My Present Life

Windy day

2010-03-28T18:11:00.002-04:00

It's march ......It's still pretty cold.
Kyle got a kite yesterday just in time for today's wind.
How perfect.
we now call him the "kite Master"

Like it was yesterday

2010-03-08T02:29:00.003-05:00

It has been 5 years now. It should seem like a long time.

it doesn't.

It seems like only yesterday.

Today I was trying to think of what I could be doing in your memory, being that has been 5 YEARS. - I thought about trudging through the snow at the cemetery since it was such a beautiful day, I thought about Blogging, and I thought about the kids...That was the hardest. It always is. So often (when I am by myself) usually driving to or from work, staying up late at night on the computer, or the aftermath of a holiday get together - I will fall apart wishing I could still hear you.

When report cards came out and Kyle didn't do so hot, I wanted to hear you say there was nothing to worry about, and then we could have complained about his teachers, and you would have assured me that "he'll come on to it, you'll see". I also wanted to hear you congratulate Greg on his outstanding report card and tell him he was " smart just like his old gramp".

Vivian turned 5 this year - one of the last babies you whispered to - she is growing into such a sweet girl and I want to hear you tell me how she reminds you of me. And the fact that you never got to hold Kerrigan at all makes me so sad - you would be getting a real kick out her these days. you'd say "she's a pisser". and get a chuckle.

I didn't go to the cemetery, But I think we were all right where you would have wanted us. Doing just what you would want us to. We were having cake and ice cream to celebrate Grammas 85th and your great great granddaughter's 3rd birthdays. I waited until now - 2:00 in the morning to finally fall apart about it, like I said, I was thinking I should have done something for just you. But Corin reminded me that while we were at the farm today it was nice that we listened to "your music" for a bit. Hopefully you could hear it too....

Snow Day

2010-02-24T20:49:00.010-05:00

Its been long overdue - this mild winter we were having was bound to deliver a snowstorm worth talking about. I think we accumulated as much snow over the last 24 hours as we have since December.

I do not snowmobile, I do not ski, I do not enjoy the cold snowy commute to work and then the inevitable need to brush off the car and scrape the windshield before heading home. I normally do not care for snow. Today was different. the white blanket that fell from the sky over night and well into the day was beautiful, soft, quiet and abundant. we received a good foot of the white beauty - and it was thick, heavy, and PERFECT for snow fun.

Our snow business:

First looks of the morning revealed this....

Then late in the day, we frolicked with a sea monster and danced with our snowman.

Today I enjoyed the snow.

Later we topped off the evening with a warm bowl of homemade chili, and a craft project that hatched this beautiful "curly bird" we learned to do from this month's Family Fun magazine.

Good night snow day.

Winter break recap

2010-02-21T20:09:00.010-05:00

As many of you know, this week was Winter break for the kids. A whole week off .... a whole week of finding something for them to do. I think we did a pretty good job of entertaining. everyone survived it, and I have a lot of pictures with smiles to prove they had a good time

Monday I was able to have a day with all three kids too. Since I am pretty reluctant to do anything by myself with all three kids alone for fear that one of them (or me) could have a melt down at any moment in public - I was glad that Meme came with us to the BONKERS FUN CENTER to enjoy day with us as well, although we got through it incident free.

While we were at Bonkers, Kyle wanted to get a snow cone. I was a little reluctant because we had already eaten a pizza and a pitcher of soda, and the girls had already returned to bouncing. I said "go find out how much they are". Kyle came back with "$2" - I only had a 10.....I handed it to him and said" bring me the change". (I like to give him the Independence to put his money skills he learns at school to some use). He came back with the change alright! - $4......I didn't specify that the girls were not interested in a snow cone. Apparently he chose then, to start thinking of his sisters. Aawww.....but look who ended up with all three

Plenty of Tickets were won in the arcade to later change in for lots of "junk"

Did I mention all the jumping, and Bouncing and (tiring the kids out) laughter?

And togetherness

the kids had a great time - as so did I. It was nice to get out and do something with the kids on my day off as well, instead of the usual laundry detail.

Wednesday was Daddy's turn for a fun day. Mommy was glad the camera was brought along for this event. Meme did a great job of capturing the fun and I am very happy to get to see it from the comfort of my WARM living room. The kids have no problem withstanding the cold - Gary said they had a fantastic time tubing at Tubby Tubes. Vivian had so much fun, she didn't even want to take a hot dog break.

Kerrigan thought it was fun AFTER Daddy bought a ticket to be her tubing buddy.......The first trip up the hill, Kyle was told to make sure he went down with his sister.....again, it wasn't specified WHICH sister he was supposed to go with. Pretty soon Gary sees Kyle and Vivian sliding down the hill and Kerrigan was now where to be seen. The next kids down, asked if the little girl at the top of the hill that was Crying was ours.....So gary got a ticket and joined in the fun.

YAHOOOO!!! DADDY!

It seems the kids aren't the only Winter Games lovers in the family - On Saturday, Our family gathered at the farm for a little Winter Olympics Party to build up to the suspense of watching our man Apalo Ohno break the world record for most Olympic medals won in speed skating.

What is a party without fun food? - to get into the spirit,

we had marshmallow skiers and snowboarders, "half pipe" chicken salad sandwiches, Olympic bread rings topped with cream cheese and corresponding colored toppings, a coconut cake that looked like snow, some American flag carrying shrimp cocktails, and quartered iceberg lettuce mountains topped with ranch dressing, And finally some Gold medal baked corn casserole.

Decorations were ice skate centerpieces, Gold medals for all to wear, and various pictures and newspaper clippings adorned the tables.

then it was off to the living room to cheer for Apolo. You may think that our family finds the littlest reason to get together for great food, fun and laughter - you are right!- remember this party? Don't worry, there will be plenty more.

Kyle also did a little ice fishing over Vacation. A passion he seems to share with his Dad.

he gave a good effort on Saturday with his poppy on at the Lake Luzerne annual ice fishing tournament, but came up empty. not even a bite.

Him and Gary gave it another try on Sunday morning. A different lake.

BINGO - caught a couple of bass and them put them back. Gary captures this proud picture with his cell phone. The rest of the night, Kyle was asking if they could mount their next trophy fish.....cute - and a nice ending to a nice vacation.
now Back to the grindstone.

Valentines down Memory Lane

2010-02-14T17:29:00.005-05:00

Valentines day has never been one of my favorite holdays...Not for any particular reason. I have never been scorned badley and wished the day of love never existed - I guess I just never thought it was any big deal. Gary doesn't ever go out of his way to be romantic on February 14th, but nor do I .....I guess we just know we love eachother all year round - we don't need to pick out just one day to say it. So anyway, today is Valentines day - Gary worked last night, so had to sleep all day today, and.....we got eachother....nothing....for Valentines day. Actually, I didn't really think about it until my sister, who does as little as possible to be "mushy" to her husband, even got him a Valentine Card.....I still did nothing. This morning at coffee and Donuts at the farm, my mother told me that her and my father had come across our wedding video (on VHS). We talked about how cute my niece and nephew had been that day, and of some of the amusing moments captured on tape.....Got me thinking.....Awwww, it's Valentines day, Gary and I are approaching our 10th Wedding anniversary this summer,.....our life story together really began on Valentines day.....in 1992.

I had actually called up a friend of Gary's and invited him to come to a Valentines dance at my school. I was interested in him...I don't even remember if I knew who Gary was at that time...I think I just knew of him. If you knew who the friend was, you know that even entertaining the idea of a relationship with him makes me cringe and thank goodness for unfulfilled wishes....

That Friend showed up at the dance, and brought Gary with him. They were from the rival school, and it was always wise to come in pairs. The friend was the real outgoing one - too outgoing - So outgoing that he danced with just about every girl at the dance EXCEPT me.... but it was all good - Gary came to my rescue - he asked me to dance. he listened to me complain about the inconsiderate friend, and he became the guy I was glad came to the dance. After a week and a few phone calls later, Gary asked me to "Go out" ( go steady, be his girlfriend, - however you called it when you were 15) ......That was February 23rd.

Really long story short - Gary and I have been together ever since. It will be 18 years next week. At about 3:00 this afternoon, my Mom showed up with a DVD copy of our wedding for us. Our Valentine's Gift. I seriously thought the kids would just be so interested in watching it with us. NOPE. they really could have cared less. So we watched it from start to finish, remarking on how different we - and everyone else looks. It was hard to see the loved ones who have passed away since then, but in some respects it is great to be able to see them again. My sister's kids were just the cutest and I am aspiring to be back to that "pre-children" size again by the time we walk down the isle at Gary's sister's wedding (august).

And now it is 6:30 at night, Gary is back at work for another 12 hour shift........Happy Valentine's Day Hun.

Crazy for you

2010-02-13T10:38:00.003-05:00

Crazy hat day at school for Kyle.

We had to improvize. - Kyle only owns 2 hats and they are NOT crazy.

So here is our version of a crazy hat. Iguess you could call it WILD and Crazy.

*No animals were perminently sewn on in the making of this hat*

Catch Up Time

2010-02-10T22:21:00.002-05:00

Have you all given up on me? Have you stopped following me all together? I hope not, but wouldn't blame you if you did. It's not that I didn't think about blogging over the past month and 1/2... - I thought about it all the time. Just couldn't bring my tired butt out to the computer room to fight with our annoying dial-up connection long enough to get the stories out. checking facebook, and pushing the "like" button was about all I could muster.
So we have a lot to catch up on. I have great news - I am a born again blogger - I have the tools and equipment again to get caught up to speed and continue telling the stories of our chaotic life. I hope you are all thrilled........kidding
I am just going to list what has happened since my last blog. I won't try to cram all the details.

*Christmas of course came and went - My sister-in-law became engaged, and all 5 of us are now in the midst of wedding plans - I will be the Matron of Honor, Gary will be a groomsman, the girls will be flower girls and Kyle will be the handsome ring bearer....needless to say we are all very excited, and My diet is BACK ON! - six months to lose 30 more pounds.

*Shorty after new years, We had an accident in the van...not my fault...Stupid woman turned in front of me at a green light. She got the ticket, Van was totalled, it has been in the shop ever since......still waiting to hear when we can pick it up. (this would have been a major blog post) It has been 4 weeks......rental only covered 5 days. I want my van back......Does this always happen 2 months after you make the final payment?

* Vivian turned 5 in January.....5! I can't believe it. She is quite the little lady. Soon she will be off to kindergarten....then college.

* I have been battling with Kyles teachers ever since his conference. His progress just never seems to be good enough or fast enough for them. he increased his reading from 24 words per minute to 56 WPM - but the note that came home, says he should be at 85!....They want him to finish a math test of 100 math facts in 5 minutes and get 85 of them right. Kyle can only get through 53 of them in 5 minutes. He gets a 43% for a grade, even if all 53 of them are correct......Stop me if this is normal for second grade, but I am thinking they are off their rockers. Now I am worrying that come June, they are going to want him to repeat the grade - I don't feel he needs to ..........this should be it's own post I'm sure.

* we Filed and received income taxes already, and of course had umpteen things we had in mind to spend it on.....things we needed. The first thing we did, was order new - "urine free" couch and love seat....Our old furniture had seen better days - stuffing peeking out from the top, springs poking up through the base, the need to lay on it just right and careful so you didn't fell the wooden board right across your lower back......yeah - it was time. we found LEATHER! and I am in love.

*we also had to get a new vacuum cleaner. It seems like we go through a vacuum cleaner each year. we have tried all different kinds. let me count......yup I do believe that in the 9 1/2 years we have been married, we have owned 5 vacuum cleaners. I don't think that is normal. Well folks, we have bought our LAST vacuum cleaner! - we splurged on one called the GARRY. yup - we came across this infomercial one night about a vacuum cleaner with a lifetime - no questions asked- warranty, lifetime supply of bags, and a free steam mop......it also helped that we were giggling about the vacuum and my husband having the same name....and women raving about their garrys. "I just Love my Garry". (me too)
- other refund money is "earmarked" for Gary's Jeep repaires

* Kerrigan is officially the boss of the house.

ok - that is the last month in a nutshell. not my ideal way of easing back into blogging - but I just felt like we needed to catch up first.

I'll be back soon.....stay tuned - thanks

Amusing conversations

2009-12-04T12:33:00.002-05:00

If you really listen to your children talk, you can hear some pretty funny conversations.

kyle: (to me)" Do you know *anna smtih* ?"
me: "No - is she in your class?"
Kyle: "yes and she" (try to hear this said in a very annoyed/embarrassed/whiny-head shaking voice) "she said she has a crush on me...."
Me: "oh yeah? did she tell you that? - what did you say to her?"
Kyle - "I couldn't say anything - she ran away"

Kyle: (after my reaction wasn't one of disgust) " I know - all the girls think I'm handsome"
Me: "Smart Girls! - don't let them get you into trouble in school." (he doesn't need help in that dept)

WE ARE IN FOR IT

Last night as the kids were raising h . e . double hockey sticks in the living room - running and wrestling.....My dainty / girlie Vivian turned to her brother real serious, put her legs into a steady stance, motioned real slow with her finger and said BRING IT!!!!

I could have peed my pants laughing

This Morning Kerrigan was listening to Kyle (the expert on everything ) tell her and show her on a 5 dollar bill that the man on it is Abraham Lincoln......He was a president....."and did you know? - he is on the Penny too!
Oh my gosh - you would have thought kyle just told her the most interesting thing in the world - her reaction was so cute......
Kerrigan: " oh WOW! I love it Kyle! COOL!

(was she just amusing him? how could a 2 year old think that was interesting? )

I love to listen to them interact with each other when they are not poking/hitting/pinching/teasing and trying to get the other one in trouble.........Doesn't happen all that often. I'm soaking it up.

* name changed to protect the innocent*

E is for Effort....

2009-11-20T12:44:00.007-05:00

I had made a list of my concerns.

I was pumped and prepared.

I was "going it alone" without hubby - cause I was going to "handle it".

I was off to kyle's.............da da dunnnn........PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE!

Kyle comes home from school every day ."How was school today buddy?" - "Good" he says. Then sometimes he elaborates if he has a complaint. Some of his complaints are that this kid said this, or everyone distracts me in class so I couldn't finish my work. He even told me that one of his teacher yells at him if he doesn't use his reading "strategies" correctly. When it comes to homework time, Kyle tries everything he can think of to stall, or get out of it, but eventually finishes 4-6 workbook pages a night and then we read a story. Truth is, I hate it just as much as he does.

So I had it in my head moments before this parent teacher conference, that I was going to question a few of her teaching methods.....I was going to give her a little insight on what makes kyle tick....I was going to suggest that Kyle be given some special time for show and tell or something...anything that would make him look forward to going to school once in a while.

but about 30 seconds into the conference, right after our introductions.....to his main teacher, plus the extra teacher in the room that helps the reading groups, plus kyle's extra extra reading help teacher that he has to go to 3 times a week... I would have rather been having a root canal.

This is my third Parent teacher conference since his school carear started. At his Kindergarten conference, I was expecting to hear about some behavior issues. That wasn't the case. His biggest issue in Kindergarten was the teacher. She couldn't make up her mind weather she wanted him to color in the lines, which he started to do, or hurry up and get it done because there was a time limit! I was so happy when Kindergarten was over. First grade was a breeze, he loved his teacher, she thought he was such a pleasure, reveled in his imagination and his love for nature and science. Apparently every year is going to be different!....... I need a crystal ball - cause I was caught off guard this year- let me tell ya!

it's amazing the way we feel about our children. No matter how frustrating Kyle can be at home on a daily basis, or how infuriated I get when he doesn't listen,... I love him. I love him so much. As a mother, you can overlook these things and see the best in your children. not to say that I don't recognize that issues need to be taken care of and he needs to be taught lessons, but for me to know these things and have these thoughts in my head are one thing - to hear his teacher spout off her disappointments in my son and that her concerns for his reading level are dangerously high because he refuses to put forth effort....that they are just at a loss as to how to get through to kyle....That they weren't going to let him sit there and think his cuteness was going to cut it in her classroom!
well this kind of talk makes a mama bear want to protect her baby!

I first thought that I could combat her accusations of Kyle's laziness with my thoughts on how her classroom is run. I voiced my concerns about distractions and boring lessons and ......then it became no use. She described Kyles typical day, how much effort they put into trying to teach Kyle, and how much extra time they have put in one on one with him hoping that something will finally click, but that he has exhausted them. ...... I didn't have a leg to stand on. the behavior she described, is the same behavior that drives me nuts at home too... I had to put aside the feelings I had of defense. I had to sit and listen to 3, not just one , 3 teachers tell me that my son puts forth no effort at all when it comes to reading. He will simply not complete assignments or tests if he feels it is too much writing. He "pretends" he doesn't know the answers in hopes that he won't have to try. She even had charts to prove his "NON-progress".
It was really hard to listen to

So as we continued to discuss his problems, she assured me that she does not believe Kyle has a learning disability. She is sure he is smart enough to achieve the reading level he needs to strive towards. but she had the nerve to try and pin his absences (aka a Disney vacation) on me as contributing to his delay. I didn't let her get away with that. I agreed that we needed to have a discussion with Kyle. To come to an understanding that this attitude toward school was not going to make reading just go away, and we were going to set goals.

I think I heard some positive remarks come out of those women.....they were few and far between, but they did mention that he has a science vocabulary of no one they have ever heard at his age. they were very impressed with his use of the words translucent and transparent during a few science lessons...science has always been his interest, and therefore is definitely his strong subject......but to explain the 51% average he has in science right now? - he wouldn't complete the unit test because he had to read it and answer the questions with sentences..........UUUUUGGGGHHHH! I took the teacher's e-mail addresses and assured them that I would be in contact with them soon- I wanted to be more informed of Kyles progress so that come spring, I am not in the dark on weather my child will be moving on to 3rd grade, or if he has been sitting in class doing nothing for 9 months.

I barely left that classroom before I was in tears.......I cried the whole 6 miles home. I don't know if I was feeling that kyle's behavior is somehow a reflection of our parenting...I think that was part of why I was upset. But mostly I was worried that Kyle was so far below his grade level for reading that it was going to take a miracle for him to catch up. On top of that - I was just plain frustrated! - I couldn't go home like that. I couldn't let him see me crying about it. I had to pull myself together - so I stopped at my mom's.

I walked in her house and burst out crying again - I said "it is so hard to hear such negative comments about your kids". Of course my mom made me feel a little better about it as she reminded me of a few parent teacher conferences she attended on my behalf where she was informed that I spent too much time in the class bathroom checking my hair and playing with my earrings and talking too much. a few report cards were brought home with comments like "does not work to full potential". She assured me that "this too shall pass". Kyle is just seeing how far he can play the teachers. - well I pulled myself together and then headed home to have a talk with my little wise @$$. He was going to realize that I now know what has been going on....and his teacher and I have now opened the lines of communication.

I couldn't believe that I had to explain the importance of school....again!....but I did. He looked ashamed when I told him of what I had learned. I assured him that both his teachers and I KNOW that he is definitely smart enough to learn to read.....and that it was time to show them just how smart. We came up with some goals for him to reach. First goal being, to work hard enough at his reading to get out of ONE of the extra help classes. The next goal will to be out of all the extra help.
I have to tell you I am not above bribery. I told him that if he meets his goals, he could earn something special. But I also told him that he didn't show improvement, he would be losing privileges. ie: his DSi, his turn at spending the night at Meme's and the T.V. and those times will be made up with more time reading at home

I am happy (yet still shaking my head) to report that in the last 2 days of school, Kyle says his teachers told him he was "on fire" in reading class.....and his extra help teacher told him he might not have to come to her anymore very soon................don't worry, I will be e-mailing to confirm these reports. and if they are true, I may strangle him for putting on such a silly ACT at school. doesn't he know you are supposed to ACT smarter? - not dumber than you are? Yes ladies and gentlemen....our children are our pride and joy. no matter what.

They can't be fooled.

2009-11-13T12:25:00.003-05:00

Last time I was at the Grocery store, I found a box of pierogies in the freezer section. not a big box, but I wanted to get it so the kids could try them ( cause I know I like them ). One problem.....Pierogies are like pasta "pockets" filled with mashed potatoes and cheese and such......Vivian hates potatoes. (so she says without giving them a real try).

Anyway, Last weekend it was just me and the girls. Kyle was having his overnight at meme's and Gary was working. I showed the girls the box of pierogies and explained that they were for dinner. I also "fibbed" and told Vivian they were filled with just cheese.

So I went about sauteing them in butter and veggies. When they made it to the girl's plates, Viv and Kerrigan took a BIG bite. VIVIAN looked right at me and said - "i don't like them!"

Miss Kerrigan took about 3 more bites and then also let me know she did not like them.....but she added " I taste POTATOES!" (normally Kerrigan likes potatoes, but she was following Vivian's lead of course)

So I learned I can't fool the girls into enjoying a pierogie. Next time I get them, I will try them out on Kyle. I saw a recipe for pierogies and shrimp that I think he would like. If not, More for me again!

OUR TRIP IN PICTURES

2009-11-03T12:47:00.014-05:00

We are back! - I am sooo tired and sooooo busy at work - I don't have the time right now to give you the play by play.........So for now, I will just be posting our lovely pictures. believe it or not this is only a few - I took a ton! Hopefully soon I will be able to tell you some of the funny and memorable moments.

the anticipation of their first airplane ride.
everything was smooth as butter!

look at the troopers carrying their own luggage through the orlando airport

Kerrigan made herself at home on one of the bunkbeds in our Cabin.

we stayed at the Fort Wilderness Campground

First park we visited was Animal Kingdom

Safari Ride

Great Parade

The next day we were off to Magic Kingdom. Here we are on "it's a small World"

Tuesday we went to Epcot. That park turned out to be the most fun! We Loved Epcot!

Nemo was fantastic - great entertainment for Kyle

The light show around the countries at epcot was also a highlight

Meme, Gary And Viv

The princesses on their way down Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom - On our way to have Breakfast with Cinderella - in the Castle......a Definate Highlight for Kerrigan and Vivian

Dining with Sleeping Beauty

What a doll

Pony rides for the girls - Kerrigan's first

Hollywood studios was thursday's event - 90 degree day - fffeeewww

The kids really enjoyed Honey I shrunk the Kids play area

Hanging out at the Campground!

Halloween

Downtown Disney with the family made of Leggos

Great Lunch - very entertaining in the T-REX Cafe Trick Or Treat

And One last Disney photo op at the Orlando Airport before we board the plain back to home sweet home!

3....2...1...

2009-10-23T14:12:00.002-04:00

DISNEY

BUST!!!

SEE

Y'ALL

WEEK

A dash of FATE and a sprinkle of change

2009-10-21T12:16:00.007-04:00

A lot of you know the story of how we came to live in the house that we live in. For those of you who don't, I will try to make it brief. The house that my husband and I bought 9 years ago as newlyweds, just happens to be my Grandparents "old" house. (built by my great uncle Joe in around 1955). The house my Mother grew up in. The house that as a child, I would run up the path from my house whenever I had the chance, to visit with grampa hoddie and gramma claire. Heck I practically lived in their in-ground pool during the summers (which caused my blonde hair to turn green every year). The accessibility that I had to family on our street was one of my favorite things - and still is today. It is a perk to living on land that was once a part of the "family farm". Well, when Great Grampa Frank passed away, my grandparent's decision to sell their home and move 2 houses up to the farm house was a necessary one for them. I was about 11 or 12 years old at the time. **sniff**...no more pool, the path was no longer traveled, and I missed that house. I missed the bathroom mirror that opened so far you could see all around your head, I missed the memories of how cold it felt to come in from the pool into the air conditioned living room, the memories of learning to ride my bike in the driveway, and jumping all around the lawn on my pogo stick, and being paid 50 cents per bag of leaves that I could rake up. Yup - they sold the house to a family from "the city" - they were pretty nice i guess, they borrowed stuff once in a while, but sadly, I never went there again. eventually,after about 11 more years, that family fell on hard times and illness. and the house fell into Foreclosure. JUST so happens this was all falling into place the year Gary and I were getting married and wondering where we were going to call home. It started out a long and involved process of "finessing" the bank into a short sale of the property. TO US! I think the first correspondence was in February of 2000, and we finally had the closing that Fall. It was Fate! - and it was ours. to be honest, at first it didn't really feel like our's. It was in need of such fixing up, that it didn't feel like Grandmas anymore either. but as we dove into the repairs, I found myself wanting to keep the silly things that I remembered as a child the same. The bathroom mirror was still there - I painted it up pretty again and requested it be back in the bathroom. Unfortunately the pool had been destroyed, and with lack of funds to replace it, we filled in the hole - but the landscaping around it is untouched, and I have other plans for the "silly" looking circle we have in the backyard. All of these "un-changes" were reminders of my childhood. As the nine years have gone by, and our family has blossomed, Their are a lot of things I realize we need to change. But their is so much that I am glad remains the same - My kids are learning to ride their bikes in the same driveway - Kyle bounces all over the yard on his pogo stick. The path between us and my Mother's house is worn again, and the same easy access to family brings me all the comfort in the world.
The reason I got thinking about all of this and wanted to blog it, was because we Just had another major change. The yard has always been outlined with tall spruce trees. They were planted when I was just a baby - or maybe before, I'm not sure. they were great for privacy, they were great for assurance that no kids could get to the busy street. What they were not great for, was the power company. After years of the power company going by and ~~butchering~~ cutting them away from the power lines, they died. They were resembling skeletons of trees past.

They were pretty ugly. So we contacted the power company last year and asked if they would just cut them down next time. They agreed that the next time they were scheduled to cut on our street, that they would take care of whatever would fit in the chipper. That time was today! major major change to our yard. - Although I think it is a good one - my mind is reeling about how I am going to utilize the front yard now - what landscaping I will dedicate next summer to. It is very exciting. Don't worry - I took pictures (for you Janie!) as you can see, there is still a lot of cleanup to do on our part. I will update you in the spring.

now if I could only talk the power company into putting the lines under ground so they weren't so .......... power liney looking!

Mini Them's...........Long story short

2009-10-16T12:17:00.005-04:00

I had Monday and Tuesday off! - by Wednesday, I was ready to go back to work (I know - I feel like such an ungrateful mother sometimes) BUT - I had spent most of those 2 days trying to clean the house! I had high expectations, I even washed the living room curtains! but as the day went on, I felt like I was spinning my wheels. By Tuesday, I was just plain angry about it. It didn't look any cleaner, (or less cluttered) than it had on Sunday!!!! and to top it all off - I could tell the Kids were feeling a little attention deprived because they were being just plain NAUGHTY! - so I decided to drop what we were doing and head out into the awesome, fresh, clean, autumn air and frolic and play a little.......

We did THIS:

But the house is still a mess.......

Counting Down....

2009-10-09T12:41:00.002-04:00

4 hours until I am on a long weekend
8 hours until an out of town relative who we have never met comes to stay at my mom's for a week!
8 hours 30 minutes until that said relative will think my kids are crazy, and we will need to head home.
1 day until one of the kids asks to go to a toy store for some "junk"
2 days until our Sunday Morning coffee ritual at the farm - I look forward to it so much. This Sunday will include the out of town relatives.
3 days 'til I have to really buckle down and get things packed and organized for Disney
6 days until payday - oh gosh , stretching 'til then SUCKS
14 days until we will be staying up all night long because we are too excited to sleep - leaving for Disney in the morning!
15 days until the 9 of us will board that plane to Disney in disbelief that the day has finally arrived!
22 days until Halloween - where we will be trick or treating AT Disney!
23 days until the Disney Vacation of a lifetime is over and we are heading back home.
23 days 6 hours 'til we collapse from exhaustion and have to think about getting up for work in the morning.

A little late to blog about it

2009-09-24T12:49:00.000-04:00

So here are the pictures of the kids on their first days of school....... Kyle (reluctantly) has entered 2nd grade

Vivian is in her Second year of preschool - she will be five in January which makes her one of the older kids in her class. She loves school and can't wait to go - She of course wanted her hair straight for the first day....

Potty Trained "CHECK!"

2009-09-23T12:21:00.002-04:00

One of the things on our "to do" list before Disney vacation, was to hopefully have Kerrigan Potty trained. some said "why bother, it will probably be easier if she wasn't. no running to find a bathroom." Well, in case you don't know Vivian and Kyle - we are running to find a bathroom ANYWAY. I am so sick of buying Diapers. We have been buying them non-stop for 7 1/2 years now. we would get one out of diapers just in time to have another one and start all over again, just littler sizes. I'm not saying we are totally out of the Diaper market, we still need to buy a package now and again for bedtime......ssshhh.... I don't buy those expensive pull ups or Goodnights. I buy the plain old store brand in a size 5 - the jumbo pack.......and I put that size 5 on both Kerrigan and Vivian at bed time. they fit Kerrigan just right, with a little room left. Vivian - not so much - you have to position the tabs just right to get them to stay put, but she only has an accident once in a while (usually the nights I don't get a chance to get one on her). She deals with the tight pants and doesn't complain. so we are good.

Kerrigan is now 2 years, and 3 months old - She is potty trained. phewwwww...another fairly easy one. Our daycare provider is thrilled, she says she still has 4 year old boys crapping their pants!

Vivian and kerrigan were both easily trained - Vivian practically trained herself. Kerrigan was real good for a while back in April - she spent all day on the potty cause she loved to, then she gave up - we didn't push it again until summer - she got undies for her birthday, and was so excited, so Gary (the one home with her most of the time) started making sure he reminded her to go potty. And the results are in - she is officially daytime potty trained.

I don't believe there is some magical formula to potty training kids - other than to relax about it. We tried the small child's potty with Kyle, and a video, stickers and lollipops for using the potty, and books about pottying, and drove ourselves nuts when he would ask for underwear, and then 2 minutes later end up peeing them. - lots of laundry.

So with the girls, we found that they enjoyed using the BIG potty, we didn't bribe them with candy, or stickers. It was just a matter of fact event - which if successful, ended with a short "potty dance" and a high five! and then encouraged them to go brag about it around the house " I went potty!"

Disney is 30 days away - I am relieved I only have to pack about 10 diapers, not 35 - and I plan on stopping at the potties throughout the parks as I come to them and making all 3 of them use it before moving on........if one of them says "I have to go pee".....guess what - they are all going to try.

Next on the list --------PACKING!

Shelber - Man!

2009-09-21T19:19:00.006-04:00

I'd like to take this time to introduce you to our new addition. ( I know, I say that a lot on my blog - seems like every other month, I am introducing you to or mourning our latest pet).

This is SHELBY. - aka Shelber Man. He is a 3 year old Yorkie. The kids became very fond of niece Reagan's little pint sized yorkie, and I happened to hear of a woman who was giving away her 2 yorkies "to a good home."So I decided to surprise the kids. Like I said, she was giving away 2. - Gary and I agreed that we would offer to take 1. and only 1. if she didn't have the heart to separate them, then the kids were none the wiser. The lady's reasoning for finding them a new home was to find a family who would have time for them. She works outrageous hours at her job, and was feeling quite sad that the dogs were couped up in their cages for the entire day. It was a hard decision for her - believe me - I witnessed her crying as I "removed" the dog from her house.

Shelby is used to adults. Quiet. other small dogs. Quiet. Adults.......I think he was in shock for the first couple of days in this madhouse. - First thing he did was show sandler who was boss. If sandler came within 5 feet of him, or even looked at him, Shelby was right up in his face growling (which I assume means back off big dog, or else) Poor sandler was practically cowering in the corner. I am pleased to report that his aggressiveness toward sandler has subsided, and they can coexist in the same room now. Actually shelby prefers to go to the bathroom outside as long as Sandler accompanies him now.

It is definitely different having a lap dog around. Sandler has been unable to fit on our laps for about -forever- So it is kinda nice to have a little dog who can't wait for you to sit down, so he can curl up on your lap. Shelby has taken a liking to Kyle the most out of the kids. I guess he can sense the animal lover in him. He tolerates Vivian - he has to....She takes him in her bedroom and closes the door so he cannot escape her. He runs from Kerrigan like she is some horrible Giant disgusting creature here to snatch him away to eat him.....(that's how i interpret the look on his face). But she eventually catches him, and he gives in, lets her carry him around like an old teddy bear in one arm. biding his time until he gets the chance to scurry away.

aaahhhh fun times.

So I had made an appointment to bring shelby to the groomer. He was to get an all over cut, bath, nails clipped, and ears cleaned. Gary seemed a little shocked when I told him it would cost $30. He said " we don't even pay for ourselves to get haircuts"! He is right, and with Disney only being about a month away, it seemed like wasteful spending, so I decided to try a hand at dog grooming. YUP - I think I can add this to my list of talents...... I have no Idea if I did it right, but he seemed to enjoy the experience, and he feels softer, and looks so darn cute with his little mustache. I think he looks more manly - the name shelby, and that long hair he had, just wasn't convincing.

I enjoy ShelberMan!

DWTS

2009-09-21T12:54:00.002-04:00

DANCING WITH THE STARS - Season 9 starts tonight!

Ladies and Gentleman, If you need me for anything on Monday or Tuesday nights, I will be glued to the television from approx. 8:00 - 10:00.

As you may remember, We are Huge DWTS fans. Too early to tell who my favorites are going to be. Unfortunately, Just by the looks of Cheryl Burk's Partner, we will be saying farewell to her pretty early on........ My initial hope lies in this season's hunkie young man Aaron Carter - I will be anxious to see what he's got.

Other than him, I think Kathy Irland may have a shot at being popular. She's got the beauty, lets see if she's got the rhythm.

Just wanted to share this

2009-09-15T12:14:00.004-04:00

I know I haven't blogged in forever, and I feel really bad......like literally.....I feel the NEED to blog!.....I have a lot of catching up to do. A lot has been going on, so when I finally have time - or access to a faster computer that isn't at work (if I can't do it at lunch - I can't do it) - I will be able to fill you all in on Labor Day, First day of school pictures, OUR NEW DOG!, and my new attempt at exercise. (yes mr. kelley, I am still determined to lose weight before Disney.)

I know you will all be on the edges of your seats because everyone and their brother wants to hear about my life.......lol

But for right now, I just wanted to share this adorable picture I took of Kerrigan at the Labor day picnic at the farm.

Makes me smile, that's for sure!:

An End Of Summer Favorite

2009-09-02T12:15:00.004-04:00

From the Family Garden.......

CORN!!!

We didn't seem to have much time this year to help plant the corn.......help grow the corn......but I am thankful we have the go-ahead to help pick the corn.........And EAT the corn!

Thanks Grampa Mark - the corn is sooooo Delicious!

We are Very Lucky.

Freddie update

2009-08-24T07:52:00.005-04:00

This is Freddie when we first got him as a hatchling. I am not positive on a measurement, but I would say back then, in January, he was about 6 inches from nose to tail.

We were told when we bought him, that they learn to love their owners and become very social with them. Kyle would be able to take him out of his cage and interact, (and kyle was hoping - take him for a walk). But believe it or not, Kyle was a bit skittish after Freddie began to grow, and I think Freddie could sense that. Freddie did his own thing, entertaining us from inside his tank, and Kyle took care of his needs as a great lizard owner From the outside. Kyle figures, Freddie was pretty wiggly and we didn't need an escaped dragon on the loose in our house......that could spell disaster for sure. While visiting the pet store yesterday, we inquired to what looked to us like a bearded dragon expert (he claimed to own 3 of them) and he worked there, about the habits of our beardie. He explained to Kyle that when picking him up, he should do so making sure that his back legs are supported in his hand. This will make him feel safer and more relaxed when being handled.

As soon as we returned home, ~~Freddie was being mauled~~ Kyle tested out this new handling strategy........It worked! soon Freddie seemed very comfy with Kyle picking him up and soon kyle had him perched right on his shirt. I couldn't believe it!

So here is Freddie again Folks, He is about 8 months old now and I bet he has more than doubled in size. And doing very well!

A Marriage Story

2009-08-19T12:05:00.006-04:00

Once Upon A Time..... Not too long ago, ( 9 years ago today to be exact), 2 high school sweethearts said "I Do" in a small Chapel on a lake. It was here that a new chapter in their lives began.
A year and 1/2 later, they were blessed with a son. A young prince to fill their lives with joy. Wife stayed home to tend to the little prince and their castle, while husband worked outside the castle. A few more years passed and this little family grew a little bigger as they welcomed their first princess. A prince and a princess, one of each - who could ask for anything more? well, how about one more little princess? yes indeed this castle is full -of love! Wife decided that both her and husband needed to be working outside the castle in order for things to run more smoothly. And so they learned to Juggle - juggle work schedules, family time and chores. (It turns out that husband is a better castle cleaner and clothes washer than wife.) Husband and wife feel very busy, and that there lives couldn't possibly be fuller.
with each passing day, they remember to say I love you, and often reminisce about times past - before there were a prince and princesses. - it seems so long ago - yet they feel today they are having the best times of their lives. And so on nights when they have time to themselves (try to find one of those!) they sit back and relax, plan a few future alterations to the castle, and reflect on their love of each other, their children and their future together. Their pockets are pretty empty, but their hearts are RICH. they know their story is one of happily ever after.

Happy Anniversary Husband............Love, Wife

~~THE~~ ~~END~~ ..........TO BE CONTINUED........FOREVER

***disclaimer**** I am not responsible for feelings of sickness after reading all this mush. Obviously their life is not always roses - but for purposes of a fairytale, other emotions have been left out.

Blogable Moments?

2009-08-05T12:11:00.003-04:00

My sister once ~~commented~~ asked, jokingly, "do your kids know that everything they do can be considered a blogable moment?"
Then this weekend, while my mother-in-law was in the car with our ~~crazy~~ joyful family, she said (after witnessing our craziness) "now I understand why you have so much to blog about!"

I have to admit, I think our little family of multiple personalities come up with some doozies that feed my desire to blog. trouble is, sometimes there are so many, I spend too much time thinking about which ones to blog about, I run out of time to blog about them......hence the last time I blogged was a week and 1/2 ago.
There have been many blogable moments over the past 2 weeks that I wish I had mentioned - so guess what?... I'm going to mention them all right now. - a condensed version.

1. Kerrigan has an obsession with flip flops. She has been taking over Vivian's flip flops for about a month now. She doesn't care that they are 2 sizes too big. She can indeed run in them (most of the time). If she can't find two matching flops, she is not above mixing and matching. She has a meltdown if she spills her milk, and the milk gets on her flip flops.....and I might be able to get her to take them off when she goes to bed.

2. Our latest experience at the drive thru of Micky D's:
Gary: you guys hungry? you want to go thru the drive thru?
viv: No...
Kerrigan: (head shake NO)
Kyle: I just want a hot fudge Sundae

Gary : O - k ? (that never happens)
Kyle: Vanilla Ice Cream Dad!!!!!
Gary : OK

Gary orders a hot fudge sundae and pulls up to the next window....

Kyle: Dad, I didn't want hot fudge - I just wanted Vanilla Ice Cream!

Gary pays for the unwanted hot fudge sundae and then orders a plain Vanilla.
we get the ice cream and pass it to the back of the van to kyle. Gary pulls away.

Kerrigan: WHERE'S MY CHICKEN NUGGETS???????

3. We picked a million green beans out of the Garden on Saturday and spent the morning washing, cutting, and bagging them up. When we took our share home, we headed out to the store for Bean and Potato soup ingredients. As soon as the soup was done cooking, we put it in Tupperware, and headed to the Cemetery.....( what's the matter, you've never had dinner at the Cemetery?) We set out our folding chairs and enjoyed Grampa Hoddie's favorite meal - with him! Vivian outwardly and quite loudly RAVED about how "totally good" the soup was, and she was going to "totally eat the whole thing"! Gramp was chuckly I'm sure.

4. Today I will see my husband clean shaven ( go -T -less) for the first time since he was about 18! - I am a little nervous. at 18 and no facial hair, he still had the hair on his head......now his whole head will be naked! He has to be clean shaven for the physical fitness portion of his exam he is taking to become a correction officer. Keep your fingers crossed! Think speed at around 5:30 - he needs to run the 300 meter dash in 66 seconds......and we have no idea how far 300 meters looks like.....nice huh?

AND LASTLY :

5. - yesterday, Gary informs me at 3:45, before leaving work, that he borrowed his dad's boat......we were heading to the river for a relaxing ride after work....

I had a great idea - lets ask my parents to go ( My mom is a nervous Nellie - especially on a boat.....with 3 kids) but It was going to be fun !

Gary packed up Kyle and Viv, Headed out first with the boat. Kerrigan and I ran to his Mom's to get the kid's life jackets, stop to get drinks for the cooler, then swing up to get my Mom and dad, and we would all meet at the boatlaunch........dun..dun...dunnnnnn

We arrived at the boat launch just in time to see a good Samaritan with a pontoon boat, pulling my hubby and 2 children in the boat up to the dock by a rope. They had taken off in the boat, circled around for a little bit before they heard a load clunk, and the motor stopped.
Our relaxing boat ride was over before it began. My mom and dad went back home, and we returned the boat to it's home with a big band-aid. whoops........ It wasn't until later that Gary told me that him and kyle were actually paddling upstream, trying to get back to the boat launch, when the man came out and offered them a pull. Whew If that had happened with Nervous Cindy on board, She surely would have thought we were doomed. Next time I ask my parents to go for a boat ride.........Mom will probably pass.

These stories brought to you by BLOGABLE MOMENTS

"Utterly" Interesting.....

2009-07-28T21:35:00.012-04:00

Back about 25 years ago, when my parents were 'knee deep" in the art of farming, they had become friends with another couple who shared in their interest of small scale farming. On our family farm there were a few cows (to us kids, they were more like pets with affectionate names like milky, agness and cookie), some pigs, turkeys and at one point a lamb. The other couple also had a similar sized farm with cows, but in a much more common farming area with fantastic views out their back yard of fields and green rolling hills of corn that seemed to go on forever. they were two young couples with young families and a lot in common. They had 3 children, their oldest was a boy about 4 years younger than me. I can vividly remember him being a farming fanatic. He and his father lived and breathed their farm. At one of the get togethers, I believe I was around 7 yrs old and He (Danny) must have been about 3 or 4, I was entertaining him by playing farm with him. he had stood the couch cushions up as a fence, and I became the "cow" on his farm. When I didn't want to play anymore, and started to exit the "gate" ,......I was scolded and told to "GET BACK IN THAT MILK'N PARLOR!!!! even back then, Danny's life long dream was to own his very own dairy farm.

Over the years our families lost touch, his parents got divorced, They sold their farm, and ours became the "family farm" without animals, just the seasonal Garden. Sure, now and then we would run into them and hear about a graduation, or a wedding. Then a few years ago, we heard that Dan had sure enough, started his own dairy farm. It has been a couple years now, that we have been wanting to plan a trip back over to those green acres to check out this Dairy Farm. Corin ran into his mother in town last week, and word of Danny's farm was mentioned again - on Sunday, Corin and I decided to take the kids on a little field trip......we were off to Argyle (farm country) to check out the "Ridgeview Dairy farm" - and hopefully catch up with Farmer Dan. The last time I had seen Dan - he was about the size of my son.

We arrived at the farm about 12:30. there was no one around for a while, so we poked around - peered in some windows and chatted with the friendly Dog. After a while, Dan's Girlfriend greeted us and lead us into the barn. The main barn - where all the action is. It was the "milking Parlor"! the kids were so excited! each cow had a tag on their ear with a name. We first met Sassy and Mystic. Then we were quickly distracted to the corner where the kids fell in love with tiny chickens.

We were quickly given a condensed lesson on the workings of the farm. believe it or not, these cows stay right where they are to be milked. here is "Farmer Dan" holding up the apparatus that gets put on the cow's utters for milking..... then the milk travels through a maze of pipes and into this huge barrel. Every other day, these 65 or so cows give farmer Dan 7,000 gallons of their milk!!! can you imagine? he then sells the milk to a co-op and somewhere after that, the milk becomes what my children cherish before bed.

After our milking lesson, we mozied on out of the barn into the area where the baby cows are kept. This little cow, who's name is SQUIRT, was simply adorable. And she just loved the attention from the kids. at one point, she even tried sucking on kerrigan's fingers. "eewwww".

Farmer Dan had to get going at this point. He was running behind on chores that needed to be done - he was heading off to load up a few more cows to bring back to the barn, and he needed to be back in time for the 4:30 milking. I felt a little guilty for dropping in on this busy farm. Should we have set aside a more convenient time for him? - truth is, I don't think there is a more convenient, or less busy time for him. He works extremely hard, but he is loving every minute of it. I'm so glad we finally got to see Dan's Farm, and by the excitement in the kids - I'd say it is worth another trip back there soon. Perhaps we could time it just right to where we catch them at milking time.

The Family Jewels....

2009-07-28T06:03:00.007-04:00

When I was a teenager, "friendship bracelets" were really cool. For a while, I was pretty good at making them out of string tied in thousands of knots, and occasionally beaded like these. They were the kind you left on forever.....or at least until they rotted and fell off. I made one for Kyle when he was a toddler and he looked so cute. He called it his "beautiful". A couple of weeks ago I decided to make another one for him and each of the girls. they look so cute on all of them with there tan little legs. Then the kids decided we all needed them so we could match. Daddy even got in on the action. (I'm working on the tan little leg part). It has been two weeks and Kerrigan has still left hers on even. And she is very quick to throw her leg around so you can see her "bwracet".

A tiny bit of inconvenient Exercise

2009-07-23T08:53:00.001-04:00

I need to exercise. I enjoy exercising. I never find alone time to exercise.

among other excuses, I find it hard to get into an exercise routine that I can stick to. I blame this on the kids of course, but believe it or not - it's a very real excuse. And since I have started working full time, I don't find it fair to Gary, or the kids, that I require another hour or so in the evening all to myself - not to be bothered - for exercise.

I have tried setting up the treadmill where I am accessible and in the viewing area of the kids for the usual abundance of questions, or settling of squabbles...but this just leads to kids getting too close to the equipment, and the constant " Mom can I have a turn? please? I promise I won't get hurt. pleASE?"......UGHhhh! - very frustrating.

I have tried Hiking with all 3 of them too....When Kerrigan could still fit in the backpack carrier, I dragged both of us up a couple of mountains and just about died. now that she is much much too heavy for the backpack, yet much much too little to toddle her legs up a hill let alone a mountain, I am seeing a babysitter in my hiking future.

Last weekend I thought I had the solution. - I broke out the "old" (like 10 years old) Rollerblades! The kids and I packed a little snack, loaded up the Bikes and the stroller and we headed for the bike trail. I figured it was time I found some more activities we could do together that would double as a good workout. You should know that this isn't exactly in our backyard - it's about 20 miles away. I picked a stretch of the trail that was completely flat -(didn't want to have to worry about Viv flying down a hill) - the kids had a great time, and I figure up and back must have equaled about a mile and 1/2 to 2 miles. we stopped half way to eat our snack at a little ice cream shop and split a gourmet soda. It was a fun little outing, but sadly, not much of a workout for me. even though I was pushing Kerrigan and rollerblading at the same time, turns out I can skate faster than Vivian can peddle her little bike. So I had to take it slow. And since it takes a little time, and Gas to plan this activity - again it isn't something I can make a habit out of.

I am back to the drawing board. I am back to having to make myself get out of bed at the @$$ crack of dawn to walk up and down the hill in front of my house. Our Fitness Model Friend from the city offered to get me copies of the fitness program DVDs of the P90X 90 day challenge- I am up for anything! I hope to receive it in the mail soon cause guess what? There are only 92 days left before we go to Disney.

bOiNg!....

2009-07-22T07:03:00.001-04:00

enough said!

Slow Down Lover-boy.....

2009-07-20T12:19:00.007-04:00

We hadn't seen Kyles favorite friend Phenesia in a very long time. It's hard because they go to different schools, and then ....well, Life gets in the way. Usually over the summer we are able to get together for a few play dates. June was just a blurr with every weekend booked up, but July has slowed down a little and so Kyle called Phenesia up and left a message on her answering machine on Saturday night that we would like to schedule a playdate for Sunday, maybe at the playground or the Beach if she would be available.( they don't mind the spontaneity)

The whole family gets to enjoy these playdates because, like us, they are a family with 3 children.....their ages are 7, 5, and 3. (spooky right?)

after we left the message, Kyle requested to "speak to me in private"...... ummm ok?

This little 7 year old dream boy wanted to talk to his mom about the possibility of Phenesia having other boyfriends and "mom if she has another boyfriend, should I just tell her to follow her heart"??? (OMG) Kyle honey - "you guys are pretty young to be thinking about all that stuff. I think you should think of her as more of a BEST friend instead of a Girlfriend"

But apparently when Kyle thinks of Phenesia, and closes his eyes, he "sees hearts!"

Oh - I could just melt. I was sure this play date was going to be interesting to say the least.

A call on Sunday morning from Phenesia confirmed a time to meet at the Beach.

There was no mention of other boys and having to follow her heart, but I did hear a lot of conversation like - "Thank you, kyle, for teaching me to swim like a dolphin!" and "Kyle you are the Best Friend EVER!"

When Phenesia got out of the water at the end of the play date, her towel was with her mom who had gone gathering up the toys, and she was cold - shivering.......my thoughtful little boy took off his towel and put it around her.......again I could melt!

I hope this same enthusiasm and sensitivity stays with him for when there is an actual grown up relationship for him to put all of this (that I must have taught him) to good use. There is going to be some lucky girl out there. ------hopefully in about 10 years!

In the meantime, we shouldn't wait so long to get these friends together - absence does make the heart grow fonder.

My other explanation for this big boy behavior is because the kids have stopped being so obsessed with spongebob, and are now hooked on Hannah Montana. Viv loves the Rock star Idea and the Hannah Montana outfits. Kyle apparently pays very close attention to the plots...... and if any of you are familiar with the show, you might see, as I do, a similarity between Kyle and "Jake Ryan" Hannah's Boyfriend - Very cute, but very love crazy....
Those Middle school years that are ahead of us should be interesting.

The grass always looks greener on the other side

2009-07-15T10:17:00.006-04:00

This is Vivian - Very happy - can you tell why?????? - Does she look different???

Need help? - Her hair is straight!

ya see, Vivian has this obsession with straight hair - go figure! a girl with curly hair wanting to have straight hair? - been there, done that! - but i don't think I was 4 1/2 years old when I was wishing different hair. I do believe I was about 13 when I discovered the "crimper" that also doubled as a flat iron. I too, used to wish for soft, straight, "easy" - wake up in the morning hair that didn't stick out all over. - but instead, I was blessed with the curls as a child, and the waves as a teen, and bad hair days have always been a battle.

Vivian has caught the straight hair bug because she got a feel of how soft and straight Gwen, my sister-in-law's hair is. Not a wave in it! - and Vivian loves it. She sits next to Gwen and runs her fingers through her hair often. The other day, I straightened Vivian's hair for her so she could see what she would look like. - the next day before she went to the sitter's, she asked if I would straighten it again.... Sharon said all day long Vivian brushed her hair and looked in the mirror. Then that night when we went to bed, Vivian planned ahead for the next day's birthday party -"mom, before we go to the party, will you straighten my hair again?"

I have created a Monster!

I tell her she looks beautiful either way - but that I miss her wonderful curls. I also told her we would not be straightening her hair daily - it would ruin her hair, but that if she wanted to do it for special occasions, I would.

I have a feeling this is just how my girlie girl is going to roll! this is a 4 year old who changes her outfit 3 to 4 times a day, loves make-up, is very particular about her shoes, and doesn't go a day without her nails painted.

I think I would rather have it this way, than to fight with her all the time about looking decent before we go into public -

In my experience I have seen straight haired girls pay a lot of money for the curls Vivian comes by naturally (hello perms), But I can totally remember wishing away my curls while spending hours straightening them out. eventually she will find that the grass isn't necessarily greener, and she will learn to embrace (or at least deal) her beautiful curls. - you know, someday when she is a mom and has no time to fool around with crappy hair!

Window Shopping

2009-07-14T12:50:00.003-04:00

That is what I have been doing the last couple of lunch hours. I have easy access to an abundance of "outlet" stores near work, so it is fun to occasionally hit those stores for some window shopping. Yesterday, my goal was to scope out some school shoes for Kyle and Viv. Kyle will be a big 2nd grader this year and Viv has one more year of preschool. I could buy girl shoes all day long - there are so many cute styles to choose from! I found these sketchers that I thought are right up Vivie's ally. They are easy on.....look like something Hannah Montannah would wear....and they've got a lot of BLING! I will keep my eye on these for a good sale, 'cause there is no way I am paying $40 for pint sized sneakers...
Boys shoes are another story! pretty much all of them were hideous. I narrowed it down to these Adidas sneakers...(I have always kinda been an Adidas girl) and these brown "dress" shoes - he doesn't like to dress up too often, but they would look good with the occasional Khaki pants and button up shirt. - I like them for the most part, although they do look a little like they could double as bowling shoes.

My other thoughts as I was perusing the shoe stores were - Holy crap! it is the middle of July already! I really don't want to be shopping for school clothes already! - I was just lining up the options. Hopefully as it gets closer there will be fantastic back to school sales!!!!

That's a new one!

2009-06-29T12:06:00.005-04:00

Vivian and Kerrigan taking a tubby......I'm at the sink fixing my hair

here's the conversation:

Viv: Kerrigan's tushy is really chubby! (laughing)
me: Yeah but that's how baby's tushies are supposed to be
Viv: yeah, 'cause she's little.
Me: Mommy's tushy is the one that's not supposed to be so CHUBBY!
Viv: (listen to how she tries to make me feel better) But that's ok - mommys and daddys are supposed to be chubby too and have chubby legs......
Me: Aunt corin's legs are not chubby?
Viv: Well, I think maybe that's cause she takes showers so much!

There we have it - apparently I just need to concentrate on showering more in order to reduce my chubby butt and legs. - WHO KNEW???

TWO sweet

2009-06-26T08:16:00.011-04:00

HaPpY BiRtHdAy BaBy

2009-06-24T12:15:00.007-04:00

I remember the good old days when a year seemed like such a long time.... Not anymore! - It seems like the years are just flying by now that I am watching my 3 little ones sprout new things each and every day! I have really seen this happening with Kerrigan. Today is her birthday. She is 2.
I clearly remember her 1st birthday as if it was last week. dressed in her size 18 month outfit that I was sad to put away just 2 months after she wore it. She is really growing like a weed! not like a weed, but more like the cutest little flower......
In just one year she has learned so much!
**She is much wiser now - Kyle can only fool her into jumping for something as he snatches it away 1 time before she hauls off and clocks him for teasing!
**She now knows that Mom and Dad are suckers for allowing all 3 kids to climb into bed with them - no matter how cramped it gets.
**She knows how to tattle on Her brother and sister for things like splashing in the tub and pinching. And she also know how to join in with the splashing in the tub and the pinching.
**She knows how to offer Gramma Cindy some coffee when she comes for a visit. (too cute)
**She is not afraid of bugs, or lizards, or MEN!
**She knows that Hugs and kisses are the best medicine.
**She knows her hair is pretty in a pony
**She knows how to read her books at Meme's house from memory.
**she has learned that persistence gets results.
Yes folks. This is my 2 year old...my not-so-baby baby...daddy's princess...mommy's almost birthday present.....
She is growing so fast - almost faster than her brother and sister did - it seems.

Will it ever slow back down? probably not, and soon I will be feeling like my Mother who just watched her baby (me) turn 32 yesterday.

My Lucky Day??

2009-06-18T12:27:00.002-04:00

We got this flyer in the mail the other day from a car dealership. I am one of those who would have seen that it was a flyer from a car dealership and just tossed it. Junk Mail. We are approaching our last few car payments on the van and hope to drive it for a few more miles after it's completely ours. So you see, there would have been no reason for me to even read the rest of the "pitch". But I didn't get the mail, Gary did. This flyer shouted about a 1st ever huge deal event! Come to the dealership on Wednesday - If your number matches one of the prize numbers (which it did) you are a guaranteed winner! PLUS, you could have a chance to win $25,000. PLUS have a chance to spin a wheel with prizes up to $250. PLUS get a great deal on a new or used car. PLUS it is a catered event.........
I was suckered into being the family spokeswoman on my lunch hour. I have to admit, the only reason I agreed to use my WHOLE lunch hour was that stink'n chance to win $25,000. - oh yeah - I wanted it! - but my hopes weren't up too high....I (we) never win anything.

Here is the play by play:

Arrive at the dealership, walk in the front door and I was invited to sit down with a lovely young woman who looked at my flyer and excitedly told me that I was a winner of a 2 night CRUISE for 2 from Ft. Lauder dale Florida to the Bahamas! I think she expected me to jump up and down. lol. I asked her if we would be able to give it away to relatives. ( Gary would never set foot on a cruise boat - chicken. and we would have to pay for transportation to FL). She assured me that we could give it away and there was no time limit to use it.....Very well, NEXT prize please!

She handed me a scratch off ticket that turned out to be my chance at $25,000.00! I had to scratch 6 (and only 6) squares off this card that had 30 squares on it. of those six that I scratch, ALL 6 of them have to be pictures of a pot of gold! - are you freakin kidding me? - those odds really sucked! - The very first one I scratched was a stupid rainbow. Done! It was pointless of me to even try another square.....but I did - in fact, since I had already lost, I told her I was scratching the whole card to see how many pots of gold there were..........guess what - there were only six on the whole card. - I would have had to guess 100% accurately. ( now I'm feeling like a big loser. No $25,000, and a cruise I know we won't go on ).
Then I remembered the free spin on the wheel! - I stepped up and felt like I was on the Price Is Right - except the wheel was really small. I glanced at the prizes. they were: a free oil change, $500 off a car (whoopee) and monetary values from $250 on down to $1. I spun that wheel hoping for the $250 of course. What did I land on????? $10.00!!!!!!!!!!
not what I had hoped for, not the kind of prize that would allow me to act like a fool in public like I had thought about in the car ride there, BUT $10 is $10!!! I walked away a winner. - it was more fun on a lunch hour than I had had in a while.

It's not like me to be lucky. The stars must have been aligned just right for me yesterday - when I got back to the office, I noticed that I had a comment from Tracy over at Just another mommy blog...... Guess what! - I was a WINNER AGAIN! - she had a giveaway on her blog of a web cam and I was one of 3 winners!

Stupidly - I did not play the Lottery yesterday OR go to the Racino....duh I know!

The artistic side

2009-06-15T19:06:00.005-04:00

I wanted to share a couple of my new favorite pictures. I was able to edit our camping pictures at my sister's house last night. She has a more updated version of the easy share software than I do and it has an effect called Spotlight that I have totally fallen in love with.

While we were camping I "coached" the kids into a couple of ~~Kodak~~ Cannon moments that I envisioned in my head. I wanted to try and capture a picture of the kids that resembled one I have seen of the live.laugh.pull your hair out family. The moment I saw that picture, I knew I had to have one like it of my kids. and here it is

I get such a great feeling when I look at this picture. It came out exactly how I hoped it would. It definitely shows the artistic side of photography that I like to capture. It helps that these darling siblings that look like they are off on an adventure with their big brother belong to me, but I also love it because they could be any kid. They could be strangers and I would still love this picture.

My second favorite "artsy" picture is this one of all three of them hanging on the fence. I get the old time feel with the sepia color, but I also think it is a great candid, un-posed shot. again, they could be any kid and I think I would still love this picture.

Yup, I'm bragging a little. But I am getting myself psyched for this weekend. I am taking wedding photos for friends this Saturday, so I am gearing up for the traditional as well as some artistic shots. I just hope everyone appreciates the artistic as much as the traditional.

"Naturally" Busy

2009-06-08T12:10:00.015-04:00

We went on a family Camping trip this weekend. It was our first since we had Kerrigan. Gary's Cousin Dianna is leaving for the air force in a week, so Gary's Mom and sister planned this camping trip for all of us to spend time with her before she leaves. 3 campsites....2 trailers.... 3 tents....3 kids....11 adults....5 dogs. A great time!

We already know that Kyle is a good camper - Actually he is a great camper. He is in his element - the best behavior you could witness out of him is while we are camping. (too bad we don't do it more often). Vivian of course goes with the flow wherever, but comments like "this is the best camp ever" came out of her mouth this weekend. it makes me feel all warm and happy inside to hear the kids say things like that. It's way better than just a "Thank You". Vivian was 18 months old the last time we went camping. She didn't remember any of it, so in a sense this was her AND Kerrigan's first Camping trip! Just something about getting as dirty as possible, and having it be OK - they love it! We don't own our own camper anymore, so we were very thankful that a friend let us barrow his camper trailer. I am not a very good tent camper, and add 3 kids to the mix, I would be a miserable tent camper.

I took many pictures over the weekend - perhaps they will help show how much fun we had:
Of course, what would camping be without S'MORES!!!

Helping Daddy cook breakfast............And then eating camp food all day longQuite a crew for Dinner - Steak, chicken, and Ham.......not too shabby!

Jiffy - Pop was a new experience for us! the girls love their Popcorn, and this was fun too.

I always thought you cooked jiffy-pop over the campfire, but come to find out, the handle isn't long enough........come on Jiffy- Pop makers, Longer handle would make it more kid friendly!

There were many trips to the Horse stables - this was one of their favorite things to do. I didn't mind - once you get used to the smell, it was a great place for pictures.........

There were also Many many bike rides, and a fantastic blow-up canoe trip around the lake that I didn't get pictures of because the camera would have definately gotten wet.

This successful vacation, although a short one, got us thinking more about our much anticipated trip to Disney coming up in about 6 months. I worry about my sanity on vacation with these 3 busy Children. We will be in Florida - not just a mere 10 miles down the road in case life turns bad. I worry that in Disney Kyle will "mistakenly" pinch his sisters, which will then set the mood for a day full of whining, retaliation, Stubborn moods...etc.

The good news is, we are staying at the Disney CAMPGROUND! It will have all the great excitements of camping that the kids like, along with transportation to the parks. My mind is much more at ease....... but if things DO get out of hand, and we need a break from naughty kids, This may be a good option........

I'm 4, and I'm Fast!

2009-05-31T17:52:00.006-04:00

I came home from work last week, to find that Vivian had learned how to ride her bike without training wheels. Vivian often surprises me with how much she can do. Sometimes I forget that she is only 4. - this is one of those times. For a couple of days, she rode just on the grass in case she needed a " soft landing", her method of take-off was a big push from mom or dad. But as I took these pictures on Friday, She was a biking fool. She can take off all by herself, she has advanced to riding on the pavement, and she loves to show visitors how she can ride all the way around the house. she beams with pride as everyone cheers her on!

I remember riding my first 2 - wheel Bike....The feeling of such freedom!

You go Viv!!!

Not quite how I remembered it

2009-05-24T01:18:00.002-04:00

You know those movies you remember loving as a kid? - For some reason there are a few that stick out in my mind that I remember getting so excited about when they would air on TV. Tonight as I'm burning the midnight oil - doing laundry, and I was flipping through the channels, I found THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING WOMAN! I used to love that movie....or I did as a child. Umm yeah - the movie is over, and it is now 1:33 am., I am so wishing I had spent the last hour and 1/2 sleeping, or .....anything else. I guess as a child (1981 - I was 4) I was so caught up in the incredibleness of Lily Tomlin being so small that she could sleep in the doll house...or the extremely disgusting thought of someone being so small, that they could get lost in a garbage disposal, that I couldn't see that the plot of the movie was SO STUPID!
Were these actors ever allowed to make any more movies? - oh lily Tomlin was because she was in another one of my favorites I haven't seen in ages...... 9-5. I know the plot of that one is stupid, yet I watched it whenever I new it would be on.
I hope my caliber of movies has improved with age. For some strange reason I think I should watch "THE ELECTRIC GRANDMOTHER" again. (another one of my all time favorites) - something tells me just by saying the title - It would probably be another disappointment. Just goes to show you, kids can be entertained by just about anything.

What were some of your favorites as a child that you know would make you shake your head now?

Observant? Honest? or just plain OBVIOUS?

2009-05-18T22:06:00.002-04:00

Hey ! - It's been a while. I intended to blog these thoughts from Mother's day on.....or around... well, Mother's day! But I have been a little "pre-occupied" at work, and it is just plain too hard to blog at someone Else's Internet blessed house. SO, I broke down and signed up for dial-up again. (dun dun dunnnnn!) yes, I said (say it in slow motion) d.i.a.l....u..p.
It is kinda painful to try to blog with such SLOWNESS. But that is just the kind of blog junkie I have become. I need my fix - even under these conditions.

So anyway, back to Mother's Day.

Think way back to Mother's day - What kind of sweet nothings did your kids say to you??? How much love was in the air at your house???

WOW - mine too......except I also got this ~~compliment~~ from my 7 year old. :
"Mom? how come when Kerrigan came out of your belly, you never got slim again???"

oooohhh OUCH! - yeah. That one stung. - Kids, you gotta love 'em!

I said "I guess cause it's hard for Mommy to find time to exercise. - I sure wish I had your flat, muscled up tummy!"

This brings me to Another story. It was about a year ago. Miss Vivian was in my bedroom with me while I was getting dressed. And this little voice so cute and innocent, almost sounded excited as she said...." Someday, I'm going to get LONG boobies like you! right Mom??!??!!!

"oh - only if your lucky"

(In my defense, I did breastfeed kyle till he was 18 months, Vivian to 12 months and Kerrigan to 9 months.....they sucked the life out of them!)

"out of the mouths of babes", as they say.

Mother's day was all in all a very nice day. I was given a couple of really cute gifts. One was made at preschool, and the other in first grade. That was really all I needed. We also had a little cookout picnic. (stuffed the fat belly a little fuller.) - My birthday I am asking for Diet Pills!

Up Yonda....

2009-05-15T12:54:00.000-04:00

I was so happy to take the Morning off from work to accompany Vivian on her preschool field trip to Up Yonda Farms. Viv tagged along on this trip a couple of years ago when it was Kyle's field trip. - But this time it was all about her. I left Kerrigan home with Daddy to make sure I could focus on being there with Vivian. Besides, The theme of the trip was Pond Life. I'm afraid Kerrigan would have literally been part of the pond life.

It was great to see Viv in a group of kids her age. So many times, she is trying to play with kids older or younger than her at family functions.

The object of the day was to take these big nets, stand on the shore of the pond, and scoop your heart out in hopes to bring in something alive....something really interesting!

Viv and I managed to haul in a couple of cray fish - which neither of us would pick up. "too pinchy", a really big and fat tadpole, and a water beetle.

Others found green frogs, salamanders, and fish.

I was surprised to see her so excited about all the creatures. I guess she has learned a lot from her brother. One of the big green frogs got jumped out of the aquarium and almost got away, but Viv was right there to scoop him back up again......she did not learn that from me!

After we studied all of our findings, we gathered at the picnic tables for a quick snack and then we were on our way back home.

I was off to work for the afternoon. It always feels good to have the one on one time with each child. That doesn't happen very often, but I could tell it was special for both of us.

Let me show you Cute!

2009-05-11T12:15:00.002-04:00

Thank you to everyone who voted for Miss Kerrigan........but........She didn't win the Baby contest from the radio station:-( ( sniff sniff )
I have no way of knowing how many votes she actually got, but I did get an e-mail that there was a tie and to cast my vote for the tie breaker. Ummmm I didn't really want to vote for someone else's baby - but I picked the one with the head of hair that looked like a wig.

I have submitted each of the kid's pictures at one time or another to some sort of baby photo contest....we have never won! I know it can't be that there are others that are cuter! - I have come to the conclusion that it is a little like Dancing with the stars - It isn't necessarily the less talented Dancer that gets kicked off each week. The one that stays just creates or brings with it a bigger fan base...... Ty Murray was proof of that last week. There must be a ton of cowboys out there watching DWTS this season.

Anyway....I don't need her to win a contest to know that Kerrigan is currently the cutest baby in the world - but the $500 savings bond would have been great.

Vote for this Face ;-)

2009-05-04T12:18:00.009-04:00

I have entered Kerrigan's picture in a cutest baby contest with a local radio station's web site.

KERRIGAN would really appreciate all her blogger fan's Votes. If she wins, she will get a $500 savings bond.

Your Mission should you choose to accept it:

GO HERE and become a froggy nation member (you can unsubscribe after this week). Fill out your e-mail address and other applicable info. They will then send you an e-mail telling you to vote. You then reply to the e-mail by writing
" My name is (insert your name) and I vote for #20".

You can do this once per day until Friday 5/8! Thanks in advance! - We will let you know if she wins!

SMOOTHIES FOR SWEETIES

2009-05-01T12:59:00.014-04:00

Bedtime snack at our house is usually Popcorn. Last night we tried something different. - Smoothies. It was gary's suggestion on the last grocery shopping trip to pick up OJ and frozen strawberries. He thought the kids would enjoy some smoothies!

He was Right!

Too bad he wasn't home with us to enjoy his suggestion.

STEP ONE: OJ IN BLENDER

(Viv, you should really look when you pour)

STEP TWO: ADD STRAWBERRIES

STEP THREE: SUGGESTION HERE - NEXT TIME WE WILL BE ADDING SOME YOGURT

STEP FOUR: BLEND

STEP FIVE: ENJOY!

STEP SIX: BE CAREFUL OF THE...........

BRAIN FREEZE!

Some Potpourri

2009-04-30T10:00:00.005-04:00

A Mix of Everything From the Week

April Has come to an end? I can't believe how the time is flying. Since my last post (akhem...a week ago...sorry) I have been walking on lunch breaks, which cuts into my blogging. I am trying to jump start the weight loss AGAIN. So far it's not helping, and I just keep wishing I was at my desk blogging. My Solution: Wake up at the @$$ crack of dawn and walk the hill on my street instead of walking on lunch break. This will also cut down on the pit stains at work on hot days too.

Vivian's scrape has totally healed. No scar! still as beautiful as ever! She is just totally sick of everyone making a big deal about it. The nice weather mixed with being home to play all day with dad has made her very happy

Mr. Kyle needs another Vacation. Coming off spring break and heading back to school was not easy. He has turned into a whiny broken record. He asks....I say no.....he asks the same thing 50 more times hoping my answer will change....I get furious........(you know the drill). needless to say, Kyle is grounded for not listening, whining, being a mean brother, whining, not doing his homework without a 2 hour ordeal about wanting to do it in the morning, and whining! The only thing that saved me from having to drag him onto the school bus this week, was the anticipation of classroom science experiments. Did you know that baking soda + vinegar in a soda bottle with a balloon on top will blow up the balloon? Did you know that corn starch + water make a goopy goopy messy weird feeling thing called ooblick? These things are so exciting to a budding scientist.

Kerrigan has been a little clingy---Gary says she just misses her Mommy. I am constantly thinking she must be getting sick, but so far no signs........and with this recent scare of a SWINE flu, I am even more paranoid! If any such flu cases hit any more close to home, I think we will all be taking a vacation and quarantining ourselves to the house.

Last night I dove back into some yard work. I always feel so good after doing yard work. Our yard needs and requires a lot of work, but it is definitely work I enjoy. There is nothing like getting out there and getting dirty. And the Payoff is nice to look at. The worst part about yard work is raking all of the leaves. We started out full steam ahead as soon as the snow melted, but the worst part of the yard got the best of us and we cooled our heels a bit on it. Yesterday, I was finally ready to conquer the rest of the leaves - besides, they were starting to blow all over what we had already done! Brother-in-law Dan lent me his big ride-on tractor with a yard sweeper.......aahhhh - no rake needed! It took a lot of passes over those stubborn leaves, but Vivian and I ( there is always at least one kid who can't resist a ride on the mower right?) we made big progress. I think we just have a little clean up left. - aahh now we can concentrate on pruning and planting. - I always have enough help with that too.

Although this Potpourri doesn't smell real nice, hopefully I'm caught up. Next week I will be more diligent

Saving Face

2009-04-23T10:05:00.005-04:00

4 Year old + Stool on wheels + Garage Floor =

picture taken the day after

Oh my poor baby!

Just a surface scratch.......but look at the location!!!!

"please oh please let it heal without a scar.....PLEeeeaaase!"

picture taken 3 days after

I think we are in the clear. my little girl will have her beauty all in tact again real soon.

lotion...lotion....lotion......STOP PICKING AT IT!!!

The WEAK need not apply!

2009-04-16T12:50:00.003-04:00

Job Description for Parents

POSITION:

Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma

Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop

JOB DESCRIPTION :

Long term, team players needed, for challenging, permanent work in an often chaotic environment.

Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.

Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities! Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

The rest of your life. Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5.

Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.

Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.

Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers.

Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homework projects.

Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.

Must be a willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next.

Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.

Must always hope for the be st but be prepared for the worst. Must assume final, complete accountability forthe quality of the end product.

Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION :

None.

Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE :

None required unfortunately.

On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION :

Get this! You pay them!

Offering frequent raises and bonuses.

A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent.

When you die, you give them whatever is left.

The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS :

While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth, unconditional love, and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.

I received this as an e-mail today, and I just wanted to share it with the blogging world. I thought it was very cute. How many of those descriptions could you identify with?

Note to self ;)

2009-04-09T12:01:00.005-04:00

Remember The Saturday Night Live skit from the 90's where Norm Macdonald would take a small tape recorder from his front pocket and say "note to self"..blah blah blah!

(those were the great SNL days)

Well, these are my Notes to Self today:

Note to self ~ The next time hubby thinks it would safe to leave a bowl of spaghetti - o's on the counter (no matter how far he says he pushed it back) even just for 10 Minutes.... Remind him of the rage he was feeling upon his return from preschool pick-up to find that Sandler had somehow reached the bowl at the back of the counter, did who knows what kind of acrobatics that would cause the spaghetti - o's to end up splattered all over the kitchen including the opposite wall and mirror, and proceeded to eat the rest of it on the living room rug.

Note to self ~ remember to thank hubby for cleaning up that mess.

Note to self ~ Install hidden camera in the kitchen to catch the dog steeling the food off the counter. It could win us $10,000 on AFV.

Note to self~ Whenever we are ready to strangle the dog over all the trouble and stress he causes, throw in the movie Marley & Me to put it all in perspective!

Thinking of Your Birthday

2009-04-08T15:00:00.003-04:00

Wishing Grampa Hoddie A Happy Birthday!

April 8 1923 ~ March 8 2005

Hope Heaven has cooked you a big pot of Bean and Potato Soup and some Stawberry Shortcake For Dessert.

Love you!

Just a tip:

2009-04-07T12:21:00.004-04:00

Have you all visited the fishful thinking banner to the right??
In case you were wondering, I have joined the fishful thinking campaign. I think the message it offers is something worth looking into. It is all about helping parents build optimism in there children in order to help them deal with life's ups and downs. Each week, Fishful thinking gives parents new tips on communication, relationship builders, or just great fun activities to engage in with your children. Today I am offering up the chance for Moms to click on this link to check out some tips on how to be a happier Mom.

http://fishfulthinking.repnation.com/Log.ashx?a=2&i=136&r=333a67b1-d80e-4889-ab36-e1ca67e166fd

We all say we are really happy being moms, but lets face it, It isn't always peachy. This site identifies with those feelings. Check it out.

(each time someone checks out fishful thinking from my blog......I earn points toward awards.....no pressure)

*Or go here
http://fishfulthinking.repnation.com/Log.ashx?a=2&i=134&r=333a67b1-d80e-4889-ab36-e1ca67e166fd

And participate in

"Fishful Thinking Ingredient Activity 4: Grateful Sayings
This week, many families across the country will gather together and observe the Passover or Easter holiday, so this week’s Fishful Thinking Ingredient Activity is one that the whole family can appreciate and participate in."

200 TO GO

2009-04-06T12:05:00.002-04:00

Today on the count down to our Disney Vacation marks 200 Days To Go! Yikes! - it's starting to feel Real. The excitement is mounting!

It is Kind of hard to relay how long 200 days is to 3 kids under the age of 7. Kyle of course, being the oldest, has a better concept of time than the other two. We tell Kyle that he just has the summer, then school will start, and about a month and 1/2 after that, we will be off to Florida. He gets a little hmmmf about that, because I'm sure that seems like forever away to him still.
I can remember when I was his age and the end of the school year was so fabulous because it felt like summer lasted forever. and the start of the next "school year" seemed so far off, I didn't have a care in the world. that all seemed to end when I started working at 14 yrs old - then the time started whizzing by.

But anyway, I have no idea what Vivian's perspective on 200 days is right now. I think she thinks it's closer than it really is..... She finds pennies on the floor and runs to my bedroom to add to the "Florida Fund" Jar. She is cute........ start finding a lot more pennies Viv!

Forget Kerrigan....What does time really mean to a 21 month old? She can't even wait 2 minutes for lunch, much less 200 days for a vacation. I just hope that by October, a then 2 1/2 year old will be a good traveler!

Things to do in 200 Days:

1. must loose 6 pounds per month. (not an unreachable goal I don't think?)
2. potty train Kerrigan ( so much less to lug around at Disney)
3. save spending money ( once the car is paid off this will be easier)
4. buy travelling clothes for Gary and I ( the kids wardrobe seems to be the healthiest)
5. Find Volunteers to take care of Sandler/freddie/oscar - shouldn't be too hard (right Reagan?)
6. stock up on the Valium for Gary on the plane!

Ok - the list isn't too long!

When we reached the 250 day mark, We all gathered at Gary's parent's house for Dinner to celebrate. We all wore our Disney Character shirts we got from his mom for Christmas to get in the spirit. Tonight we are having a cook out to mark the 200 day count down. Along with our character shirts.
lets see........May 26th marks 150 days........July 16th marks 100 days....September 4th marks just 50 days........and then we leave October 24th! ........ see, the breakdown makes it really seem close! We can't wait!!

My attempt at an Interview....

2009-04-01T12:53:00.005-04:00

A couple of other bloggers I follow, have recently written posts where they "interviewed" their young children and reported there answers. Some interviews were successful, and some...not so much. The questions were pretty general...mostly just about life...nothing too leading. I liked these questions because they left it open to the children to answer freely and uninhibited. Kind of like the show Bill Cosby used to host called "kids say the darnedest things".

So I decided...I have a couple of spit fires at home that will think this idea is pretty cool....I bet they will come up with some knee slapping answers and it will make for a glorious post showcasing their sweet, imaginative, perceptive personalities. ......ummm, yeah, ...it was more like trying to have fun at the dentist.

I put a little thought into the interview before I actually did it. I started with Vivian. I knew that to have her undivided attention, I would have to administer the questions while we were in the car... you know, strapped in with no other choice but to listen to me. (by no means was this a Forced interview). I wanted some of the questions to be real easy, so she would confidently answer. and others to be something she would have to think about, and perhaps "make up" an answer to - That could be cute too.

I will get to the interview in a minute.....but first you must know that I also interviewed Kyle afterwards. He was a bit more skeptical about the whole thing. pretty soon he started asking ME questions, like, why are you asking me questions? When I told him I was going to blog about it.... he insisted I not put his answers on my "stupid blog"! I was made to promise that I would not put his answers here. I agreed......phfah!. I didn't sign anything! - I will sneak his answers in there somehow.

So on to the interview. My questions are in Green. Vivian's answers are in Purple. Kyle's Answers are in Blue...:

Hey vivian. Do you want to do something fun with Mommy on our way to pick up Brother?

Yes

Let's do an interview! It's where Mommy asks you some questions, and you answer them. It can be any answer you want... You aren't going to be right or wrong. It's just whatever you think - Ok?

Ok.. - How old do you have to be to get married?

I don't know?

Can you guess?

I don't know?

are you old enough?

NO!

Is Greg old enough? (greg, my nephew is 13)

no?....You just gotta be out of school?

(Kyle's answer was 20)

Why do people get Married anyway?

I don't know?

Viv we aren't going to get very far with these questions if you keep answering with "I don't know". - just say whatever you think.

ok - because they are the Bosses.

Kyle: to not be alone, ...to take care of kids, and to get babysitters when you go to work.

(should I be worried that there was no mention of being in love as the reason for marriage??)

What do you want to be when you grow up?

ummm. I want to be the COOKer!!

Oh - you mean in a Restaurant?

No - At home. And I want to be the Mom.

Kyle: I'd like to be like Jeff Corwin - not like steve Erwin because he died!

Where would you like to live when you grow up?

At home.

Like with Mommy and daddy?

YUP!!!

OK! As long as you still want to be the COOker!

Kyle: the USA

(by now I think they thought these questions were stupid, so I decided to lighten them up - not make them think so hard I guess)

What is your Absolute Favorite Food?

Broccoli, Cottage Cheese and Sausages....and one something else that I like....POPCORN!!!!

(viv really liked answering this question. I'm glad she named such healthy foods...I could have sworn she was going to say CHIPS)

Kyle: Hamburger Casserole

What food is the Yuckiest?

Spicy stuff

kyle: Lemons

What happens when you really REALLY want to buy a special toy, but you don't have the money to buy it?

get something else....(which promted her to carry on about....) how about we get 2 DS's so we don't have to fight??? doesn't that sound like a good idea? because I really want one and...and....(yadda yadda yadda)

kyle: wait until you have the money

(oh yeah? really kyle? you don't whine and throw a fit and beg and finally end up saying you want to go to meme's then?)

And that concluded our interview. I think it was pretty cute. looking back, I think I should have tried it at bedtime maybe. oh well, maybe another time.

This interview was "out of the mouths of these babes:

Except for Kerrigan......just insert NO! for every question ....... it's her favorite word lately.

Thanks for listening!

Some Sloppy Kisses!

2009-03-31T12:11:00.011-04:00

First let me introduce you to My niece's new (a couple months) Puppy. He is a tiny fur ball of the YORKIE kind and they call him HUDSON ( kind of a big sounding name for a peanut of a dog right?)

Look at that sweet little face - he just screams PAMPER ME!!!

Corin came across this store in Saratoga Springs Called Sloppy Kisses. It is Treat Boutique for Dogs.

It is a place to take Man's best furry friends when you are looking for a treat, a leash, clothing, a gift basket etc. to pamper them. Corin took along my oldest and middle children when they went to pick up a little MET'S baseball cap they bought for Little Hudson. ( you can't even imagine how cute it looks on him). The kids thought it was really great, and Corin was nice enough to let my little monsters pick out 2 Gourmet treats to bring home to our Dog, Sandler. If sandler was human? - he would be the obese guy at the party that goes around finishing up the leftovers on peoples plates and heading back up to the buffet for dessert 3 times. He eats everything in site. We can't leave ANY food out unattended. There is no mystery in our house of where the missing cookies went that were not put back in the cupboard! So when Corin and the kids came home from Sloppy Kisses with these Gourmet ORGANIC dog treats...I had to giggle....seemed like kind of a waste of money on our dog. We don't monitor too much of what goes in his mouth. That would be a full time job. But it was very nice of her anyway - and Vivian couldn't wait to give Sandler what she had picked out for him!

Viv picked the donut and Kyle picked the ducky cookie.

The donut looks like one that came right from dunkin donuts - you would never know without touching it that that it wasn't soft and squishy

It came in this nice Boutique box with a ribbon on top.

And as you can see from these pictures, Sandler was quite impressed........He was probably also a little confused at first - "ok? they are intentionally going to GIVE me this donut? - I don't have to wait until they can't see me to snatch it? what's the catch?"

Ok Fat buddy - Organic treats are gone - you are back to the usual stealing goodies from babies and snatching that oh-so-easy because it's-right-near-the-edge-of-the-table, slice of Pizza!

wait a minute....it will come to me....

2009-03-26T12:09:00.002-04:00

warning: - just a silly post

Have you ever had that "just on the tip of my tongue" feeling? Do you think it's annoying?

I happen think these situations are kinda fun. I don't know why. During those moments of agony when you are trying to think of a name, a movie, a song title.....I go pretty nuts. Why? because I just HAVE TO think of the answer before I can rest.

Whether I am trying to tell a story and get stuck because of a name of someone that's related to someone, that's a friend of a friend.....yada yada, or if someone else is telling me a story and it conjures up a memory of some movie that I can't think of the title to........I will not rest until I have come up with that name/title/song etc.

Just the other day, I was riding home from work with my sister, and she went through this exact scenario. I said a person's name, Corin said - "oh I think I know her. I think she was friends with (so and so) her kids were in her wedding....husband's name was blah blah blah..... oh man why can't I think of her name?" ---------meanwhile, all of that had nothing to to with what I was trying to talk about.........and come to find out, as I continued on with my story, Corin was too preoccupied with remembering the woman's name to even listen to me.

Truth is, this is exactly how I get! I start playing the word association game in my head to try and pinpoint the words I am searching for. I do this with movies and actors quite often. I am pretty good at remembering lines from movies, or when I hear a song on the radio that brings me back to a great movie moment....."Take my breath away" that song immediately makes me think of the movie Top Gun. (back when I thought Tom was the yummiest and not the freakiest) that would then lead me to try to remember the actress in the movie......and so on. Its almost like I am trying to stump myself.

I may not get my answer soon....it could be hours later, after I'm not even thinking about it anymore......
My favorite part of this weirdness is the moment that it "POPS" into my head. The answer will literally just fall off my tongue, almost like I had no control of it. Almost like my brain went through all the files in my head searching for the answer, finally found it, and just throws it at me to relieve the pressure! lol .....That is the best feeling. "aaahhh, phew, man that was a tough one".

I think this is why I enjoy Crumbs in the Minivan's daily song title - she challenges you to think of the singer. a lot of them I have no idea, and that doesn't drive me nuts. But if I know I know it, I won't rest until I think of it.

That aha moment! it makes me giggle!

The Science Fair

2009-03-25T10:50:00.003-04:00

Ok so (we) Kyle signed up to enter the science fair like 6 weeks ago. It was open to any kind of project he wanted that had anything to do with science.......His first choice was (enthusiastically) a Volcano...mom doesn't know how to help make a volcano. I suggested a poster all about his bee keeping and the importance of bees. (we have tons of bee keeping pictures he could use). "ummmm.......NO!"

So I searched the Internet for science projects that would be easy enough for a first grader to create, and still know what the heck it was about. ---found the Volcano ..... sounded expensive .... acted like I didn't find the volcano.

I did find a Rock Candy experiment. Kyle thought it sounded cool, so we attempted it. we used lots and lots of sugar....a little bit of water......boiled the crap out of it until it was a syrup....then put it in a jar with string hanging down. (we followed the directions). We waited like 2 weeks for the "crystals" to start climbing up the string to start forming the "rock Candy"........ then we waited another week .......... NOT even one crystal formed. BAD science project!

So then we were down to like two and 1/2 weeks left. ummm... we were pretty lax about it.

Thursday night after we finished Homework, I mentioned to kyle that we needed to decide quickly about the science project.
Kyle: How many days left?
Me: 4 days!
Kyle: We should have started this sooner!
me: No kidding!

I so perfectly popped the idea of the bees back into his head. I reminded him that we had all the pictures, and he could bring in a jar of our honey, and a piece of the comb, and his bee net hat. I also reminded him that the judges would be going around asking questions about the projects and the kids are supposed to be able to answer them. - He would have no trouble talking about the bees. He is an expert now.

He agreed to make it his science project (UN-enthusiastically). I was relieved - No! not because I had won.....but because I knew it would be easy for me him.

Over the weekend, we traveled to AC Moore to get our supplies....glue dots, yellow poster board, foam board, and a fresh set of markers. (the ride home from this shopping trip deserves it's own post due to the fact Kerrigan was miserable - we found out why in the car - she puked all over herself (the real stinky kind) her car seat and her bag of lunch. I had to pull over, kyle climbed out quickly while gagging, I stripped her naked, sat her on a sweatshirt back in her seat, and had my mother continue driving us the rest of the way while I sat in the back with a plastic bag, "catching" the 2 more puke episodes. - not fun)

Kyle had a great time with the glue dots. Some of them were even used on the poster. He also insisted on drawing some of his own pictures....... it was a great Idea! - then in his own words, he described each of our pictures and the importance of the bees. This part was not his favorite... oh he had such "hand cramps after all that writing" boo hoo. (somewhere around the eleventh hour of him whining about all the writing, I was wishing we had just done the damn Volcano!).

Here is the finished project.......

Notice Kyles original artwork in the middle section. ( this was our first big project - it was a little hard for mom to let him do it without help. All I did was make sure the pictures were pretty straight.)

The things on the table are a jar of our honey and a piece of the honey comb. Kyle wore his bee keeping hat during the whole fair. (I couldn't get a picture of him with his project because it was extremely crowded in that little library with 15 to 20 science projects + the kids and their families.

I was VERY happy when I noticed that 5 other children had done Volcanoes ....... and none of them won.

Kyle didn't win either........1st, 2nd and 3rd place got gift certificates to a book store.......but he did get a certificate for participating, and a little bag of goodies with some gross goopie stuff that he was very happy with. On the way home, I told kyle I think he was a winner because he did something original. No one else had a bee project, and everyone that walked by was genuinely interested in his poster and his hobby. (deep down I was happy he didn't blame me for not winning...since I did have to coax him into the bee idea....phew.)

Another thing I learned about the school science fair?- never bring kerrigan again!!!!! - She was a little monster. - She wanted no part of being cooped up in that library..... She finally coped when I took her to the little kids book section and let her pick out her own books......I pity the librarian that had to deal with that aftermath.

Vivian was an angel :0)

Change is nice

2009-03-23T16:46:00.006-04:00

This nice Color yellow here is the new look of our hallway. (off the living room, on your way to the rest of our house.) When we redecorated the living room (about 5 years ago) We didn't continue the new paint into the hallway. I think the reason was ~~LAZINESS~~ lack of enough paint. Then we put up fresh new wood trim throughout the living room. we didn't continue that project into the hallway either. I think the reason for this was ~~LAZINESS~~ lack of time. So last week, when Gary brought up the fact that he still had enough wood to finish the hallway, and threw out the idea of a fresh paint job at the same time, I jumped on the thought. Hey any time a husband is willing to start a home improvement project - Don't dilly dally or the moment will be lost for ~~years~~ who knows how long. So Thursday I ran to Home depot on my lunch hour. Picked out the nice yellow to compliment the red we have in the living room. ( I have never picked out paint that fast in my life - a time limit is good for me). When I got home from work, Gary had all the old trim off the walls. All I had to do was take down the pictures, wait for all three kids to fall asleep, and start painting at 10:00 at night. (Kyle fought off sleep extra hard that night)
I finished the second coat at about 1:30am and flopped myself into bed.
Hey - you gotta paint when the painting is good. (when all 30 tiny fingers are asleep.) As of today, Gary has most of the new trim up. It looks MArvEloUS! I absolutely love the red and the yellow together. Yellow is my favorite color to begin with, but that shade is now my most favorite. There is just something about the feeling you get after painting a room in the house. It makes me want to keep going to the other rooms that need a face lift. money prevents me from getting too excited, but for now, I have been hanging out in the hall a lot. All of those dreams about knocking down walls, and making a new living room - they just got Color added to them!

To My Boy Turning 7.....

2009-03-20T09:59:00.004-04:00

Your Birthday is tomorrow....You are turning 7. I can't believe how the years fly by. 7 is half of 14....ooooooh, I'm not going to think about THAT!....I think I will just reflect on the year at hand. So much can happen in one year. Oh how a boy can Grow.

tomorrow, we will perform our annual height measuring tradition on the door casing. I will know the exact # of inches you have grown this year. I can already guess by the rising hem of your pants that it will be a good 2 inches, at least.

lets take a walk down memory lane:
You had a summer full of independence. we felt pretty comfortable that while the girls were at daycare, and Daddy needed to catch up on sleep from coming off the night shift, you would be able to get along with a little less supervision. You had complete control of your bedroom, the living room remote, and the refrigerator. you got really good at pouring your own drinks, making your own tuna sandwiches, and memorizing the channels with all the great cartoons. Dad was on hand if you needed him, but for the most part, you were a big boy for a few hours a day.

You discovered and enthusiastically embraced the world of beekeeping. A hobby passed down from grampa Hoddie to grampa mark, and now onto you. I am so happy that you learned how interesting and necessary the "art" of bee keeping is...Grampa Hoddie is smiling from above.

You bravely entered the first grade, leaving all the little hang-ups of Kindergarten behind. Quickly becoming an A student - You were able to flourish, to shine, to be yourself and leave your mark. I'm sure you are known as the handsome boy with all the animal knowledge and the love of Show and Tell!

You discovered that the ride to school every day doesn't have to be driven by mommy. But you also had to learn that the school bus can be a jungle and the best way to stay safe is to say no to the ~~kids destined for prison~~ beasts that are out to corrupt you.

You continued to enrich your knowledge of animals and nature by becoming an avid surfer.....of the Internet that is. Which in turn gave you lessons in the difference between appropriate and inappropriate Internet content. Luckily you mostly learned that if you need information, it is only a click away....mommy had to pull out a bunch of encyclopedias!

We squeaked through another Christmas filled with the magic of Santa. You asked once, with the look of doubt, "does he really exist?" I put it in your hands to decide. without too much discussion, you chose to still believe. I don't know how much longer you'll play along.

You tried your hand (and feet) at Karate, and found yet another activity you excel in. I thoroughly enjoyed watching you try so hard and succeed in a sport that requires such self control and coordination. You looked like a natural, and I hope you choose to continue in it. It was also another chance for you to see how talented you are.

Unfortunately this year you also had to endure lessons in loss. First the loss of Camo the Chameleon, then Lila the turtle, and then the loss of Grampa Earl. I thought you handled yourself very well, and with great spiritual perspectives. I was proud to see that my Son knows how to wear his heart on his sleeve, and isn't afraid to show compassion. When you were told that grampa Earl had cancer, It was sad but cute to hear that you offered our last jar of honey to be given to him because you had read on the Internet that honey prevents cancer. It's moments like that, that I see into the future to the man I hope you will become, and I smile.

I know, I know, this sounds like you had a perfect year. - were you ever naughty? - Did you ever get sent to your room? - Were you ever mean to your little sisters??- of course you were, but that is the beauty of what a mom remembers..... oh we remember it all,.... but we like to reflect on the times that matter most.

With each passing birthday, I feel like I should be becoming this "seasoned Mother". But you were my first! and with each passing Birthday, I just realize how much we as parents continue to grow right along with you. I savor the years gone by, and Look forward to our new adventures....and hope to god you stay so sweet. Love ya Kyle - Happy birthday!

MOM

You've Got A Friend In Me

2009-03-18T10:43:00.005-04:00

I Consider my dad (one of the greatest men in the world) to be what I call a SEMI-BLOGGER. meaning he doesn't have his own actual blog, but he is a faithful follower and commenter. (i love the commenters) He checks my blog daily, as well as my sister's ( A Walk In The Park - to which he is often a main character as she reports about their journey to becoming 46ers) I also believe Dad can be found as a "lurker" to many of the blogs that I follow as well. My point is, he is familiar with the blogging world and is a supporter from behind the scenes (as are many of my other lurkers). It was at Mom and Dad's house that I checked the blog and found out that a fellow blogger had awarded me with a friend badge! (I will get to that in a moment). This lead us to a discussion about blogger friends. We talked about how I check in with my blogger friends each day, leave comments that may include words of encouragement if needed, or maybe just an acknowledgement of a job well done. I, myself, often spill my guts in a post that may open a window into my own hopes, dreams, fears, aspirations or quite often a chance to talk about the kids, the family and all sorts of parenting issues. I have taken the time to find other blogger friends with the same interests, the same passions, and the same chaotic home life.

OK? - isn't this what we do in non-computer life when we look for a friend to "hang out with" (like I have time for that anymore) to schedule "play dates" with? to go for a drink (or 5) with? Yup - and This brought my dad to his point. Chances are, I am NEVER going to MEET THESE PEOPLE!!!. HE thinks this is very SAD.

I don't really consider it sad - I might even find it comforting that we may never meet face to face. When I "talk" to these blogger friends, I can do so in my PJ's - with my hair unbrushed. I can log on if I feel like it - or not. I can spend the time editing what I want to say so it comes out just the way I want it to. (I wouldn't be able to do that face to face). And I can actually finish a sentence on the computer without the children interrupting. if they do interrupt, I can resume the thought 3 hours later if I need to. I can't tell you how many times I have been frustrated when company comes over, we start to talk, and all of the sudden I am needed in three different directions. The conversation gets completely lost.

I realize that blogger friends don't replace the tangible friends I have in life - but that is another beauty of blogging. I rarely have time to call up my childhood friends and "catch up". If I did, I'm sure as soon as the phone touched my ear, I would be needed in three different directions. A lot of my closest friends as well as family are blog followers! I have given them the link to the blog and they can check in on our lives when it is convenient for them. I know they enjoy it, and let's face it - I wouldn't be calling up Samantha (who needs to start her own blog so I can keep up with her life) at mid-night (when I would have peace). So I think this is a very convenient alternative. I wish all of my friends had blogs! Aside from the Friendly part of blogging, I believe it is great THERAPY!!!!! and I highly recommend it!

now for the friendship badge I received:

Cheryl Gave me this new award. We are rather new blogging friends and she gave it to me because she likes our common love for Dancing With The Stars.
Thank you Cheryl!

here are the rules:"These blogs are exceedingly charming. The kind of bloggers that aim to be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of the prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly written text into the body of their award".

I will now pass this award on to:

Corin: She is my Sister, but "Sisters share the gifts of friendship and family, kindness and caring, laughter and love. Sisters share the things that matter most in life."
so she gets this award because I don't know what I would do without her.

Jennifer: over at oily ducks oily dog. She gets this award because I admire her courage and value her friendship. her sense of humor and insight are always uplifting to my day.

Reagan: Reagan not as in Ronald is my ~~only~~ favorite niece. I am so proud of her for starting her own blog. I always look forward to a peek into a 9 year old with such "spark" 's outlook on life. Keep up the good work!

Momma: Live laugh pull your hair out. I was first drawn to her blog by the title. sometimes that is exactly how I feel. I really enjoy hearing about her children and all that they do. She has quite the adorable family and we share a love for photographing their every move!

Tracey: Just another Mommy Blog was the very first blog I started following who was a complete stranger. I often find myself laughing out loud at her take on life. She has a great sense of humor and knows how to project it into her writing perfectly. I look forward to reading her blog daily. (she already got this award from cheryl as well, so it's ok if she doesn't take mine - but it is here)

Crumbs: in the minivan. I give her this award because I find her stories about her children entertaining and she always gives a challenge to her readers. She titles her posts from song titles and gives you a chance to guess who sang it. I find that fun.

Buried with children: I think I like this blog for the reality check. Just when I think my life is chaotic, I can check out her blog and see that my life is pretty mellow compared to one with a set of triplets plus a big brother. - that girl must appreciate the "blog therapy".

In the Trenches: This blogger taught me how to put that fancy line through through words to add a little sarcasm. She also has 3 children and is a working mom. I feel like I identify with her quite often and she has a great sense of humor as well.

So there are my blogger award recipients. Thanks everyone for keeping me sane! Some of you I am related to, some I have met and are already friends with, and some of you I will never lay eyes on other than a picture. - but in the blogging world of friends, we are all on the same page! (ha ha ha)

Steve-O has Gotta G-O

2009-03-17T10:18:00.003-04:00

I know he had an injury, and that is why he couldn't dance LIVE last night. But it is going to be a long season with much more dancing to come, and if he can't even make it to week two - He must go home tonight!!! I think the Judges agreed......4.....4.....4.

Maybe if he hadn't spent so much of his youth jumping off high buildings to see if he would break anything, or letting someone push him down a big hill - stuffed in a shopping cart just to see how funny the crash would be,......his body might be a little better equipped to swing around the dance floor.

Good bye Steve-O ! (I hope).

I'll be the judge...

2009-03-10T16:33:00.007-04:00

AAhhhh another season of Dancing With The Stars got under way last night. My family and I have made this show a weekly event each season. We will gather at the farm, only speak during commercials, and eat great snacks until we are sick. Of course we fancy ourselves as quite the Ballroom Dancing experts now, and we have already spotted our favorites. And I can already tell you who should be on their way out ASAP........

Steve Wozniak - "THE WOZ" - co founder of the Apple Computer. Smart guy, but unfortunately he is my pick to exit first. Just look at Karina's face! She knows this will be short lived.

Ty Murray - Pro Rodeo Cowboy (and husband to Jewel who bowed out early due to injury). Until the computer guy danced, I thought for sure this guy had to go first. Very stiff. Too worried about the good ol' boys laughing at him. When he goes home, he will secretly be happy and will never let his wife talk him into something like this again.

Lil' Kim - Rap Star (...gag...) This was the first dancer of the season. She is partnered with one of my favorite professionals. She has potential, and I will be able to enjoy her as long as I don't have to listen to her talk. She could be in my top 5

Shawn Johnson - Gymnast - only 17 years old. I know Marc will be able to bring this girl pretty far. She is very flexible, and she has that competitive edge that has helped other athletes do very well in past seasons. She is cute, I think they have good chemistry

Melissa Rycoff - Dumped by the Bachelor on Monday - Dancing with the stars by Friday! She only had 2 days to learn her dance and she did fantastic. It is about time they paired Tony with someone who will get him past week 4. They are one of my fav's too.

Gilles Marini - OH MY GOD! - I want this guy to make it to the end. The eye candy alone is worth the whole season!! I was going to skip all the hype about the Sex in the City Movie, But now that I know this guy has a shower scene it it? - oh yeah - I'm gonna watch it! (oh if I could only be Cheryl for an hour)

Holly Madison - yuck! - Hop on back to the playboy mansion honey!

not a lot of rhythm, just a lot of boobs!

STEVE - O - apparently one of the Jackass clan. I can't help but think he was just Dared to do this by Johnny Knoxville. I don't think he will last long. I'm hoping he goes on week 3

Belinda Carlile - 80's icon - "ooohhh heaven is a place on earth" - yeah you remember her! She will have to come out of her shell real quick to keep up with the other ladies. I wish her luck!

Chuck Wicks - Country Singer - I've never heard of him, but he's cute. He's Julianne's real-life boyfriend. And he's not a bad dancer. As long as their rehearsals don't revolve around them loving each other, I hope he sticks around

Lawrence Taylor - Football Star - Been compared to Emmit Smith. but he's got a long way to go if he is going to get as good as Emmit. Hopefully he will improve - I'd like to see more.

Denise Richards - Actress - The only reason for her to stick around is to be able to look at Maxim for longer. Other than that, she has already shown she is a cryer if max pushes her too hard. I hope that doesn't mean the judges will go easy on her. David Alan Grier - Comedian - I enjoyed him Very much. He looks like he's got a lot of potential and could go to about the middle of the season. Hopefully his fan base from In Living Color helps him by voting. Very funny man!

Well, that's it folks - How many of you will be tuning in faithfully? - Lets see how far my favorites go. - so far I have been pretty accurate in seasons past.

Potty Talk....Interested?

2009-03-09T12:03:00.003-04:00

Last week I told you that Kerrigan had gone pee on the potty. Well, I can update you on her progress...She has actually peed directly on the toilet about 6 times now, along with one poop claim coming from my 10 yr old niece who monitored one bathroom trip.
You know, they say one of the signs for potty training readiness is when the child shows an interest. OH BOY is she interested. Not consistently, but that will come with practice. Kerrigan is only 20 months old, but she takes after her older sister who showed her interest at 18 months. And with all of the kids using the toilet in the house, She wants to be a big girl too! - thank goodness.....I can't wait to be done with messy diapers. I have been dealing with them for 7 straight years!

Lets see....It usually goes a little like this;

Kerrigan: standing w/ blank look on face, feels herself pee in her diaper, looks at me very surprised "POTTY!!!!"

Me: "OK get going!" as we run down the hall to the bathroom

She gets the stool ready, I pull her pants down, WET diaper off, and help her straddle and balance on the toilet.

Kerrigan: whispering and trying to push something out "Mommy sit." pointing to the side of the tub. I guess that is my post.

Me: "come on out pee pees"

Kerrigan: "eeerrrghhhu... nope....no pee....nope" shrugs her shoulders, gets off the toilet.

Me: "nice try, maybe next time"

Kerrigan: "VIPE! VIPE!" crumpling up the paper and wiping about 5 times. then flush.

You would think that the next step would be to put on a new diaper, pull up pants, and wait.....ahh haa...I have gotten wise to this routine. It goes something like this:

once we leave the bathroom, we might get half way back down the hall before she starts dancing and saying potty again. So back in we go, this time I have left her with just her shirt on, so we hop up on the toilet.....a couple more grunts, "nope no pee...nope", get down, Vipe Vipe again and flush. This time we get back to the livingroom, sit down, get comfortable for maybe 2 minutes......."POTTY. come mommy!" and we do it again 2 more times. FINALLY, about the 5th time we try to go, out comes a little pee!!!! YAY! POTTY DANCE! Hi Five! Big Smiles..
Sometimes we can put the diaper and pants back on at this point, sometimes little bull just wants to be naked for a while. depends on where we are at the time.

So this has been my weekend routine. I'm glad she is so interested, and I know it will get easier once she is more familiar with the urging signs. With Vivian, she was interested real young, it took a lot of time to dwindle down the accidents, but she was fully trained without accidents by 2 1/2. I guess this is just how my girls do it! Vivian is a big help too. She is a good cheerleader.

A WEEK FOR REMEMBERING GRANDPARENTS

2009-03-06T12:56:00.015-05:00

On a typical Calendar, one can find a special day in September set aside for Grandparents. Some may see this day as one to tell grandparents they are special, they are loved, or perhaps they are missed. I guess this is sort of like an addition to Mother's or Father's Day. I myself tend to neglect this day on the calendar. Not on purpose. But to tell you the truth, I didn't even pay attention to it until I had children of my own.

Grandparents Most certainly have a special place in our hearts. Both Living and passed on. Although I am terrible at remembering Grandparents in September, I think I make up for it in the month of March........

Gramp VanDenburg
August 27 1913 ~ March 4 2009

(parents of the bride 1975)

This is a picture of my Grandparent in-laws. Madolyn and Earl VanDenburg. I never had the pleasure of meeting Madolyn. She passed away just previous to my meeting Gary. But I did have the pleasure of getting to know and love Earl. Over the years, he amazed me with his Independence. When I met him he was already 78 years old.

"Earl enjoyed camping and many summer days spent at "the camp site" along the Hudson River. He played a little golf in his day, drowned a few worms, and enjoyed trips into hunting camp where many great stories were born. Earl possessed a quick wit and we were often amused by his "one liners" and astute observations." - Dorothy VanDenburg (taken from his obituary)

Earl passed away this week. Just about a month after being Diagnosed with Brain Cancer. In some respect the swiftness somehow becomes a blessing, although it doesn't make it any easier on the Family. When a loved one has cancer, you feel helpless. It doesn't seem natural at first to "accept" that there is nothing in your power you can do to save someone you love. Turns out the only thing you can do is "help". Your job now is to help them through their last days. Make sure they are comfortable, see to it in the most obvious of ways that they know how much they are loved. Take care of them in much of the same way they took care of you in the first days of your life. My husband and his family did a great job taking care of Grampa Earl these past few weeks. They should all be very proud of the way they showed him there love when he needed it most.

The scene was all too familiar for me. I too lost my Grandfather to Cancer. The Anniversary of his passing will be 4 years this coming Sunday.

Grampa Hoddie

April 8 1923 ~ March 8 2005

My Daughter Just turned 4 two months ago, but oddly it seems like she has been with us forever. Grampa Hoddie has been gone 4 years now, and it still feels like yesterday. I am confident that he knows how much he was loved. sometimes It comforts me to think he is still a part of our lives, just on a different level. We have traditions we will never break because they were special to him, we started new traditions in his honor that I know he would be proud of. He is deeply missed every day of the year.......But when the 8th comes around, either March or April, we pause for extra prayers, extra "messages to heaven", some of us advocate harder for people to schedule their colonoscopies, and most of us start thinking about making his favorite bean and potato soup.

March 8th is also My Grandmother's Birthday. This year Gramma Claire will be 84. - As we grieve for our grandfather, we go the extra mile to lift the sadness of that date and continue to make it a celebration of her birthday, which she now also shares with one of her great great grandchildren. Coincidentally, before my Father's Mother passed away, she also shared the March 8th Birthday.

So as you can see, The first week of March is a rough one around my house. But as the years go by, we find new ways to Celebrate their LIVES. It is a week of Grandparents. Letting them know they are loved, they are special, and they are missed.

Rough and Tough

2009-03-03T14:00:00.007-05:00

I was so happy to receive all the generous feedback about Kerrigan's B&W photo that I had entered in the I heart Faces contest - Thanks everyone. I'm glad you think she's cute too!

One faithful commenter - Tracey - said "she certainly looks angelic...is it an accurate depiction?" I responded "to me she is an angel, but she has been referred to by her siblings as "one rough tough mean baby!"
This comment got me thinking about that little pint sized personality, and I just had to chuckle... at just 20 months old, She does carry quite a presence with her.

Daddy: "who's a pain in the butt?"
Kerrigan: "MEEEE"

She grunts and groans while she plays with her babies - these noises make you well aware of the hard work and effort she has to put forth to take care of those 25 baby dolls now living under her bedroom roof!
(where does she get that from?)

She doesn't just stroll through the house - head and belly are thrown forward, arms down and slightly back, feet are quick - this girl knows where she's headed!

unfortunately, whatever Brother and Sister have, want, need, think they own, ....They BETTER look like SHARING with little SIS!!! (she knows how to get what she wants) hopefully daddy and I can try to ~~correct~~ tweak this stubborn feature before poor Vivian starts to think that nothing can truly just be her's alone.

The babysitter even (affectionately) calls her "LITTLE BULL"

her softer side:

When I step in the door after working all day, Kerrigan runs from across the living room with arms stretched way out yelling "MOMMMMMMYYYYY"! in the sweetest, turn any bad day perfect, little toddler voice. - (sometimes it takes the other two a whole 2 minutes to notice I have come home)

When it's bed time and I lay her down in her crib, I get a big kiss and at least 3 hugs before she lets me exit the room. I always want to go back for more, because I know she has more to dole out, but I make myself leave so not to disrupt the routine. (man is that hard to resist).

This little person with all her cuteness and enthusiasm, coupled with her persistence and gumption is certainly going to grow up with the world (and some young man) eating out of the palm of her hand. I know she's already got daddy wrapped around a few of her fingers.

by the way ~ big news ~ "Little Bull" peed on the potty for real last night!!!!! Kyle, Vivian, and I all did the "potty dance" for her and handed out some stickers! ~ oh please let this be the beginning of the end of diapers :0)

This and That.... and a contest

2009-02-25T12:27:00.006-05:00

I haven't blogged in like a week ........sucks!. I have tried numerous times from work, but of course I want to add pictures, and video and such, but I guess my work computer is just dumb. It isn't reading pictures that I have burned to Cd's in order to bring to work and upload. It is frustrating. I have the cutest picture of Kerrigan just waiting to be uploaded, but ........oh...oh...wait a minute.......something is saying it can read the picture.....oh yay! I think I am going to be able to...oh yup...tadaaaahhhhh! here she is ...in all her adorableness!

I have been wanting to upload this to a site called I Heart Faces. They have contests each week with different themes. This weeks theme is B&W pictures. So I am going to go ahead and try to get it on there................... I'm not sure what I win, I think just the satisfaction of being picked by a judge...

Go visit the site here: http://www.iheartfaces.com/

Ok now that I have entered that contest, I will stop short of rambling on about the happenings that have been going on over the past week....Don't worry you are not missing too much!

I will try to blog again tomorrow! Enjoy my little sweetie. I just think she looks like such a little angel in that picture.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

2009-02-18T12:05:00.007-05:00

Ok - Update - in our efforts to stay connected to society, The news...etc, we have borrowed and set up a pair of Rabbit ears and a converter box! Not exactly cable, but at just the right time of night (between 9:30 and midnight), when the antennas are pointed and balanced in just the right delicate angle, we are able to get channels 6, 10, and 13! wahooooo!

So last night we happened across this show called What Would You Do? I think it was on Channel 13? maybe 10? - if it wasn't either of those, it was 6. Anyway, it is a show that at first reminded me a little bit of candid Camera. Putting actors in places and doing things to see who would react to the situation and how. There were a couple of different scenarios played out, putting people in awkward positions of either intervening to stand up to a person making racial remarks, or telling your friend the shouldn't get married because you have information that it would be for the wrong reason..........things like that. It was pretty amusing.

Then they showed a child at a busy playground (actress) who was left alone for a few minutes by her nanny that had to run to the bathroom (actress). Along comes this stranger man (actor), who acts very normal and non threatening, but begins to strike up a conversation with the little girl. Tells her he likes her pigtails, makes up some story about a lost dog and asks if she wants to help him find it - maybe over near the bushes! Meanwhile, The other moms and Dads that are at the playground with their own children immediately start tuning into this guy, they find themselves moving closer to that little girl, making sure she stays put, almost looking like they would pounce on that man if he made one wrong move! Eventually the Mom's and Dad's can't keep their mouths shut and they intervene before things go too far. They tell that little girl she needs to stay where she is, do not go with that man, or come over here and swing with my daughter. It was so great to see so many Moms and Dads stepping up to protect that little girl. They were aware of the situation immediately and they were in alarm mode. Like a bear protecting her young. I was proud of these people. they had no idea there were cameras. when the hoax was revealed, they were relieved, and admitted that they were not going to let that girl go anywhere with that Man.

Then the show explained how many times they played out that scenario,(lots) and how only about a dozen people actually intervened! I was shocked. It made me think about myself in that position. Would I stand up to a stranger to protect a child I don't know? even with no signs of violence (yet) , would I have the instinct to know that something was not right? risk being wrong about the man's character? YOU BET I WOULD! at least in my head I would! I mean I have never been in that situation, and hopefully never will. But after watching how some of those moms took control, I was Pumped! - "yeah that's right Buddy - She isn't going anywhere with you! Drag your ass - what are you doing at a playground without kids of your own?" (that's me reacting in that situation ....lol). Maybe it wouldn't be a good idea to swear in front of the kids.

Anyway, that show also re-emphasized my need to talk to my children about NOT talking to strangers! suddenly I was seeing Vivian on that swing all by herself - and I was wondering What Would She Do? - yup time for the stranger talk again - especially since I have One Very outgoing Boy, and the girls seem to want to follow in his footsteps. Although, One thing is for sure, I would have never left my child on the swing ALONE while I run to the bathroom. (really mom, I wouldn't).

Dragon Breath

2009-02-16T13:01:00.002-05:00

We have a new addition to the family......This is our BEARDED DRAGON named Freddie........I had the cutest video of kyle holding our new pet FREDDIE and explaining all of the cool facts. He turned right into a mini Jeff Corwin as soon as the camera turned on. He is so proud. He talked about where he comes from (native to Australia), how big he will get (a foot long or so), right now he is just a little hatchling. And what he eats (crickets and all sorts of veggies and fruit)

BUT unfortunately, without my own computer to work with and upload the video, I can't seem to figure it out. I promise I will try again somehow, but for now, you will have to settle for this picture of him.

Yup! Call me crazy, Call me the coolestmomofaboy in the world, call me nurturing my son's love of everything Nature. In case you don't recall, THIS POST explains a lot about Kyle and his love for these Dinosaur creatures, and how long he has wanted this bearded dragon. Truth is, this little Saver, saved all his Christmas money, and the dollars he gets from his Meme each time he gets a 100 on a test at school, AND managed to fill a mason jar with beans he slowly earned for good behavior in order to buy his new little friend.

~~~Everything Kyle explained in the movie was accurate except for a part when he said the Dragon would charge after you to Bite! I think he just wanted to add a little DRAMA. Unless you are a cricket, Bearded Dragons are very docile. Except for the lack of cuddliness, I think they make a very good companion. (really wish you could have see the video)

......Just the other day, My Grandmother remarked (and this is exactly what she said)
"a'course I won't be here to see it, but I really wish I could see Kyle when he is all grown up, what he becomes. 'cause he'll be something spectacular I'm sure."
ummmm....yeah..........I was speechless to say the least...I was re-composed in about 10 minutes .

aside from that remark ripping my heart out to know that Gramma thinks about a time when she will no longer be alive, I often refuse to let myself think that time will come at all. At the same time, it warms my heart to know that she sees Kyle's potential. Gramma Claire is right - Kyle WILL become something spectacular - I'm sure!

TGIF the 13th?

2009-02-13T12:40:00.011-05:00

What a week -

It is never fair when someone gets Cancer. It is heart wrenching to hear stories of children, Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Siblings, spouses, who have been stricken with the horrible thing called Cancer. Gary's Gramp was diagnosed with Cancer this past week. This man has lived to be 95 years old, survived raising 8 children, stayed in pretty good health, still able to live by himself and get around - until last week , when a couple of falls prompted doctor's to perform an MRI. It just doesn't seem fair. It is comforting to know that when he was given the news, he reflected on his good life. his long life. also mentioning that he has lived without his wife for 17 years.

His wishes were to return to his own home, take the wonderful service of Hospice, and surround himself with his family. Please Keep Him in your thoughts.

Wednesday's fiasco:

ok - picture this. My sister and I decide to leave our offices for our lunch hour in my van. about 4 miles down the road, I notice that the little needle that usually hangs out in the middle of the gage labeled cold and Hot, starts creeping up higher and higher toward the H!! I start ~~flipping out~~ getting pretty nervous. so I pull over, turn the van off, start calling Gary from Corin's cell phone to get advice on what to do......no answer! ~~he is home with the kids, no car, where the hell could he be?~~ after calling six more times with no answer, we decide to start her up again and see if it cooled down, and maybe we could get close enough to someplace that could help us. - OK so we drive a little further, and up goes that damn needle again! So I pull back over, THIS time, we hear glub...glub...glub...glub - Corin gets out, looks under the car, and there is Antifreeze just pouring out the bottom of the van near the back!!!! aaaahhhhh! - So Corin calls her husband at work, his advice is to Drive to the Jiffy Lube that is about 1/2 mile down the road (through 2 more traffic lights!)............we make it to the Jiffy Lube, I parked like a crazy woman - which must prompt someone to come to ME and see what is the matter. When we described the problem, he hits us with " we are not a full service garage. The only thing I could do for you is to put antifreeze in it for you or flush it". (big sighhhhhh)..... He sends us down the road to another garage......so my head starts reeling again - I decide to go just a little further to the dealership that has done the work on our van when it is covered under warranty.......PLEASE let this problem be under warranty.... This was also my only option for a way back to work - they provide a shuttle service- So we drop off car, make it back to work, at 4:00 we bum a ride from a co-worker who lives nearby our houses....... that was exhausting. Needless to say - corin made it public on her facebook page that she intends to Never ride to work in her sister's van again.

Warranty???? not this time. We need new whatchamacallits hoses that cool something or other, and it will cost $500. - oh yeah, by the way, the inspection sticker runs out at the end of the month, and it won't pass until we replace the front left tie rod thingy! and get new tires! ~~SLAM!~~

So we told them to go ahead with the cooling lines, but we are hoping to find a cheaper mechanic for the other work.

OK TAXES! you better get your butt deposited in the checking account - LIKE TODAY!

Thursday :

Vivian's preschool was having a little Valentine party, so we filled out the traditional Valentine cards - one for each child in the class. The one made out to Jack, we added a little heart next to his name (supposed boyfriend). about 15 cards in all, and we put them in a little baggie, popped them in her book bag and they were ready for school.
I talked to Viv on the phone after school. She DID NOT pass out her cards! - I still don't understand the misunderstanding, but she came home with a whole bag of cards and candy from the other kids. Apparently Gary just sent her in the door, didn't let the teachers know that the cards were in the bag- therefore , they must have assumed ~~she~~ I forgot them !

FRIDAY:
Car is Fixed. Still at the garage. Taxes still have not been deposited to our account. Will once again BORROW the money so I can pick it up today. Bumming another ride at 5:00 from a co-worker who lives near the garage.
We only have 6 Months of payments left on the van. Then we can say we own the piece of CRAP!
if this was a product review on a 2003 KIA Sedona minivan...... I would recommend NOT to buy a KIA. this is like the 4th time in a year that we had to have major work done on this vehicle (there are only 63,000 miles on it).

I am so glad this week is over. Monday is a holiday - I can't wait!

Looking back....A little NUTTY

2009-02-11T11:47:00.005-05:00

As you know, we are currently functioning without television. It's not so bad....The only show I really Miss is Desperate Housewives. The kids are getting more mileage out of their Disney movies, And actually PLAYING TOGETHER! Forts have been constructed from blankets, and sisters are pretending to be Mother & daughter who have some strange pet (kyle) living with them. We have discovered T.V. is not a necessity....Yay!

One night when I was checking out our movie library for something to watch, I came across our video of "Kyle's first year". This is the video that started the day we brought him home from the hospital, lots of him sleeping, Some with the dog practically up his butt, more of him sleeping in the baby swing, laying on the floor....etc....etc...(it went on for hours)

How many of you out there have this same type of video of your first born???? come on - you know you do!....I think we were a little NUTTY!!

We have holiday get togethers that consist of the camera just fixed on Kyle. The segment of Christmas 2002, Kyle was 9 mo. old. It took him about 1/2 an hour to open ONE present, but luckily we captured every rip of the paper. - I was so frustrated watching this part because at one point I could tell that Grampa Hoddie was sitting near him, but all I could see was his shoes....I so wanted the camera to pan up and to the left so I could once again see how much Grampa loved watching the kids at Christmas. I could also hear my niece and nephew (then 3 and 7) actually having a conversation. Their cute little munchkin voices were loud enough I could tell they were really close to the videographer (Gary) , do you think we could get a glimpse of their cute faces ? NOPE - Kyle had some drool that was very exciting, didn't want to miss that!

Don't get me wrong, I'm glad we were so taken with our Son, of course he was our world. - I guess I am just feeling a little silly that we spent that much time savoring the uneventful things - almost like I didn't know all the wonderful moments that were to come - like actual activity! - And the sad part is - I didn't take out the camera nearly enough after that first year.

Now listen to this bad parenting.....We have since had two more children....Not one video of them until last month when I taped them doing their ballet dance. PLEASE tell me this happens in every house. Am I going to have to hide the Kyle video when the kids get older so not to make the girls feel less important? - Or will I conveniently "not be able to find their videos"? ekhem.....I was the second child, and Mom can't find my baby book.

I will give myself some credit now....I take pictures ALL the time - like crazy! of ALL of them! - I have 3 very up-to-date, equally detailed baby books. I also have "naked tiny baby pictures of all of them to decorate the bathroom wall.(someday Kerrigan's will actually make it to a frame).

I feel better, ....but the video is still pretty NUTTY!

My Name Is Not Isabella

2009-02-06T08:18:00.002-05:00

Time for another review. -

This book was given to Vivian as a Christmas gift from Aunt Corin (huh? another review of a Corin gift?). Let me tell you - I think I have read this book to the kids about 14 times. ~~I really enjoy it.~~ They really enjoy it.

Isabella's Mother thinks she is waking her daughter Isabella up in the morning for school...only to learn she has awoke her little girl AND her big imagination. Isabella takes us on a journey through her day as she pretends to be various women, who throughout history, have made their mark with notable achievements such as inventors, Astronauts, doctors and activists.

Vivian enjoys this book because each time Isabella changes her name to a new historic woman, I try to change my voice to become the character. such as when Isabella becomes Annie Oakley, I channel the very best cowgirl imitation I can muster up! And then, a couple pages later, when Isabella says her name is Elizabeth (Blackwell), I tone it down a bit and speak as if I am extremely well-read, and talk as if I need to look over the top of some bifocal glasses (my interpretation of a woman Doctor from the 1800's I guess).

Truth be told, I enjoy reading the book just as much as Vivian enjoys Listening to it.

At the end, Isabella pays tribute to a Mommy - SO great that in that little girl's eyes, her mother ranks right up there with the greatest women in history. - What a great message!

In the back of the book, there are more details about each of the women Isabella pretends to be and their accomplishments. Sort of a mini history lesson.

The Author, Jennifer Fosberry, is an upstate New York Native, was a classmate of my sister's (our copy is now autographed), and also happens to be a third cousin to my Husband! - So not only is this book a great recommendation for young readers as an early inspiration to do great things as a woman, but it has a local success story attached to it as well.

I hope you all get a chance to read My Name Is Not Isabella. published by Monkey barrel press

the light came on!

2009-02-05T12:30:00.004-05:00

I Finally figured out how to make all of these cool changes to all the words. I was feeling kinda Blahh with my posts and jealous of all the other blogs I read that have colors and BIG lettering and they just seemed to have more personality showing. Now I can too! It only took me 4 months! lol. I just had to "expand my widgets" whatchamacallits!

I still haven't figures out how they put the line through the words that they really want to say, but shouldn't - if you can tell me how to do that I would appreciate it.

TTFN!

Simply Adorable

2009-01-25T20:30:00.008-05:00

Vivian 4 years Old
Kerrigan 19 Months
Aside from my annoying voice, This is extremely cute.
(I Must say)

Kar-A-Tay!!

2009-01-24T15:02:00.009-05:00

HI YA!
push play:

Today was Karate class #3. Uniforms arrived!
How cute is my little karate Kid!!??

Parents are not allowed to watch the class anymore...The teacher X-ed that out the second week. He said he didn't want the kids to get distracted.... EXCuse me...how am I going to take pictures at every class?, and how am I going to get great action shots for my blog????
(could my picture taking at the first class be the distraction he was referring to??...nahhh....that would be too embarrassing)
Anyway, these are the pictures I managed to take at the first class...before I was banned.

And these are the pictures from home that Kyle had FUN posing for.

He is having a great time in the class. He says they are learning to count to ten in Japanese, doing lots of crunches...(can I join?), and they have contests of who can NOT get pushed out of the black square..(so far a GIRL is the champ).
Five more weeks of beginner classes to go. - then hopefully the next class will be offered right away that will add a little more CHALLENGE.

Remember.... WAX ON, WAX OFF...

A Message will find it's way...

2009-01-22T12:23:00.006-05:00

A little background... We are feeling the pinch. Work has cut Gary's hours back a bit, we are still coming off the Christmas expense, and our darn kids still think they need to eat!. I had a bit of a melt down this weekend - I was stressed. Gary and I had to talk about ways we can cut back on expenses, the sacrifices we can make for a while, tightening the reins on the budget. I guess you could say we were living AT our means, and now we have slipped to living beyond our means. Not that I think we go crazy at all - I NEVER buy myself new clothes, we don't have brand new vehicles, and we rarely go out to dinner. The time has just come to strictly watch our spending. And since we don't really want to sell one of the kids, we have decided to get rid of some other things.

One of the firsts to go was SADLY the Internet connection. This was MY sacrifice. I am now a lunchtime blogger. The other sacrifice was the Cable TV. This will probably cause the kids to go into convulsions...but hopefully they can live without Spongebob, Drake and Josh, the Wizards of Waverly place and (sadly) Animal planet. They will have to get back into watching their 5,000 DVDs that they have. (I hope Viv doesn't get back on her Monsters Inc. kick)

So I got a yahoo e-mail address, and we got a new phone number (due to the disconnect of the all-in-one service package). I had to laugh - a friend of mine (who should really start her own blog soon) asked if we were entering the witness protection program. I know - pretty drastic.
I have also called around to several Restaurants lending them the chance to use my Waitressing expertise on busy Friday nights, but no one is bidding on me yet.

OK - you get the point now...... onto the reason for the title of this post!

Those of you who are new to my blog, can check out this post to see where my belief in psychics came from. and then.....

I was invited to another psychic party this weekend, by co-workers - One of whom was with me at one of the first parties we had with psychic Jenny. I declined the invitation....Can't be spending $40 on psychics... Even if there was a chance to hear from Grampa Hoddie.

When I caught up with the co-worker Tuesday morning, I asked if she had a good reading...she said "it was alright, nothing earth shattering though". Then she said it was funny, at the end of her reading, she was about to walk out the door, and Jenny said..."are you going to see Allison?"...(nod)... "her Grandfather wants me to tell her that things are going to get better."
Now, this co-worker had no idea that money is tight....I am not even close friends with her.

Did I mention to you that I had a meltdown this weekend - That I was stressed? ....Yup - Advice from good ole Gramp sure comes in handy when you need it. I couldn't be there to get the message directly, but those who need them, get them.

Gary poo pooed it of course." it's a recession Allison. She was pretty safe in saying something like that." - I think differently. I guess I like the Elevation emotion!

MR. PRESIDENT

2009-01-21T15:10:00.005-05:00

OK Mr. President.......... My fingers are crossed.

Back to Viv's Birthday.......

2009-01-19T18:20:00.017-05:00

I have to apologize to Vivian....It has been a week since her Birthday, but I just got around to getting the Pictures off the camera to do a post about it. You see, I now have a computer savvy little boy to compete with over computer time.

Let's see.... Viv's actual Birthday was on the 13th - due to hectic schedules, we split up her party into two family parties. We had the first one at the farm at our usual Sunday coffee-and-donuts-catch-up-for-the-week day. We combined her and My father's Birthdays together. His was on the 10th (that was vivian's due date).

Vivian is a pizza and Chocolate lover, so I wanted to get a little creative with her cake. I had seen a recipe for a "pizza cookie" in a parenting magazine a while back, I thought I would try it. It came out cute - One large round cookie (pizza crust), topped with chocolate pudding (the sauce), and Strawberry slices (the pepperoni). I personally thought it tasted good, but by the number of 1/2 eaten slices I threw away, I don't think it was as tasty to the kids.
Make a wish you two!....

Then of course there were presents...

This was the adorable outfit she wore to school on Tuesday - Her ACTUAL Birthday....

A few days later, we celebrated her birthday again at Meme and Poppy's house. Meme made a delicious Turkey dinner, and Then we Had Ice cream cake....

And opened presents....

Meme Got this Princess a "real" Cinderella Dress.

She got a lot of great clothes from everyone (which she needed - she is growing like a weed) including some "very sparkly" jeans from Gramma cindy.
Aunt Gwennie got her this princess oven that "safely" bakes these little tiny cakes with ICE...?... I think I read the directions right - but these little cakes went in looking like dough, and..... came back out looking like dough.????... what did we expect from ICE? - hot cross buns?

all in all this Birthday #4 was a great time. I'm sure the day will come when she starts asking for the big "theme" parties with lots of kids from school (just like her brother started asking for) but for now, she (and I) are quite content with the quiet family gatherings..........Happy Birthday tooooo Yoooouuuuu!

I'd Like To Request "SULLY" ?

2009-01-17T14:10:00.001-05:00

A tragedy turned "Miracle on the Hudson"

Next time I fly - I want the guy flying it to be the pilot who Landed this Airplane gently and safely into the Hudson river only five minutes after take-off. Do airlines take requests? I didn't think so - wishful thinking.

Apparently a flock of birds were the cause of the emergency landing, after they flew into the engines.
Chelsey "Sully" Sullenburger became a hero when he landed this jet in the Hudson river near Mid-Town Manhattan! It is unbelievable that all 155 people on board survived and only one woman was reported with an injury.

Angels really do have wings.......

Shivvverrrring Ramblings.....

2009-01-16T10:03:00.006-05:00

I DO need to post about Vivians 4th birthday - I will get to that once I have time to get the pictures off the camera and ready to upload...I haven't forgotten about her - Unfortunately this post is just going to be a cluster of misc. happenings.

~~~~ GLOBAL WARMING?????? - my ass! I went to sleep last night in New York, and woke up in freaking ANTARCTICA!!! School was delayed 2 hours due to the reported -22 degrees. I know we live in the North country - but I haven't seen temperatures like this in quite a while. A co-worker said this morning that "this is like the old fashioned winters we used to have".
I said a little prayer this morning as I stood at the window and pushed the remote car starter to the minivan (thank god I have one of those) - I prayed it would start. - I could swear I actually heard a few "I think I can"'s coming from under the hood - followed by a few squeals and groans with it's efforts to stay running. right about now, I'm wishing I could fast forward to April. Did I mention I can't stand the COLD??!!

~~~~ what is going on with Kyle? - I don't believe I have blogged about him lately have I? - Last Saturday he started a Karate Class at the local Y. I think this is going to be right up his alley - I'm excited for him, and it is fun to watch. I also didn't report on his other happening because I was a still a little embarrassed. - but now I have convinced myself it could have been worse,.... I think. so I will confess. ---- I had to make my first complaining phone call to a parent last week of a child on the bus....ooohhh the dreaded bus. unfortunately it is a necessity for us. Apparently this 9 year old (bully) girl on the bus finds it entertaining to tell my son to do gross things such as LICK the bus FLOOR....gasp from the readers.... as well as the bottom of her shoe!...... everyone OK?....AND HE DOES THEM! I am pretty embarrassed that Kyle would even consider doing such a thing - and Believe me - we had a very long talk (3 days) and will continue to have more conversations about making good choices, and how kids that tell you to do things like that are not thinking you are funny, but they are making fun OF you! I was so upset, I decided to call the girl's parents (who I have never met). I wasn't getting real far with the Dad, so he handed the phone to Mom, who of course defended her child, but said she would talk to her daughter and find out her story, and if warranted, she would do something about it. I reassured her that I wasn't calling to be mean or get her daughter in trouble.. (maybe a little)... I would just appreciate it if her daughter knew that Kyle's mom wishes that she would not ask a first grader to do such gross things on the bus... (AND THAT I WILL BE WATCHING)... longer story short, the mom called back and said her daughter denies the whole thing, and blamed it all on another girl who she says also pulls his ears and hair. ..... I felt better anyway. And Kyle and I talked and talked....Then I got on the bus the next day and asked the bus driver to keep a closer eye on Kyle. (I don't feel like he was too enthused about that responsibility ) we will see if it gets any better...if not, there is always that can of Whoop ass I have handy!

Kerrigan is still a little stinker - we took down the railing of the crib which turns it into a toddler bed - (kind of a mistake) now we have to retrain the sleep routine, but she is still a lot better than how Kyle was going to sleep - with Kerrigan, you just have to make her think it is her idea for bedtime.... I know, who is the parent? but she really is the MOST stubborn child I have ever seen - she has some facial expressions that would make the devil cringe! - you gotta love her - she is all personality!

And last of my ramblings for today ---- Why don't you comment?... I visit other's blogs who regularly get at least 15 comments on each post. Granted, I do not have that many followers (blogger.com followers, with the little picture), but I have a LIVE FEED - I can see you all who visit! I can tell that many of you read, and then disappear! YOU in gloversville, YOU in Saratoga, YOU in Hadley, YOU in Texas, YOU in California... I can see you lurking around.----------------------- I check my blog several (lots and lots) times a day - not because I think the post fairy secretly left a new post on my blog - but because I am hoping for the comments, the feedback.I mean, come on - that last post about my daycare provider... had to tug at the heartstrings... and only 3 comments!!!!! (thank you to those 3 people).
- But I'm not being pushy, just whining.

STAY WARM EVERYONE!!!!

I've seen the signs

2009-01-14T12:16:00.008-05:00

The signs of a great Daycare provider that is....

You know you have a great one when...
~~ The baby puts her arms out to go to the babysitter when you drop her off.

~~ Your 4 year old gets in the car and reports that she had a GREAT day!

~~ The babysitter tells you how much she enjoys listening to the baby sing to the dollies when she plays by herself.

~~ If The kids get sick, and I stay home from work with them, the sitter tells me I don't have to pay for that day (even when I am supposed to)

~~ Funny sayings start popping out of the girls that you know have to come from daycare like "Eat the crust of your toast - it will make your hair curly". or "That's not MECESSARY (necessary)" when the baby cries.

~~ The baby loves to dance to a snowman Decoration that the babysitter has out for Christmas, so she sends it home with her.

~~ The oldest daughter admits to you that she hit a little boy at daycare, and when you ask how the sitter reacted and her answer is "she said the boy deserved it"

~~ When It snows on your way home from work and you are running a little late...you walk in the door to pick up the kids, only to find them all bundled up and ready to go..but asleep on the couch in the baby sitter's arms.

I was once a Daycare Provider out of my own home (before I realized we couldn't survive on that money) So I understand how demanding, exhausting, draining and underpaid this woman's job really is. Those of us who work outside the home have got it made in the shade. Stay at home Mom's (or Dads), and daycare providers, definitely have the hardest jobs I can think of. When you find one that enjoys it and doesn't do it because they think they can make a lot of money at it, it is a great blessing. My provider is an older woman, her child is all grown up, this is the only work she has ever done. She has been doing it for over 30 years. The peace of mind you get when you know you are leaving your children in such caring hands is priceless.

The King - Happy Birthday

2009-01-08T12:13:00.019-05:00

I know - I failed to mention this weird and random thing about myself in my other post. It would have fit there too. : " my name is Allison, I am 31 yrs old, and I am an Elvis Fan." - I admit it.

What you say? "Allison, you were 2 months old when this man died?"!

Guess what? - in our family, ELVIS LIVES! Elvis has been around my house forever.
One of our Christmas traditions is to listen to the Elvis Christmas Album while we decorate the tree.
My Aunt Carol(the biggest fan of the family), has visited Graceland, collects Elvis memorabilia, has a life sized cutout of him in her bedroom (snicker) and is pretty much known for her fanatical elvisness.
- I can remember his Records being played quite often as a child. whenever an anniversary special aired on TV, we would watch it. And my Father and I danced to Memories at my Wedding.
I would also have to say that In my adult years - the family (mom, dad, sister,aunt,& Gramma) has Kicked it up a notch! We are now Annual ELVIS FESTIVAL attendees.- This is a local event that attracts professional Elvis tribute artists from all over the country for a whole weekend filled with competitions and Concerts - It is the next best thing to the real deal. For my Grandmother's 81st Birthday, we threw her a surprise party, invited tons of people, and entertained them with one of our favorite local Elvis Tribute Artists! - It was extremely fun - even the youngest generation were tapping their feet! - (more fans in the making?)

Tonight was Our latest Elvis event. In honor of his Birthday - (Today Elvis would have been 74 years old) - we had an Elvis Movie Night!
Each of us made sure we wore our Blue Sued Shoes backstage passes,
and the Elvis BLING.

Elvis was invited - And he graciously accepted.
The guest of honor stood quietly in the living room as we watched one of the many television specials Airing in honor of his birthday and spoke of his unmatched beauty. Gramma had watched a few of his movies during the day and she believes "Girls Girls Girls" was one of his best - mainly because he is shown often in tight white shorts....
Then we chose to watch Viva Las Vegas.
We know that his movies were a lot of fluff, they are pretty "hokey", and you can't help but laugh. Although it was good he stopped making those movies, there were quite a few fantastic songs that came from them.
So after We poked a little fun, Aunt Carol Reminisced about how close she was to having tickets to see him in Syracuse in 1977, but that he died shortly before the appearance was scheduled. We Ended the evening with a little Elvis "eye candy" by watching our favorite concert THE '68 COMEBACK SPECIAL!
Nobody wears black leather quite like him!

We had a great time, and decided we would make it an annual Birthday party. Elvis threw out the Idea of a group shot to commemorate the first official Elvis Movie Night at the farm, so we couldn't disappoint.

side note: we are not the only crazy Elvis fans in the world. - For the second year in a row, Presley topped the Forbes magazine's list of Top-Earning Dead Celebrities, hauling in $52 million last year.

Big Girl Stuff

2009-01-06T21:29:00.010-05:00

What do you get when you combine a whole stash of new makeup for Christmas with a little girl about to turn 4 years old? A B.E.A.UTIFUL rainbow!

Vivian was given makeup by a few people including SANTA this Christmas. She is in her GLORY I tell ya!!

That Purple suitcase stocked with every color imaginable for eyes and lips and fingers and toes. Complete with light up mirror and applicators of all sorts is just what this "rock star" wanted for Christmas. The lights shine just right for her to strategically Smear lipstick from cheek to cheek. Included were these wonderful brushes that really hold a lot of gloppy shimmery eye makeup so to be sure that even someone standing across the street would notice she was dolled up!

Less is MORE??? - not in Vivian's world! More is definitely more for her.

Christmas eve was when she began layering on the lips. I never let her "tie into" my makeup before, so she went pretty wild when she was in control of her own Compact. No one to tell her "that's enough". Christmas morning there were remnant stains from her previous face - Note: children's makeup has that "continuous wear" figured out.
But that didn't stop this beauty from applying new... and more eyeshadow and lipstick. she usually doesn't stop until she has applied a bit of everything.
pretty much all of our Christmas day pictures show vivian looking like she should be on the Drew Carey Show, but you know what? - she is a girlie girl through and through. Hopefully by the time she is 17 she will have perfected her makeup skills. For now, we make sure in our attempts to build self esteem to always tell her how beautiful she is no matter what. Gary is very good at emphasizing her NATURAL beauty when she is not wearing her makeup. Either way, I think she is a riot! A girl likes a little GLAM right?

Brain Noodles

2009-01-03T14:32:00.007-05:00

A Review

"Brain Noodles are jumbo silky fiber stems that bend any way you want. These versatile Noodles are great fun and have countless applications including toy, craft, educational, sensory integration, and occupational therapy"

toys that Challenge a child's mind are always a great contribution to their "mountain of toy" repertoire. Kyle and Vivian both got a package of these Brain Noodles for Christmas. They are pretty fantastic. I wish I had thought to take pictures of all of the creations we have twisted these soft, over sized pipe cleaners into. That is basically what they are - huge pipe cleaners!
Kyles package of 12 Noodles all have an animal print - perfect for his big imagination and fascination with animals. He quickly opened the box, and whipped up a quick Honeybee. It was great to see his excitement for something so creative. Since then, we both contributed to making a very cool hat that even sported a couple of antlers.

Vivian, who is just turning 4, needs a little more leading when it comes to actually making an idea out of the noodles. together, We have made a princess crown and some weird, girlie accessory that twisted around arms and ended up a belt (I guess). But that is the whole idea - get crazy!, invent something new!

For those children who need a few jump start ideas, each package comes with an idea book. The package also says for ages 5 and up, but I think my 4 year old is learning a lot from playing with them. There are no sharp points or edges, reusable, and non-toxic -A toy that we don't have to wait for Kerrigan to take a nap so we can play with it. (another bonus!)

I have compared these noodles to the fun of balloon animals. Have you ever tried to make balloon animals? I have tried, but to no avail. they are very frustrating, they pop, and who wants to listen to that squeaky sound balloons make when they rub together? This totally satisfies your (or just my) want to create balloon animals.
This was a present from my sister. She bought them at a book store called DOG ATE MY HOMEWORK. and I believe she paid $15.95 for each package of 12.

A great purchase for Christmas or birthday for kids that have everything. and every kid needs Creativity!

AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!....

2008-12-31T12:20:00.004-05:00

The anticipation of a brand new year!? I don't know what to think about it yet. I always hate the first few months of a new year because it takes me that long to remember to write the new date. I'm sure I will be writing 08' instead of 09'. A knew year also brings the obligation of a New Year's Resolution. I pretty much make the same one every year. to lose some weight. The only difference this year is the amount of pounds I wish to lose is up a few from last year. that's depressing. And of course I always vow to become more organized at home for the new year. The organized part will certainly come into play when I have to dig out the treadmill in the computer room in order to start on the first resolution. I will keep you posted on the success of this year's (continued from last year's) new Years Resolution.

The new year also brings me some sadness knowing that the kids will be another year older, They are growing up way too fast....which also means I will be getting another year older..yuck. And last of my pitty party... It will mark another year gone by without our loved ones who have passed on. This makes me sad.

I know The New Year is supposed to be happy. That's why we go out and party right? To Celebrate! So lets see.....Things I can look forward to this year are... My new body due to my Resolution (lol)...Income Tax refund... The end of Winter....The Beginning of Spring...Planting flowers...The Vegetable Garden...The new batch of Honey... The end of Car payments in August!(hopefully we won't need a new one)...and A Trip to Disney in November.

I hope everyone has a Happy New Year's Eve tonight, and a Happy, HEALTHY 2009.

My Version of a Christmas poem:

2008-12-27T20:48:00.016-05:00

The Stockings were flung behind the living room chair, And you could definitely tell that saint nick had been there. early they rose to see what they had gotten, then off to see family they dashed without stoppin. on kyle, on vivie, on kerrigan and gary. on car seats,on buckles on allison... be merry! Gary looked at me and said what is the matter? - why, we are off schedule, we're late! now get on with the clatter! There was laughter and love, all day long there was joy. You could see it in there eyes after opening each toy. When darkness fell on this family of five, we loaded up the presents and prepared the last drive. Back over the river and through the woods, the kids were so tuckered they fell asleep in their hoods. we stuffed kids into beds and gifts into piles. we discovered a mess that went on for miles. too tired to clean it, we longed for a rest. so we left it for tomorrow, we thought that would be best.

The End!

That was Christmas in a nutshell.

A very nice holiday - glad it's over though. The kids are having a ball enjoying their new toys. here are a few of my favorite Christmas moments in pictures.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

2008-12-24T13:18:00.004-05:00

Wishing Everyone a Very Merry Christmas. May it be filled with Family!

please Wish me Peace and Sanity!

Christmas Schedule:
12/24.....
3:00pm...... leave work, head for home
3:30 ....... Get myself and everyone else dressed for Christmas eve dinner
4:45 ....... Head over to In-laws for x-mas eve dinner/gift exchange with cousins/games/"SANTA" visits at 7:00!
8:30 ........Head back home
10:00........ Continue to try getting kids to fall asleep
11:00........ if kids are sleeping, finish wrapping presents/stuff stockings
12:00am ......Fall asleep

12/25......
6:30am....... Wake up - Make Coffee - wake kids
6:45 ........Call Gramma and Grampa to come up for presents/stocking opening
9:30 ........Head to In-laws for Breakfast with Great Grampa V.
11:30 .......Back over the bridge to the farm - presents with my family/crock pot buffet lunch
pm
5:00 ........Back to In-laws for Christmas dinner/ Exchange Gifts / Relax
8:30 ........Drag our tired Asses back home and crawl into bed completely dressed

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!

To Blog....or Not To Blog....

2008-12-22T22:48:00.005-05:00

oh MAN :)- I got home from work today to find Gary leaving for work...AND dropping off ALL THREE children at his mom's! They planned a trip to tour the holiday lights. lets see...that gives me about 4 hours to...do....what?

My EYES were telling me it was a perfect opportunity to get some of that dreadful cleaning done that I can never get done with Monkeys and Munchkins demanding attention. I could finish wrapping presents. do Laundry. Dishes. vacuum. OR I could BLOG....

Arrggh! it was so hard not to sit down at the computer knowing there would be no distractions....but I didn't... I did the dishes(which required two full dishwasher loads), and the laundry, and swept the kitchen floor, and ....As you can see, Blogging has effected my housework. But I think I have it under control now.

So much to do in the next couple of days - tonight ( 11:10 pm )I still need to get a basket of tastefully simple together for Corin, Wrap up the Baby sitter's Gift for the girls to take tomorrow, finalize the last minute shopping list for my lunch hour tomorrow, and fit in some sleep before morning. - so you see... I have all the time in the world to be sitting here.
Ohhhh... so this is why most of the blogs I follow haven't been updated in like 5 days.

I'm Hit....

2008-12-19T12:43:00.004-05:00

I have been tagged. Now I have to come up with 7 random or weird facts about myself. I have been worried about being tagged with something like this. In the bloggosphere I can't just "accidentally" hit the delete button and ignore it like it never happened. Thanks Corin. she is the tagger and she is also my sister. We are a lot alike- so now I have two challenges (1) to come up with 7 things I wouldn't mind the public knowing, and (2) trying not to duplicate some of Corin's 7.

So here Goes....

#1 If you read Corin's 7 weird and random things, you already know that I too have crooked pinkies. Along with my two oldest children. My third child, who resembles more of my husband, has one crooked, one straight. Unlike all of them, I also have another physical strangeness. I have a tiny white dot in the middle of each of my pupils. I have no explanation for this. It has no effect on my eyesight.

#2 The book " The Eskimo Twins" is the only book I have read cover to cover. yes - I am 31 years old and I have only read 1 whole book....I was like 9... (not counting all of the children's books I have read to the kids of course.) It's not that I can't read, But I find that I would rather be doing something else, or it makes me sleepy, or I'd rather just wait until it is a movie. All of those book report assignments in school - it is amazing what you can get from a few chapters and the back cover.

#3 In the 4th grade, a baseball player from the team my father was an assistant coach for, taught me how to Juggle. This special talent actually comes in pretty handy. It won me a prize once at basketball camp when a speaker asked if anyone could juggle - I had to prove it, but I was the only one. It also comes in handy for entertaining kids - which prompted me to teach myself how to balance a baseball bat (or anything with a straight handle) on my nose. - I am a regular Circus act.

#4 Clutter makes my skin crawl - some of you are laughing hysterically right now - If you could see my house, you would know how uncomfortable my skin feels. We have too much "stuff" and not a lot of places to put it. I long for shelves, and totes, and other forms of organizing tools. I wish for a place for everything and everything in it's place. One of these days, I am going to do a clean sweep - everything will go out on the lawn, necessities will make it back in....one of these days.

#5 I am addicted to "Days Of Our Lives"... I tivo it all week and catch up on the weekends. While I am watching it, I am conscious of it's ridiculousness, yet I am still hooked.

#6 There is something about Tony Danza that reminds me of my Brother-in-law. I don't know how to explain it, and those of you who know Dan probably think I have been drinking. But through the years of " Who's The Boss", I couldn't watch him without thinking he was just like Dan.

#7 I crave a drink I have not had in about 19 years. As a child, we didn't take trips to the mall on a weekly basis like we sometimes do now. We went once in a great while as a family. While we were there, I looked forward to our "treats" of an ORANGE JULIUS! That place moved out of the mall years and years ago, and I didn't know they still existed until this post. I looked it up and low and behold the nearest one is 40 miles from me and they are now owned by Dairy Queen.

There - I'm done... Now I have to tag 7 others.

The Rules:
Link your original tagger(s), and list these rules on your blog *Share seven facts about yourself in the post- some random, some weird, *tag seven people at the end of your post by leaving their names and links to their blogs, *let them know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs/ and or twitter.

My seven: is really six

Just Another Mommy Blog
Live.Laugh.Pull your hair out
In the trenches of Mommyhood
Coconut belly
Chasing dreams running away
seastars

SOME PLACE WARM

2008-12-18T16:46:00.004-05:00

It isn't even Christmas yet and I am already sick of the snow. We have had 2 snow falls so far this year, but we are looking at another one tomorrow, one on Sunday, and another one next Wednesday.....Ughhh... I am one of those people that wishes it would snow on Christmas eve, AND THAT'S IT. I would be good with that for a whole nother year! I am looking Forward to a January thaw - and an early Spring.
OK - I'm done whining.

Reptile Kyle.......

2008-12-15T22:14:00.005-05:00

First Birthday.... Favorite present - large rubber Brontosaurus from uncle Eddie
Age 3.... Favorite movie: Jurassic Park
Age 4 ....Favorite books: Animal Encyclopedias he called his "Great big book of everything"
Age 5 ....favorite TV shows: Jeff Corwin Experience, Dinosapian, Meerkat manor, Documentaries on the Loch Ness Monster and CHAMP
Age 6 .... Favorite past time: Figuring out how to talk Mommy and Daddy into various lizard/Reptile pets:(
Age 6 1/2... All of those favorites are still his favorites.

"When I grow up, I am going to be the guy that goes in the cages at the ZOO!"

This is what Kyle told us a couple of years ago - I think it was after we left the Rosamond Giffard Zoo. - We discussed this more on the ride home, about how he could be anything he wants to be when he grows up - The Zoo would be a fun place to work -
we have our fingers crossed that he will want to go into the field of zoology - Not just settle for being the cage cleaner!

We have definitely nurtured Kyle's enthusiasm for Animals, nature, dinosaurs, Lizards, - you name it , if it is a creature, Kyle is an expert. Animal Impressions are a specialty. It is actually one of the coolest things about him. Some of my greatest "talks" with Kyle have been about "wild things". When he thinks he can teach me something about an animal, he gets very serious... starts talking with bigger hand gestures... comes up with interesting theories - surprises the hell out of me that he is only 6. Just last month, we watched a Jeff Corwin special on the National Geographic channel about the disappearance of the world's frog population. at the end of the show, jeff told us to go to www.savethefrogs.com to see what we could do to help the cause. Kyle pointed out to me that by becoming beekeepers, we were helping the bee population, So we should do what we can to help the frog population too. I am going to try and get him this T-shirt for his birthday coming up in 3 months. I hope this donation will be enough. I wouldn't want to take on repopulating the frogs at the pond in the barnyard.

So far,We have allowed various "dinosaurs" such as a Senegal Chameleon, and a red eared slider turtle, to co-habitate with our family at Kyle's request. In fact, we have all kind of stepped into Kyle's unique world of reptile interest to a point. I think we all had fallen in love with Camo the Chameleon, he was actually very cute. Not in a cuddly kind of pet way, but in a very cool pet for a very cool boy, kind of way. It was a very sad day when Camo passed on... The funeral was painful to watch. Then we got Lila - She is pretty easy going, seems to be a lot heartier than Camo. not as delicate. Kyle's new interest......I meant to say OBSESSION! - is trying to talk us into a Bearded Dragon. - He has spent all weekend surfing the net for these spiky dessert dwellers. He has been sent to his room a few times for the constant whining because Mommy says - " No - not right now - we cannot get a bearded dragon. No - Santa does not bring lizards for Christmas - it is too cold for them at the North Pole!"
BLAH BLAH BLAH - he doesn't want to hear any of that - So we had a long talk about how he should be thankful for Lila right now, and that I'm not saying he can NEVER have a bearded dragon... just not right now.... Maybe sometime in the Future.
KYLE: " oh - you mean, like, my BIRTHDAY????"

God help me!

Hey, you never know.....

2008-12-15T20:34:00.005-05:00

This is a link to a survey given by Lands' End. I am going to take the survey - I could win a gift card. Now that I told you all about it on my blog, I will get 2 chances to win! - great! good luck to us all.

Lands' End had this to say:

Lands' End is one of those companies that really value moms' opinions. Here's a way to have your voice heard and really make a difference when it comes to summer clothing and summer safety.

Please take a few minutes to complete the Lands' End Sun.Life 2008 Survey. The survey consists of 22 multiple-choice questions. Upon completing the survey, your name will be entered to win one of five $100 Lands' End Gift Cards. To be eligible to win, you must complete the survey by midnight (CST) on Friday, December 19th.

Cookie Artists

2008-12-15T19:04:00.009-05:00

I am not much of a Christmas cookie baker. I don't know what it is about it that makes me lack the motivation to want to tackle a few Dozen every now and then. Thank goodness the kids have a Meme that plans a Christmas cookie night every year so the kids can really get down and messy. They enjoy the cookie experience lots and lots. I found that I enjoy spectating and photographing it.

This year, the girls' ensemble was complete with new hand made Christmas aprons.
The cookies were under way in no time. flour was flying, rolling pins a rollin', cookie cutters cuttin', ovens buzzin', and colorful icing and candy were perfecting.
These were not just kids baking cookies - this was cookie art. and the masterpieces were down right delicious!

I look forward to learning from these cookie genius' again....same time next year.

smile....SMile....SMILE!!!

2008-12-14T08:11:00.005-05:00

Christmas is right around the corner...what do you give grandparents and great-grandparents for Christmas that they don't already have??? Why a Family Photo of us of course!
Yup that's right we have never had a family photo taken of all of us. until now....
Yesterday, we invited Corin to come over and take our Family picture at our house. Let me apologize to her right now. I don't think she knew what she was getting into. It is really exhausting trying to take our picture. and for us trying to get a decent one. I told Corin in the beginning, I was glad it was her taking the picture - she would be able to tell us if we needed to adjust ourselves as to hide any unnecessary rolls or extra chin exposure. YEAH Right - like we had the luxury of worrying about that - it was more like how fast can we snatch Kerrigan as she runs by, get everyone looking the same way, smiling and eyes open before she decides to get back up and run for the camera to see the picture on the back. - We even tried bribing her with chips. "I will give you a chippy if you go sit on mommy's lap." (Fools)
I think there were about 55 pictures taken total, and I like 1 of them. Gary and I agreed that it isn't really one that we would blow up and place over the Mantel, but it will make a great gift this Christmas.
Of the 55 pics taken, some are pretty comical.

after a while it became a continuous shoot and hope for a good one. Good job corin,you had a tough job, but somebody had to do it.

I will reveal our favorite one....drum roll please.....

Robeez Footwear

2008-12-12T16:25:00.004-05:00

Guess what? - I haven't had any companies contact me yet about reviewing products:(
It will probably take a little time. - While I wait, I think I will practice reviewing, by telling you about one of my favorite baby items. This will be my product review KICK OFF!

Robeez footwear
For infants and beginner walkers: Robeez Soft soles
"Barefoot is best, choose Robeez next"

These soft soled baby shoes are fabulous! - When I think about all of the baby products I have tried over the course of 3 children, I am most impressed with these shoes. It has now become number one on my list to tell new mothers about. - A definite favorite for a Baby shower gift as well - The mom will thank you. They are easy to get on those squirmy, squishy, plump little feet - And the Stay On!!

With my first 2 children, I thought it was a waste of time and money to put teeny tiny shoes on a baby - They never stayed on, and so they ended up in just their socks anyway. Especially when they started crawling.
Around the time my 3rd baby was about 8 months old, I had gotten a gift certificate from my mother-in-law to use on Amazon.com to buy something for the kids. I decided to go ahead and "splurge" on something I wouldn't normally spend my money on. ( the price of the Robeez brand might be their only downfall) I had heard a few good things about Robeez products, and it was getting toward winter and I wanted the baby to have warm feet at daycare. SO I ordered a pair of absolutely adorable ( so many cute styles it is hard to choose) size 6-12 month PINK Shoes. The cost was approx. $27.95
I fell in love with them! They held up very nicely right up until she grew out of them. and she was even able to begin walking with them for quite a while, which was great, because the soles kept her from slipping on the kitchen floor too. They clean up very nicely - if they get dirty from dragging on the floor, a baby wipe works wonderfully. robeez also has other shoe styles to grow with children up to age 4. be sure to check them all out.

I was sad when she grew out of them. - I had bought a second pair to have as a spare, but they were a different brand. They served the purpose and were just as cute, but I don't think the leather was as soft and the elastic around the ankle seemed to be a little tighter. That brand was Ministar
and they were only about $13.00 sold at Target

My second reason for reviewing Robeez footwear is to let you know that they have a
Holiday promotion

If you send a robeez holiday greeting, The Robeez company will donate $5.00 worth of product to children in need. the reward for me writing a post about it on my blog, Robeeze will donate $25 more dollars. Their Goal is to donate $250,000 worth of robeez footwear to children in need this holiday season in partnership with Kids In Distressed Situations (K.I.D.S.)

Thanks for reading my first product review!

Product Reviews

2008-12-10T21:23:00.006-05:00

OK - I wanted to try something. I have seen on a few other blogs that companies are willing to send you products to try if you will write a review about it on your blog. I asked a couple of these bloggers how to go about doing this, and the advice seems to be to just write about it on my blog, and companies might start contacting me to start testing! As if there is some sensor that tells a company that someone is interested? It sounds a little too easy to be true, but I will try it.

So here is my Shout out post to any company that would like to send me a sample of their product. I would love to try out some new cleaning products, read a new children's book to the kids and report on their reactions, the family dog is even willing to try out the latest and greatest chew toy. or perhaps I could test out a new baby product - that would be fun. I promise to be thorough and truthful when it comes to my opinion on your product. We are a family of 5 - Mom and Dad in their early 30's , a son 6 yrs old , a daughter 3 1/2 yrs old, a daughter 18 mo. old, we also have a fish, a turtle, and a Labrador retriever. If there are any companies out there that would like us to review a product, we are here to review it! thanks

amillis26276@roadrunner.com

There - I hope that was what I was supposed to do.
I will let you know if I get contacted by anyone!
And If I don't - I might just start reviewing stuff we already have. Cause we got a lot of stuff - some great, some junk!

Elf Fun

2008-12-08T19:56:00.002-05:00

I jacked this Idea from someone els's blog - it was so cute I couldn't resist. ENJOY!!!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

I couldn't resist adding another one! - Gary elf cracks me right up!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

BugBeGone!

2008-12-06T22:33:00.006-05:00

I am happy to report That the Stomach bug has left the building! It went through everyone in the house EXCEPT ME!! - which I am also happy to report. Lets see, it took 8 days for this virus to go through both girls, Then Kyle, Then Gary, and then my mother-in-law. I think I was puked on a total of 6 times. - Gary says I am the lucky one- I can handle getting puked on, therefore I am rewarded with not having to puke myself. I will go with that! Goodbye puke bug! and don't come back!

In other news - I tried photographing a perfect Christmas card of the kids . ha ha ha. Kyle and Viv are pretty well trained by now when it comes to posing for pictures. Even Sandler is becoming quite the poser.
Miss kerrigan is another story! I may be forgetting the age that Kyle and viv became good picture takers, but Kerrigan and her mind of her own makes it pretty difficult. My goal every year is to put up the tree, get the kids to pose in front of it with the dog and all in pajamas. This year Kerrigan insisted on sitting on the dog. Sandler is ok with that, but it just wasn't working. I asked Kyle and viv to help out, but if they interfere, she starts hitting. imagine that Christmas card! - So what I ended up doing taking a few pictures and then Cropping out the best of each kid, putting it into a card format that holds 3 different pictures and ordering them that way. Not my dream pictures, but they came out cute anyway! - Kerrigan's picture definitely depicts her mood at the time. - So for those of you who get one - Enjoy! I will include a picture that was pretty good, but didn't make the cut only because the size of the picture wouldn't work in a card due to cropping disasters where either heads or dogs were cut off.

The BUG......

2008-11-30T23:36:00.006-05:00

WARNING.... This post is sorta graphic
There's nothing in the world more pitiful than sick kids. Friday night, Vivian came down with a stomach bug. at least 4 other people on the street also had it Friday night/early Saturday. I thought the rest of us were in the clear since no one in this house had shown any signs of a bug since Friday. I thought wrong. I dread the stomach bug! For one thing, I am the worst puker ( I say puke.. vomit sounds weird to me) on the planet. I strain so much that I end up with broken blood vessels all around my eyes and mouth.not a pretty site. So, when it starts passing around family members, I just sit and fear that I will be the next victim. When the kids get it, I of course swing into mommy mode - and even find myself being a cheerleader - "oh you are doing such a good job, thats it, get all the yuckies out, you will feel much better". I'm sure they appreciate it.
So far, I haven't gotten it. BUT - Tonight at 8:00pm. It struck Kerrigan. The first explosion that occurred without warning was in the kitchen while I was holding her. after shedding both of our clothing, she seemed pretty fine. the second explosion that occurred without warning, happened in the living room ALL over her BROTHER!!! (bad bad very very bad) - we now discovered that kyle has a very week stomach! - Yup you guessed it - Like a chain reaction, Kyle gagged and then puked all over the blanket on the couch. Now Gary had to swing into action too! - He ran for the kitchen to get a bowl for Kyle to use, while I dashed for the kitchen sink with the baby in hand, hoping to get most of it in the sink instead of on the Carpet. Poor Vivian had a huge melt down when she discovered that Kerrigan had done a fantastic job of puking directly on her favorite pocket book that had been left on the living room floor. Have any of you ever tried to chase after an 17 month old baby with a large plastic bowl hoping to anticipate her next explosion by watching her face for the slightest sign of another upchuck? Its pretty difficult - especially when you are laughing so hard you could pee your pants because you can't believe your son puked as a result of being puked upon, while washing off the pukey pocketbook to make that one stop crying.... whew... it was kind of like one of the comedy shows when they do that fast forward thing with the fast music. Turns out Kyle is fine for right now, he will probably be truly sick tomorrow, along with me because it is bound to happen. Kerrigan went to sleep, but wakes up about every 45 minutes to puke without success because there is nothing left to get out, and I am sitting here blogging about it. I pictured myself Blogging about how nice Thanksgiving was, and how well behaved the kids were at both family dinners. And that we had a great time at the VanDenburg family Christmas party on Saturday night, and... you know, so much has happened in the 4 days since my last post, but this just goes to show you - you can't wait 4 days to blog!!! a stomach bug might just sneak up on you and steal the Show.