides easier. We never did get to ride Son of Beast, Invertigo, Drop Tower, Firehawk or Vortex. It's ok. Lines were way to long. I did get to ride Flight of Fear, The Beast (still great and still my fave) and the Racer. Which kinda sucks now, as it only goes forward. I did manage to get Maddy an Tyler on the Viking Fury. People were screaming their heads off, and Tyler began to cry.

It's a totally different experience taking kids to KI. I really want to go back later this summer with just Denny. There was so much more I wanted to ride! We decided rather than to make the kids wait, we would only ride rides were the lines weren't long. Even with Parent Swap, it was sometimes hard.

It's Monday again!

2008-06-23T14:58:00.002-04:00

And I haven't posted for a week. You all will probably slap me if I say "we were so busy!" (as I tend to say that a lot) Which is the TRUTH! Seriously!

I can't even remember what I did all last week, I just know it's gone now and I feel like I have forgotten it all.

This last weekend was Heritage Days. The girls were pretty upset that we wouldn't let them ride rides. For pete's sake, it was $20 for an armband (ya know, the bands that let you ride rides over and over) It only costs $24 to get into Kings Island! For our 3 monkeys to ride rides, it would of been $60. Um, NOPE! Especially when there were only 6 possibly 7 rides they could ride. And probably only 4 Tyler could. Just wasn't in our budget.
We did walk up there on Friday night, for the car show. The girls had tons of fun looking at everything, commenting that Grandpa would really like this one, or that one and so on. I snuck off to Korner Kupboard, to the Vintage Vera Bradley night. If you brought in a Vera piece 5 yrs or older, you got a free gift! And were elegible to win a tote in one of the 4 new colors. Grand prize was a super tote in Pinwheel Pink. The drawing is today and I haven't heard anything. Maybe they haven't drawn yet? It would be really cool if I won! The free gift was a mini jewelry box. I choose mine in Peacock. It's really cute. It's regular price is $20! Not to shabby for just bringing in my old Blue Coin purse!

Saturday, was very busy. We got up and went to the parade about 10am. The kids got really antsy waiting for it to come. (we sat towards the end of the route). It was really cute to watch the girls sit there (un)patiently, bags in hand, waiting for candy. I remember doing that during Bryant Days. The kids did make out like bandits with candy. Most will go to Mom for her class at school. One of the best parts of the parade is the free ice cream! We have a Good Humor/Breyer's factory in town, and they walk through the streets handing out ice cream. This year it was vanilla ice cream with fruit bars and some sort of sherbert swirly sticks. They were yummy!
We came home quickly and had Maddy change. Her dance class was selected to dance uptown, for the "entertainment on the mall". There were 18 dances, and hers was #4. Which was good. Right after she was done, we started walking towards home, all the while looking at the vendors. We stopped to talk to Missy and Tim, and let the kids get their faces painted. When the dark clouds that were looming, decided to open up. The wind picked up, loud thunder began and we could see lightening not to far off. Denny began heading home with Tyler when it started to rain. And rain hard. We ran under the Party Shop's awning. I took the girls inside and got them a snack. We waited about 5 minutes and then it stopped. So we headed home.
Maddy had a softball game at 3:30. Mom and Dad came over. After her game, Denny and Liv went to a graduation party, Dad started working on the bathroom, and Mom and I went to Kmart and Walmart. We came back, had supper and they left. It was already 10pm.

I wanted to go back uptown to check out the rest of the vendors. I planned on going up around noon yesterday. Denny decided we would all go! Which was great, because when we got up there, there were kids games! The kids were so excited! They had a Plinko game, bean bag toss, bubbles to play with, rubber ducky game, hockey game and even a cake walk! Madison won a cake! (which is VERY good!) All three had a ton of fun. We walked up past the vendors, and I didn't buy anything! Ok, I take that back. I bought a ginormous sugar-n-cinnamon cookie from a church bake sale. omg it was delish! And it was only $.50!

Monday Monday

2008-06-16T13:18:00.002-04:00

Man it sure feels that way!

I stayed up too late Saturday night at Michele's. She had her monthly crop. I did not get a single LO done. Really. I did start Mom's Mother's Day gift. Just need to add pics. It was only me, Jennie and Michele so that is probably the reason nothing got done. Jennie also had her Pure Romance stuff there. I ended up buying some rum flavored lube/lotion stuff. omg it tastes delicious!
I got home around 3am, and then proceeded to read till about 4. Set the alarm for 8, as we had to go to Mom's for lunch. I think Denny's Father's Day sucked. Oh well, lol. Compares to mine! We went to Ponderosa for lunch with Mom and Dad, Grandma and Hershel, Jon and Becky and Stacy. Then we went out to Mom and Dads. Stayed there for awhile and came home. I had to work, so I went and did a few stores. Got back at midnight. So much for his day, lol.
******************************
I came across this website http://www.mattlogelin.com/ and wow, I just can't stop reading. WARNING *may cause you to stop what you are doing and grab a box of kleenex and not stop reading till you know the entire story*
I was very overwhelmed with emotion when I first saw this. I now read it daily, and pretty much cry daily. I also felt very compelled to do something for Matt and Madeline. I emailed him about possibly doing a scrapbook for Madeline. He emailed me back, giving me the green light. I am now awaiting him to gather some photos. He takes such wonderful pictures, and they need a way to be showcased.
*******************************
Today the girls were out on the porch, "We are cleaning it for you Mom!" said Maddy. Umm ok. Anyway, Tyler and I were sitting on the chair by the window watching them. I asked them what exactly they were doing (because it didn't look like cleaning) Madison says "We are playing Queen. Liv is the Queen and I am the Jack." LOL I laughed so hard I about peed my pants. I asked her what the Jack did. "The Jack takes care of the Queen, giving her anything she wants." I think I need a Jack!

I know 2 posts in one day

2008-06-13T13:24:00.002-04:00

But FTR, I had the other one typed up yesterday, and just added the bottom on today.

I wanted to post this before I forgot. Tyler has been working on potty training. I figured since the girls are gone this week (mostly) that we would start. We went Wednesday and got him some pull ups. He peed as soon as we got home! Then last night before getting into the tub, he did it again! He keeps flipping back and forth between wanting to use the potty and not. It's so hard to train him, when he does that.

But I am happy he is trying. I only hope it STICKS with him. The girls started doing this around 2 1/2 too, but then held off for another YEAR before actually training. Although, when they did finally do it consistently, we never had to worry about night time. I can count on one hand how many accidents they both had after officially training. Maybe waiting till they are older helps?

I really dont' want to wait another year for Tyler. I have been diapering almost 8yrs straight. Madison born 9/00, still in diapers when Liv arrives in 12/02, Maddy trains (finally!) 2/04, Liv still in diapers when Ty is born 1/06, and then trains in 3/06. And that brings us to Tyler. Still in diapers 6/08.

Will it ever end?

I have come to realize

2008-06-12T14:55:00.002-04:00

A few things since yesterday.

1. We live in a really trashy area of town. Seriously. Not so much on our street, but the street behind us and beyond. The monkeys and I went bike riding yesterday, and we were about 7 blocks from home. This house we passed was un-freakin-believable! I counted 10 trash bags FULL of trash on the porch (and yes, they had been there last week on our ride too!) and the trash was coming out of the bags, broken bicycles left all over the yard, lots of misc things about and a vhs tape. The tape was broken and someone decided to decorate the yard with the actual tape. I was just disgusted.
Last year, I bought some things off of a lady on the Cafe board. She lived a few streets over (near the trashy home). When I got there, she told me she was shocked I showed up to get the items. She told me most of the time when she told people where she lived, they would either tell her to forget the sale, or just not show up. All because we live in "that" area of town.
I have never thought our side of town was that bad. Sure, we aren't the best homeowners either. Our yard needs mowed more often than not, we have a half hazard swing set out back, plus a boat, now a dog, our porch has on it:
-rawhide of Scooby's
-pair of Madison's socks
-girls' scooters
-broken flag pole with flag still on it
-bucket of sidewalk chalk
-2 basketballs
-broken broom
-shovel
-shephard's hook
-almost empty bag of potting soil
-2 empty pots for planting
-gas can
-Christmas flag
-miracle grow sprayer
-bench
But to see this all, one has to literally come onto the porch. It's not like my white trash is out for the world to see, like the trashy house I talked about. Our neighbor on the one side is a city policeman. His yard and home are phenomanal. For real. I mean they aren't super spectacular, but they are very very very very well kept. He is outside keeping it up whenever he is off duty. No joke. When the storms came through last Friday night, and a bunch of limbs off our dead tree in the back (which will be taken down here soon) blew into his yard, he had them picked up by 7:50am. I know this because that is what time I got up and his yard was once again immaculate, compared to what it looked like after the storm! He is just a very picky clean type person. And they have W H I T E carpet. I freak when I go over, so afraid some little speck of dirt will be on me and land on the holy white floor.

2. That playing and just BEING with my kids is so much fun. I have been a Mom for almost 8yrs. It's sad that I only recently came to such a conclusion. Don't get me wrong, I love my kids dearly. And I love playing and being with them. But I didn't know how much fun it could be. Maybe it's because Olivia is with my parents, and Madison is at GS camp during the day. And I finally have time to just relax and go aaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwhhhhh. Mommies need these times, and for me they are far and few between. But ya know, last week when they were all home, we had some good times. We took bike rides every day. Played outside every day. It was great! It's just been a fun summer so far. My goals are to go to the Splash park at least once a week, plus the library 3x week, and to the zoo once a week (gas permitting)

3. That I might start getting migraines more often. I had an ocular migraine last night for the first time. Scared the bejeebies out of me! I was watching Real World (yes I still watch that show--what can I say, I {heart} reality tv!) and kept noticing a blur towards the left side of my vision. I would try and focus on it, but it would move further away. Kinda like the floaters I see do. Then the spot kept getting larger. It was purple and yellow, and was like a shimmering zig zag. I was really getting freaked. Denny came home and I tried to tell him what was going on. He looked at me like I had three heads. Men, they never understand. It kept getting worse, to the point I wasn't able to focus on anything, unless I tilted my head just so and looked out of the corners of my eyes. I tried scouring the net for ideas on what it was. My first thoughts were stroke. Stupid I know, but every possible thing was running through my mind. I called the ER and talked to a nurse, who suggested I come out. He said eyesight shouldn't be treated causually. I agreed and decided to go. I went to the bathroom, and began wiping my eyes and wow, I could see again! It was gone! I am not sure if I was more or less freaked at that point. I told Denny and he told me to call the ER back. I did, and the nurse asked me if I found anything on the internet about ocular migraines. That was exactly what I found and described my symptoms perfectly.
http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/ocular-migraine.htm
The pictures on this site are what I experienced. I have had a wee bit o'history with severe headaches.
Back in 2001, I had just finished Jenny's Fashion Show. Those who know me IRL, know what this is. It was a hot July day, and I started having a headache. Thinking it was from the heat, and wearing the warm outfit, Mom and I got Madison and headed home. I began driving and the pain intensified. We got to Jenny's Salon and I could barely make it out of the drivers seat. Mom drove me home. I immediately took some tylenol and climbed into bed. That night is a blur, but I remember Sunday. The light coming in the windows was unbearable. Hearing Madison play with toys sent my head aching so hard I thought my brain would come out my ears (she was barely 1 then) Linda came over to watch Maddy so I could rest while Denny worked. As soon as he got home, he took me to the ER. I couldn't even walk in I was so sick. They put me in a semi-quiet room with the lights down. Gave me some pain meds orally. When those didn't kick in, they gave me at least 2 shots. Those didn't work either. So the decision was to admit me. They ran so many tests. The dr thought I had West Nile. Then he thought I had just a bad migraine. Then he tested me for bacterial or viral menegitis. To this day, I had no diagnoses. The best they came up with was some sort of menegitis. I continued to have headaches, but not as severe. I would see my family dr, who then transferred me to a neurologist. He too could not find a reason for the headaches. He did an MRI, which showed towards the left back portion of my brain, was some sort of trickling thing. LOL that sounds crazy. He was unsure what it was, but assured me it had nothing to do with the aches. If that would of been now, I would of made him give me an exact explanation for it.

4. People are just unaware. I was driving home from dropping Maddy off at GS camp, and these ladies were walking. On the street. I give them credit for walking the right way--towards traffic. I have no idea why they weren't on the sidewalk. But as I drove towards them, they continued walking, making no effort to move over. I had to drive clear into the opposite lane to avoid hitting them. When I am walking, or riding my bike, I first try to use the sidewalk. If that can't be done, I walk/ride very close to the shoulder, and make every effort to get out of a cars way. These ladies seemed to think they owned the road. And it hasn't been just them. Stupid kids riding their bikes just go from place to place, not watching traffic. (yesterday a young boy got hit by a car, because he just assumed the car would stop!) I make sure my kids know, that when crossing a street, they make sure NOTHING is coming. Even if it's at a stop sign. If the driver signals them to cross, then it's ok. But if they don't, always WAIT!

Picture time!

2008-06-11T13:34:00.006-04:00

I haven't posted any pictures in quite awhile, so here is a bunch. There are even ones from last year!

This is what happens when your son finds your daughters' makeup. Yes that is blue lipstick. Why someone would put blue lipstick in little girls' makeup is beyond me!

This is a picture from Cobourg Marina, in Cobourg, Ontario. We stopped there on our way home last year from Hastings. I actually had to beg Denny to stop. It was beautiful and I am glad I made him do it.

Here is Tyler at the park in May.

This is the first shot I took with my new camera, back in April.

My 3 monkeys at Easter at my parents.

My brother Jon and his son, my nephew Michael.

Here is Madison, proudlys showing off her artwork at Arts Express.

A great pic of my kids with my parents.

Miss Olivia in her dance costume, along with a silly grin!

Miss Madison in her dance costume, and another silly face!

My new bike I bought awhile back. I love it and ride it almost every day.

This is Olivia at the zoo in May.

Here is Madison playing softball. It's her first year.

Here is our 4th child, Scooby Doo.

Well that is enough pics for today. Enjoy!

Wow, it's June already!

2008-06-04T10:41:00.004-04:00

May certainly flew by. I can sum up May in one word---B U S Y!!!

We had our anniversary (May 9th was 10 yrs--didn't do anything special, just went out to Wings Etc with the monkeys) Devon's birthday (Happy Birthday Devon, party postponed until June) Linda's birthday (Happy Birthday Linda, sorry we forgot!) Mother's Day (went to see Linda on Saturday and was with my Mom on Sunday) end of school for both girls, end of dance and recital, zoo trip, Tyler got into my medicine AGAIN!, Tyler peed in the potty for the first time, end of Girl Scouts, my first ad change at work, the attempted break in, getting a dog, soccer and softball games galore.....and so much more that I can't even think of!

Our Anniversary--yes we got married 10yrs ago. Almost to the day of when we met. I really wanted to do something fun with just the two of us, but with all that was going on, we didn't. And we had to go to Linda's on Saturday to help clean out the vacation home. (see previous entry) But DH did good. He got me a really nice card and gave me $100. I was like WOW! He told me to spend it anyway I choose. So far, I have bought a couple shirts, new jeans and a pair of comfy pants. I still need to get my pedicure. And more songs for my Ipod.

Devon's Birthday--Christa normally has his party during the summer, which works out well for us, as May is so busy. She is having a pool party later this month. I cannot wait. I don't care how fat I look in a suit! I want to swim!

Linda's Birthday--comes right around Mother's Day. We (or maybe just I) forgot to tell her HBD. I am sorry Linda!

Mother's Day--well if I could have what I want, I would like breakfast in bed, Denny to have to deal with the kids all day no questions asked, and be able to be with my family all day, no running around. But I don't get what I want! lol I do want to be with my Mom, but I also want to have my own Mother's Day. Seems I never get it. I did get 2 nice cards and Denny promised me I would get flowers for planting. He always takes the kids and gets a few flats. They love picking them out. He finally got them last Sunday June 1st. I planted them yesterday. I love them all! Thanks kids and Denny!

End of school--Olivia got out the 16th, but Madison's last day was Tuesday 6/2. Too many snow days. And the great scrapper Mom I am, totally forgot to take a pic with her teachers. DOH! I never forget that. Too much going on I suppose.

End of dance and recital--recital was last weekend. The girls did SO GOOD! We got the dvd yesterday and wow, so wonderful. I can't believe this was Maddy's 4th year! Both girls are jazzing it next year. Maddy might take another class, we are still debating it.

Zoo trip--for Liv. We had an ok time. She wasn't thrilled with listening that day. Our lunch was fun. We had a picnic and were able to eat it with just the three of us (Ty, Liv and me) It was really chilly that day, and wet. So her teachers decided to skip the picnic lunch and we were on our own. I found it was more fun that way!

Tyler and my medicine--yes he did it again. May 20th, he decided to use a chair to get over the kitchen gate, climb upon the counter by using the chair the girls left in the kitchen, stand on his tippy toes to reach my medicine container clear up on the top, and happily chomp down 6 pills. OMG total freak out. Done in a matter of minutes. He looked at me and said "Mommy medicine GOOD!" and proceeded to stick out his white tongue. *reminder of my medicine--it's a very powerful cancer drug that does wonder for Crohn's patients* A call to poision control, trip to the ER, charcoal, blood draw, lots of stickers and toys, leaving after about 2hrs, and we were home. He did fine. No problems. We went back to the pedi last Friday for a check up and blood draw results. They said that if his liver was going to be damaged, it would of happened within the first 3-4 days. Whew. We now have a nice lock box for my meds.

Tyler and the potty--we haven't officially started "trying" yet, but we were taking a bath last Tuesday and he took his diaper off, climbed up on the pot and began peeing. The girls and I cheered him on, dancing and singing. He beemed with pride. Tuesday night, we were getting ready for bath (I swear my kids take more than one bath a week, really!) and he kept saying potty potty! So he once again climbed up and did it again! More singing and dancing and he was so happy! I am hoping to really start trying next week, when Liv is at Mom and Dad's and Maddy is at Girl Scout camp.

End of Girl Scouts--my first year as a leader has pretty much came to an end. Our last meeting was May 19th. I loved doing it, and can't wait to start regular meetings again in the fall. Now that Missy and I have a year under our belts, we can really do what WE want to do. I think this year will envolve a lot more field trips and service projects.

First ad change at work--oh wow, I was really nervous. But it went great! Melinda helped me at the Owen's north store. I was on my own for the rest. It was very easy. Easier than I thought it would be. I am so loving this job.

Attempted break in--I won't bore you with the details (this post is already getting loooong) but someone tried to break in to our house not once, but TWICE! Both times within and hour of each other. Long story short, we called the popo, but the criminal(s) took off over the fence. Hence us...

Getting a dog--I know I know, I said I would never have an animal in the house again. But oh, after the break in attempt, I was scared. A lady on the Recycle Huntington board posted she had a chocolate lab for sale. Full blooded, but no papers. 8mons old. Cheap. We went and saw her on May 18th and fell in love. We are now the official owners of Scooby Doo, an almost 9mon old HOUSEBROKEN choc lab. We {heart} her!

Soccer and softball games--Livy is playing soccer, Maddy is playing softball. Sometimes our Saturday mornings are screwy. Denny or I will take turns missing part of one girls game to take the other to her game. Fortunately, the rest of the games are at completely opposite times. Whew!

Open letter

2008-05-15T14:58:00.002-04:00

To the person(s) that tried breaking in last night:

What the F do you think you were doing? Do you seriously think you can get in here? Are you mental? All I know is you better just stay the heck away. I am ready. Armed and ready. If you even get a fingernail inside my home, the dog won't have time to get you. Cuz I will be at you first. You never mess with a Mother. Haven't you ever watched Animal Kingdom or another animal show on Discovery? How the Mother ALWAYS protects the young, no matter what?? Oh and we decided not to feed Butch today, so he would be nice and hungry. FYI the mailman is doing ok. Butch tore him up really good, but he is out of ICU and going to come home soon. And a quote from a great movie "Listen up, you little spazoids. I know where you live and I've seen where you sleep. I swear to everything holy that your mothers will cry when they see what I've done to you."

Respectfully,
The Household where you tried to break in

SAHM--luxury or right?

2008-05-08T14:49:00.003-04:00

This debate is going on strong over at the Bargain Board on Babycenter:

http://boards.babycenter.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?webtag=bcus5465

What do I think? Well I think it's an other. I really don't think it's a luxury. Luxury to me is having something you really can't afford. I would love to think it's a right, but..... There is an entire gray area here.

I have been staying home for over 5yrs. When we first had Madison, I was the one who carried the health insurance. That meant I had to go back to work. Then I got pregnant with Olivia. Denny and I both decided that it would be silly for me to keep working after she was born. I would barely bring anything home, after paying daycare for two kids.

He found another job, which allowed me to stay home. We made A LOT of sacrifices. No more eating out on a whim, no new things, buying only what we need, buying on sale, really paying attention to our funds, etc. And that is what has continued. Well we are a bit better off now. We still don't have the extra cash to buy all the fun things, but we certainly aren't in the same situation.

Yes, we have a satellite dish. Yes we have cell phones. Yes I have an Ipod. Yes we have high speed internet. Yes I have Vera Bradley bags. Yes my kids have name brand clothes. Yes my kids have dvd players. Yes Madison has a Nintendo DS.

How do we afford these things, and with another child? When before we couldn't?

1. We got a great deal from AT&T for our satellite and high speed internet.

2. I will never be w/o a cell phone, due to my luck with vehicles breaking down.

3. I saved and saved my $$$ for the Ipod. All from Christmas and birthday $$$, stashing a wee bit back here and there.

4. Ditto for Vera Bradley. AND all my items are from the outlet sale (doh, you have to be an idiot to buy them regular price!)

5. I buy when things are on clearance and out of season. I can get The Children's Place clothes for LESS than Walmart's prices.

6. My kids both have personal dvd players and this is ONLY because Denny was able to get them through one of this tool guys. And at a great price. They were Christmas presents too.

7. Madison does have a DS, but only because Denny did a side job for work and was paid quite good. She had been wanting one, so we decided to use part of the $$ for it. And it was her birthday present.

I know some of you are still shaking your heads in disbelief. But this is what we did and do, and it works for us.

(I had that all typed up last week, and now have totally forgotten my entire point! LOL!)

Wednesday--Hump Day

2008-05-07T13:42:00.004-04:00

And the weather is icky! Yesterday it was all about the sun. Today is cloudy and raining on and off. I have to work tonight. Probably go and do my 2 stores about 10:30pm. Thats the great thing about this job! I can do it on my own time! So far, it's been fun. Melinda (my boss) stopped by today with a whole lotta junk for me. Bad thing is, my office/scraproom is not yet together. It's a lot more work getting everything moved up and down. More than I thought it would be. Anyway, I had to move out everything from the girls' old closet, so I can store all my work things there. Not fun, I tell you!

Friday it mine and Denny's 10th Wedding Anniversary! I seriously can't believe we have been married that long! We dated for 3 years before we got married too. Are we doing anything to celebrate this wonderful date?

NOPE. Well at least not yet. I wanted to go away for the weekend, as our stimulus check will deposited on Friday. But we have a soccer game, softball game and Maddy's art is featured at Arts Express on Saturday. I really don't want to miss any of those! So I figured we would get a sitter for Saturday night, and go out.

NOPE. Linda called and wants us to come to her vacation home (lol--inside joke) and help clean it out. She finally has someone interested in buying her house. And it really needs to be gone through. When she...got married....ahem.....(actually before then, she moved in with Mike way before)....She only took the basics. If you walked into her house now, you would seriously think someone still lives there! And she hasn't since last year sometime! It is time to get it all gone through. I completely agree. It's just every year it seems there is SOMETHING going on around our anniversary. I just figured with it being 10yrs, that Denny might want to do something special.

NOPE. He was like, well what are we going to do? I know, I know, men are stupid and have no idea what their wives really want for an anniversay gift. So I told him that what I bought at Vera Bradley was enough. I bought a few extra things as gifts to myself. And hey, I am a working woman again! I can afford to splurge! LOL j/k

Look at my family!

Mrs. Moore, Maddy's teacher, took that pic last week at First Grade Showcase. Don't mind Denny loking like he is stoned, and Maddy's bangs are awful. We are growing them out and it's such a PITA. Ty was not happy at all. But we finally have a family pic. I am ALWAYS behind the camera, and Mrs. Moore said that is the exact reason she took it for us! HOW SWEET!

FRIDAY!

2008-05-02T14:14:00.002-04:00

Finally! Things have been rather chaotic here.

I got up early yesterday. Early as in 3:30am! Actually Tyler woke me at that time, but I did have the alarm set at 3:55. It was Vera Bradley Day!

Michele and I went to the sneak peak sale at 5. I loved it! I got what I was looking for. Man, was it hard holding on to that $$$ before hand! I had saved and waited for this sale!

I am really considering going up tomorrow after Livy's soccer game too. I didn't get a purse in Java Blue, so I really want one.

I am still having issues with the problem I posted a few days ago. If I say something, I think quite a few people will be upset. But if I don't, can I really let it go? It's not just a simple thing.
Oh so confusing!

Sunday

2008-04-27T14:56:00.002-04:00

Don't you wish just sometimes, that people would just shut up? I mean seriously. And for that matter, don't you wish you could see into your computer and wonder if they are being snarky or being nice?

It's really hard to read "tone" on the computer. Sometimes I wonder if I just take things to seriously. I know I know, you are all thinking GET A LIFE--IF YOU WONDER IF THE INTERNET PEOPLE ARE SNARKY OR NOT THEN YOU MUST HAVE NO LIFE!

Just some stupid things I ponder.

You think you know people, then BAM! You find out you don't.

Sorry I know this is really confuzzling, but I don't care to get into details.

*********************************************************************************

I got a bike today! I have been wanting to get one for awhile. We got a bike trailer last spring. And I just used Denny's bike. I saw one for sale at Kmart. Denny was like just go buy it! I went to Walmart to get more paint for Liv's room and I checked there. And I found one I really liked! So I bought it! Cheaper than Kmart's too! I even got a really neat Memory Foam seat cover. When I ride Denny's bike, my arse hurts sooooooooo bad afterwards. Even with all the padding I have, it STILL hurts. So I decided to get something a wee bit comfy. I will try it out here in a bit. Ty is napping and when he gets up, we will head out.

I think we are going to cancel our Y membership. We only got it for the pre-school discount. And yes, I would love to use the gym part. But with Ty not wanting to stay at child watch, and me being to lazy to get up at 6am to go workout, there is no need to have it. Preschool is officially paid off, so we don't even need to wait for that. And I have a bike now, so I can exercise on that. I only used the treadmill and the bikes there anyway. It's spring and we can get out every day. Ty LOVES to ride in the trailer. And the girls love to ride too. Mom is normally the one who poops out first anymore!

I really really need to use my bike every day. I am waaaaaaay outta shape. I would love to drop a few pants sizes by the end of summer.

Ok, I am off, as I hear Ty waking up!
:)

April 21st

2008-04-21T14:49:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it's almost May! Things have been crazy around here! I have been dealing with sick kids, being sick myself, painting, cleaning, Girl Scouts, dance, soccer and softball practice.....then on top of all that, I need to start training for my Smart Source job!

Yuppers, I got the job! The only bad thing is, she wants to train during the day. Which, I specifically told her during the interview I couldn't. I just got off the phone with her and she sounded a bit harsh. I really really really want this job. I understand that I need to train, and the fact that she doesn't want to work her evenings training me. But what am I to do? I have young kids, no one around to baby sit. Am I to leave my 5yr old in charge of my 2 yr old? I DON'T THINK SO!

I know that is not what she means. But she did ask why I don't have a sitter. We have lived here for just over 4yrs. I am just NOW starting to get to know other Moms.

It's a really frustrating situation. I *really* hope Denny can accomodate her training schedule. She wants to train tomorrow night from 5-7 and Wednesday from 5-7. Then next Tuesday from 4-6:30 and the same next Wednesday.

I wonder if this more trouble than it's worth.

Wednesday...Hump day

2008-04-09T13:44:00.002-04:00

I am feeling a bit better today, which is good. I managed to do the dishes and a few loads of laundry. Ty's fever spiked back up to 102.2. I gave him some Ibuprofen and layed him down for a nap. Hopefully it's just the last of that darn virus making it's way out.

I GOT MY NEW CAMERA TODAY! Finally! Actually it hasn't been that long. It was supposed to ship on March 28th, but due to overwhelming demand, it didn't ship until Monday. It.Is. Awesome. Plain and simple. The zoom is phenominal. The lcd screen is gigantic compared to my old one! I love all the features. I wanted to stay with Kodak, as I love my old EasyShare. I don't really have time to learn all the new gadgets on another brand. This does have some features that I will have to play with. But for the most part, I already know how to run it. I even snapped a few pics and oh.my.goodness does it take sharp close up pics! It has an 8.1mp and 12x zoom.

I am off to try and paint some trim in Maddy's room. I will snap some pics with my new toy! LOL!

later tators! :)

It's April 8th

2008-04-08T13:36:00.003-04:00

And I have been super busy! First, I got my hair cut last Tuesday! I went from this

to this

I can't believe how short it is! I love it! Here is a side view

She cut it kinda stacked in the back, and it slightly angles down towards the front. I didn't want it to look too Victoria Beckham. And the color, well that gets done Saturday. They couldn't get me an appt for both until the 29th! EEKS! So we split it up. I think I am going with a honey light blonde with chocolate. Tonya, my stylist, recommended chocolate. Where and exactly what will be choc, I have no clue. But I totally trust her. In these pics, my hair looks really light. IRL it's an awful dishwater blonde. It hasn't been colored since november 2006. I can't believe I just typed that.

In other news, I have been super busy painting! We are finally painting upstairs. The girls are each getting their own room! My new scraproom will be smaller, and downstairs. We have 3 bedrooms down, 2 up. The girls share a room now. My current scraproom is now Liv's bedroom and the toyroom is now Maddy's. (are you following this?)
Mad's room looks amazing. I did a really good job. No, I did a FANTASTIC job! :) I did it all myself, Denny only helped with the chalk lines. I still need to paint her trim. Then I can start on Liv's room. Hers will be easier. 2 colors and BAM! It will be done.

Here is Maddy's room after the chalk lines and tape

and the finished product:

Here is here other painted wall and ceiling (with blue tape up as I still need to do trim)

I am just so excited that this is actually happening! We have been talking about moving them upstairs for quite some time. I figured it would be just one of those things we talked about and never did! I did have to take it upon myself to start and finish it. Denny works waaaay to much to have to wait for him. He is glad I am doing it, because he hates to paint. I love it! When we bought this house, I was 8mons pg with Tyler. I still helped paint the living room, dining room, girls room, our room, Ty's room and kitchen.

This project has gotten me in such a mood! A good mood. Like a really good remodeling mood. So much that once the girls' rooms are done, and my scrapbook room is done (it's currently pink and it's obviously going to STAY pink, lol) I am going to re-paint our living room Latte (from Sherwin Williams). It's a really nice brown that I think will go great with our furniture. We have 3 different colors of green, and our walls do not match the furniture AT ALL! It's time for a change. I saw a really cool color Martini Olive (have no clue what company it's from) online and I would loooove to have it for my dining room. But, I highly doubt it would make our rooms flow. But it's such a fabu color!

The ladies on the bargain board at BBC have this amazing thread going. And that is where I have gotten all my ideas! Like, the girls each have a white 4 drawer dresser. Liv's will remain white, except 2 drawers will be in the darker blue and the other 2 will be in her lighter blue. I got this idea off of that thread. Maddy's will be in all 3 colors that are in her room. Liv's ceiling fan will be yellow. She really wanted a sun in her ocean themed room. So we thought we would just make this huge one around the fan. I decided instead of having to draw a circle, make it look right, etc etc, why not just paint the fan? (thank you BBC for the idea!)

Well, I must go rest. Despite all my yearnings to go paint trim, I am sick. Liv and Ty have been sick since Sat. Ty has a had a 101+ fever since Sat at noon. I took him to the drs yesterday, and he does have an ear infection. The dr was unsure why the fever was so high, for so long. He did get up today and felt warm--not the fiery hot he had been. He sure acted a lot better. Although he did want to nap early. Liv was better yesterday, but I did keep her home from school. She had a fever Sunday evening, which meant she would have to stay home. Today she is fine. And of course, they gave it to Mommy. Mommy who has no immune system to keep things away. I did take some OTC meds, and they did make me feel good enough to tromp up here and check emails. Maddy has dance tonight, so I need to go sit and veg for a few hours.

Later tators! :)

DOH!

2008-03-28T14:39:00.002-04:00

I forgot to give a shout out to the Spicy Gals! I hope all you ladies are having a FAB-U time. I am super uper DUPER jealous and seriously hope that we can all meet next year at the 2009 HOP CROP! Have fun and try to get at least 1 page done!

Bye girlies!

Ok

2008-03-28T13:43:00.004-04:00

The interview went fine. I was nervous as hell, but all ended up ok. She gave me the application (an inch thick pile of papers!) and I filled it all out, and it's currently waiting to be picked up by UPS. I am *thinking* I GOT THE JOB!

Tyler spent his first night away from his Momma. Monday, I took him and Olivia to meet Mom in Bluffton. He went with her, no troubles at all. Mom layed him down at 8, and he woke up once around 11:15. Slept through till 8am. I couldn't believe it! I woke up Tuesday morning to the alarm, then suddenly realizing my phone hadn't rung all night! I was shocked! He did it!

Mom has been wanting to keep him overnight. We were all a little unsure of how he would do, being the ever present Momma's Boy.

(ok I inserted a pic here of Ty, but for some reason photobucket isn't allowing me to resize! UGH! sorry!)

But he was fine. It was really really REALLY weird only having Maddy here. Tuesday was even weirder. I was ALL ALONE UNTIL 3:50pm. (Maddy was at school) I got quite a bit of cleaning done. And even a little shopping! ;)

I got a new camera! I ordered this one

And I am so stoked to get it! It shipped today. I love my old Easyshare, so I figured why switch brands? I was in dire need of a large zoom and this one is 12x! My current camera has a 3x. I will be in zoom heaven! It also sports 8.1mp, high ISO, HD pictures, optical image stabilization and a whole bunch of other crap that I don't know what it means!

I will sell my old camera on the Cafe group. Hopefully I can get a decent amount out of it. It originally cost $198, but with all the discounts and sales we got, we paid about $129. It is almost 4 or 5 years old (how awful that I can't remember!) 4 I think.

I get to scrap tonight! It's with some of the ladies from Ft Wayne Mom's Unite. We get together at ClaireElaine's church. I like to go to this. The ladies are very friendly and super nice. We all laugh and have a great time. I normally get more done on these nights, than I do when I crop with Michele, Jennie and Christa. We the 4 of us get together, we mainly chat. All night. Sometimes we don't even get our scrapping supplies out!

Well I must jet. Must pack up things and shower. And the mail just came. As all you other SAHM's know, this is a fun time. lol I am such a dork.

Later tators! ;)

I have an interview!

2008-03-18T09:41:00.002-04:00

and omg I am freaking just a bit.

I haven't went on an interview since Aug 1999. eeks!

I applied with Smart Source, the coupon place, over 4mons ago. I applied to be one of those people who puts those red coupon-spitter-out-things in grocery stores. The job also requires to help said stores with their sale signage. And lots more I am sure.

Anyway, the lady emailed me a few weeks ago, telling me a spot has opened up in my area! I have to meet her today at a local store. It's scary yet exciting at the same time. We could really use the extra cash, and I could use the getaway time. I heard that this job could be done at your convenience. So I am hoping it's true. Once Denny gets home from work in the evenings, I could head out.

I will definately post later on as to what goes down. I so hope I get it. I don't have a clue if I am the only person interviewing or not.

It's more nerve-wracking to decide what to wear. My wardrobe consists of old old tee shirts, jeans and comfy pants. I think I *might* have a nice pair of khakis and nice shirt, but it will take some digging. I do have a really really dressy outfit of Christa's, but it's waaaaaaaay to dressy for this.

I am freaked.
:0

I {heart} reality tv

2008-03-13T11:11:00.002-04:00

It is my guilty pleasure. My DVR is filled with reality tv. I am a junkie. I need my fix. Every day.

I suppose what I really need is a 12-step program.

I watch Big Brother, Survivor, Real World (and all it's spinoffs--The Gauntlet, Fresh Meat, etc) Hell's Kitchen, Project Runway, American Idol (but only the auditons), So You Think You Can Dance (again, only the auditions), Amazing Race....the list goes on and on.

The Biggest Loser is one of my faves.

And I am so mad about this stupid show, I could just stop watching.

The freaking teams are so uneven. I hate it. Everyone knows that the men are by far, the biggest losers. There isn't a chance in all that is holy, that one of those women will be the BL. Ali, maybe. But Kelly? Are you kidding me? Maggie? Seriously? She just needs to leave. And Brittney? No way NOT A CHANCE.

This show has really just pissed me off.

Mark is such a pig and if I ever meet him, I will probably kick him in the nads, I dispise him so much.

Roger is ok, but he is really starting to get on my nerves.

Jay is just a girl in guys clothing. Crybaby.

Dan is by far my fave of those guys. He seems to be a real smart guy.

As for Bob, well I am really not liking him this season.

[pause while I had to run after my son, who apparently got into the kitchen, by climbing OVER the gate, and forced the cabinet under the sink open and got out the Febreeze Air Effects and happily sprayed it everywhere--thanks Ty, it does smell better now--I can't wait until my computer gets moved back downstairs.]

And now I have lost my train of thought. Oh well. The final thing is, the teams are so far unmatched that I almost don't want to watch. I might watch with my hands over my eyes, taking a peek every so often, but who knows.

Saturday

2008-03-08T15:06:00.002-05:00

And I get to scrap tonight! YEAH! Mom and Dad have the girls till tomorrow afternoon, which provided me with an opportune time to really clean the house. I have really been doing good on cleaning. I had it wonderfully clean for my pampered chef party on 2-16 and have been keeping it picked up.

But the last few days, I have felt like doing nothing. So nothing got done. Since the girls were gone, I decided to kick my butt in gear and DO IT!

I even swept. Started to mop, but got distracted and haven't went back. Anyway, it's all picked up, swept and looks nice. Denny got home awhile ago and didn't say a word. hmph. men.

I love coming home to a clean house.

I sure hope Ty decides to sleep tonight. Last time I went scrapping, he woke up at 2 am and refused to go back to sleep. Denny called me and fortunately I was on my way home. I am *praying* he goes down with no troubles and I can stay as long as I want.

Ty is such a Momma's boy. He HATES when I leave without him. HATES when I go anywhere (and I do mean anywhere) without him. That boy can't stand it if I run back to do laundry without him! Let's hope he grows out of this come pre-school time. Actually I hope it goes away sooner.

You know you are really fat when....

2008-02-28T11:19:00.002-05:00

A lady walks up and says "Oh, I'll bet you are hoping for a girl this time!"

hmph

I turn to her and say "No, I am just really fat. But thanks for reassuring me of that fact!"

And here I was thinking of how good I am looking since I lost 10lbs.

hmph

***************************************************************************************
Today's Oliviaism:

"Mom when I grow up I want to be a monkey. This way I can climb and swing on anything I want too! And I can make this sound {insert monkey sound here} all the time!"

I love 5 year old reasonings.

I really think

2008-02-25T15:46:00.002-05:00

God decided to give me the world's hardest puzzle. He thought he would bestow this great gift upon me, and laugh when I couldn't figure it out.

This puzzle gives me fits. It makes me want to scream. Makes me want to pull my hair out, going strand by strand.

I am so at a loss now. I have no clue what to do.

This puzzle is called Olivia.

Don't let her sweet face fool you.

She is the world's best button pusher. She will nag and complain and whine till the cows come home. Then start again.

I am an avid Super Nanny watcher. I implement her tricks.

Do we always give a warning, then if the child still doesn't listen, they go to the corner? yup.
Do we always get down on her level? yup
Make eye contact? yup
Talk calmly, but firmly? yup
Does said child sit for 5 minutes? yup
Does one tell child that the behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated? yup
Does one tell child that the next time one expects her to listen? yup
Does one tell child to apologize? yup
Does child? yup
Are we always consistent? YUP

I don't see where we are going wrong!!!!!!!!!!!!

After the big blowup at JCPenney's, I did take her to the drs. I could swear she is bi-polar. Seriously. The dr seems to think it was an isolated incident, that she is the button pusher, and will always try my patience. Just be consistent.

Well he can take his "isolated incident" and shove it down someone else's throat.

Olivia's friend Ryan had a bowling birthday party yesterday. I dropped her and Maddy (Ryan's older sister and Mad are friends) off and came home. Two hours later, I went to pick them up. I found them at the video games, and Liv sees me, takes off running, screaming "I AM NOT GOING TO LEAVE!!!!"

Madison quietly grabs her coat and shoes. ahh the blessed good child.

I have to chase (literally) Liv down. Once I get her, I tell her it's time to go--get your shoes on. She screams at me, telling me it's NOT time to leave, she is NOT leaving, she hates me, etc etc etc. I get down, looking her in the eyes, and tell her that YES it's time to leave, YES you will be leaving and that I LOVE her. She is pulling away, kicking and screaming. I calmly tell her she needs to calm down so we can talk, or we will talk in the bathroom.

That throws her even farther over the edge! Blood curdling screams erupt. Fists and feet fly at me. In one quick motion, I swoop her up and into the bathroom we go.

In the corner, I begin telling her the same things. In addition, telling her that I know it's not fun to leave a fun place, that we have bowling coupons that we need to use and maybe we can come back next weekend, etc etc.

She is still fighting me, screaming she needs to go potty. I tell her if I let her go potty, she has to go out after and put on her shoes. She agrees, crying the entire time.

We get her shoes on, I have her sit and go in search of the parents to say thanks.

We begin walking out (more like me dragging her) when she remembers she had cake to eat. I tell her, we are almost out, and there is no way you are going back in. (hindsight tells me I probably should of let her go, as this just made her more mad--BUT had I, would it of defeated the purpose of 'you are in trouble and aren't getting rewards'?--who knows)

She purposefully falls down and a her drink spills on her. I am at my wits end. I pick her up, tell her she needs to walk or I will literally drag her out. She walks out. Screaming that she hates me, and doesn't need a Mom, wants to live with Grandma, Daddy should of picked her up... blah blah blah.

I take her home and make her sit. She sat from 3:15 until bedtime at 8:30. I was so furious with her, I didn't want to have to deal with it. Or at least until I calmed down.

So I wonder, was God laughing at me while I was so embarrassed by my button-pushing 5 yr old?

As for the whole bi-polar part, she is the perfect child today. Not one bit of trouble. Doing everything I ask. This is the same way she was back in Dec after the JCP incident.

One time thing? yah right.

Poision Control

2008-02-20T13:50:00.002-05:00

Yes I finally (in the 7+ yrs I have been a parent) had to call Poision Control. I was cooking supper and Olivia runs in and screams "TYLER IS GETTING INTO YOUR GREEN MEDICINE THINGEE!!!!!!!!!!"

He had pushed a chair up to the entertainment center, stacked some books and added a step stool to the contraption, in hopes of reaching my medicine container. I have one of those daily pill organizers, because in my old age, I tend to forget to take my medicine. I set it clear at the back of the entertainment center.

But my 2yr old was smarter than me. Before I could do anything, he had already chewed up (omg I am sure it was digusting) one of my pills! I quickly grabbed the phone and phone book, frantically looking for the PC#.

Do you think I could find it?????

Of course not! As I tried to calm myself down, I realized it was on the very first page. DOH!

Being that Tyler weighs more than a normal 2yr old, we were lucky. He was just barely under the weight limit, that allows for a child to take the dose I take. (did you get that???) They told me to keep a watch on him, he might have some vomiting, etc etc.

He was fine. And still is. No worse for the wear. He didn't eat a whole lot of supper that night, but he never did puke. Went to bed all smiles.

Oh and this is life!

Sunday

2008-02-17T15:56:00.003-05:00

And I can't think of anything to talk about!

My house is clean! For once. Before it gets to messy, I am going to snap some pics.

My Mom gave me $$$ for my birthday. I am trying to decide what to use it for. New clothes? Scrapping supplies? hmmm...... the possiblities!

I have to go get some oj here soon, and pick up Denny's pictures from the Badlands. He went with some guys from work and had a good time. I am curious to see the pics.

Tyler just woke up, I heard him open his door.

Speaking of Ty, omg he got his hair cut yesterday! It was getting sooooooooo long. Mom brought her scissors and chopped away. He looks so grown up!

Ok

2008-02-15T14:26:00.002-05:00

well here it is Friday already. Seems like it was just last week at this time. why the heck does time fly?????????

Not much going on at the household. Madison is going to her first sleepover tonight. It's her friend Jozie's birthday. Jozie's Mom is Missy, my co-leader for Girl Scouts. Mad is so excited and this has been all she has talked about for a week! It will be nice to be able to get a wee bit more done around here with only 2 kids. Less fighting, that is for sure!

I am having a Pampered Chef party tomorrow afternoon. It sure is a nice way to get the house in order. I cleaned my laundry room earlier. Probably the first time since we have lived here. lol :)

I think we are going to move the monkeys upstairs. They are 7 and 5 and it's high time they had their own rooms. We have 2 huge rooms up here that will be perfect. Currently, one room is my scrapping room. The other is a toy room. Ok in reality both rooms are storage rooms that are trashed. seriously! But anyway, it is so hard to get the girls to sleep at night, and they are constantly fighting about whose junk is whose. This would eliminate it all.

So with some of our tax $$$, we are going to paint the rooms and move them up. My scrapping room and the computer will now be downstairs in their old room. (it's painted pink which is tremendous!)

We do have to fix the leak in the bathroom up here. Would hate for them to have to run down the stairs, go completely around the living room, through the dining room to go pee. (if you know my house, you will understand that!)

Another thing we are going to look into, is getting an estimate on turning the staircase around. Currently, to go upstairs, you have to either a) go through the girls room or b) go through our room. It really blows. Especially at night, if I want to hop online. I have to be extremely quiet and not wake up any kidlets. If we turn it around, you would go upstairs from either the living room or the dining room, whichever it may be.

I am hoping it won't be too much. And if it's too salty, maybe this is something we could do on our own? I really hope so. Between my Dad and Denny, I am sure we could get it done. Even if it takes months and my house is in disarray, I wouldn't care. My bathroom is currently that way. What would the harm be?

I need to go finish cleaning. When I am done, I am going to take pics and put them at www.houseofpaper.com One of the ladies there suggested we all give an "open house" tour of our homes. So I am going to show the before and afters, since we have done so much work!

later tators ;)

I don't wanna be

2008-02-07T14:12:00.001-05:00

32

I really don't.

I am getting so old.

And it sucks.

Big time.

If you couldn't tell, yes, today is my birthday. I am 32. eeks. It's hard to even say it. Hasn't been a bad day, but not extraordinary good either. Mom called this morning and sang to me. She was going to have her students sing to me, but school for her was cancelled. THANKS MOM!

Denny and the monkeys gave me cards. And Denny said he is buying my gift tomorrow. He found it, but didn't have the $$$ to get it. I am kinda worried. lol I know I shouldn't be, but when a husband says to his wife that he found a gift that he is "sure I will like" it raises a red flag. Not to mention the tone of uncertain-ity in his voice. THANKS FOR THE CARDS BABE!

We shall see.

Christa just texted me the Happy Birthday song. THANK YOU!. I texted her on Monday, as she turned 30. When I see her Saturday, she is gonna hate me. I am going to Dollar Tree and picking up all kinds of stuff for her: reading glasses, ben-gay, ice packs, tylenol, maxi pads, etc Ya know, the things you need when you turn 30. hahahahaha She might just kick me for this one.

Jennie called me on Monday to wish me a HBD. I was like, huh? But she said if she didn't do it then, when she remembered, she would forget by Thursday. I completely understand hon. I think I forgot your bday last year. What a good friend I am! THANK YOU JENNIE!

well I am off to do what most 30yr old's love to do.....

my taxes.

later tators :)

Today's Oliviaism

2008-01-29T11:22:00.000-05:00

I was talking to Denny about ordering new work pants. He told me he was ordering the carpenter jeans this time.

Olivia says
"Daddy will have carpet in his jeans?"

too freakin cute I tell ya!

Stranded

2008-01-22T08:54:00.000-05:00

at the drive in. Branded a fool. What will they say? Monday at schooooool.......

Ok so it wasn't exactly the drive in. I wasn't branded a fool. But I was stranded. Along I69.

My altenator went out in the van as we were merging onto 69, right beside Lutheran Hospital. I was lucky enough to pull over onto the shoulder. A quick call to Denny

and he rescued us from a freezing cold van! He brought us his truck and the kids and I went about our day.

I {heart} that man.

Seems like there is always

2008-01-15T14:39:00.000-05:00

something happening to me ! ha ha

Today at the mall, I had just gotten a refill of pop at Chick-fil-A. The 2 monkeys and I went over to the family restroom so I could change Ty's diaper. Mind you the stroller was loaded down with 3 winter coats, my purse and assorted items in the tray. And my pop. And Ty.

I got him unbuckled and all hell broke loose.

The stroller tipped backwards and BLAM! There goes a huge coke, all over the restroom floor.
My sunglasses and the kids' toys got soaked. Thank goodness my cell phone wasn't in the top tray!

I was more upset that I had lost my caffeine than anything.

Some stupid skinny rich b*tch was in there and just watched as the whole thing happened. No offer to help. Just stared at me. As she walked out I said "Thanks for the stares and all your help." B*tch. ;)

I went out and flagged a custodial worker. He told me he would get a mop.

Here's the funny part. He went and got another worker (mind you, all these workers are foreign. Not trying to discriminate, but they all are. every single one of them. seriously) and that guy started shouting out in some language. The impression I got was that he didn't want to clean up the pop spill of some hooty tooty blonde chic. ie: ME

He did bring in a mop, and did what he needed to.

I explained what happened, apologized profusely and thanked him.

He grumbled something at me, probably something along the lines of "stupid ho b*tch makin me clean her damn mess when I got more standin 'round to do"

what a day.

Another Oliviaism

2008-01-09T19:14:00.000-05:00

Ok I just had to add this one in.

(Olivia had her tush sticking up near me, so I gently gave her a wedgie. She squealed and giggled)
"Does Daddy wear wedgies too?"

Oliviaism's

2008-01-09T13:55:00.000-05:00

Today's Oliviaism's:

(refering to the rotting pumpkin on our porch)
"Mommy, that pumpkin is out of air! It needs to be filled up! Maybe Daddy can do it! He has lots of air!"

(I told her to brush her teeth to get ready for school, she walks out saying)
"Mommy, my brain doesn't want to brush my teeth. It's too tired."

(Denny is getting her some lunch, asking her if she wants some mashed potatoes)
"No, my brain isn't hungry today. It only wants spaghetti-ohs."

Those three ism's are why we have kids.

Can I just chuck it??????

2008-01-04T16:10:00.000-05:00

Omg I am so frustrated.

I swear if I see Justin or Lawrence I will break both their necks!!!!!!!!!

They put a computer together for us in 2006. Lots of memory, really nice.

Or so we thought.

Little did we know, they "borrowed" someone's Windows XP Professional and installed it on here. Now I can't update Windows AT ALL.

They put a crap-ass-got-it-from-goodwill cd burner in it. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

Didn't put the dvd burner in like they said they would.

The usb ports on the front only work occasionally.

I am just so mad. The stupid thing is only 2yrs old and is nothing better than the ol' EMachines I bought in 2001. In fact that hunk of metal is BETTER than this one.

Do we have the extra money to buy a new computer? hell no

Do I wish we did? hell yes

Will I get a new computer anytime soon? probably the hell not

And for the cherry on top, the girls got new Webkinz for Christmas. Their accounts were expiring. Can I get the right stupid IE version to download so we can play them? hell no

So it's off to the library so we can at least save the Webkinz.

I hate Justin and Lawrence. They best just stay freakin clear of me.

Funny

2008-01-03T15:41:00.001-05:00

I just read this on Karen-kaj's blog (which btw Karen, has not been updated since SEPT--get on it girl!) LOL

1. your rock star name (first pet & first car)
Bandit Topaz

2. your gansta name (fav ice cream flavor, favorite cookie).
Mint Chocolate Chip-Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter

3. your “fly girl” name (first initial of first name, first three letters of your last name).
Llou

4. your detective name (fav color, fav animal)
Blue Cat

5. your soap opera name (middle name, city where you were born)
Diane Portland

6. your Star Wars name (first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first)
LouLo

7. superhero name (”the” + 2nd fav color, fav drink)
The Green Coke

8. nascar name (the first names of your grandfathers)
Owen Churchill

9. stripper name ( the name of your fav perfume/cologne/scent, fav candy)
Warm Vanilla Sugar Snickers

10. witness protection name (mother’s & father’s middle names )
Elaine Merle

11. tv weather anchor name (your 5th grade teacher’s last name, a major city that starts with the same letter)
Loy London

12. spy name (your fav season/holiday, flower)
Spring Daisy

13. cartoon name (fav fruit, article of clothing you’re wearing right now + “ie” or “y”)
Grape Slipperies

14. hippy name (what you ate for breakfast, your fav tree)
Lemon Bar Willow Tree

15. your rockstar tour name (”the” + your fav hobby/craft, fav weather element + “tour”)
The Scrapbooking Sun Tour

That is too funny!

I {heart} Mike Rowe

2008-01-03T15:29:00.000-05:00

Well, maybe just his voice. He is the host of Dirty Jobs on the Discovery Channel. He also is the voice over on Deadliest Catch.

Denny loves Dirty Jobs. And frankly, I love Mike Rowe. He isn't the omg-he-is-just-the-sexiest-hottest-guy-I-have-ever-seen type of guy, but he is handsome. Kinda ruggedly handsome. And his voice.

Oh it makes me {swoon}.

I could listen to him talk all day and night.

And I certainly wouldn't kick him outta bed for eating crackers.

We watched the episode about lava ash, where Mike actually got to take a mud bath made from lava ash. He took his shirt off. And wow. What a bod.

good grief. I sound like some pathetic gal who never gets out.

yup.

that's me.

pathetic ol' Mike-Rowe-voice-lovin-never-gets-out-me.

later tators

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T15:36:00.000-05:00

Wow! It's 2008 already! Life at the household has been busy. The monkeys don't start school again till next week. Unbelievable!

We had a good Christmas. Mom, Dad, Jon, Becky and Michael came here on Christmas Day. It was nice, but kinda weird, as we have ALWAYS had Christmas at Mom and Dad's. I liked not having to travel, but ya know.

We were supposed to get together with Linda and Mike on the 23rd, but Mike had a heart attack Sat evening. He is now doing great. They put a stent in, and he is now living a healthier lifestyle I am sure. Linda called us on Saturday (the 29th) and wanted to get together on the 30th. We were (literally) on our way to take the girls to Mom's. So I am unsure if we are going to try and get with them.

The 29th, we were supposed to have Christmas with GG. But Jeanne calls me Friday and says none of them were coming, they were all sick. Linda wasn't coming, because of Mike. So I called Christa and told her if she didn't want to come, she didn't have to.

New Year's Eve was going to be at Chris and Michele's. Michele calls me at 12:30p and says she, Veronica and Christa are all sick. So THAT got cancelled too.

I guess it was the Christmas Season of cancellations! lol

I was really looking forward to NYE. I miss my friends terribly and can't wait to get together on the 12th for scrapbooking.

Denny, Tyler and I spent NYE by eating Burger King (D&T) and Taco Bell (me). We rented 2 movies "I Pronounce You Chuck & Larry" and "1408". I liked them both. INPYC&L is an Adam Sandler one. I love AS. He cracks me up. I often think Denny kinda looks like him. Maybe thats why I have such a love affair with him? 1408 is based on a Stephen King novel. I love SK too. But the movie was a bit of a let down. Good, no doubt. But not as scary as his movies normally are. And if you know me at all, I love a good scare. The scarier the better!

As always, when it's new years, I make some resolutions. So here is the list for 2008:

-make a healthy lifestyle. My NYRezzi's always include lose weight. Last year I changed it to "be healthy". With Mike's heart attack looming in my head, I just have to do this. It's a lifestyle change, and as a Biggest Loser fan, I KNOW I can do it!

-yell less, play more. I yell so much, my monkeys ignore me. I did better last year and I intend on doing even better this year. I want to play with my kids more.

-be a better wife and mom. This too is a normal NYRezzi. I did good with this last year.

-spend more time for "ME". last year I told myself to scrap at least once a day. Even if it included organzing and purging, just mess with your scrap stuff! This year, I decided to change it to not only reflect scrapping, but just time for me. With the craziness of being a SAHM, I tend to forget myself. Whether I scrap, goof off on the net, read or bake, I just need to spend more quality time with myself.

-try and really keep the house OR-GAN-IZED!!! I am the ultimate wanna be queen of organization! I love the look of an organized house, but somehow can't achieve it.

-take more pictures. I can't believe how many LESS I took in 2007. what is the matter with me? My friends can normally count on me for taking a zillion photos. I barely took any pics, other than one for occasions! Eeeks!

So readers, I am challenging YOU to keep me in line with keeping my NYRezzi's!

Does life ever slow down?

2007-12-12T14:46:00.000-05:00

It just seems to get busier and busier!

Mom and Dad came over on Friday to watch the monkeys, as Denny and I went to Ft Wayne to get his V done. I have to say, it was very interesting to watch! I think Denny was embarrassed as I got to watch two guys handle his manhood. He has recovered great. He is still a bit sore today, but his job doesn't allow for much down time. He is constantly bending, stretching, lifting, moving, etc. I honestly, and I know this sounds awful, but I have no sympathy for him! LOL! 27 months of pregnancy and 3 c-sections later, I just can't! LOL!
Mom came back over on Saturday to take the girls to the Festival of Gingerbread Houses. We actually went to the VFW first, as Denny's co-worker Jim was playing Santa. The kids enjoyed it, they even sat on his lap! Well, except for Tyler. Still a little young to understand. They got really neat goody bags and even lunch! Then Mom, me and the kids headed to the Festival. It was really neat! Some of those houses were simply amazing! I just couldn't believe it! They had an hourly drawing for the kids. Tyler won a stuffed lion! Mom bought us gingerbread cookies as a snack for the way home.
When we got back, the kids got to make their own houses! Mom boughts kits last year after Christmas. We went to Aldi's and got a bunch more "supplies". We had M&M's, vanilla wafers, Twizzlers, gummi bears, sugar wafers, shredded wheat, pretzels, marshmallow, kissables, and so much more! The houses are so neat! They are in my cabinet with glass doors. One so they are on display and two, so Tyler doesn't pick off the candies and eat them!

I am finding it so hard to get my Christmas shopping done! It seems I have Olivia with me every time I find something. And she goes, what's that for Mom? Very hard to shop with Eagle eyes.

Denny's birthday is Friday. My old man will be 32. Geesh! Seems just yesterday he was only 19 (when we met). yikes aren't we old???????????? I wanted to do something for his bday, but he just keeps saying it's just another day. men, go figure.

wow

2007-12-06T14:26:00.000-05:00

Yet almost one month goes by with no blog updates! I am seriously awful about this! My intentions were to update daily. Yeah that is happening.

Well I updated my songs. Thought we needed some Christmas cheer! I love Christmas music. All the ones on my playlist are my faves, well except for maybe Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer. That one is just for laughs!

I really love Josh Groban's O Holy Night too. But couldn't find it. Michael Buble will have to do. Speaking of MB, he is pretty yummy too!

I do have a lot more faves, but this is all I had time to search for!

What is your favorite Christmas songs?

Well Denny gets the big ol' V tomorrow afternoon. Finally we won't have to worry about birth control! It's about time! I think he is a wee bit nervous. I told him I am going in with him, making sure the doctor cuts, ties, cauterizes, clips and everything else he can do to those tubes. We don't want any strong swimmers! And believe you me, Denny has strong guys!

Owen's

2007-11-09T14:49:00.000-05:00

is really a nice place to shop. It's a sister store to Kroger. We have two here in town, one on the south side that is a smaller store and the one up north, which is gigantic compared to the other.

Ty and I went there today to get some oj. I love Kroger oj. Not only is it delicious, but it's cheaper than WM brand (shocker!) and we get more $$$ towards cheaper gas. We were waltzing around the store when I come upon an Owen's lady putting Halloween merchandise into carts. One thing she had was those silly bowls that have a hand in them. When someone reaches in the bowl for candy, the hand moves down and a voice says things like "that's my candy!" or "Happy Halloween!". I have wanted one of those bowls for a few years, but never wanted to pay full price. And normally I couldn't find them on sale after Halloween, as they were all bought up. The kids go nutzo over them too!

I asked the lady if I could have one to purchase. She tells me she already took the upc out of the system. I told her thanks anyways, we would just wait till next year and how my kiddos loved those bowls. She grabs one, takes a black marker and marks out the upc and hands it to me. I was like huh? I wasn't asking for a free one. I wanted to pay! (they were only $2, marked down from $8) She insisted I take one. She said they just box up all leftover holiday merchandise and donate it to charity. So just take it.

I did and my son was never happier. He laughed and giggled the whole way home. Olivia loved it too. I can't wait until Madison gets home to see it! lol

too funny how a silly little thing brings such joy to my monkeys' faces.

Back to the orginal thought of this post--Owen's is a nice place to shop. The store is always clean, the workers very friendly, samples galore throughout the store (love this!) prices not to bad and the fact that we get cheaper gas, just can't be beat!

The funny thing about this is, what in the world are charities going to do with 40+ Halloween bowls that have hands in them???????

Is it just me

2007-11-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

Or does paying bills royally suck? I am sick and tired of it. I wish I could just stop. I don't mind the basics (house, electric, gas, water, phone, interent, etc). It's the crap ones I hate. Stupid drs offices, hospitals etc.

How in the world do they expect a family of 5 with not so fantastic income to pay off a $2K bill? It's not like we wanted Ty to have surgery and wanted the bill. He had too. He had to get the hernia fixed. And the crazy hospital expects us to be able to pay 4 monthly payments of over $500? Are you nuts? I know there are people out there who live a comfortable life. We, unfortunately, do not. We struggle day to day. In fact, it's getting so bad that we are almost having to choose groceries or electricity. how sad is that?

We are some of the poor folks who make to much $$$ to get help, yet can barely pay bills each month. If I worked, all my $$$ would go do daycare.

Sorry for the rant, I am just upset.

Trick or treat.......

2007-10-30T14:27:00.000-04:00

.....smell my feet. lol Yuppers, it's that time of year again. TOT'ing here in Huntington is 2 nights. Tonight from 6-8 and tomorrow from 6-8. We decided to take the kiddos out tonight, and stay home tomorrow and pass out candy.
Madison is going to be Jeff Gordon. lol Mom got the costume (complete with hat and gloves) at a garage sale this summer. Most of you know, Denny is a H U G E Jeff Gordon fan. She was thrilled to wear it. In fact, she even had us carve her pumpkin with a 24 on it. My sweet girly girl is a Nascar fan. hmph.
Olivia is going as Strawberry Shortcake. Madison was SS a couple years ago. I made the costume. And this is the last year it will fit Olivia.
Tyler is either going to be a giraffe or a frog. I got both costumes for $2 last year at Walmart after Halloween. I was super glad to not have to buy anything this year.

I was looking at Amanda's (Dalovey Damanda at HOP) gallery and loved her Random Memory's lo's and the This is Me ones. I have been truly inspired Amanda! THANKS!

Being sick

2007-10-24T14:42:00.000-04:00

sucks! UGH! Somehow, I have gotten a very nasty cold and it's on the verge of a sinus infection. Truth be told, I think it is already there. I have been sick now for 3 days. I have had a sore throat on and off for a week. I did go to the drs. She said it was a nasty viral thing (DOH, I knew that and I know nothing can be done) but she said it might turn into an infection if we didn't do anything.
Normally I would just wait it out. But with MIL's wedding Saturday, I can't be sick. So I got an inhaler, some allergy meds and a cough suppresant. I sound lovely. It's crazy when you add a "d" to most words like fine---it comes out fine-d. lol

Here is an etiquette question for all the readers: If you decided to throw yourself a party, no matter what occasion, is it right to ask others to provide everything? It is different if those invited ask "what can I do/bring?" but to just tell people to make or do things, IMO, is wrong. What do you all think?

I will explain the story later.

ttfn

Almost a month

2007-10-22T15:14:00.000-04:00

And I finally add a post. geesh.

It seems life never calms down. Between dance classes, school and pre-school, swimming lessons, birthday parties, Girl Scouts, field trips, weddings.... I could go on and on. Between all those, I still don't have time to post. I don't know why!!! lol

MIL is getting married Saturday. We are heading over there Friday night for rehersal, then staying at Christa's overnight. It is a 2hr drive one way. That is waaaay to much in such a short time span. Not to mention the gas! I am very happy for her! She is extremely happy as well, and that is all that matters. She is wearing Christa's wedding dress, Christa is wearing the dress I wore in her wedding and they are both carrying the bouquets from Christa's wedding! Hey, it saved a ton of $$$$! Those of you who are like huh? what? Christa was married 2yrs ago. Everything is still a current style. Makes sense. Denny is walking her down the isle. And I get to take pictures! IPEEEEE! They didn't want to hire a professional photographer and I told them if I got to use Mike's camera, I would do it. I took a look at Mike's camera on Saturday and wow, it is nice! I told MIL and Mike that me keeping the camera will be my fee. LOL didn't go over too well.

I have also signed on to be Madison's Girl Scout Leader. Her leader from last year decided to stay a Daisy leader so our troop needed somebody. I have 2 assistants, Missy and Lenda, and they are great! They are very willing to help out in any way. AND two of the Mom's already volunteered to be Cookie Moms! They have older daughters and have been through cookie sales before. All of this makes for a great start! I still have the deer in a headlights look, but I am trying. Not being a Girl Scout myself, makes this a lot harder. I am totally clueless on everything!

Yes...

2007-09-18T13:48:00.000-04:00

2 posts in one day. The other post was actually what I had typed up last week, and then my computer decided to have a melt down. I like the fact that blogspot automatically saves my ramblings.

I just have to vent! We went to WM this morning for a few groceries. We were in the baby section and I see this adorable little girl, probably around 2, hiding in the racks. I was about to ask her where her Mommy was, when she ran out and towards another lady shopping nearby. I assumed it was her daughter. We continued over to diapers and the little girl followed us. I was there for at least 5 minutes. She stood there with us. I asked her where her Mommy was. She looked at me like she had no idea what I said. She looked Mexican, and I am unsure if she spoke or understood English. I was trying to get her to come with me when all the sudden she runs towards the grocery section. I tried to find her, but I couldn't. Suddenly clear down by the produce I see her. Apparently, she saw her Mommy and ran.

BUT WHY ON EARTH WOULD A YOUNG GIRL BE LEFT IN THE BABY DEPT WHILE HER PARENTS DID THEIR GROCERY SHOPPING?????????????????????????????????

The parents were definitely Mexican, as I walked by them later I heard them speaking Spanish.

We were then at the produce and the little girl comes around AGAIN! Her parents, no where to be found. Another lady tried to talk to her too. She just looked at her and didn't say anything. We then see the parents coming out of an aisle.

I told the other lady what had happened in the baby section. She was completely appalled. As was I.

My kids are never that far away from me. Ever since watching the movie about Adam Walsh (John Walsh's son who was taken from a Sears (?) store and murdered) I have been terrified of 1. being away from my parents in a store when I was young and 2. now that I am a parent, making sure my kids are with me all the time.

The parents just were nonchalantly shopping away, not even caring where in the world their daughter was. I had a notion to call someone....CPS or something. It just burned me to no end. Maybe I should of just went up to the parents and went postal. Thats how mad I was.

Ok ok ok

2007-09-12T14:59:00.000-04:00

Just smack my hand! I know I haven't been on here like FOREVER, but hey, I have issues, ok? LMAO!

Amanda left a comment which reminded me that I haven't posted since J U L Y. geesh, what a blogger. Thanks for the reminder hon!

Things have been awfully nutso around the house. Madison in school, Olivia in school, dance class, girl scouts---it's a total mess! And the whole computer issue, eek. It is still acting up. I have been putting off taking it to the drs. I will be calling to make an appointment later on. It needs a check up so bad.

I have been able to go to the library every now and then to pay bills and check emails. I have DSL and my computer runs so s l o w that it seems like I have dial up. Doing anything is utterly time consuming.

I am still having foot issues. Currently, I have to wear a magic boot (at least that is what Denny and the kidlets are calling it, lol!) in other words, a walking/removable cast. I saw an orthopedic surgeon last week. He is clueless as to what is wrong. I see him again next week to see if the magic boot helped.

Now I am dealing with a sore on my other leg. I have absolutely no idea what it is. I have an appt today with the dr. I am freakin FALLING APART at 31. Life is grand I tell ya. This spot is so sore and swollen.

I am the proud owner

2007-07-18T14:55:00.000-04:00

Of a pair of crocs! YAY! I finally got a pair! I knew how comfortable they are. But I am not to keen on the "cloggy" look. Once I found out they had flip flops, I was sold. I am a flip flop gal. So I have been wanting to get a pair. With some of my garage sale money, I was going to get a pedicure. But I bought shoes instead. *grin*

Christa came to the reunion with yet another pair of crocs. These were Cleo in chocolate and cotton candy. I fell in love. I scoured the net looking for all the different colors. I also fell in love with the pearl/celery, lavender/black and the teal. I really wanted them for our vacation next week, so I hated to order them online, for fear they wouldn't be here in time.

Mom came over today and we went to Dick's Sporting Goods. They had my Cleo, but in my size was only the teal and black/lavender. I really wanted the choc/cc or the pearl/celery. So I settled for pink/pearl flip flops! LOL! omg they are like the cadalliac of flips. MOM even bought a pair! She was in heaven walking all around DSG.

I don't think Denny will be to thrilled. BUT these shoes will last longer than a pedicure ever will! LOL!

2007-07-09T16:55:00.000-04:00

Wow, I so cannot believe how crazy things have been around here.

I have been having computer issues lately. I was doing some research on Crohn's Disease and tried clicking on a link for an article I really wanted to read. Apparently it was some sort of virus-loaded/spyware crap. My computer hasn't been the same since. Maybe part of the problem was my anti-virus protection was not up to date. It's my own fault. I just didn't have the $$$$.

So off to Wal-Mart I went and got some protection! I ended up going with McAfee this time. Not only did the computer guru recommend it, but it was cheaper than Norton! He told me to stay far far away from Norton.

It found several things, and my computer is running better. But there is still something wrong. Who knows.....

We had a cook-out here on the 4th. Mom and Dad, MIL and Mike, Jon, Becky and Michael, Christa, Tim and Devon and GG came over. It was really nice. We had a great time.

I am having foot issues. It has been hurting and swelling on and off for about 3 wks now. I went to the drs almost 2 wks ago. He diagnosed it as plantar faschiitis. Or something spelled like that, lol. Put me on a steroid/anti-immflamatory for 6 days. told me if it didn't get better, then it was probably a fracture. Well here we are 2wks later and it's swelled up bad (even my toes!) and hurts like a m/f! Hurts like you know what to walk. Let's say this--I took a vicodon today and it didn't even dull the pain. So I had an x-ray today. I get the results tomorrow.

Crazy thing is, I have no idea how it happened! Tyler stepped on it about 3 1/2 wks ago, and it hurt really bad then. Dr said it's possible he fractured it by doing that. With me having Crohn's and the fifty million meds I am on and have been on, my bones aren't what they used to be.

AND THEN, Denny was talking to a guy at work Friday night. He was standing beside the guys truck. They finished talking and the guy pulled away, not realizing Denny had not moved. He ran over Denny's FOOT! And he doesn't drive a wee bitty car, NO! He drives this monsterous truck with big ol' mudding tires.

We make a great pair.

He saw on orthopedic surgeon today who says his arch is possibly crushed. He goes for an MRI on Wed, and gets the results on Thursday. If it is crushed, then he will have to have surgery. They will go in and put some screws and pins in. Isn't that lovely?

Life just keeps getting better!

I have more to say, but I needs to get Mr T up from his nap, or he won't go to sleep till midnight.

Lator gators!

Busy weekend!

2007-06-25T14:06:00.000-04:00

I can't believe HOW busy we were. Or at least it seemed that way, lol!

Mom and Dad brought the girls back home early Saturday morning. They had been with them since Tuesday. Bible School was at their church and my parents always keep them the entire week. It's a nice break for me. Next year, Tyler will be old enough to go to!

The Heritage Days parade was at 10, and Madison was walking with the Girl Scouts. So the rest of us headed up to watch the parade. We got rained on. lots. Fortunately, we live close enough that Denny walked back home and got us some umbrellas. Madison was so proud to be walking! She did such a good job and I got some great pictures.

Devon's bday party was supposed to be from 5-7 at the Decatur Pool. Christa called about 2:30 and said the swimming part would be cancelled due to the rain and chilly conditions. We headed over that way about 4. It was nice to go over there, because I haven't talked to Michele in weeks! We spent the entire night chatting away. The kids had a blast, despite the fighting. There was a range of kids there from 2 weeks to 10yrs.

Sunday, the church had a Bible School program. So the kids and I made the hour drive there. Madison got up and sang and did her verses, but Olivia wouldn't. It was nice to go to church and see some people I haven't seen in a long time. Mom and Dad took us out for lunch at Ponderosa. omg it was fantastic! Our Ponderosa went out a few months back, so we never get to eat there, unless we are in Portland. We headed out to their house afterwards. The girls helped Dad pick up sticks and pull weeds. Mom wasn't feeling well, so her, I and Tyler stayed inside.

After reading that all, it doesn't sound like we were to busy. But it sure seemed like it.

Do any of you read Post Secret? It is one of my FAVE sites. I can't wait to get up here on Sundays and read all the new secrets. I seriously think they get enough secrets that they could post new ones every day. I would love that. I love to read all those!

Some people are so rude!

2007-06-21T14:23:00.000-04:00

Tyler and I headed to Ft Wayne yesterday, as I needed to get blood drawn. I decided to do a little running around while we there. I wanted to hit Michael's, Hobby Lobby, Bath & Body Works and Target. So we are driving on a one way 4 lane road heading to HL, when I see a sign that says "right lane closed ahead". I am in the second to right lane, so I decide to stay put. The signs were clearly posted 1 mile to 1.5 miles ahead. PLENTY of time for drivers to get over to the lane I am in.

(you can probably see where this is heading, lol!)

I come upon the place where the R lane was closed. Some moron decided to wait till the last possible second to get over. In fact, I saw him flying, driving like a maniac in the R lane. I was determined NOT to slow down and let him in. NOTE: this wasn't a road where the traffic is slow. It's like a raceway. The lights are timed so you can hit every one green, the traffic flows really smoothly and FASTLY.

He speeds up even faster and had I not braked, he would of either hit me or the cones and the worker guys. Then, once in front of me, he proceeds to flip me off. Like it was my fault. Some people have such nerve! I rode his tail (lol--I know I shouldn't of, but I was mad!) until he weaved in and out of different lanes and turned off.

It just made me so mad! He had plenty of time to get over. The signs were clearly posted. ugh.
The funny part was, the entire left side of his SUV was crunched in. Obvious signs of road rage. lol