Not Trying To Be Someone Else

2012-01-08T17:16:00.000-08:00

She's lost a few pounds so she thinks it's okay to post a pic of herself.
She's delusional like that.

2012-01-08T17:09:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to see how this pic translated to the blog from my phone.

Home Alone

2011-12-23T08:25:00.000-08:00

So, I have this Japanese app that helps me do
all the bubbles/dots in my pics. It's true that
I cannot understand Japanese. All I know is that I LOVE the app!

Except without all the mischief of the Home Alone movies. Well. Sort of no mischief! haha I tease!!

I'm just glad to be home by myself. If all I accomplish today is staring at the walls for a few hours, then my job is done! I tease again. :) My major beef is always that my husband gets time on his days off with no one at home. Just to be able to hear silence in a home that you work all damn day to have! Thank you, Lord, of course, for the aforementioned home and job! :)

Two days before Christmas though automatically means, equals stuff to do. But, if I work out, shower, think about baking, wrap a couple of presents, look at the files that I brought home from work, pick up the kids from school, look (and, I mean, only look) again at those files, maybe bake, and maybe think about cooking dinner--I will have accomplished the world. So, of course, with all that, I'm stealing some time with my blog. Yeah. Makes ~~so much~~ no sense!

In deeper news, I've been going through a soul-cleansing, a rebirth, if you will. Not trying to get back to where I was. But, moving ahead to a better place. I've learned so much about myself. I've been humbled too. And, I love humility. It's one of my favorite characteristics. I'm a big believer in it. I'm reminded of that verse that says Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord and He will lift you up. And, since there is no up without Him, I only want Him lifting me up in this life. It's a daily rebirth so it does not come easy but to know that He has not left my side and loves me still, despite me, is A MAY ZING!! God is good is all I know. :)

I'm majorly into cupcakes these days.
It does not help my efforts in cutting my sugars.
But, whatcha gonna do? Something about living once, right?!? :)

It's thrilling to still have a journey to walk, a lesson to learn so that I can hopefully be a help to someone else. Something to pass onto these children of mine. :) Who, by the way, are precious. Or, perhaps, extremely well-behaved since Santa [a.k.a. me] is on her way! :)

Well, I better get going if I'm going to attempt to accomplish anything on the above meager list. Thanks again, Blog. You're sweet to let me babble. You cool like that! :)

For the one person who comes by ---> Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! ::))

Preoccupied...

2011-11-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

Here are my kids and some of their friends rolling down our tiny hill.

So preoccupied. That's the only way that I've been able to describe myself lately when I am speaking to a friend who I haven't spoken to in weeks. I say that I'm all over the place...which is to say--I feel out of control. But, I also feel that I can't say anything of why I'm out of control. So, I just try to shake it off and have a normal conversation. Yeah--nice try!

Anyway, this weekend has been good--trying to catch up with family and friends somewhat, laugh with my kids, and spend time with my husband. This is the week that my husband and I normally take off together to reconnect since our anniversary is not something we are really able to celebrate the way some do. Who has the time or money? We actually have only taken a couple of days off work. (Thanks to those early 2011 snow days...I was very short on vacay days.) But, they have been productive and fun days so surprisingly satisfying since I normally slack off for most of the week and try to cram it all in the last few days as documented here and here. I think there was an urgency to make every day count which, as can be imagined, I've completely impressed and surprised myself by my hard work and effort. :)

Omigosh--the fun that I've had with Faith! She is such a funny girl!! We have danced and laughed so much these couple of days. I love her so much. Her personality is really amazing to me. We are very cool girls that's all I know! :)

Well, my boy, Elijah, turned eight yesterday. There was only one thing to get him for his birthday. Mario Kart...I don't think that is a new Mario Bros. game but he likes the racing games and he only knows the old Mario Bros. games thanks to Daddy. So, I don't really want him to get to know the new stuff too much yet. So, that damn Mario Cart is expensive so we bought it as a community. Mommy, Daddy, Louise, Carol, and Faith all chipped in for the purchase. How else was I going to get Daddy to spend that kind of dough?!? ::)) I know what you're thinking--She's a genius!! haha

Elijah played the game for some of yesterday. But, in order to play the game today, he had to work on his math since he has not been doing well in math at school. So, this miracle happened this morning--Elijah is now a math genius since Mario Cart was waiting for him. Unbelievable this kid!! At 9 this morning, he's ready to work on his math!! He better do better in school is all that I have to say on that!

Well, Blog, other than that, all is well and the same around here. You know that I really appreciate getting to vent to you about once a year now. I blame that damn Facebook!! Really. :)

Psalm 119:55 NIV

2011-08-14T12:45:00.001-07:00

"In the night, Lord, I remember Your name, that I may keep Your law."

I remember who You are--what You've done already in my life. That even in dark, difficult times, I will be able to find way to keep Your law, Your way in my life. I want to take heed to Your Word even in the difficult times. Difficult times, trying times are not an excuse to react badly. It's an opportunity. An opportunity to display Christ in my life. I have to continue to remember in those times--to remember who He is. Jesus is the Overcomer. The Holy Spirit is the Comforter. The Father is in control. ME, be a watcher of ways to keep God's Word on display in my life--to keep Christ on display in my life.

Vacation 2011

2011-08-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

Bloggable Conversation 123

2011-03-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

Elijah: Mommyyy! She [Faith] touched my body part!

I look over at the both of them.

Elijah: She touched my foot.

Taking that recent conversation about personal space ettiquette a little too far, I think. But, my boy is the poster boy of taking things a bit overboard. So, there you go! :)

I'm so frustrated...

2011-01-22T09:35:00.000-08:00

This was last night before I read the email referenced below. Is he praying for mercy? :)

I received an email from the teacher about my boy yesterday. He gave the teacher some trouble--little meltdown with a side of a little rebellion. It's true that he was mad in the am that the little bit of snow outside did not a snow day make. But, I told him on the way to school no crying or giving the teacher a hard time.

And, what does he do? Just that. "It's too hard." That is what he said that caused the problem. He wouldn't do the simple task because he thought it was hard.

Oh riiight! I forgot that my line in those early grades was "I can't do it." Payback sucks!

I'm just frustrated because the task was so simple. Of course, the teacher had to use a tough voice. And, that's when he got angry with his arms folded and cried.

The teacher said he was better at lunch and the rest of the afternoon.

It's just hard...a situation like this is something to be dealt with at least for today. And, that then affects the whole day. I want to get together with one of his classmates and her mom--they are a great playdate. And, I do not want to leave out Elijah. His classmate is a girl and she loves playing with Faith too. We all have a great time. What to do?!? I really like hanging out with this mom. :)

Well, I've been working with Elijah on the situation this morning. He just asked me for a Poptart--I said I think you can handle that on your own. (Minor confession: I probably would have said that even if he hadn't been in "trouble" today.) He's seven, after all. He's got to start growing up because it's sad when the smallest of tasks overwhelm him. [sigh]

I guess I have to get that responsibility chart that I've been thinking about getting, like, forever!!

Well, I better get going. Oh, I'm sorry that I didn't re-introduce myself...Blog, how you doin'? I'm the slacker blogger that comes around here every so often to vent to the Blogosphere. Nice to see you again. And, thanks!

Oh--Merry and Happy to you for all the holidays that I missed recently!!

:)

It's that time of year again...

2010-11-14T13:19:00.000-08:00

Where I quickly synopsize the last few weeks of life.

Specifically, I'm talking about last week.

Tomorrow. I go back to work. [mourning for a few moments] Basically, I've had my week of vacation with my husband. We have purposely bonded over doing nothing this past week. But, as usual, in order to find some meaning to my life--I did a few things to file under "Accomplished".

1. Cleared off the buffet table. This feat took me almost a week to do. Pitiful. Pathetic, I know. The problem is--I literally chipped at it for almost a week. There was no other way to do it. Truly.

2. Did a couple of neighborly things. But, since I use this place really to only brag on the more shameful things that I do, I cannot start now to brag on any virtuous things. Really--any good that I do is from the Lord so no point in saying that I did it.

3. My husband and I went to a few stores. Surprisingly, we spent more money than usual which only said to me that we were really on vacation since that is only when my husband is more liberal with the monies.

4. Slept in...

5. We tortured the children with our week off...they were so disturbed and jealous over our alone time. :) Not sure if this means we are doing a good job with them. Oh well. Lord, please fill in the gaps there. :)

6. Oh--we went to Disney on Ice Toy Story for my boy's birthday. He was thrilled to see Zurg, the bad guy. Faith was thrilled to see Barbie. We really had a great time.

7. Slept in...

8. We celebrated my boy's seventh birthday with just a small gathering and some ice cream cake which he did not eat. My boy can put on his list of accomplishments that he mortified me completely with his behavior. So glad that we are not going all out in the birthday party department for him--it cannot be justified. That's all I can say.

Well, that's the list--pretty much. We did a few other things that were important. But, again, some things do not need to be mentioned. :) Even today, I'm trying to get a few other things done online so that I know that I sort of used my time wisely. The countdown is on!! :)

I do feel that life is good. God is good. Life is still really busy and crazy. And, I need the Lord's help to cope with it all.

I want to get some pictures posted soon. For a little bit, I was able to post from my iphone but I don't know what I did to that situation. All this technology--sometimes I want to kill it!! :) haha

Hope all is well with you, Blog.

Thanks.

:)

Today is nine years married...

2010-10-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

This picture taken in 1993 shows that it all started way before 2001.

How cute is he?

Love you, Baby.

ME

Edited to add: I guess I got busy doing nothing on October 11th. I meant to post this. I'm a scatter-brain for sure these days!!

We had painting day a few weekends ago.

2010-10-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

This is not meant to be great. It just is what it is. Yeah--I'm not sure either. I tried to paint out a Bible verse; but, I do not write well with paint. So, I tried to start over and this stormy mess was the result. I was feeling very melancholy due to the news of someone's death that I did not know but it was still upsetting because this person has left a mark on so many people. His death came very suddenly. I just discovered him on itunes earlier this year. He was basically leading Daily Live Worship (that's the name of his itunes podcast also) of the Lord and people all over the world were downloading his podcast. This ministry has had an amazing effect on me in just a short amount of time. I thank the Lord for this effect. God is good.

The painting itself--I still want to frame it eventually. For me, it has meaning. And, I suppose that is what art is all about. The coloring, I think, with the right color matting will frame nicely in my bedroom.

I'll have to show the kid's art from that day also. The main reason that we were painting that day is that I felt bad for basically vegging out weekend after weekend for a few weeks without really doing anything with the kids. I've just been so tired. Painting with canvas alleviates guilt...didn't you know that? haha

I hope all is well with you.

:)

Edited to add: The coloring of this paiting is much better than my scanner allows. My scanner is crap now. I'll have to take a picture of it with my phone. I think it would possibly come out better. Also, with my scanner, I can also scan a portion of it. The painting is bigger than the scanner. Crap scanner! :)

Not my day job...

2010-09-12T14:46:00.000-07:00

So, this is how I spent my Saturday. Learning a job that could well be in my future again. In fact, Faith was planning it all out--"you could push this around town and sell the hot dogs for $4 each!!" You never know when ~~your daughter's love for you~~ those mortgages might dry up!

Anyway, we had our PTA membership drive. I did not do any of the planning for it. I designed the flyer; that's about it. So little planning did I do for this that the day before I was all like--Yes! It's Saturday and I don't have a thing to do!! Then, I was all--Crap! I'm helping with the PTA membership drive. Then, praying, "Please, Lord, let it be the fastest three to four hours ever!" It was more like SIX! Oh well. Do you know what the best part of working the hot dog stand is? The umbrella that covers the hot dog stand!! Shade for this fair girl! Completely worth it! So, I will take this job until the end of the time. Called it!!

The good news is I sold $82 worth of hot dogs. Not bad. But, not nearly as good as the cotton candy, popcorn, and water/caprisun people. They killed it. I don't care though. I was pleased with my little contribution. :)

The bad news is that I will probably make the local newspaper. Ugh! I told the photographer to only use the picture if it came out well. I actually was able to speak with him earlier where he took my picture doing a little prep work. I asked him how long he had been doing this work for the local newspaper. He said that he had been doing it for over three years. I told him that I always notice him everywhere and wonder what he thinks about having to attend all these little functions...the library's sidewalk chalk artshow, the board of ed meetings, etc. I told him for me it was about community--being a part of this activity and learning the ropes from these dedicated folks. And, he completely agreed--community! I hope that he finds his job satisfying. I'm thinking that he must love it since when he gets his few pics, he is so outta there!! That would be my favorite part. Then community. :)

Hope all is well for you where you are at in this world.

Trying to do it all...

2010-08-31T21:56:00.000-07:00

May be the death of me.

PTA is starting up full swing. Trying to get the Girl Scout troop going. Getting the kids completely ready for next week hasn't happened yet. Still need to get to a Walmart type store to buy pencils and folders. And, work is driving me nuts.

I'm constantly praying to the Lord for help. Help! :)

This past week was my girl's birthday. Eight years...wowzers!! It's so true what they say--enjoy them while they are young because they grow up so fast. Sometimes, I feel guilty because when they were babies, I wanted them to be older and more self-sufficient because those baby years were so overwhelming for me. At the same time, having Faith and Elijah help each other with their own breakfast in the morning has definitely been a big help and bonus. Unfortunately, work keeps me away from them alot. I can get home really late when things are as busy as they are. More guilt. Tomorrow night, I mean, tonight, I will try to get home earlier to see them. I love them and want to spend time with them even if it's playing wii together or watching tv cuddled up together.

Well, Blog, I really appreciate you letting me babble on here. I just wanted to get some quick thoughts out here as I contemplate trying to sleep. Thanks.

ME

Thinking too much

2010-08-27T06:10:00.001-07:00

Alot of things on this weary mind. Sometimes I wish I was smarter 10 years ago with what I know now. I would of made smarter moves. Anyway, back to work God is good all the time!

^
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^

Very strange...and, I'm feeling a little violated. I did not post the above words. Has someone hacked me?!? Or, did someone accidentally do this? God is good all the time. And, I have said on occasion that I wish I could have told my younger self what I've learned about finances and saving your money. So, it seems my hacker and I have alot in common.

Hacker, hang in there. It's all going to be alright. But, please blog elsewhere. Thanks.

Edited to add: The mysterious hacker has been found. That's what I get for putting my blogger app on my husband's phone. He's bored at work and he then discovers blogging?!? So, I tell him how I've been hacked. "Oh, that was me.". He's lucky--I was trying to put the Blogger police on his ass!

The excitement's over...nothing to see here. :)

I helped a friend move tonight.

2010-08-12T20:57:00.001-07:00

Actually, I only helped for an hour a little before ten tonight. And, a few days ago, I helped for about an hour and a half. So, in the scheme of things, I really lucked out because who really likes helping with a move.

But, what I really wanted to say was that I'm sad that my friend is moving. She's moving back to Florida. She's actually from New York, moved to Florida three years ago, moved back to New York a year ago, and is now moving back to Florida for good. What a nut! But, I really enjoyed getting to know her this year. She is the first person who lives right in my town where we could be friends even though she had family here. What I mean is when you are not from the area like myself and you meet people--sometimes those people don't really need more friends it seems. They already have their posse, basically. We can be friendly and talk and be involved in school activities but it's not like hanging out...I don't always have people local local to hang out with...this girl and I did that a little more. Also, she was doing Girl Scouts so I'm also basically mad at her for volunteering with me when I did NOT want to do it. Don't get me started! :) Our girls played together and were in the same class so that bonded us too.

Oh well. I know that we can still talk occasionally. And, now, I have someone to visit in Florida. [sigh]

Thank you for listening, Blog.

My boy and Buzz Lightyear

2010-08-08T09:31:00.001-07:00

He had to take the pic by himself. He likes Buzz but he said he wanted a Zurg cake for his birthday. I said, "But Zurg is the bad guy?!?"

Lots of iPhone pics...bear with me.

2010-08-08T09:28:00.001-07:00

Orchid

2010-08-08T09:24:00.003-07:00

Magnolia

2010-08-08T09:24:00.001-07:00

Taken at Orange Lake, FL.

I absolutely love the scent of magnolia.

Central Park

2010-08-08T09:22:00.003-07:00

St. James Church, New York

2010-08-08T09:22:00.001-07:00

We had a picnic in Central Park last Sunday.

2010-08-08T09:21:00.001-07:00

This taken using the Hipstamatic app on my iPhone.

Girl singing under the bridge in Central Park.

2010-08-08T09:17:00.001-07:00

Holly tree looking other-worldly.

2010-08-08T09:15:00.003-07:00

Holly tree and light

2010-08-08T09:15:00.001-07:00

Ivy and Iron

2010-08-08T09:14:00.003-07:00

Are you ready for your closeup?

2010-08-08T09:14:00.001-07:00

Lovely view

2010-08-08T09:09:00.001-07:00

Time passing by...kids growing up...just trying to survive sometimes.

2010-06-06T07:35:00.000-07:00

No, really. All has been well. It's just that damn Facebook takes up on my time. It's just way easier with my phone to keep up with people there. My blog has always been something that I was proud of though...the look, the widgets, etc. My major in college was computer science so I always love anything to do with the computer or programming. And, I feel the blog gives me more control in the look of things (even though blogger supplies it all and so it is cheat-programming). Where twitter and facebook--not so much. But, then, with my iphone, I don't even get on the computer that much to do real typing except at work. And, you know, nothing at work counts. haha I kid. But, not-really.

So, why am I here? Not in that major why-do-I-exist question? But, why am I here now on the blog? I'm keeping up with twitter to see this girl, Paige, finish her run that she is doing this morning. She is fifteen. Her family has been living in Haiti. They are now back in the states on furlow for a little bit. Her family's blog is here.

Anyway, she has been raising money for this run. And, there is this building company/ministry in Haiti that will match the amount houses that she can buy for families in Haiti. It's been really inspiring to watch this unfold. She just finished the race! Praise the Lord. I can only hope and pray that I can raise children that have a heart for things that really count. I'm trying--but it is something that I really have to depend on the Lord for...please fill in the gaps where I lack, Lord.

I think that is the answer to why I exist...I want my children to be blessings and not curses for people. It is so hard. I want to have this life for myself but alot of my life is giving the good parts of me to my kids. [sigh] I don't mean to sound selfish--but I am sometimes though.

Well, I better get going to check on them. I know they want time from me now.

Have a great one to the two that occasionally come by!! :)

Keeping me under...

2010-04-03T06:37:00.001-07:00

Eliot just said that I've just hit my minutes max on my cell phone plan.

E: There has to be a better way to keep you under 450 minutes.

ME: I don't like you using the wording that you are trying to keep me under anything.

My Law & Order mind envisions be kept underwater, kept under a pillow....the visuals are terrible, I know.

Hey, Babe, perhaps, just up my plan?!? :)

Or, perhaps I can work to keep UNDER the 450. [saying it with attitude and a sigh]

2010-02-27T18:43:00.000-08:00

Taken with my Iphone.

I love hanging with this kid. She is so funny.

2010-02-27T18:41:00.000-08:00

This picture is from some weeks ago now. I also took this one with my Iphone. Basically, I'm playing around with taking the picture with my phone, downloading it onto my computer so then I can get them printed up...I'm amazed with how nice some of the Iphone pics have turned out. If they print up nicely, I'm so set!

Little Revelation

2010-02-26T11:18:00.000-08:00

That verse, Phil. 4:7

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I've always loved this verse...how the peace of God can be had when it doesn't even make sense that one would be experiencing peace in a certain situation. But, after reading this verse in the niv, the fact that a Guard of Peace is put at my heart and mind brings this verse to a whole new dimension for me. I can totally visualize this Guard at my heart and mind making the miracle of peace happen in my life.

Thank You, Lord.

As Time Goes By...

2010-02-14T20:48:00.001-08:00

I love how Eliot loves Casablanca. I had never seen the whole thing all the way through until he brought it home for us to watch. He was explaining it to Faith tonight. She's loving the old movies too. Love it!!
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I've been thinking about love today. Since Valentine's Day is coming to an end, I suppose my thoughts are appropriate. :) Reading my husband's card to me and as I wrote my husband a note in his card, I was full blown crying. The feeling of gratefulness...of a blessed life...of a man-I-really-lucked-out feeling. Haha. I kid!! It's just completely amazing that this love has grown over the years and continues to grow!! I'm really trying to contribute more to the household duties around here. Not because I love domestication!! And, I have a long way to complete ~~domination~~ domestication. But, I want him to be happy. Wierd, right? :). He is so good that he deserves a good wife. Sooo, I'm trying to fulfill that role.

Wish me luck, okay?

Here's to you and some really sweet days!

Making a serious effort...

2010-01-16T18:41:00.001-08:00

Since I really didn't want to sleep the day away, I purposely ate two bowls of Cheerios last night before bed. For one, I came home late from work and I was terribly hungry. Two, there was no way that I was going to sleep in for too long with that much fiber working through my body by 8:30am! Now--that's making an effort. :)

I hate days like these...

2010-01-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

I must show love by cooking a meal today. [collapses to the floor]

It's a shame really....

2010-01-07T21:36:00.000-08:00

Since I rarely sleep in my bed, it is so hard to get to sleep with my husband's snoring when I do sleep in the bed. I usually fall asleep on some couch while watching tv. Terrible on the body but I love late-night tv. Let me roll him over again to see if that helps!

Bloggable Conversation 033

2009-12-18T23:13:00.000-08:00

An exchange between Daddy and Faith, after a delicious bowl of mac and cheese...

Faith: Is there more macaroni and cheese left?

Daddy: A little bit.

Faith: Because it's delicious! And, I want it for lunch on Saturday. Now, how do you do the microwave?

Daddy: Uh.

Faith: Because Mommy's going to sleep aaaalll day. And, I can scoop it out. Do you do :10 [on the microwave]?

Daddy: Uh.

Faith: Because I can do :10.

Daddy: I don't know, Baby. I'm working Saturday. [which is to say: You're on your own, kid!]
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For God's sakes, I was way up before nine both days last weekend!!!

What do these people want from me?!?!?!

Some Belated Happy Birthdays...

2009-12-16T22:13:00.000-08:00

To my son, Elijah (Nov. 11), who is pretty much also known around here as the pain in my ass. Turns out though that this place here is the only place that I will be able to mention his little, special name from here on out.

To my husband (Nov. 28), also known as the love of my life. Basically, my husband texted me tonight to let me know that our son called his father a pain in his ass, my son's ass. [can't stop giggling although terribly mortified] So, because of this little development, I have to watch my mouth a little closer. Damn. Daddy says that he doesn't want to have to knock him out so I have to do better in the name-calling department. Damn.

And, then, a belated Happy Birthday to myself (Dec. 1), not that I deserve it. [See above.]

But, I really like this pic. So, the Happy Birthdays seemed appropriate.

File Under: No Name-Calling, New Year's Resolutions

Heelllloooo. Heeelllllloooo.

2009-11-23T19:09:00.000-08:00

Anyone out there? No? That's okay. I just need to sit here and babble a bit anyway. Don't mind me.

All is well here. I just can't believe how time is flying by...I'm working like crazy. Trying to keep up with the kids and their school stuff. Trying to dodge most of the other motherly duties that exist in life. Definitely dodging most of the home duties that I can, although I did the dishes last night because my husband was starting to get that look. The look that he gives me that asks, "What exactly do you do here?"

In my defense--I'm working my tail off to make us some extra dough at work which entails me taking all forms of crap from people. Where I have to stay as sweet and patient as I can without losing my mind.

So, my girl, Faith, is in a wedding this week. Climax, please! For the stress that I'm feeling over this week, you would think that I'm planning the wedding. Which I'm not! I'm basically just handing my girl over. Which is rather painless but I feel like I'm missing out on some of the fun. That would be the selfish part of me that wants to experience these cool things too. But, my girl is the lucky one there. I'm happy for her though--she is so excited. She has made a book about it. She has been journaling her thoughts about it. I'm probably pretty screwed actually--she is about to see a wedding firsthand at the age of seven. I'm thinking that I will be doing up one of these fancy-dancy weddings someday. I'm thinking that she will not fly away to an island and get hitched like her mother did oh-so-many years ago.

Actually, not that many years ago, our anniversary was October 11th. We've been married now eight years. That day came and went. No cards. No fanfare. Faith and I actually went to the wedding shower of the beautiful upcoming-bride. It was fun. My girl and I went together--it was sweet.

So, to make up for our together-less anniversary, we took a week off together this month. My husband and I. It was great. But, unfortunately, we worked so hard at home projects like painting, cleaning, moving crap around that I needed all of last week to recover from our week off which has now gotten me so far behind at work that I'm feeling depressed; hence, I can't stop babbling here. It's really a very sad, sad predicament that I've gotten myself into here. [sigh]

Well, if I can just get through this week, I'll be alright. So, I'm going to make a list.

1. Take my contacts out. They've been in over a day now and my eyes are tired.
2. Stay up all night and finish the work that I brought home.
3. Work all day tomorrow since I'm out Wednesday.
4. Think about being hostess for my sister and her daughter who are coming into town.
5. Make my husband be host for my sister and her daughter.
6. Buy a dress to wear for Wednesday's wedding.
7. Get my hair done on Wednesday.

And, if I can do all of this without getting sick again--I'll be good.

For the one or two of you that come here occasionally, how are you?

:)

I can't believe that the summer is almost over...

2009-09-05T19:16:00.000-07:00

What is absolutely amazing about this cherry tomato plant is how it is taller than me.

How I didn't buy the plant along with the four or five plants that have performed less-than-stellar this year.

How it grew from the seeds in the ground where I basically kept my tomato scraps from last year. Now that's organic! And, it's the strongest out of the whole bunch.

I love me some cherry tomatoes!

Happy Belated Birthday, Faith.

2009-09-05T19:15:00.000-07:00

My dear Girl, I'm running a little late wishing you a happy birthday here.

I can't believe that you are now seven. Wow!

All that I can think to write or say is how sweet that you are.

And, how lucky and blessed that I am to have you in my life.

I love you, Faith.

Daddy and Faith

2009-09-05T18:57:00.000-07:00

We went to church (finally) to see my brother-in-law and his wife renew their vows after twenty-five years of marriage.

Pretty sweet.

Bee having his way with flower.

2009-09-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

Next To "It's A Small World",

2009-08-08T17:10:00.000-07:00

The Teacups is a definite Disney staple.

Photo emailed from Dad; taken by my sister.

It was so worth opening those fifty pics for this one, for sure!

haha

The Fam At Cracker Barrel

2009-07-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

My sister, Michelle, and her daughter, Brooklyn. Along with the rest of my peeps.

Don't you just love my husband's cute handbag? haha

Pic taken by my Dad.

We love Skee-Ball!

2009-07-27T22:16:00.000-07:00

Florida Vacay 2009

2009-07-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

Faith, Elijah, and my niece, Brooklyn.

Taking a quick pic before going into Disney World.

2009-07-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

Keeping It Cool.

2009-07-27T20:25:00.000-07:00

Major Splurge Splash of 2009

2009-06-20T14:53:00.000-07:00

I swear if I don't get two to three years of use out of this monstrosity, I will be pissed!

But, I have to completely admit--so far, it's been a great investment.

Investment. Bribe. Guilty pleasure. Whatever.

To see the kids have such a great time has been such a great trade-off so I'm really glad for it. Unfortunately for me though, Faith was right away trying to plan her birthday party. Unfortunately for her, I had to remind her that she wasn't having a party this year.

[You see, I'm trying to start a new trend...I'm trying to cut the damn umbilical cord of every-year-a-birthday-party. It's absurd to me.]

Although putting away all this fun at the end of a day is never fun for me...

It's worth it.

2009-06-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

2009-06-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

We have daisies this year.

Pre-Emergency Room

2009-05-31T12:13:00.000-07:00

This picture was from last weekend.

Fast forward to the end of the week. Fevers, ear infection, and folded over in belly pain.

No choice.

Almost fourteen hours in the emergency room.

Very quickly, it was ruled that the poop had backed up into the boy.

The fevers were probably from the double-ear infections.

However, since we have insurance and the doctors have time on their hands, my boy received a complete and thorough examine.

I was thankful for the enema to get things moving down there.

Of course, it took five doctors and a sonogram to rule out appendicitis which I didn't think was the case either.

The IV wasn't fun but very tearful for the both of us.

The CT scan seemed a bit over the top for me. But, it's good to have ruled out every other possible scary thing in the world.

So, we are back home. Almost caught on all the sleep lost. I can't really complain about how Elijah did with it all since it is the emergency room that we are talking about here.

The best thing that has come out of it all is, of course, THE POOP.

And, now, I really have something to hold over the poor kid's head so that maybe I will be able to get him to eat some fruits and vegetables every once in awhile.

Truly, though, seeing his smiles this weekend after that very rough day is the absolute best. Thank the Lord!

2009-05-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

2009-05-31T11:50:00.000-07:00

About To Say Something, I'm sure.

2009-05-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

2009-05-31T11:48:00.000-07:00

Higher Learning

2009-05-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

Photo Taken By Faith with her new digital camera. Thanks to Hannah Montana. And, thanks to her mother feeling guilty for all her late work hours so she spent the $20 to bring this little crap-for-camera. Faith likes it though so I guess that is what counts.

Anyway.

Minor Bloggable Conversation:

Elijah: [Out of the blue while he plays bowling on my phone] A quartet is four. A quintet is five.

Mommy and Daddy raise our eyebrows to each other. I'm thinking that the public schools are doing a pretty nice job for Kindergarten.

Mommy: Where did you learn that?

Elijah: Max and Ruby.

Mommy and Daddy look at each other...yeah. Makes sense.

2009-05-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

I had my first grader pose with the project.

It looks like the teacher liked it too.

And, I hear it's hung up in the classroom.

Me so proud.

:)

Finished Product

2009-05-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

Trying To Cram It All In...

2009-04-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

From Wikipedia, Lower Sabie, Kruger National Park (South Africa)

Since I slept most of the day away yesterday, I'm cramming a weekend into today. I did a pretty good job since I was up by 10:40-ish, I think.

Better than yesterday's scream from Faith, "It's 3:40!!!"

Oh shit!

Elijah is able to get the toaster (the pop-up kind) going along with the frozen pancakes so he was pretty set.

I imagine that Faith did alright until she really wanted a hotdog so I had to get up.

I know I'm the worst. Truly. I was pretty out though. Exhaustion may be the correct word. Whatever, I know, no excuse.

So, I worked on making it up today.

I went to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription and sunscreen, went to the garden store, worked in the garden, and typed and printed up information for Faith's cheetah cubs project which is due Wednesday. The kids played outside in the sprinkler with Daddy. I took Faith with me to the garden store. We went to McDonald's for sodas to cool off. Brought Elijah home a McFlurry which was really not bought for him since Faith and I had taken a few bites. But, when Elijah wondered what was for him, I gave up the McFlurry much to Faith's dissatisfaction. Oh well. I do the best I can.

My husband has brought me a rum and coke which only means that he is going to try and cram a little more into this day. Wasn't it enough that I went to pick up the sunscreen?!? haha

We still have to watch The Tudors. And, I brought work home.

Man, I'm going to be up all night which is what causes the Saturday sleep-ins. Vicious cyle.

And, I've just been notified that I didn't sleep with the kids like I promised so can I sleep with them tonight? Since I promised?!?! [say it all whiney, please]

Have a great week all.

I'm sure the cheetah cubs project will be amazing so I will definitely have to show it off!

:)

Testing...Testing...

2009-04-25T16:51:00.001-07:00

An interesting idea...

Blog from work by email so the real me can be seen.

The me that wants to run far from work. The me that is being driven insane by the many people that I speak with daily. The me that is about to cry.

Hmmm.

2009-04-24T23:11:00.000-07:00

April 18, 2009

2009-04-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

2009-04-21T21:17:00.000-07:00

Now that we've seen D.C., can we go home?

2009-04-21T21:15:00.000-07:00

Sweetness

2009-04-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

Visiting good friends . . .

2009-04-21T21:12:00.000-07:00

2009-04-21T21:10:00.000-07:00

2009-04-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

2009-04-21T21:05:00.000-07:00

2009-04-21T21:03:00.000-07:00

2009-04-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

Photo taken by Kristen, while nursing, while walking...

She. is. truly. amazing.

So, we are getting the hell outta here today...

2009-04-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

We haven't really gone anywhere in the last few weeks to a month...except to crazy and back.

While my husband finishes packing ~~as I've instructed him~~, I thought I would mention a little tidbit even though I realize I'm pretty much talking to myself here...it's okay...that's what I do alot of...talking to myself...trying to talk myself down off that ledge, etc....I kid.

Anyway, my husband tells me this morning about how all Elijah has wanted to do this week is go to D.C. already, since that's where we are going.

Daddy says to him yesterday, "Well, we have to wait for Mom. She planned the whole trip."

Elijah replies or whines, "Let's just leave her and goooo."

After Daddy and I laugh over this and I call my son a bastard, I go to speak with Elijah about this.

ME: I can't believe it. You wanted to leave and go without me yesterday?!?
E: [He looks at me. Looks at the time.] It's 10:10.

As if to say, get it going, Woman!

I walk off in a huff. Unbelievable, this kid. Watch! As soon as we get to the Verrazano Bridge, he will be ready to get back home.

I can see now that waiting a year to take him anywhere may not have helped.

Only time and liquor will tell.

Hope all is well.

[I'm escaping from work to spend some time with my peeps!]

2009-04-11T10:09:00.001-07:00

He makes it difficult . . .

2009-02-11T19:50:00.001-08:00

To complain about him. It's really hard to vent about my husband sometimes.

The other morning, I called my girlfriend to vent about how he and Faith were not able to complete her homework because he couldn't find the answer in the dictionary. Although he was supposed to be using an encyclopedia as directed by the instructions. I guess he had not heard of a little thing called www.wikipedia.org since we don't own an encyclopedia.

You see, my late work hours are causing me to sometimes get home after the kids are in bed. So, the next morning, while wrapped in a towel, I'm having to look up the answer online. By the way, the answer was pretty simple but I was just double-checking myself. [wink]

Of course, as I venting about my husband, I'm reminded that he had also made me coffee, a breakfast sandwich, and my lunch. It's like God was saying, "Ahem. Are you forgetting . . . ?" in a big, deep voice.

So, I certainly can't give the man too hard of a time over the dictionary incident.

But, man, do I try.

Love him like crazy though!

The Little Charmer, My Son

2009-01-31T15:23:00.000-08:00

After my little boy walks into his classroom, his teacher catches me before I walk out the door with Faith.

She says to me that "Elijah has become such a little charmer."

I'm all like, "My boy?"

It turns out that my boy colored a picture for a couple of the girls in his class. I understand it was for a couple of girls only. He wrote their names on the pictures. ?!?!?

Then, the girls went over to the teacher to brag what Elijah had done for them.

Wow. Faith and I walk out almost stunned. My boy.

That night, I flew home to catch him before going to bed to get the deets of the situation.

My husband was all "yeeeaaahh" to hear that his son was beginning to charm the girls at such an early age like himself. Bastard! :)

Elijah claims that these girls are his "beeest friends". He was all shy smiles over it.

I'm still a little stunned about it. I'm over here dealing with the poop-fingers in the butt. [Unfortunately, he has not let go of this nasty habit!] The screaming tantrums. The daily freak-out. And, he's charming the girls!?!?

Uh. How about letting the charm leak out at the house too?

I suppose this incident may bode well for the future, depending on how you look at it.

I just want to be on the receiving end of this charm more often.

Just help a mom out! Okay?

We've got a little miscommunication going on here.

2009-01-18T21:30:00.001-08:00

The other night for the first time in over a week, I was able to make it home a little before bedtime.

So, in some mild-superwoman fashion, I caught Elijah up on his reading, practicing his sight words, and caught up Faith on her loose tooth situation. The tooth could no longer be ignored as it practically was laying in her mouth. So, I had tooth fairy duty also that night.

Before bedtime, I asked Daddy, "Do you have $2? Because I have a $5." Which means that I will give him my $5 bill for two singles. I'm good like that--I wanted to make sure that I wasn't taking his last dollars, you know.

So, around 1am, I write up the tooth fairy's thank you note for the tooth. I place the note along with $2 (from the husband's wallet) under Faith's pillow while collecting her tooth, of course.

Fast forward to morning, Faith excitedly lets me know that she hit the motherload of tooth fairy money. She says something like--The tooth fairy left me five monies! She's still learning the money lingo. Anyway, I don't have my glasses on so I never count what she has. I assume that she has $5. ?!?!

On the way to work, I call my husband to ask him,

ME: What's up with that tooth fairy? You gave Faith three more dollars?

E: No. I thought you wanted me to give her your five and my two.

ME: So, how much did you give her?!?!?

E: Seven!

ME: I had already gave her two!

[He definitely left the money after I did which I can't believe that he didn't see the $2. I guess 5am will do that to a person.]

By then, I'm rolling with laughter. Cracking up.

ME: You're such a doofus. We gave her $9 dollars! hahaha

E: I've gotta go. I can't believe it . . .

I've already given Faith a heads-up to say that the tooth fairy must be doing well right now. And, that she can't always expect $9.

Now, I must go and bum off my little girl for a few bucks.

She's loaded!

Daddy may not be liking his women very much right now.

2009-01-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

It's a list, you see.

Faith wrote down ~~Daddy's chores~~ her breakfast request this morning. (I will work with her on her spelling, of course. The whole writing down the request is a definite downside of learning to read and write, I'm sure.)

[Edited to add: Faith clarified that it was the menu for breakfast.]

The little drops of water are from Daddy's dishwashing at the same time.

I'm picking up around the house. Meaning--bringing the dishes that may be lying around the house. That's helping, right? Trust me--he lives most of the dishes and empty wrappers of everything he eats around. Including apple cores. Damn man!

Of course, I had to get the camera for this one.

Well, I better go make my list too before the kitchen closes up.

heehee

Have a great weekend.

[Haven't been around much. Very busy at work. Lowest rates ever on mortgages equals I now live at my job. Good and bad, I guess.]

Take care.

Now my husband and I have something new to fight and laugh over . . .

2009-01-05T18:58:00.001-08:00

Unbelievable. It's back already?!?! And, that Chris is plain evil! I can't believe they brought that DeAnna back. "She's the devil!!" As quoted by my husband. I hate this show!

Day Two

2009-01-03T13:42:00.001-08:00

Of the cooking spree that I seem to be on . . . I wouldn't call it a New Year's resolution of any type. I don't set expectations up that high. I hate disappointment so I keep the goals pretty low. It's more like a Christmas miracle a week past Christmas--so give God the glory, okay?

Yesterday, I got this meal going pretty successfully.

Roasted Italian Herb Chicken
INGREDIENTS
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
2 cups Italian-style salad dressing
1 cup Italian-style dried bread crumbs

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place chicken breasts in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour salad dressing over chicken. Cover dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Roll each chicken piece in stuffing crumbs. Return to baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Easy. And, right up my alley.

So, today, I'm considering Chicken Stew, Puerto Rican style. That's my problem . . . going for the gold so quickly in the race and I haven't really stretched my muscles yet. It looks like I'm lucking out a bit though . . . I'm out of a couple of the ingredients. This one might need to be attempted tomorrow.

Whew!

I have found a way off this crazy ~~spree~~ ride.

Happy Holidays

2008-12-27T07:29:00.000-08:00

Hoping that your days are bright.

Photo taken by Faith of my sister-in-law's tree. With kids 19 and 21, they've downgraded to the little, little tree but there was something so simple about it that was beautiful too.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[I really want to post something about how I'm relieved that it is just about over--the holidays--about how exhausting this one has been. But, I'm too exhausted.]

:)

I do want to say thank you to my husband. He gave me a sweet ipod nano that I'm playing with . . . lots of fun. How crazy is this? I wanted an ipod nano, something more than my ipod shuffle, as soon as I found out all the technology that could be added just by plugging up the ipod nano to it. So, it's now plugged up to the theater system so that I can blast the basement with it instead of wearing the headphones. Now, I need wireless speakers for the upstairs which I've been wanting forever!!! Oh, right . . . need/want . . . I. must. control. myself!

Well, my niece (by marriage) is coming over to spend some time with us which will be nice. I love her. It's all pajamas and junk food all day long. She's my kind of girl. haha She's going to be 20 next month! So, it's nice that she wants to still spend time with me and my kids.

We're baking cookies . . . it's all part of my last-ditch gift-giving attempts to make up where people are so good and I feel that I'm not good enough. I shouldn't exaggerate so. The cookies are for us, my neighbors, and my co-worker who will not accept money for the granola bars that he has let me ~~beg for~~ have. He said that he will accept homemade cookies though so at least I can repay back somehow.

As for my neighbors, they are so sweet. They brought gifts again for the kids and all that I had was a Christmas card for them. I didn't have the heart to tell them that the gifts that they gave were the same ones that they gave two years ago. No lie. Thank God the kids didn't open the gifts in front of them! My dear neighbors probably went into their stash of kid gifts--you have to have a stash of kid gifts when you are grandparents to fifteen grandkids!! And, they still think of us. So, we will go over later with homemade cookies.

Well, my niece just called . . . she's on her way with glazed donuts and cherry pepsi! I better get the kids breakfast before the donuts arrive.

Have a beautiful holiday week. Hope all is well.

2008-12-27T07:24:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Elijah

2008-12-27T07:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

2008-12-27T07:21:00.000-08:00

Photo taken by Faith of my work plant

2008-12-27T07:16:00.000-08:00

Faith took lots of pictures at my work.

At my work

2008-12-27T07:14:00.000-08:00

My little girl and my little boy . . . Faith enjoyed her time with me. Elijah . . . well, Daddy picked up him around around noon. Really, he did surprisingly well. It helps that Santa's arrival to the house can be called off by me by one phone call--I swear it!

Here is Santa with my kids at my work . . .

2008-12-27T07:11:00.000-08:00

Sitting on a pile of poinsettas, right?

Christmas Loot

2008-12-27T07:06:00.000-08:00

He's always trying to one-up me.

2008-12-20T11:25:00.000-08:00

Text to husband: Im in the zone...highest score ever 154000!!

You see, I have this game downloaded to my phone. This is one of my most favorite ways to ~~drown out the noise of children~~ pass the time. I absolutely love this game from the old, old arcade days, like a million years ago. What else am I to do on a Saturday before Christmas, right?

He texted me back: Im in the zone highest number of pkg's delivered :)

What better way to put me in my place, Postman! And, I suppose he'll be wanting dinner too?!?

He can't ever let me glory in anything.

File Under: Wasting the day away as best as she can.

heehee

Bloggable Conversation 027

2008-12-16T18:19:00.000-08:00

After an emotional day, I ask my husband.

ME: Am I low on the totem pole of your life?

E: No. [cheerfully] But, I would like to see you on a pole. You know, we could get one of those for the bedroom.

I crack the smallest smile.

ME: You know you're emotionally stupid, right?

Sadly. I gotta love him.

Watched This Movie The Other Night . . .

2008-12-13T13:36:00.000-08:00

This soundtrack of the movie is absolutely amazing. It fits perfectly with my melancholy mood. The soundtrack consists of The Blue Jackets' music. This music is right up my alley, especially right now.

There are some other things about this movie which makes it great.

The good-best-friends-forever type of relationships. And, all the memories that go with that--good and bad.

Although Selma Blair is not my favorite actress, anyone who can switch from role to role like she does is a great actress in my book. She is so depressed that it makes you depressed too. So, thank God, in the end, she gets what she needs.

Seeing these two trying to make it back together after years apart was sexy, sweet and beautiful. (Which I like to relate to my man and me.) I love it when the guy grabs the girl's face for kisses--sweeeet!

The whole time I kept thinking that this guy, Patrick Wilson, reminds me a little of Conan O'Brien. Which is not necessarily a bad thing since I find Conan so funny. Not that Patrick Wilson was trying to be that funny--it was the hair, I think.

Now, the thing that was probably the best about this movie is that it was written and directed by Edward Burns who, of course, also starred in it. And, his humor was peppered throughout which is why my husband rented it for us. My husband told me that we were going to watch "Purple Violets". I said, "Purple Violets"?!?! My husband then says, "Your boy's in it." I was all, "Who?!?!"

The other really great thing is that the group, The Blue Jackets, is a group that Edward Burns is in . . . I went checking all of their sites the other night. I love how Edward is Eddie. And, he is really trying to stay out of the spotlight a lot of the time . . . I like the seeming humility of him.

I gotta tell you that it's pretty artsy. No real action. But, it's all New York.

And, like I said, it's sooo up my alley.

Hoping that you are having a nice weekend . . .

I did this today.

2008-12-09T09:47:00.001-08:00

Because it's Wednesday . . .

2008-12-03T16:20:00.001-08:00

And, it's been a great day at home, decorating for Christmas, picking the kids from school, and meeting teachers for conferences . . . it's just been a good day--that's all.

So, in celebration of today, this is a good place to check out a good deed that can be done with minimal effort, which so happens to be one of my most diligent goals in life.

It looks like Graco is giving away free car seats if we give up a little bit of our privacy. haha I'm just kidding. I can appreciate what they are trying to do. And, I only buy Graco booster seats. (Except this one time, when I really went for the cheap one--that one is with my sitter along with one Graco. And, then, we have another two Gracos in our car. It's like I'm collecting booster seats for every car that my kids get into--I know.)

Actually, I've always been a sucker for Graco. In college, one of the very head guys--the owner, the founder, the son of the founder, something like that--came to one of our business class-meetings to discuss what it was all about, running his company. At the time, we had the same last names, my maiden name. Of course, him and I did get to speak about it. We didn't seem to be related. But, you know, I had to try. Who knows? I might be related to the Graco fortune in a way, way far off other-world of my imagination. :)

Hope all is well with you.

Because it's Thanksgiving . . .

2008-11-27T10:05:00.000-08:00

I also suggest heading over to this site. It's one of my most favorite hobbies, checking to see what's going on over there. You can't go wrong there.

It's the least that I can do while I do everything that I can to take it easy on this very special day.

While most people are cooking up a storm, I only have to remember to buy a roll of cookie dough for my sister-in-law. That's all that she wants me to bring. Really! She's good that way. I don't take offense even though I normally would never buy store-bought dough--I'm actually really cool with it today. It's all part of that plan to take it easy today.

I guess my look of overwhelm when even thinking about hosting a Thanksgiving dinner really saves me. I'm just not ready. Until I can take a leave of absence from work to prepare, I just don't think it's happening too soon. Maybe when Faith can cook a turkey on her own. I'm sure she will have it down in another year or two. haha We'll see . . .

But, as for the day, I'm truly thankful for all that I have. I hope that your Thanksgiving is a blessed time.

So, now, I must go to do the hardest part of my day . . . put my clothes on . . . haha I'm just kidding. I have to get the kids ready too. And, unfortunately, my husband who still seems to be recovering also has some insane plan of taking it easy too. WTH?!?! So, let me get the hard stuff done so I get back to my plan. Yeeeaaah.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

The sitter called tonight.

2008-11-25T17:41:00.000-08:00

S: Hi, it's just me.
ME: Hey, what's up?
S: I just wanted to know how Elijah was feeling.
ME: Oh. I didn't know. Was he feeling badly? [To my husband] Elijah wasn't feeling well?

[Daddy shakes his head. Possibly rolling his eyes.]

S: Well, he was just so irritable today. And, after he woke up from a nap, he was still in a bad mood. I felt his head but he didn't feel hot. I just wanted to make sure that he was okay.
ME: Daddy said he was fine once he got home. And, I didn't notice anything when I got home. I will talk to Elijah about it in the morning.
S: No, don't mention it. I just wanted to make sure.
ME: Okay. Thanks for calling. Talk to you tomorrow.

I got off the phone. I asked Daddy, "Why didn't you tell me that Elijah was irritable for L today?"

Looking at me like I was crazy or something,

"This is Elijah we're talking about, right? It's Tuesday. What can I tell you? He wakes up from a nap--he's no joke."

Actually, when I had spoke with the sitter earlier in the day, she had mentioned that Elijah was upset with her because she had asked him to put his socks back on since it's cold outside and all. She must have forgotten Elijah and his feelings on socks. Hence, the phone call this evening. Oh well. I truly love her in that second-mom-type of way which means that she can drive me crazy like a mother-type. Love her!

[I swear this kind of thing happens a lot. Just the other day, the sitter called me at work to tell me that she had "flatulence" because of the colonoscopy that she just had that day. And, that her and Faith were giggling over her flatulence. All I could think of . . . my daughter is hearing you fart?!?!?! Please. There's some things that you don't need to share with me!!]

The sitter just called.

2008-11-19T17:15:00.001-08:00

She called to let me know that she found Elijah's sock.

Well, since I didn't know ~~nor care~~, I said, "Oh, I didn't realize that he was missing a sock." By the time that I get home, the boy is normally down to his underwear with a finger in there, doing what with his finger--I don't wanna know!

Anyway, she says, "Well, I just wanted you to know that I found the sock so you won't go crazy looking for it."

"Well, as I said, I didn't realize he was missing one. But, thank you.

"Oh, I get it. You think that I pair up the socks together? And, then, I would realize that I was missing one and would go crazy over it. Uh---no. We just dump them all into a drawer once they're clean ~~and say, 'Good luck, kids!'~~

"But, really, thank you for calling and letting me know."

Doesn't she know me well enough by now?!?

This is the same lady, when last year, she told me that I should brush Elijah's hair back because his hair is always going in the forward direction. I said to her then, "I have to brush his hair?!? He hardly has any. I have enough trouble with Faith's hair every morning. I can't worry about another head of hair."

I believe, at the time, she asked Elijah, "What are we gonna do with your mother?" And, hugged him.

Yeah. That's me. Going nuts over a sock.

God bless her.

Back. At. Work.

2008-11-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

I made it back in today. It was hard. But, I knew that I had to get back into my normal routine.

So, for our week of relaxing, . . . by relaxing, I mean that I finished off a couple of books while sometimes resting my head on my husband's lap. Assuming the couch potato position some of the time. Don't worry--my husband was also relaxing in the couch potato position some of the time too. I have to admit that I completely dodged dishes. I'm a genius like that. Truly.

Oh--I made a couple of meals. And, I think that I assisted with maybe another couple of meals. A c t u a l l y, I made lasagna, arroz con pollo, and other fat-filled carbed dishes for my boy's fifth birthday dinner. What this means is--leftovers for like three days!! Genius, I know. (We even went out to lunch a couple of times.)

It was the most fun picking the kids up everyday. I think that the kids really liked the change too. Daddy and I alternated most days dropping them off to school. Of course, being home also gave me more time with the kids after school . . . this could be a double-edged sword since it also gave us more time to debate, whine, argue, etc. together. Sweet love times--yeah.

My husband ended up pulling a muscle in his back around Thursday . . . what can I say? He has a bad back!

So, he ended up being sluggish around the house for a couple of days. But, he we recovered on Sunday to get laundry, vacuuming, and a little organizing done. We were almost frettish about it to redeem ourselves for our very, relaxing week.

[Okay. I'm not going to lie . . . I don't vacuum. But, it's not my fault. He is just obsessive about it! I can't help this.]

Conclusion: Taking a week off while the kids are in school is highly recommended. No guilt. No regrets. Just enjoying being home together.

Best. Week. Ever!!

Ten. Nine. Eight. . . .

2008-11-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

Three. Two. One.

Happy Birthday, Elijah!!

You've made it to the big FIVE!

I've made it to your big FIVE!!

I swear to you that I never thought that this day would come . . . I don't know about you, Baby, but, the fact that you and I have both made it to this day alive is a pure miracle. Thank you, Jesus. With all the threats that I've made on your life and mine . . . thank you, Jesus!

So, it's a new year . . . I'm really looking forward to the changes.

What do you say, Baby? Can we get past the screaming now? No more fingers in your pooped-butt, right? How about the pee-pee . . . can we get it in the toilet from here on out? Brushing your own teeth from now on, without screaming? Doing your homework with meltdowns down to a minimum? Hmm? I'm only asking!. . . I know that a mother's love is supposed to stretch to outer space or something. But, I'm just sort of looking forward to some changes. You know that I love you--I'm just wondering--that's all.

My love for you is completely unconditional. Occasionally, though, I do want to enjoy myself a little on this crazy ride of yours. Your highs and lows require me to be a little flexible and accommodating, which I don't mind so much now--I'm sort of used to you. It's true that sometimes I forget to cut your sandwich in the right direction. I know that you don't like your sandwiches cut diagonally. And, I'm sorry that it took me awhile to pass on this information to everyone we know. But, don't worry--I now have that kind of information listed on your emergency contact card at school. Even, the pediatrician has that information now--it's all part of your permanent record, ~~Nutjob~~ Sweet Boy.

You know, my favorite part of you is your love and your humor. When you want ~~something~~ to show your love, . . . well, at those times, you are my most favorite cuddle partner. You tease me with your kisses and I know that is how it will always be with us. Sometimes, I feel like I'm chasing you down for your hugs and kisses. But, you're a boy so what can I expect?

And, you are a funny boy. The way that you make me and your sister giggle. It's one of our favorite pastimes. I wish that others saw this side of you more often. Because when I try and duplicate your funny moments, . . . well, I look just plain ridiculous doing it and giggling the whole time. People start to think that I'm nuts. But, that's you!--making me look like the nutjob when between you and me--you are totally the nutjob.

Yes, you're right. I shouldn't call you a nutjob. You've got personality, passion, and peculiarities. I'm not going to be one of those mothers that medicate. I refuse. Well, I may take medication to get through it all. But, in my book, you are just fine, Baby!

I love you. Thank you for all that you are. I know that you are amazing and that you will always be. And, I'm one lucky mom to see it all firsthand. Even if sometimes I might be hiding from your moments of crazy-insane. It's how I cope. So, be cool and give me a break sometimes, okay?

Happy Birthday, Baby Boy.

Love,
Mommy