Yeah, Sure.

So I'm looking up day care centers because it's time for Daughter and B to "socialize" and leave the "nest." Especially Daugther, she's almost 2 and half. This is the schedule I got from one of the centers. Makes it sound like a day with a baby is all peachy and rosey, doesn't it?

Tah! They are not fooling anyone, especially me. And if they think that my son will "cuddle into his personal crib," at nap time, they are really in for it. This is the boy who does not sleep, hates his crib with a passion, and will not fall asleep unless you physically put him to sleep.

An infant’s day
7:20 a.m. — After checking your son in at the front desk, you find his favorite caretaker — who has a new toy to share.
8:15 a.m. — Your son shakes a rattle and holds a plush toy while he practices grasping, pinching and holding during special “small muscle development” activities.
9:00 a.m. — Now it’s time to exercise large muscles by crawling, cruising, rolling and rocking.
9:50 a.m. — Removing your bottle from the warming device, your son’s caretaker prepares to feed him a morning snack while other infants nap or play.
10:35 a.m. — Feeding time is through and your son’s eyes are getting heavy. He cuddles into his personal crib.
11:40 a.m. — It’s a perfect day for the playground. Your son giggles as the breeze ruffles his hair.
12:25 p.m. — Sharing stories and reading books develops early literacy and phonics skills. Your son listens raptly to “Goodnight Moon.”
1:30 p.m. — Time with soft feathers, hard blocks and squishy toys deepens his understanding of the world.
2:20 p.m. — Pursing lips and grasping for a bottle, it’s time for his afternoon feeding, then a restful snooze.
3:40 p.m. — Your son’s teacher helps him bop and sway with the other children during Music and Movement Time!
4:45 p.m. — You open the classroom door and see your son investigating his face in a wall mirror. Time to pack up — the end to another fun day at Day Care.

Wake Up Call

Today Dr. Phil will have a mom of deafblind triplets on his show. For obvious reasons, the mom and her husband are experiencing huge amounts of stress, and marital problems as a result. Click on "See a Day in Their Lives" to get a feel for what challenges they face on a day-to-day basis.

Just when you think you have it "rough" a story like this comes along to show you that you really don't.

I'm at work so will miss the show but if any of you watch it, let me know your thoughts.

Thanks for the link to the story, Lisa.

"God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers."
--Jewish Proverb

One For the Books...

Me: "Ready to say your bedtime prayers?"

Oldest: Kneels and clasps hands. "Thank You for dy-shoars. Amen!"

Her heart runneth over.

Melancholy is...

Receiving the following text message from the daycare teacher while you're at work:

"Just wanted 2 text u both that ***** took 2 steps today"

I can't believe I missed it.

Puzzled.

Clearly it's not in the cards for me to have smooth, freshly-shaven legs. Sorry hon!

After having not shaved for almost two weeks (close your mouth), I finally decided that gosh-darn-it, I was gonna make time today, rain or shine. I really didn't think I needed to account for snow too. It is almost March after all. But alas, we were hit with a freak snowstorm that brought so much snow that it weighed down the power lines. Suffice it to say that by the time I finally got in the shower after a full day of cleaning, cooking, folding laundry and playing dinosaurs, it was 5:30pm. And then. The power went out. While I was in the shower. I kid you not, my friends.

You can't fight destiny really.



Anyone want a valuepack of "previously-owned" cans of Gillette Satin Care Shave Gel? I'll even throw in a delightful assortment of mis-matched puzzle pieces for good measure. Okay, how about this? I'll keep the shave gel if you give me tips on when you find the time to shave your legs. And how you keep all the puzzle pieces together.




[So far NerdMom is winning].

Britney' Spears' Meltdown and the Three Ring Circus.

Okay, any one else addicted to watching the Anna Nicole hearings?? It's like watching a bad train wreck. I just can't stop watching it. And, I will be the first to admit that I have watched almost every second of the hearings. The legal issues are all really interesting but the characters involved are priceless. And what I really want to know is, who is the Baby Daddy?? I've my bet on Larry. I can not wait until Judge Korda resumes the hearings and decides the jurisdiction issue. Then we will be one step closer to maybe finding out who the baby daddy is. America, this is important.

And the other hot topic, will Britney lose her babies? I mean what is she thinking? Clearly, she isn't thinking. She has lost it and needs more than just a 12 step program. Poor child. But..., has anyone seen these pictures. HILARIOUS! Thanks to Perez Hilton, I had a great laugh tonight.

PS. In all seriousness, I am praying for all these children involved. It's really sad.

More About Moi

Today's Friday Feast...

Appetizer:
Where on your body do you have a scar, and what caused it?
(1) On the side of my right (?) knee where the spaghetti sauce was accidentally knocked off of the stove when I was little. I was in the line of fire since I had been "helping" my mom "cook" by mixing potato peels in a plastic bowl. Fortunately, the trip to the ER did not jade my love for cooking :-) Or spaghetti.

(2) Smack dab in the middle of my right eyebrow from when I walked into the corner of a table as a toddler. To this day, eyebrow shaping, waxing, penciling, etc., is a pain in the toucas.

(3) On either side of my pelvic area from the bi-lateral, inguinal hernia surgeries I had in high school. The hernias that my mom didn't really believe I had...until I showed her the bulge from my intestine poking through my abdominal wall while we were in the kitchen one day. Yummy!! Before she actually saw it, she had thought I was just being a drama queen. Imagine that.

Soup:
What is something that has happened to you that you would consider a miracle? This is hard to answer because while I can think of many many blessings that I have been given, a miracle is something entirely different. I suppose that I have been fortunate enough in my life so far that I haven't been in need of a miracle. How wonderful is that?

Salad:
Name a television personality who really gets on your nerves.
Hmm. This is a tough one because we all know I'm an indiscriminate tv junkie. But I guess I'd have to say Emeril. I just can't watch him for some reason.

Or Chris Hansen. I mean, I think it's great that he's shed the light on a terrifying issue that threatens the safety of our kids but -- enough with the shows already.

Main Course:
What was a funny word you said as a child (such as "pasketti" for "spaghetti")?
It wasn't so much a funny word as much as it was the way that I pronounced it. My mom used to tease me (gently) because I always said the word "rotten" in 2 syllables. I still do. Rot-ten. What's wrong with that?

I also remember my little sister saying "lobster-ker" for "lobster." That was cute.

Dessert:
Fill in the blank: I have always thought ______ was ______.
I have always thought an outfit with unmatching purse, belt and shoes was tacky. I'm all about the monochromatic.

Until i had kids. Now as long as I am wearing real shoes (and not my Crocs), I am quite pleased with the whole ensemble. I haven't changed my purse since October. [I can hear your gasps] And, I'm ashamed to admit, I can count on one hand the amount of times I have worn pants with a belt since I gave birth 12 months ago. Heh heh. Aw, come on - after not wearing a belt for 9 months, you just get used to it! Yes, I am a prime candidate for an Oprah makeover. Feel free to submit my name, m'kay?

Yes You Are, My Dear

This morning Oldest exclaimed "I'm a Mess!" -- clear as a bell. It was too funny.

Thanks Laurie :-)

Mommy Olympics: Your Town 2007

It occurred to me this morning, as I was running after my toddler trying to put barrettes in her hair, that there should be some sort of awards for us moms who jump through hoops to get even the most ordinary of tasks done. A Mommy Olympics, if you will. Check me out:

Event #1: The Teethbrushing Challenge
Moms will each compete to get their child's teeth brushed in the best time, while battling a defiant toddler who only wants to splash in the running sink water, smear the bubblegum-flavored toothpaste all over the mirror and jump on and off of the Dora-themed stepstool.

*Bonus points awarded if you can get your toddler to "spit" when appropriate.

Event #2: The Clothing Challenge
Moms will each compete to get their child dressed in the best time, while battling a defiant toddler who does NOT want to get dressed in presentable, outside clothing, but who ONLY wants to wear her pink army fatigue pajama bottoms along with her Dora short-sleeved shirt. And it's winter.

Added challenge: Toddlers will intentionally implement the reknown "jelly-legs" maneuver whereby they refuse to lock their knees so that you may easily pull on their pants.

*Bonus points awarded if you can get the toddler's arms through the sleeve holes without forcing her to let go of the My Little Pony doll [the letting go of which would result in an all-out tantrum thereby adding to your time and lowering your score].

Event #3: The Bath Challenge
Moms will each compete to bathe their child in the best time, while battling a defiant toddler who does NOT want to be touched with ANY form of soap whatsoever. Even the Dora bodywash that she allegedly loves. Said toddler will also refuse to stand up when asked as well as refuse to sit down when asked. But will happily practice the "bail the water out of the sinking boat" manuever whereby she, well tries to bail the water out of the NOT-sinking bathtub.

*Bonus points awarded if moms can complete this challenge without becoming soaking wet and sweaty.

Event #4: The Dinnertime Challenge
Moms will each compete to prepare and feed their child dinner in the best time, while battling a defiant toddler who does NOT want to eat the balanced meal that you are so lovingly preparing, but instead ONLY wants to eat an entire bag of blue corn tortilla chips. And feed said corn chips to her Dora doll.

Added challenge: Mom must prepare said meal whilst holding an infant on her hip or hanging onto her leg. Her choice.

*Bonus points if the mom doesn't actually consider just feeding the toddler the blue corn chips for dinner because, technically, corn is a vegetable.

Speed Skating my eye.

[Oops, sorry Grey's is on. Gotta find out what happens to Meredith. If you have any ideas for another Mommy Olympics event, please do share. Just wait until you hear what the prizes for 1st through 3rd place are.]

BTW -- Can you tell that I am REALLY sick of Dora? "Come on let's get to it...I know that we can do it!" GET RID of her that is.

Let's hear it for the Girl

The past few days I have really been just watching my daughter and admiring her. She just really awes me sometimes. Her personality, the new things she just soaks up daily, and did I mention she's just adorable? (See pic.) Besides those things, I've decided what really is amazing me lately is her spirit. She just gives off this vibe that is... electric. I just can't really pinpoint what it is exactly about her that just draws you to her (and it's not just that's she's my precious princess either) but even strangers are drawn to her. She's confident, but not arrogant. She's very personable and finds laughter in everything and is just easy going. She's got a bit of a 'tude sometimes but even then, she's still very nice and lady like about it all. And even though she's just two, I'm inspired by her. I admire her ability to maintain control when she gets upset, her confidence, and mostly the fact that she just loves people and people love her. The right attitude in life is everything.

Life didn't start out so easy for her though and I think maybe that's what gives her some of her strength. She was born six weeks early, which although early, is not that early. Still safe for the most part, even though the baby will likely stay a few days longer in the hospital and likely will need some assistance with breathing or regulating her temperature. Well those were the least of daugther's issues. When she was born, some of her organs were enlarged, her platelets were dangerously low and they suspected she had some damage to her brain. After my c-section, they whisked her away, told hubby their concerns, and I did not see her again for almost 24 hours. When I saw her again, she was hooked up to machines everywhere, had band-aids on both her heels from the numerous blood samples they had taken, and had several I-Vs in her, plus a feeding tube from her nose to her stomach. The doctors predicted things that I can not even repeat. Hubby and I did not tell our friends, extended family or even those who came to visit in the hospital. Only immediate family knew really that Daugther was fighting for her life and future. Only 15 days later we were able to take her home. Cause of her condition, unknown. Prognosis, good. This was really a miracle.

I think her more than rocky start has really shaped her into a person with this magical inner strength and just great attitude on life. A person, despite her little tiny self, that I really truely admire.

Works for Me Wednesday

Evenin'!

I almost didn't participate in WFMW today because I couldn't really think of anything terribly crafty to share. But just now, as I was making Oldest's bed, I thought of a great tip that my hubby actually came up with that might be useful to other moms...

Instead of bending over while trying to put the fitted sheet on a crib mattress or toddler bed mattress, just lift up the whole mattress and change the sheets that way! Does that make sense? It's kind of hard to describe. It's much easier that trying to fight with the sheet corners and tucking in everything just right. Lift up one end of the mattress and put the sheet on that end, then lift up the other end and repeat. Saves my knees and my back every time.

You may already be doing this -- Forgive me, I'm a slow cookie. If not, try it next time you are on linen-change duty. Works for me!

For more tips that will make you say: "Why didn't I think of that!?" visit Rocks In My Dryer.

Oh Oh!!!!

Yesterday afternoon at about 4pm, I get a call from home. Our nanny frantically tells me that DD fell off her tricycle and hit her head. DD is screaming in the background like I've never heard her before. I rush to get out of here as fast as I can and all the while my heart is pounding and my stomach is turning. I was so nervous that I almost got into an accident on my way home.

I felt so scared for her and just felt bad for myself. I was so guilty that I was not there for her. She's fine - just has a big bump on her little forehead, but the overwhelming guilt and fear was like nothing I have felt before. I thought about my mom and how concerned she still is about me. Now I understand that as a mother, you'll always worry about your child/ren.

Menu Plan Monday

Wasn't 24 crazy?

I almost forgot to put up this week's menu today (whenever it's a holiday, my schedule gets all thrown off...)

Here goes:

Monday - Today we ate at the Cheesecake Factory for (almost) free since I signed us up for this! It was yummy. But I do have a touch of indigestion. Yech.

Tuesday - Chicken Scampi. Always a hit.

Wednesday - Pork Fried Rice. We never got to it last week.

Thursday - Leftovers.

Friday - Hamburgers and Roasted Red Potatoes.

Make sure to check out Org Junkie for her great slow cooker recipes and other tasty menus!

He IS Human!

This evening I found out that my hubby IS human after all! He is always so good with the kids and the house and work, etc. He rarely complains about anything and always takes things in stride, whether it be meltdown-kick-and-scream temper tantrums or yet another plastic bowl that (I) accidentally melted on the stovetop. But just now, after about 5 solid hours of Oldest's screeching, bouncing, jumping, gibberish screaming and general i-missed-my-afternoon-nap-and-cannot-calm-down antics, he said "Geez [Oldest] you're making me tired. I feel like I need to lay down and take a nap." He said it nicely and didn't raise his voice at all but that was really the first time all day that I'd seen him even remotely exasperated. Funny.

I guess I noticed it because I am always tired and sighing my way through the chaos. I need to take a lesson from him!

Flashback

Tonight SIL called to tell me she was watching Amazing Race and they were competing at the place where hubby and I got married. Neat!

Boy do I wish I was in sunny Miami right now. This snow/ice/freezing thing is getting old. Fast. Even Oldest was ready to come inside after only 20 minutes of sledding with Dad today. Now that means it's cold!

Wow

This evening as I was playing, "Don't Break the Ice" with my five year old he says, "Baby Dannylynn." I'm certain I misunderstood him so I say, "what?" And he says it again, "Baby Dannylynn." So amazed, I ask who she is and he's tells me, "She's the baby they keep talking about on the news." So of course I ask him why and he says he doesn't know. So I start to think and I say, "did you hear them talking about Iraq on the news?" and he says, "what rock?"

Rock On!

Did anybody see the Today Show yesterday? [I've become a TS groupie, I know, but lately they've had the best mom-interest stories] They did the coolest segment on a group of moms who formed a rock band called HRT. The women were friends and SAHMs who met regularly for coffee and to go shopping and then they decided to try their hand at playing music. After that, it was all she wrote! Now they tour and play to sold out crowds all while taking care of home. Goes to show that your wildest dreams may not be as far out of reach as you might think.

What would you love to do in your "wildest dreams"?

*Updated* New Toy!

Check out my new Yahoo! Avatar...



Yay! Something else that I can waste time doing!

*Is this one better Jones? Not that I would ever actually wear white pants with 2 under 3. But a gal can dream, can't she?

Works for Me Wednesday

I'll keep this one short and sweet. After all, it's 8:36pm and the new episode of Rome is starting at 9pm. But neverthless, I wanted to participate in this week's WFMW because I missed last week's and felt like such a slacker! [Blog Guilt -- now that's a new one].

Here's my tip:

In my "spare" time [insert insane laughter here] I plan weddings. No, not in my head. For real people. So I usually have my bridal emergency kit in the trunk of my car. I never thought much of it until recently, when, on one of those days when I was desperately searching in every nook and cranny of my car for some Kleenex for my daughters' runny noses, I remembered that I had a zillion small Kleenex packets in the emergency kit in my trunk. Problem solved! I realized that I had a lot of things in that kit that could come in handy to a mom spending any amount of time on the roads with kids: stain remover sticks; comb/brush; travel-size lotion; small bottle of water; hand sanitizer; safety pins; a granola bar, scotch tape; breath mints; Pepto Bismol tablets; you name it. You can even (and should) throw a diaper or two in there for good measure.

To make one, all you need to do is get a medium sized container (I used a toolbox) and fill it with goodies that you think would come in handy in an emergency. The travel-sized product aisle at your local discount store is a great place to start. Then toss it in your trunk and go!

Chances are you have 2 or more of these things floating around your car anyway -- wouldn't it be nice to know everything was in one location? That way you can find that elusive bottle of Advil right away, without having to dig around under the seats for it (or is that just me?)

Try it! Works for me.

For more interesting WFMWs, visit Rocks In My Dryer.

Sweet Thangs

Yay! It snowed.

Boo! Work is open.

Nice surprise(s) of the day:
Yesterday when I got home (after navigating the ice-laden streets -- fyi, low-profile tires aren't so cute when you're stuck in the middle of the road) there was a snow sled on our front porch decorated with my daughters' names. Turns out it was from one of our neighbors! Very thoughtful and Oldest was ecstatic.

And then, once I got inside, I had a package waiting for me. (Don't you just love getting packages and fun mail?) It was my personalized recipe journal from my sister! I'm sooo excited. And just like that I have the perfect tackle for next Tuesday. Thanks Lisa!!

Not-so-nice surprise of the day:
We were the only parents that had to go to work today so we effectively sabotaged our daycare lady's day of peace and quiet! oops. Hopefully the Valentine's chocolates we gave her will soften the blow.

Well, work is pretty dead so I'll probably be catching up on my blogging today. Sucks Lucky for you!

P.S.
Happy Valentine's Day! Here's a gift from me to you. Go ahead. You deserve it.

I'm Audi 5000

Check it out!

And if my title confused you, please take a moment to get hip and look here. All the cool kids are saying it.

*Updated* Menu Plan ...Er... Tuesday

I know I'm way late for Menu Plan Monday but humor me if you would. I've been participating in MPM for the past several weeks and since I hadn't planned this week's meals ahead of time, and I didn't make it home in time for dinner, last night was a classic case of "Sanity, Interrupted."

I won't even bore you with the details of how a major water main broke on a major highway and so it took me TWO HOURS to get home last night. No lie. And yes, Youngest was fast asleep by the time I got home. Oh and I'll spare you the details of how after TWO HOURS of sitting in traffic I mercifully reached a gas station (my gas light was below "E") and as I was removing the pump from my gas tank, the pump malfunctioned and my boots and skirt were drenched with gas. Nope, no lie. Bye bye black knee boots. You have served me well.

Instead, I will bore you with this week's Menu!!!!

Monday:
Fish Sticks and Fries - Gold star for creativity and nutritional content on that one Mom!!!









Tuesday:
Sweet Pineapple Teriyaki Meatball & Veggie Kabobs with Jasmine Rice

Wednesday:
Valentine's Menu for Mom and Dad - French Onion Soup, Surf & Turf with Garlic Red Potatoes and Chocolate Pots de Creme.

[Don't be impressed -- we just happen to have all of the ingredients in the house (except for the lobster tails) for me to throw this together]

Something fun para las ninas.

*Update: Found 2 lobster tails for $8.99!

Thursday:
Salad, Chicken Parmigiana and Spaghetti

Friday:
Leftovers

Saturday:
Mom & Dad's Night Out! Chicken Tenders, steamed veggies and Mashed Potatoes for the kids.

Sunday:
Pork & Vegetable Fried Rice and Spring Rolls

To see menus from people who actually are organized, visit the Organizing Junkie!

Next time I won't be so nice

It never stops to amaze me how much people are amazed themselves about how many children I have. Yes, I have three children. Is that so odd? Is that so incredible? What is so strange about having three children???? Emphasis on the ???? because when I'm out and about with my babies, people literally stop and stare and some even ask stupid questions. For example, "Oh my!! Three kids! Did you want three?" Who would ask such a question you say? In front of my five year old? Only an idiot. But it happens a lot. Especially if I'm at the grocery store and I'm using one of those extended shopping carts that seats 4 kids. If you have only 2 kids, you probably never even knew such a shopping cart existed (unless I live in your neighborhood) but yes, there's a shopping cart that seats up to FOUR kids. Who knew.

But, what really eats me up inside are the people with no manners, who look at me and think I'm must just a teenage mother with a bunch of bebes so they think they can ask me anything they want. My favorite question, "How old are you?" I used to smile and be polite but really, I'm sick of being polite to people who are not polite to me. So my answer to that is, "old enough to have three children." Or, "You do not look old enough to have three kids." That's not a questions but more of a comment on their opinion of my life.

Yes, I do look very young but I am not and even if I was, I find such comments questioning my age and ability to have three children none of anyone's business. I have noticed that if my hair is not done, and I have no make up, am wearing jeans, etc., I get more comments and stares. And no, I'm not paranoid, it really does happen. For example, a few weeks ago I was at the library prepping for the class I teach and I suppose they were having teen night or something in the rec room. Not one, but three librarians thought I was a teen. Two stopped me to ask me if I had signed up for teen night. So I say no and do not bother to explain why because I'm used to it. But one needed to know why not and explained to me the activities and I responded, "I left my teen years 11 years ago" and she laughs and comments how lucky I am to look so young. Yes, I suppose. It could be worse. And after teen night, a third librarian came up to me and asked if I had called my parent or "someone over 18" to pick me up because the library was closing in 30 minutes. Laugh if you want, it's annoying.

But back to the part where people are judging me for being a "young mom." I hope everyone out there in blog world is more careful next time they see a young mother who probably is already having a rough time trying to adjust to motherhood or, just trying to make it day to day with her kid(s). Like me. Three kids five and under is a lot, even for an "older lady" like myself. This is not easy and I really don't need a friendly reminder right when I'm in the midst of chaos. But, if I really was only 18 or 21, or however old they think I am, imagine how a comment like, "you are too young" would make that mother feel? I think most teen moms are having a hard enough time already. They don't need perfect strangers judging them.

Take a Look...It's In a Book...

[Come on, you know you wanted to finish singing the song]

Boo Mama and Robin are starting an online book club! Tres convenient for us busy moms who just can't possibly add another meeting to our schedules. Click the button to the right of our blog for the details...

*Updated (Again)* And It's Not In My Leg, Either

My Mood Is:

And it's affecting my whole day. I have eleventy-million things [to quote Busy Mom] that I need to be doing, but I just can't FOCUS!

*Update:
I called my doctor [at J. Jones' suggestion] since I'm not usually this crampy for so long. He recommended that I "pee on a stick" just to "make sure." HA! He's GOT to be kidding me.

Right?

**2nd Update:
Just as I suspected. No buns in THIS oven. Phew!! And that's all I have to say about THAT!

Before I Lay Me Down to Sleep...

I just came home from a real-live-grown-up-dinner with a real-live-grown-up and we had real-live-grown-up-drinks and real-live-grown-up conversation! it was refreshing. but, i'll admit, not nearly as fun as having Oldest use my body as a makeshift playground slide.

there's no turning back.

Oh, and Justice Ny -- just when you thought you were not keeping up with your motherly/wifely duties, Chris saves the day! Make sure to read this post gals...it does wonders for the ego.

Nighty night.

A Must-Read...

If you can manage to steal a few moments for yourself this weekend, grab a cup of tea, a container of Pringles, or whatever makes you happy and settle in to read about Jen & Ryland's love story. It's the stuff dreams are made of! Well, maybe not dreams. But definitely movies.

Friday Freedom

I'm not sure how we start our own meme but I want to share my hopes and dreams for the weekend as it is finally "freedom" Friday.

1. I hope that this weekend I will finally get some sleep. I worked a 14-hour day yesterday and although I'm not as exhausted as I thought I would be, I'm still pretty tired. I want to go back to the good old days of sleeping in until 10am.... oh how I love those days!

2. I want to get my hair done. You guys have heard me talk about getting my hair done for months now. Let me assure you that my hair has been in a ponytail for about 5 months straight. It's absolutely terrible and I'm assamed of myself. So, it's not a joke and I'm not exaggerating when I say that I need to get my hair done.

3. I want to clean my house -- really clean my house. Not the superficial kind of cleaning that ends up being messy again on Monday, but a really good cleaning. I feel like my house has been a state of disarray ever since I went back out to work and although I try on the weekends, it just isn't good enough.

4. I want to do some community cooking again. That exercise was the best idea ever. I still have 2 dishes in the freezer, but I want to get it together again so I don't end up in the confused state during the week, with DD hanging on to my leg, as I look into the fridge/cabinet trying to figure out what in the world to cook ... again.

Friday Fun

This meme is all the posting I can manage right now!

I must confess that this week's Friday Fun is about pets -- but since I don't have any, I'm answering the questions from last week's meme...

1. What was your first job?


Babysitting for Laura Blair down the street. She was my dentist's daughter. I remember once she ate a plum and threw up purple vomit. Nice. But my first "real" job was working the concession stand at the St. Lambert Ice Skating Arena on Saturday mornings from 7:30am to 1:30pm. I still don't understand how people can eat hot dogs and fries at 8am.

2. Do you remember your first crush?

But of course! I'm pretty sure it was Nicholas Martin in the third grade (can't believe I found that link!). Red hair...Freckles...a Rat Tail (remember those?)...Need I say more?

3. What is the first thing you do in the morning?

Squint at the clock to see what time it is -- I'm blind without my glasses.

4. What is your first memory?

Hmmm, hard question. Taking my Cabbage Patch doll to class in the first grade? Her name was Stacey :-) Come to think of it, she had red hair and freckles too. lol. Also, I remember learning to count by "tens" using pictures of bundles of twigs. Random, I know.

5. Where is the first place you visited on the net today?

Bread and Budder Buckets. Long story. Stay tuned.

Happy Friday! I'll try to catch up on my posts over the weekend.

How ironic that I just mentioned her name this week. Very sad news. What a year her family has had. With all the drama and media controversy surrounding her, it was easy to forget that was a mom. And one who recently lost a son at that. I wish her husband and baby girl all the best.

No.Time.To.Blog.

It's one of those weeks. I'm uber-busy so I haven't had time to post as I would like to. But, while you're patiently waiting to read one of my pointless rants invaluable pearls of wisdom, please visit:

1) SheLives for a fantastic post on The Secrets to a Successful Marriage. You won't be sorry!

and...

2) Rocks In My Dryer for helpful pieces of relationship advice in honor of Valentine's Day.


I'll be back soon to tell you all about how the whole house freaked out the other day when Oldest was defiantly jumping on her bed like a maniac and accidentally fell into her laundry hamper headfirst and got stuck, kicking and screaming. Promise.

Music to my Ears...

I forgot how wonderful it is to hear your baby (intentionally) say her first words! This morning we got a big "Ah Oh!" when Youngest dropped her toy. So cute.

And...

Oldest said grace before dinner all by herself last night. Hubby and I almost cried!

Don't Barf...

It's not my fault that love is in the air! I got this meme from Peach -- Feel free to play along if you'd like!

Meme about Hubby

His age: 28 (yes, I'm robbing the cradle. it's ok! he's only one year younger than me)

How tall is he: 5'11" (but he'll say 6'0 if you ask him)

How long have you been together: 9 years (omg!)

How long did you know each other before you got together? About 2 years.

What physical features attracted you to him first?: His smile. His build (thanks Coach Spurrier!). His posture. His complexion.

Eye color: Dark brown

Hair color: Dark brown.

Hair style: Short. And, sigh, he's decided to grow it long. Again. So we are currently at the not-so-neat "in-between" stage. Here's hoping this is just a passing phase.

Normal Outfit: Jeans or sweatpants and sneakers. He's a jock at heart.

How did you meet: Through a mutual friend.

How serious is it: I would say pretty serious. Considering we've been married almost 4 years and have 2 precious bambinas. He's a keeper.

Are you "in love": For sure.

Do your parents like him: Yes. He keeps my mom in stitches with his sense of humor.

Do his parents like you: I think so! No, they do. I hope so!

Do you trust him: Definitely.

Would you share a toothbrush with him: If I had to. We've had to.

Would he let you wear his pants: Of course. [Sorry Jones] Forget Mimi - his make the best maternity clothes!

Do you have a shirt of his that you sleep in? My friends are gonna kill me. Yes! They're so comfy!

Do you like the way he smells: I do.

Can you picture having kids with him: Nah. Just kidding. We have 2 beautiful daughters. He's the best dad.

What bothers you the most about him: His "selective memory" when we get into an argument. Gah!

Does he have a temper: He does, but he controls his better than I do mine most of the time. I will say that his temper has improved dramatically since we had kids. They'll do that to ya.

Are you happy to be with him: Most definitely.

Does he embarrass you in public: Nope.

Does he smoke or do drugs? Nope. We both hate smoking.

Does he have any piercings?: No! He wanted to get his ear pierced in college but his dad bribed him not to do it with a brand new car. Nice Dad.

Any tattoos? Two. One of a lion and one of a chinese symbol that means "Increase Your Fortune"

Does he have any scars that you know of? Ummm, just one I think.

Is he a Party dude or Stay at home?: Definitely stay at home. I like it that way!

Is he Outgoing or Shy?: He's outgoing and has a magnetic personality.

Does he love his mama?: That he does.

Would he hang out with you and YOUR friends?: Yes, he has and does.

Sing?: He sings when he's in a great mood. It's adorable.

Love Don't Cost A Thing...

Shalee is hosting a Cheap Date Blog-a-thon in honor of Valentine's Day next week. So get your thinking caps on and visit her blog tomorrow to tell everyone about your great idea for a cheap date with hubby. Should be lotsa fun!

xoxo

*UPDATED* Eat Your Heart Out Anna Nicole...

Yay me!

*I just found out that Anna Nicole Smith passed away today. How very sad. My prayers are with her husband and baby.

Menu Plan Monday

Last week was wonderful! Now that we've eaten all but one of our freeze-ahead meals, it's back to the drawing board (or cutting board, as it were). So this week involves several easy favorites.

Monday - Free-for-All/Refrigerator Cleanout Day. We still have leftover Mango Curry, Superbowl Sunday Chili and the ever-present Chicken Tenders. I'm eating the last of the Chicken Cacciatore for lunch today.

Tuesday - Soft Tacos with Black Beans & Rice

Wednesday - Four Cheese Tortellini with Alfredo Sauce, Garlic Bread

Thursday - Leftovers

Friday - Thai Shrimp and Jasmine Rice (we never got to it last week)

Saturday - Tomato Basil Bisque and Monte Cristo Sandwiches

Sunday - Some type of chicken dish. I'm waiting for inspiration!

Have a great week

For more menus, recipes and cooking tips visit the Org Junkie!

And I Didn't Even Cook Dinner ...

Today, I was in my kitchen at 8:30 cleaning up after dinner, silently complaining about being tired and the darn housework. What I really wanted to do was plop my behind on the couch next to hubby instead of clean the kitchen or think about the laundry in the dryer waiting to be folded (this is a daily saga). I knew if I didn't do the dishes, hubby probably would have but really it was "my turn" and we both hate waking up to a dirty kitchen.

Anyhow, I got to thinking I am always complaining (either to myself, friends, or hubby) about housework and being tired. Then I started to think about my mom and how I never, heard her complain. She never asked my dad to help with laundry, cook, clean, make lunches, etc. She just did it. She never complained about wanting to just sleep in, take a nap, and "life before kids." Even now, when she comes to visit to help me with my children (and she has been 1000% awesome about doing that) she does not complain. And believe, my mom works all day with me, cooking, laundry, morning walks, dishes, etc. and she never complains about being tired. So I really started to appreciate my mom for all that she does for me as a mother of three, and all that she did for me as one of her two children. I developed a new found respect for her. So as I stood there, thinking about my mom, I went on cleaning up the plates, and putting away the Chinese food containers and decided I would complain less and embrace motherhood and wifehood a lot more. I mean really, who am I to complain??? I really am grateful for all that I have. So I cheered up, grabbed one of the fortune cookie and here is what it said,"Your efforts have not gone unnoticed."

Love Is...

Standing outside in 28 degree weather without a hat (because you didn't think you'd be hanging around outside when you left the house) in a howling wind while your child gleefully goes down the slide at the park.

Or maybe that's stupidity.

Drat!

Is anybody else watching Oprah? Why didn't I think of that? Unbelievable. Love 'em.

TGIF

It's Friday! Yesssssss. I have the whole day to myself. What should I do? Go shoe shopping? Check out Because I Said So?

Ok, that was fun. I'll start in the kitchen.

Thankful Thursday

Another new meme! Courtesy of Sting My Heart...

It's been a rough week all around. The traffic during my long commute sucked on the daily. The girls keep waking up during the night. Work was on my last nerve on Tuesday. The voice in my head that's been saying "I want to work part-time or stay home" has been getting louder and louder and making it hard to get through each day with a positive attitude. SO. I thought I'd try to think about what I am thankful for this week. Because goodness knows, I am blessed. And as my friend Nat tells me, I need to find JOY in every little corner (right J. Ny?) Here we go:

• I'm thankful that my girls are finally over their colds! Ooooweee am I thankful for that.
  
• I'm thankful for their daycare teacher, "Nini". She's sooo wonderful. She really treats the girls as if they were her own. I couldn't imagine having to worry about them while I'm at work. Today she's doing Oldest's hair!
  
• I'm thankful that my mom returned back from Montreal safely on Monday.
  
• I'm thankful that I haven't had to cook dinner from scratch this week. Woo hoo!
  
• I'm thankful that I have tomorrow off!
  
• I'm thankful that my "little" sister is turning 27 this weekend! Agh! That makes me archaic. Happy Birthday Pizzeria!

What are you thankful for this week?