Excitement....

My girls make me wonder. The things that excite them aren't always the things you think about. Oh there's the typical excitement. Lately it's been Christmas, my tooth is loose, my permanent tooth is coming in and I can feel it, I'm having a gymnastics birthday party, we got to go to a gymnastics birthday camp etc... Then there is the unexpected, seeing a Little Pet Shop toy they've never seen before near the check out. They didn't ask for it, they didn't want it, they were just admiring it. I love the lack of greed they have right now. Even when they saw Santa, they touched me because they only asked for one thing each and Santa even said that's all.

Rough night...

Poor YDD got sick last night. On top of that I felt sick and have some kind or rash/welts on my arms. Thus, daddy did most of the taking care of YDD.

Let's hope nobody else gets it or anything else and that she is better today. No church just in case.

Happy Birthday....

Happy Birthday to my Big Sis....

Closure...

I saw on the news that the Adam Walsh murder has finally been solved and closed. The new police chief reviewed the case and with new eyes he closed it. I hope this gives that family a little bit of peace that they so deserve. They have done so much as kid advocates and have changed the criminal investigation ways.
I'm old enough that I remember when the murder occurred. I know how it effects me. I can't imagine what this family has gone through.
I doubt they can ever get full closure but I hope it gives them peace and allows Adam to rest in peace.

A Testament of Love...

One of my Great Aunts passed away Friday morning. Her husband died this morning. I told my DH that is how I want us to go when we are 150 or so. One right after the other.

Christmas Baking...

Is it really baking if you don't turn on the oven? But saying Christmas Candy Making doesn't sound as well. Either way, I'm baking or candy making today. The toffee and chocolate drops are done. Fudge is next and when the girls are home we'll do chocolate chip cookies, so I will actually do some baking.

I love Christmas baking. I love the smells when you come in the house. YUM.

By the way, self stick pots totally mess with your candy times. I don't use a thermometer. I have tried and true recipes so I go by minutes BUT they are minutes for my old pot. Which I promptly dug back out after realizing the timing was off.

Don't try to make fudge when it's cold and rainy. I hope it will set but I cooked the stuff forever. I knew devinity wouldn't work but I thought I'd be ok with fudge.

For Aunt Glenna....

who doesn't have facebook.

The girls had their children's Christmas program at church last night. ODD was an angel and YDD was a caroler. It was fun.

Thanksgiving....

We had a great time over the Thanksgiving weekend. We did the family lunch thing and then took the girls camping. My kind of camping...

Nativities...

I've had a Fontanini nativity since I got married and I add to it in some way everywhere. Last year I bought several Jim Shore and some other little pieces to start doing a small collection. Here is my latest addition I got last night from a Fair Trade group where the artist is from the West Bank.

Twilight...

Yes, I'm one of the moms on the Twilight bandwagon. Just let me say don't knock it until you try it. You don't know what you are missing. And there is something to be said for the comradeship with fellow readers/viewers.

My sister flew in for my birthday a few weeks late just to go to this movie with me. Yes, we went to the midnight showing. The movie was good but the time we had was priceless. She and I went with 2 of my friends and 2 teenagers. It was so funny listening to the theater full of teens sighing to the scenes.

I hope the rest of the series gets made into movies too. I'll definitely be there with my friends!

Advent Season

Being an Army Brat and most of the time going to Protestant service at chapel on post I grew up on and off with celebrating Advent Season. To me it's a special time to make me stop and remember the real meaning for the season. I don't do an Advent Wreath at home but we do advent calendars and we read an advent book to the kids. It's a reminder to all of us that it isn't really about Santa Claus that we are celebrating Jesus' birth.

I think there is plenty of room for all kinds of traditions this time of year.

My DH is outside building a shelf for all my nativities. I've started collecting different ones from all over the world. I can't wait to start decorating the house.

Bedtime....

When I head off to bed I always go check on the girls and make sure they are covered up etc... This is what I saw when I checked on ODD.





She is sound asleep with her Auburn visor on. WAR EAGLE!

Favorite Christmas Songs...

Ok, I'm stealing from my friend.

My favorite Christmas song is "Oh Holy Night". I don't care who sings it, I'm gonna love it. I especially like John Berry's version (below). My favorite hearing of it was at Auburn First Baptist when my good friend Jon had the choir director add it to their list just because he knew I loved it. I absolutely love the fall on your knees part which isn't good when you are listening in the car. :)

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Savior's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.

A thrill of hope the weary soul rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angels' voices!
O night divine, Holy night when Christ was born;
O night divine!O night, O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here came the wise men from the Orient land.

The King of kings lay in lowly manger;
With all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, to our weakness no stranger,
Behold your King! Before the lowly bend!
Behold your King! Your King Before him bend!

A thrill of hope the weary soul rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees and hear the angels' voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine!O night, O night divine!

Warm your friday...

I know it's early but you have to take the opportunity when it's there.

Still sad...

I found more info on my junior high sweetheart that passed away in 2006. I lost contact with him for many years. But I can't seem to shake his death and not knowing about it.

I'm wondering if I scan pictures and cut me out if his daughter might want them.

We in the US live in...

The Greatest Country in the World. I don't get why fellow countrymen/women act surprised when we do as we have done for a long time. That's what we do when all is said and done.

I'm proud of our county and I'm more proud of our veteran's that fought and died to make it this way. I think we do them a disservice when we talk like what they've done has been for naught.

Mother of the year award...

Will not go to me. I thought I was doing good by taking my YDD to the library this am. I need to quit letting my dds pick out their own books. YDD picked one and I glanced at the pictures and didn't look at the words. We got home and I started to read it. It's about a little boy dying. I cried through the whole reading. When I finished I had her go get a happy book for us to read from our home stash. This has happened before, I really need to read them before we check them out.

Now I need to go find some junk to fix her for lunch.

I am...

a pack rat. I have a hard time getting rid of anything remotely sentimental. I started yesterday going through all the preschool papers and artwork of my girls. I'm trying so hard to just save a few and trash the rest. I really think I need intervention.

Voting...

I went to vote today. Yea me!
It took 1 and a half hours. Boo!

Rant on...
I appreciate all the hard work the workers but in but come on... They had 3 lines. A - ? and ?-M and then N-Z. That puts R, S, T and W all together. At some point they pulled U-Z and made a 4th line. It didn't help. R, S and T all still together. Then when you checked in you got in another line to get your ballot (only 1 table set up) and then you voted and then got in yet another line to put your ballot in the machine because there was only one machine there. I went to city elections just a few weeks/months ago and there were at least 2 and I think 3. I would think a presidential election might pull a few more voters. And nobody outside to let people know about the lines. When you are wrapped around the building nobody can see that there is no line for A-M. And then you here a worker say we didn't know the line was that long. Open your ears that is all that was being talked about.

My friend at another polling place was S and had no line. My parents (S) are still in line at their place. My sister in KS was in and out in 5 minutes (P).

Glad I got through. Took DH 2 hours.

I totally get it...

My ODD just got invited to her first sleepover. The little girl just called and invited her (after the mom had asked us first). My ODD is so excited. I hope she'll be able to go to sleep tonight.

But, I totally get it. My friend surprised me with a visit this weekend and I was so excited she was here. (We should have put hubbie on the sleeper sofa). Another friend and I go on a scrapbook retreat twice a year. We share a room and we stay up till the very wee hours talking. It's so much fun. So I totally get my ODD's excitement. You never out grow sleepovers or at least I haven't.

I do wonder if ODD will make it the whole night or if we'll have to make a run to get her. No biggie if we do.

Another year....

Yep, I'm another year older tomorrow. But I got to celebrate yesterday. I have the best hubby in the world. He suprised me with a surprise visit from my friend from Atlanta and a party with my bestest friends and my family. It was the awesomest.

Urgh...

Does anybody but me think that haunted house commercials should be banned from TV? Why must they be shown at prime kid watching TV time and right before I go to bed?

What in the world...

Most of you know I'm a huge Auburn fan. And I love my Tigers and will scream for them no matter what their record. But... What the heck is going on? How can we lose 4 games after leading at halftime in double digits. I just don't get it.

War Eagle anyway!

Happenings...

Sunday, YDD sang in front of the church for the first time. She sang but very quietly - not like she has been singing for everyone. I don't think I'll ever forget the words to Be Careful Little Eye.




Tuesday, ODD went on her first field trip. I'm not sure if she was more excited about the field trip or Daddy chaperoning. I have no idea what is in her hand.

Not unusual...

Sent the teacher an email and got a very nice one back. Made me feel tons better. This is an issue that arises every year in Kindergarten. She's going to have another talk with the class and individuals privately if need be. We (DH and I) are going to keep talking too and will discourage this whole boy/girlfriend thing.

Going to get ready and the YDD and I will go read to the Kindergarten class and have lunch with the class. Well actually I read and YDD gets to have lunch. I pass on that although the lunches (Friday is always pizza) don't look too bad.

Friends coming over tonight to scrapbook and have a craft night. Can't wait!

Good Grief...

We have boy/girl issues and we are only in Kindergarten. I am so in trouble.

Some little boy at school said he wanted to kiss my ODD and 2 of the other girls laughed. So ODD got her feelings hurt and cried telling me about it. I don't think she cried at school. I tried to tell her it was meant to be nice and just to tell him not to say stuff like that. I don't know what else to do.

Home...

Home, tired, and going to bed.

While in KS found out my dear family friend for 25+ years has Alzheimer's. She pretty much just sleeps. She was in no shape for us to go see her. She was able to send her Valentine's cards (personalized) as usual in Feb. and go to my sister's 25th anniversary party in Feb. I'm so sick of this disease!!!!

Worried...

Tired, stressed and who knows what else.

YDD threw up last night. Luckily it was only a one deal episode. It just took awhile for her to decide to puke so I was in and out of bed for awhile.

The ENT thinks ODD needs her tonsils removed. I don't know what to do. I don't want her to have surgery. I don't want her to miss school. But I don't want her being sick anymore. She has had strep 3 times this year in warm months (Feb, Aug, Sept). Not good according to the ENT.

I'm off to hopefully get a good nights sleep.

Silly....

YDD supposedly started running a fever in the middle of the night at my parents last night. We went and got her. The child didn't seem sick. She talked the entire way home. About the car, the lights, her shoes, where were her shoes, her pjs etc.... It reminded me of me. I still get silly at 2 am too.

P.S. She is still sleeping fever free this am.

Who Would Have Thought...

We give our girls the FluMist instead of the Flu shot. They had it last year and thought it was great due to no shot (and mom likes it's good for a year and against more strains). YDD had hers earlier this month with no problem. We are at the doctor's office yesterday and ODD (5) screamed bloody murder. I had to hold her arms down and put my leg over hers. She was ticked. Stayed that way till home. She said it hurt like a shot. I don't think so.

Also you have to tell your children to eat their chewable tablets. Just handing it to them is not sufficient. Children are too literal sometimes. The given explanation to the doctor for hidden Claritin found under couch cushions several weeks ago.

Calgon...

Take me away. Please. Anywhere will be fine.

Weird...

Somehow all the stuff on 2 computers converted to German. I think it's all back to English now.

The President...

Is by no means perfect. He isn't one of our best presidents but by no means is he the worst. But, I am so tired of the media blaming the poor man for everything. I really believe if he did something miraculous (like end world hunger or something) they would find fault with it. Give the man a break.

P.S. He also didn't personally make these bad loans. :)

P.P.S. I'm also tired of hearing how bad our economy and country is. I'd still rather live in the Good Ole US of A then anywhere else in this world. So if you don't, then go live somewhere else.

Oh my...

With DH's work we have the option to use an online prescription service. Well today they goofed and got to go round and round with me. Of course, I was right and after I insisted they pull the original Rx I was vindicated. They obviously don't know me or they would have stopped at the point where I said I have a copy of the original Rx in front of me. I keep everything. I knew that was a good thing and not bad.

They inadvertently put the doctor's license number in for the date of the prescription thus saying my prescription was expired when it's good through March '09. Makes you wonder what else they mess up. Scary!

I'm getting ...

On my soap box.

If your kids are sick, please leave them at home. If you need a break, call a sitter. The rest of us whose kids were well before they encountered your kids are sick of you sharing and making our kids sick!

Previous post...

Is nothing without pictures, so here are two.

I'm now...

the new owner of a van. I know, I know, I swore I'd never own a van. What can I say, with 2 young daughters and a small garage, I was doomed. It's a pretty blue one though so I get some credit.

Too young...

ODD at 5 is just too young for girl drama. I'm really feeling like we are in for it in the teenage years. Today we had 2 drama events. She got off the bus saying the neighbor girl was mean to her and pinched her. There are several things wrong with this. One, I don't know what ODD's participation in this was. Two, I hate tattle-telling Three, I don't want some kid being mean to my kid and four, did I say I hate tattle-telling. When I get past 2 and 4, I want to whoop the little girl. I basically told ODD not to sit with the other girl anymore. What else can I do?

Then we get to church and we go to sit with our other neighbors who have boys. Well, their oldest son didn't want the girls to sit with him. So, I got up and moved the girls. My ODD was crying and said he wouldn't sit with her at lunch either. I just told her to sit with her other friends. I don't like seeing my daughter with hurt feelings but there isn't much I can do to protect her at school.

I'm not going to coddle the kid. If he wants to be rude then he can deal with the consequences. Now his mom is the sweetest thing in the world so I really really hope I didn't hurt her feelings but she needs to be aware of her son's actions.

It's really hard to not make big deals out of things like this. I do feel the bigger deal we make the bigger deal it is. So I do try to down play even when I want to go whoop somebody else's kid.

Wednesday's are hard. ODD seems to be the tiredest on Wednesday night.

Crud...

I have the crud. I had a great time scrapbooking this weekend and got a lot done. I came home Sunday and as the day progressed I felt worse and worse with a sore throat. I thought I might have strep on Monday but I have tons of drainage and half the preschool has something similar. So I think YDD was typhoid Mary and some parent at school sent their kid in sick and gave it to her. Preschool has only been back in session 1 week (that's 2 days for her). She's over it so hopefully it will be a quick run. Unfortunately with me and my sinuses, any sniffle spells trouble.

Count down...

I don't think 1:00 will ever get here. That's when I get to leave for my scrapbook retreat weekend. My "roomie" doesn't get off work till 1 and that's when DH takes the YDD over.

Earlier this month it looked like the retreat was going to get canceled. My roomie wasn't excited about going and wanted it to get canceled. I think she is excited now. She better be!

I'm off to do my toenails. Gotta look cute.

First day...

Today was YDD's first day back at preschool. Mean ole mom forgot the camera so I took after school pictures. She is one of 2 girls in with 10 boys. She will be a tom boy for sure. She was worn out. Had a good long nap.

Whew and more ...

DH really needs to get on inventing that magic transporter and a cloning machine. Most of you know I like to have things planned and timed out. Everyone keeps moving things on me. Between needing to be 3 places at once and missing meetings due to sickness, I'm going nuts. My sister and BIL are going to be here pretty much for one day, I have ODD's first soccer game and a meeting on the only night we have to spend with them.

YDD is feeling mucho better today. She went to bed fever free and woke up fever free. I think once you get the antibiotic in you with strep, the bad part is over. I was pretty freaked yesterday with a 103+ fever and her throwing up. I was so relieved when she held down dinner last night.

ODD is loving school. She cracks me up at night when we are picking out cloths for the next day. She says, "School again." I'm like, "Yea, baby for the next 13 years."

YDD keeps forgetting ODD is gone during the day. We were doing something today and she starting calling for Sissy. It was so funny.

Never fails again.....

My YDD is sick. She has strep that her big sister had last week. Of course, DH and parents are out of town. She's doing better today. She is asleep in my bed right now.

Frustrating...

My ODD has quit wearing her earrings. It was her idea to get them pierced in the first place and she made it all the way to the point to start changing earrings and now she wants to quit. It irritates me that I've spent 6+ weeks cleaning and turning them 3 times a day and spent the money on getting it done and special earrings for the first day of Kindergarten. My YDD loves hers. She would change our her earrings numerous times during the day if I let her.

Today is the day...

And I don't know what to do now. Of course I have YDD to keep me company, entertained and busy but it's different.

ODD was all set in a new shorts outfit, with her Hannah Montana backpack, and new tennis shoes.

When we go to school she said "I'm a big girl now". It was cute. I know she had butterflies in her tummy but she got excited when she saw all the kids. Thank goodness!

I didn't get much sleep last night. I replayed every moment of her life in my head. When I finally did go to sleep both girls woke me up at different times "scared". I finally gave up trying to fall back to sleep and just laid there.

Busy, busy...

Saturday we had YDD's birthday party. Yesterday, I co taught SS and we went and had pictures taken. Today is YDD's actual birthday. Tonight is the first soccer practice for the season. Wednesday ODD starts Kindergarten.

Whew!

Funny?...

I don't think so. We have ring and runners in the neighborhood. They hit us again last night. While the little punks may think it's innocent fun, they don't realize the turmoil that goes on in the house. My girls are going thru a there is something scary in my room phase and I have a cat with a nervous stomach who pukes all the time. So far these punks haven't upset the cart but I'm just waiting.

Anyone have a nanny cam I can borrow?

More dancing...

In my sister's words.

Ok.
Jon rocked this weekend at the Grand Prix of Swing. With only about 7 hours of sleep the entire weekend he made it to Semi-finals
and finals in both events he danced for. In Jack & Jill (you dance with 4 different partners and you don't know which partners you will get),
he placed 6th place with KM from Shawnee Mission East (she just graduated highschool) and in Strictly Swing (which is a dance you dance with a partner you know) he danced with our friend AD(from Kirksville, MO) and they again made it to finals and placed 5th place.
It was an absolute blast. Our best buddy Kevin did not make finals in Jack and Jill, but he got 3rd place in Strictly swing, which is cash prize and trophy so that was awesome as well.

I am so proud of Jon (and Kevin). My ankle is the size of a grapefruit from all the dance lessons and workshops and dances we went to but it was worth it.

Dancing...

My sister and BIL have gotten into ballroom dance. They love it. I guess my BIL is pretty good too. He competed in his first competition last night and he made it to the finals. I don't know where he finished but he's No. 1 with us. The finals didn't start until 10:30. I don't think he won 'cause we didn't get a phone call but that's ok. My sister will compete with him as her partner in a different area tomorrow.

Maybe....

the rain wasn't such a good idea. I woke up in the middle of the night dizzy. Everytime I turned over or moved my head, my head felt like it was spinning. It was a bit better if I didn't open my eyes but if I opened my eyes I couldn't focus on anything - everything was moving. I don't know if it's my sinuses or vertigo or what.

My YDD is sneezing this am and sounds congested. Maybe it's something related.

Who needs...

a rain dance, you just need to post to your blog. IT'S RAINING.

May mean I can't walk tonight but atleast I swam this am.

Rain...

Anyone know any rain dances? We really need rain. Two days in a row there have been thunderstorms all around us but not a drop has fallen on our house. DH has instructed me on what to do if the field behind us catches on fire. It's that dry.

On another not, I broke my YDD's souvenir cup from Disney World. If anyone knows where to get one of these (without going back to Disney World) please let me know. Yes, I checked Ebay.

Sleep....

I need my 8 hours of sleep. Ok, ok, I really need more than 8 hours. My girls have started waking up way too early. Do they not know it's summer break? At least my ODD will be ready to wake up early for Kindergarten in a few weeks. Why she can't wait a few weeks, I don't know.

I Am....

blessed. I am so thankful for everything I have been given. 2 wonderful daughters and a hard working husband.

Sad....

I've been looking on the internet for years for my junior high sweetheart. Well today I found him, at least evidence of his death in 2006. I can't believe it.

Dishes...

I'm on a dishes kick. If you know me, you know the last thing I "need" is more dishes. But I can't help it, I want some more... I called my mom the other day and got these mixing bowls that I remember using all my life. She let me have them. She said it gave her more cabinet room getting them out of the way. Today I went to an antique store and bought different pieces of Plum Fiesta. I know, I said I'd never buy any but I did. Now I need to figure out what to fix for dinner. Something that will need to go in a bowl...

YIPPIE...

ODD ate dinner for the first time in a week. I love Macaroni and Cheese and Domino's cheesy bread.

We had a nice afternoon, went to see Wall-e, had dinner at Red Robin and played at/in the water fountain. ODD fell in and got her shoes wet. When we put YDD's shoes back on she went and got in herself. It was pretty funny.

Happy Day After the 4th....

I'm feeling a little better. We took the girls to see the city fireworks last night. Kept them out way past bedtime. I think they enjoyed watching them. A little loud for the YDD. The ODD getting in the car to leave said thanks for bringing her. That was nice.

ODD is still sick. We took her back to the dr yesterday. She is still running a low level fever. As long as she is doing that, she's contagious. We thought the fever was over. Guess our thermometer isn't very good. Hopefully no new sores. They gave her an antiviral med to take. :(

I'm going to get out and run some errands and have some alone time today. I did all the cooking yesterday. DH did fix the kitchen sink leak.

A vent....

Yep, I'm bummed. I'm not about to go off the deep end and I'm not neglecting my children (maybe my hubby a little). I just extremely tired of taking care of other people. It would be really nice if someone took care of me for a few minutes. The last time someone cooked "me" dinner was when our family friends invited the entire family over for dinner. Not the same thing. My sister is the only one who calls and checks on me. My parents call and check on the girls but they don't ask if I'm ok or need a break. My DH called at 7:45pm wanting to know if he should come home from work. I said why bother - the girls go to bed at 8. They'd be in bed and asleep by the time he would have gotten home - how would that have helped.
I'm the one who gets up every morning (or during the night) with the girls. Yep, my DH lays right there and keeps sleeping. His ears work just like mine do.
Yep, I'm wonder woman and quite frankly a pretty good one. I'm just tired of being her right now.

Still sick...

ODD has been sick since Sunday at least (probably earlier). She has some really bad, weird virus. I had it 2 Christmases ago. I think this makes it worse because I know exactly how bad she feels. (She feels really really bad.) I thought the fever was over but it came back around noon. She can barely eat. Today I had pizza delivered (because I'm worn out) and she was able to eat the cheesy bread. Cheesy bread is now my hero! I will always buy it from now on.

YDD is fine. Very hyper. I think she feels she needs to compete for attention right now. Thus, I'm worn out. Everything I offer ODD, YDD wants even though she's eating what I originally fixed. :)

In addition, I'm pretty bummed. We were suppose to go visit my sister and family for the 4th but with ODD being sick and DH's boss not letting him off that isn't happening.

Fun to tragedy...

We had an air show here in town this weekend. We luckily went yesterday. Today a thunderstorm popped up and took down some tents and injured several people and killed 1 5 year old child. My heart bleeds for that family and those spectators. They were out doing the same thing we were yesterday. Please remember them all in your prayers.

Gross...

DH is on a mission trip in NO. He told me the grossest story involving where they are staying not the areas they are fixing up. There isn't much I can do about it but he has strict orders to take a shower before climbing into the bed tomorrow night and to leave his luggage in the garage. I am so grossed out I won't recount the story here. I'll leave you wondering and I wouldn't want you to look at DH weird from now on. LOL

Reality has hit....

I'm outnumbered.

Never fails....

DH is out of town so DD has to go to the doctor. I'm calling for an appointment in a few minutes.

Oh no....

DH has only been gone 12 hours and I'm already worn out. Hopefully a good night sleep will help.

I think sometimes it's a mental thing, knowing there is no evening break coming all week.

Grumpy....

I don't do well when I get woke up. I can wake up early on my own and I'm generally ok. DH got up at 4 and left sometime before 5 to go chaperone a church youth trip. I swear he made more noise then me and the DDs put together.

I hope they have a safe, fun trip and get home Friday at a decent time. :)

Ear Piercing....

Yes, I took my DDs to get their ears pierced today. I didn't make them and if they had changed their mind that would have been fine. They said it only hurt for a minute. The YDD did cry and she went second. I let her see Sissy go first incase she changed her mind. She didn't.

Nothing much....

new going on. Thankfully! Tomorrow is the last day of soccer camp and then the girls are getting their ears pierced. No, I'm not making them.

Mom is feeling better. She had kidney stone surgery earlier this week. It wasn't expected - kind of crept up on us.

Next week there is nothing on the agenda. YIPPIE!

My friend is back in town after her mom's burial. She is trying to get her family life into a new routine.

More sadness...

Tim Russert of Meet the Press died of a heart attack today at work. I am in shock. As far as I'm concerned flags should be flown nationally at half mast for him. He was a great commentator and from everything I've seen and read a great man and a great dad.

Sad....

Most of you know that I have an extreme dislike of funerals (not that anyone likes them). I have one to go today and I expect it to be hard for me. I'm already having extreme anxiety thinking about it. I'm going before hand to help with the meal for the family. I hope that helps distract me.

I feel so bad for the family. My friend has lost her dad and now her mom. I can't imagine what that feels like.

I feel pretty helpless. I took food yesterday and have called and offered help. I don't know if there is anything else I can do.

Sad....

My friend's mom passed away this morning. The email was sent out about 1 am. I'm glad she isn't suffering anymore but I'm so sad for her family. My friend has now lost her mom and dad.

Nature...

Nature is a miraculous thing. We have enjoyed watching these baby birds go from egg to flying.



Their mother built her nest in our peace lily plant on our back porch. Today they learned how to fly. You can hear them chirping their little hearts out.

On a sad note, my friend's mom was admitted to the ER last night. She is battling colon cancer that spread to her liver. My prayers are with them.

A farewell....

The video baby monitor died. The picture had gotten fussy and it made a popping static noice but the sound still worked, until last week when the power went out twice. The sound never came back. I know it's long overdue with ODD being 5 and YDD being almost 3. But it was nice to have a quick look at YDD if I wanted and the sound was less sensitive.

I still have the regular monitors. I can't stand the thought of them getting sick or something during the night and me not hearing them.

Now, if I can figure out how to make the guide light not shine on the other baby monitor.

First bee...

We had our first bee sting. YDD came in from outside screaming. Once I got her calmed down enough to understand her she took me outside and showed me what the bug was. She picked up a bee.

No bad reaction. Just some swelling and redness.

The things we do....

My sister broke her ankle. She was playing volleyball and stepped into a hole. She's very upset she will miss out on ballroom dancing for awhile.

Off to get the DDs up to go to swim lessons. I scheduled them for 8 am so they could do them at the same time. I hear YDD.

Baby has arrived...

My friend had her son yesterday. 8 lbs 11 oz at 37 weeks. Both are doing great.

Update...

My BF only has tonsilitis. Weird since she has the white patches.

Cats...

Darn cat... He attacked me when we got back from grocery shopping (you'd think he'd want that break after being home bound since Monday evening). Now I have several gashes from his jagged tooth. Now I know cats are finicky but give me a break. I "beat him" severely with the kitchen rug. I doubt he learned his lesson.

On other notes:
My BF may have strep for the first time. She thought she was immune or a carrier since she had never had it. Her little boy had it a few weeks ago and now she may have it for the first time.

No word on my friends baby. I assume she's still hanging in there being miserable.

Update...

My friend still hasn't had her baby. She got the all clear last Wednesday. She goes back to the doctor today and hits 37 weeks Thursday. She is miserable and ready to have this baby.

Go back...

Who says you can never go back?

The family and I went back to Auburn this weekend to attend the Auburn First Baptist College Choir reunion. Now, DH nor I were in the choir we just thought it would be a great time to see everyone and it was. I would move back in a heartbeat. I love that church!!! That is the church DH and I met in, dated in and got married in. We got to see lots of friends and did some shopping. I got new AU earrings. :) The campus has changed so much but it has lost none of it's charm. I would have loved to have gotten out and walked and walked but we didn't have that kind of time this trip. We need to go back more often.

Break...

We are taking a break this week. Last week was so busy, it's nice not to have anything to do this week. We will go see the Butterflies at the Botanical Gardens Friday and then we are off to Auburn for the weekend.

A Little Sad...

Today is the last day of preschool for the summer and the last day for my ODD. Her preschool graduation is tonight. Time has gone by so fast. She is so excited and can't wait to start Kindergarten but I can.

Storms...

Storms are on the way. They closed the schools early so I had to get the girls early from preschool. Now we just sit and wait.

Back in hospital

My friend went back in the hospital Saturday night. They finally got the contractions under control Sunday. She will stay in the hospital until the baby comes at this point. They are still hoping to get to 35 weeks but under round like Saturday night and the baby will be here.

2 more weeks

My friend got her contractions stopped and was sent home yesterday afternoon. YEA. She will try bed rest in the hopes of making it to 35 weeks. Which happens to be exactly the day of preschool graduation. Let's pray the baby stays put and mom can make it to graduation.

Prayers needed....

A close friend went into early labor at 2:30 this am. She is at 33 weeks. They have tried the Terbutaline shot twice. The last time it caused her BP to shoot up and they said they won't give it to her again. Her husband is on travel and is due in at 8:30. Please pray for safety and calmness. Thanks.

One shot

Need I say more...

Yuck...

I'm not feeling so hot. I keep getting sinus headaches. I'm going to break down and call the ENT but I know he will do an MRI and I know when he sees the results he will want to do sinus surgery. I already know I need it. I'm a big chicken.

We are still recovering from vacation. The girls go to preschool tomorrow. YEA. I need a break.

We're Back...

We had a great time. The girls were super. No rain. Maybe a little when we were in the Princess breakfast. It was misty so we covered up the strollers and when we came out it was clear.

Disney ...

here we come. We leave Saturday. I haven't even begun packing. I did remember to grab sunglasses out of the car. I hope the weather is nice (no rain please). Speaking of weather, we had another late frost the other day. My ODD got down on her knees at bed time and prayed for God to make it warm that she was tired of cold weather. It was sweet and funny at the sametime. I'm sure God has a sense of humor.

Off to

see the wizard... Well not really. Fixing to head out on my scrapbook retreat. I'm so ready for it. Now, if my back would just cooperate. I have packed the Tylenol, muscle relaxer and the heating pad. The doctor says it's a pulled muscle and should be better within a week. It needs to be better now. I have arranged for a friend that is going to the same retreat to give me a massage. I'm hoping that will help. OW, I'll be doing a lot of standing. For some reason the back doesn't hurt as bad if I'm standing. The feet on the other hand...

I'm taking my friend to lunch. She is driving and will be hauling all the crap so it's the least I can do. Monday is also her birthday (Happy 32!!!) I'm starving. I hope she picks some place good.

Time flies...

The next fees weeks are probably going to go by in a blurr. I'm really trying to slow down and enjoy everything. You know, stop and smell the roses.

This weekend I'm going on a scrapbook retreat. This is the 3rd time I've gotten to go and I love it. I share a room with one of my closest friends and we stay up way too late talking after we are to tired to scrap anymore and go to bed. It's a blast.

Next week we register my ODD for Kindergarten. Oh my... She is so ready and I'm not.

Then we go on vacation. We are going to Disney. The girls don't know where we are going it's a surprise. I know it's going to kick my butt and I'll be exhausted. But one day that we are there, I'll get to see one of my best friends who moved away to Tampa. I miss her bunches!

Then home to finish out the preschool year, a quick trip to Auburn memorial day weekend, 2 weeks of swim lessons, going to the neighborhood pool almost daily, free summer movies and August will be here before we know it. I vow to throw in some summer picnics and trips to the botanical gardens with friends.

Whew!

More on storms

I got woke up to a thunderstorm (I wonder if YDD turned off the alert radio again - it didn't go off) early this am. I'm a big baby and I confess. But when you are jumping out of your skin you really can't help it. The hail sounded huge. I didn't get out of bed to look. I do have my limits. I do recall falling back asleep as I was praying for the storm to move on somewhere else but to leave the rain. We desperately need rain.

I have a sinus infection. We were at my YDD's post op followup appointment and her doctor took pity on me and saw me too. He's very nice. I'm switching to him since I can't get in with my ENT till Friday and my Family doctor didn't call me back till we were gone yesterday. YDD got a good review too. We all got to see her tubes. He calmed my fears a bit about letting water get in her ears. His children ended up with tubes and he said he didn't do plugs and didn't restrict swimming. I'm going to do swim lessons and see how it goes for her.

We are off to Disney in 18 days. SHHH.... It's still a secret from the girls. We want to surprise them. Oh ok, we don't want to be hounded to death before hand.

Mommy Dearest

I feel like mommy dearest. I forgot the sunscreen and let my DDs get sunburned. We went to the Botanical Gardens today and watched a Raptor show and hunted dinosaurs all over the park.

But it was fun!

Yippie...

Just sitting her taking a break (cough, cough) at work listening to Josh Groban on my MP3. Today is my Friday and DH is on his way home. He'll be here for a late dinner. The girls really missed him this time. They are sad he won't be able to pick them up today but were ok with him being home for dinner.

Anyone know how to get scratches out of marble? My framed stain glass windown fell (when the house got hit by lightening) and scratched my tub.

Spring Break Sucks...

I posted to early in last post about YDD getting better. She started throwing up around 7:30 pm. She was fine the next day and has been till 1:30 this morning. Of course, DH is gone on a business trip. This happens every year. One year he was sick on his trip and last year he was home but we always seem to get some kind of throw up sickness every year around Spring Break or Easter. Hopefully nobody else will get sick and she'll be fine by Sat/Sun. Anyway, I'm declaring that we aren't going to do spring break anymore at our house. Either that or I'm going on a spring break trip by myself.

Storming

It's storming here this morning (again). My friends who know I'm petrified of storms would be so proud of the front I put on for the girls. The power went out and I was just walking to them saying, stay where you are I'm coming with your flashlights like it was no big deal. Of course DH is gone to a political meeting so I'm having to do the front. I think it's about over.

On another topic, YDD is finally getting better. She has had several nights where she didn't wake up crying. She did at 4 this am and then was up for good at 6:30 or so. Yawn!

I have some sinus thing going on. I feel like crap. This storm really needs to hurry up so I can go get my allergy shot.

Blizzard of 2008

Yep, we woke up to snow Saturday. It was gone by 11. The girls went out to see it, weren't impressed, and came in 'cause it was cold.

Ear tubes and adenoid removal...

Well the surgery is over and I think we have all recovered. Here is a quick recap of yesterday.

Got up at 5 'cause I couldn't sleep anyway and we had to be there at 6:45 (which means leaving around 6:15). We just grabbed YDD and took her in her pajamas. She didn't like that at first. Finally accepted the pjs but insisted on her shoes. Gotta love her! We arrive and check in and all goes well. We get back to a room and she's happy as can be. Watches cartoons and plays with her new Beanie Baby swan that she calls a duck. She picked it out 'cause it's a duck. They take her back at 8 and we go to the waiting room. They come get us at 8:15 'cause there has been some delay. She has told the nurses all about her big sis and her cat. I think they liked her and would have stayed with her but they didn't want us to worry. A 15 minute wait turned into an hour. She was fine watching more cartoons. We had a minute where she was crying to take off the hospital bracelet. A nurse finally came and told us it was ok just to leave it on the bed in view. They came and got her a few minutes before 9. She let me put the bracelet back on. And off she went. The doctor called around 9:05 and said her adenoids were indeed enlarged and they were putting in the iv and that he'd be out in about 15 minutes. Of course 15 came and went and I was watching my watch. Finally he came out (about 9:30) and said everything went well. Told us what to do when we got her home etc... and said they were fixing to come and get us and put us to work. Hmmm... The nurse gets us and takes us back to the discharge room where areas are set off by chairs (some have screens - we didn't). They go over the discharge info and say they are bringing her to us 'cause she's upset and calling for me. Well boy was I unprepared, she was pissed. There is no other way to say it. I knew she'd be mad but I didn't know she would be screaming, hitting, biting and all that. I was wondering what in the world had we done to her. We had to hold her hands down to keep her from yanking her iv out and if we let up on the tension she's bite us. They wanted her to drink before she got the iv out. She would have none of that, she'd hit at the cup. We offered her every beverage known to man. She even throw duck duck down. They finally gave up and took the iv out. Then she wanted the bandage off, they finally gave up and gave her a bandaid. As soon as the nurse let go she yanked it off. People in the hall were staring at me. I really really thought about sticking my tongue out at them. This is not uncommon with children. I just wasn't expecting it because our ODD didn't do this when she had her surgery. They finally just gave up and let us go home. She wouldn't drink and they thought she might settle down in the car. In the car she pitched a fit for Old McDonald's (my girls call McD's that). At first it was just for a sprite but then it was for a burger too. She was so mad we went through the drive in. She wanted to eat there. She was settling down though. It wasn't continuous screaming like at the hospital. We were home by 11 and she settled down and drank, ate yogurt and then most of her burger and fries. I figure if it was hurting her throat she wouldn't eat it. She was fine after that. She just wanted her mommy to hold her for a long time. (What a chore) Her throat would hurt and she'd ask for more Sprite and/or Tylenol (it was usually due so I knew she most be hurting). We went out to eat with friends last night and she ate as normal. Last night, she woke crying for water fairly early. Then at 3:30 she wanted to get up. I explained it was still the middle of the night and she was ok with that. Then within 10 minutes she was saying her throat hurt. I offered her water but she wanted Tylenol. I gave it to her (what she didn't spit out) and she went back to sleep. Was still asleep when I left for work.

So yea the surgery was no big deal but the anesthesia reaction was a big deal. Nobody properly prepared me for that. Upset I was expecting but pissed and violence from my sweet little precious angel I was not.

Big Day

Tomorrow is the big day. I'm trying not to think about it. The doctor's office hasn't called to tell us what time to be there yet so it's hard to put it out of my mind.

We are off to story time at the library in a few. I wish I could take my book and curl up in a corner. :) My kids love to read but my YDD has started not liking me reading, she wants me reading to her instead. I try to switch off and then read when they go to bed.

Ears and Alzheimers

Next Thursday my YDD is having ear tubes put in and possibly her adenoids removed. I'm nervous about it. Since she is 2 1/2, she's older than most kids who get the tubes. She may be right on the border of out growing it. We could wait and risk her getting another and see but we decided that wasn't the best option. When you read off the antibiotic list for the past year it comes out to 11 times on antibiotics (that would be 1 a month but it isn't - it's March, July, Nov-Feb). We had 2 doctors saying she needs this so we opted to trust their wisdom (I know doctors aren't perfect).
Pray for us on Thursday.

On another note, some of you know that my grandmother has Alzheimer's and is in a nursing home. My parents moved her up here when they moved up here when ODD was 1 1/2. She is actually in her 2nd nursing home up here because the 1st kicked her out when her Alzheimer's progressed. I guess the administration was tired of dealing with her 'cause the nurses and aids appeared to love her and didn't know anything about the move when we picked her up. I digress. Her present nursing home is closing their Alzheimer's wing and we have to move her. There are no other Alzheimer winged nursing homes in our area unless we go the private pay option and she/we just can't afford that. The closest nursing home is in another state. That may not be a problem but we don't know the consequences of taking her over state lines. We are checking into it. So pray we find a home for my grandmother. She's beyond letting us know she knows what's going on so whatever transition takes place will probably be ok with her.

Sad News

Our friend from church's dad passed away yesterday evening. I'm so sad for her. It's touched us all in so many ways for so many reasons. Seeing her struggle and maintain her strength and faith has been a witness and inspiration to so many. Her husband has been the rock. Her dad was only 46.

Not ready...

My ODD and I went to practice Kindergarten today. Oh boy, I'm not ready for this.

We met a friend at school and went and had lunch with her daughter. We were doing OK till we started to go into the lunchroom. Then my ODD got scared. Our friend went in to put money in her DD's account and we waited in the hall. ODD said she was scared. I almost started crying because lets face it, I was more scared then she was. I told her we were practicing and that I was staying with her and not leaving her.

We met my friends DD's class and when she came out she just grabbed my DD's hand and they were off. Nothing more about being scared. I don't think that 2nd grader realizes what she did but this MaMa does! I think I could have left at that point and all would have been well.

ODD got her own tray, ate very well for her and throw her trash away all by herself just like her friend. All I did was pay. :)

ODD knew 2 other kids in that class. We may just go once a month till school gets out.

Update

YDD has another double ear infection. The Dr thinks we should do ear tubes. We are meeting with the ENT next week. She definitely needs some relief. This is the 6th round of antibiotics since the beginning of Nov (one of those was for a sinus infection).

Back to the doctor

Well guess what? We are back to the doctor, YDD and I that is. Will this make the 6th antibiotic since Nov? I've about had it.

PaPa just arrived to watch the ODD. Don't want her catching something.

Update later.

52 things

52 Things (Cause the site I copied it from didn't have all 60 listed) you probably don't know about me.

1. What is in the back seat of your car right now? Diaper bag,umbrellas
2. When was the last time you threw up? About this time last year when the whole family had a bug
3. Name 3 people who made you smile today? Bruce, Lindsey and Katelynn
4. What were you doing at 8 am this morning? hurrying to finish getting ready
5. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Writing thank yous for Katelynn (she can't write yet)
6. What will you be doing 3 hours from now? working
7. Have you ever been to a strip club? Nope
8. What is the last thing you said aloud? "Do you have a Steak Out menu?"
9. What is the best ice cream flavor? chocolate with peanut butter
10. What was the last thing you had to drink? coffee
11. What are you wearing right now? black pants with red silk blouse (it's Valentine's Day)
12. What was the last thing you ate? a cupcake last night
13. Have you bought any new clothing items this week? No
14. When was the last time you ran? A few weeks ago when Lindsey and her car went over the retaining wall.
15. What's the last sporting event you watched? some of the Super Bowl on tv, live KAT's soccer game
16. Who is the last person you emailed? my friend Tammie - I knew she'd know which Steak Out would deliver to work.
17. Ever go camping? not recently
18. Do you have a tan? No
19. Do you drink your soda from a straw? Yes
20. What did your last IM say? I don't IM
21. Are you someone's best friend?I hope so
22. What are you doing tomorrow? Working
23. Where is your mom right now? At her house I guess.
24. Look to your left, what do you see? edge of my desk and a door
25. What color is your watch? gold
26. What do you think of when you think of Australia ? I want to go.
27. Would you consider plastic surgery? Yes
28. What is your birthstone? It use to be Topaz now it's Citrine.
29. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit thedrive thru? Depends.
30.How many kids do you want?Just the 2 I have.
31. Do you have a dog? NO
32. Last person you talked to on the phone? My Dad
33. Have you met anyone famous? I've seen some famous people.
34. Any plans today? Valentine's Dinner with the hubby.
35. How many states have you lived in? 5 I think. :)
36. Ever go to college? Yes
37. Where are you right now? at work in AL
38. Biggest annoyance in your life right now? the TV coverage of the election (I know it's only beginning)
39. Last song listened to? Cleaning this gun by Rodney Atkins; seriously
40. Are you allergic to anything? lots of stuff
41. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? This pair of slipons that have seen better days
42. Are you jealous of anyone? Sure
43. Is anyone jealous of you? Doubt it
44. What time is it? 11:16
45. Do any of your friends have children? Yes
46. Do you eat healthy? I try to
47. What do you usually do during the day? work and run after the girls, break up fights
48. Do you hate anyone right now? No
49. Do you use the word 'hello' daily? Probably
50. How old will you be turning on your next birthday? If you don't know, I'm not telling!!!
51. Have you ever been to Six Flags? yes, last time in college
52. How did you get one of your scars? Which one? One you probably don't know about is from when I was born, the doctor cut me while cutting the cord that was wrapped around my neck.

Movie/Weather update

The bad weather held off and we made it to the Hannah Montana Concert Movie. My ODD loved it. She was by no means the youngest one there. I think my YDD would have been fine there. But it was a great mother/daughter outing for my ODD's birthday next week.

The bad weather did hit in the middle of the night. My prayers go out to everyone in Molton, AL. They got hit bad by a tornado. If you know me, you know I'm petrified of storms. Believe it or not I was sleeping through the sirens. Dumb me forgot to turn on the weather radio (what good is it if it's off?!) but thanks to my neighbor who called we got up and went to our safe room. Special thanks to the teachers at our MMO program!!! I had no explaining to do with the girls. My ODD asked if we were practicing and when I said no she knew what was going on. They weren't scared and didn't complain about being woke up in the middle of the night. So thanks MMO teachers for making my job easier!

Laura

Weather....

It's almost 70 degrees here today. That means bad weather is coming. Unfortunately, I'm supposed to be taking my ODD to see Hannah Montana's concert/movie tonight. Oh yea and I'm scared of storms and I paid $30 for our tickets. I hope it waits till it's over or fizzles out completly.

If you are in a Super Tuesday state, go vote!

Never fails....

If I didn't have bad luck, I'd have no luck at all. That is how I felt last night.
DH is gone on a business trip so of course stuff has to happen.
My mom and I went to a friend's Pampered Chef party last night (left the DDs with PaPa). It was cold and rainy but not too bad and then it started lightening. Then we left and the car wouldn't start. My friends husband was the night in shining armor and came out in his rain gear and jumped my car off in the middle of a cold storm. It's in the shop now - determining if it's the battery or an electrical problem.
Then I get home and realize the VCR is on. What the VCR is on? That means it couldn't have recorded LOST. I'm so mad!
Then I had some of the worst leg cramps that I have ever had in my life and I've had some great ones (just ask former roommates and DH). I mean I woke up screaming. Then it moved up my leg to my thigh and then my back. I've been awake since about 4 am. I was so miserable the cat even abandoned me for elsewhere in the house.

L

Another ear infection

My YD has yet another ear infection. Bless her heart, every snifle, virus or whatever she catches turns into an ear infection. I'm just waiting for her doctor to start talking about putting tubes in. If it avoids all the troubles I've had we may resort to it.

Yuck

I feel terrible today. I starting feeling sick right before I went to pick the girls up from school. My head has been splitting. I think it's the back and forth on the weather. I wish it would either be cold or warm not both in one day.

We had another attempted abduction at a nearby apartment complex when the child was getting off the school bus. This is the second recent one that has made the news and that the schools sent letters home to parents etc... I hope they catch this quy(s) quick and we'll leave it at that. Please meet your young ones at the bus stop!

It makes me very sad, uneasy and apprehensive. My ODD will start Kindergarten in the Fall it makes me realize all the talking we need to do between now and then.

Nostalgic

Man am I feeling nostalgic tonight! A former classmate posted 1985 homecoming football game video and their class of 85 graduation videos on youtube. The link is http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=osterholz+blackhawks&search=Search. I was junior class president and you can see me handing out mums to the homecoming court. My boyfriend escorted a friend and one of my best friends won for the junior class, you can see her too. I'm the one in a grey sweatsuit and jeans. Why didn't I wear something nice? I was also marshall at the graduation so in the video1 you see me and my other friend/classmate march in first and stand up front. It's so funny! Brings back tons of sweet sweet memories!

P.S.

On the car seat deal, the insurance company just said to replace the car seats. They didn't say anything about the seat belts. I kept wondering 'cause they never ask you to replace the driver seat belt when they are in a fender bender.

My friends Mike and Cristy had a healthy baby boy, Jack, Dec. 28th. I'm so happy for them and their entire family.

A New Year...

Happy New Year Everyone. I know I'm a little late in my well wishes. Hope 2008 is an awesome year for each of you.

DH has been gone on a business trip already this year. The girls and I have been having our good and bad moments so I was dreading the trip and it has been amazingly great. Guess the girls sensed mom needed a break. I took them to a very busy, very popular restaurant yesterday. We went early since I knew it would be busy and it was packed already. They were awesome. I would say they were the best behaved at a restaurant as they have ever been (they usually aren't bad either). They patiently waited about 30 minutes to be seated and then waited for our food and then for my correct food to get sent out. They even shared french fries. :) They got balloons at the end so they got a reward and lots of praise from me and DH over the phone.

My babies are growing up way too fast!!!

I don't do new year resolutions but this year I resolve to use my good stuff this year and not to hoard everything (My GF and I both have decided to do this). I guess it's the Army Brat in me and I just can't help it. So if you see me holding back on something give me a knock back on track.

If you got a Christmas card from us the picture was taken by one of DH's coworkers. He graciously came to our house and took tons of photos for me to chose from. The one I am posting here we took with the tripod and it's no where near the quality as the others.