At a Christmas party on Sunday, I was busy socializing with some fairly new friends. As it turns out, we live in a large, tight-knit neighborhood. Everyone seems to know everyone and there are definitely some cliques to contend with.
Anyway, my husband was talking to a new "friend" and he happened to attend my university. He then told my husband that I looked like a girl he used to know who was a Fuzzie (Alpha Zi Delta Sorority). He then said something to the effect that if I wasn't a Fuzzie, I should have been.
I tried not to read into it. Not an easy task for me. I read into everything. But really, a Fuzzie? I remember them all being tall and blonde. I'm not tall. I'm not blonde. And I'm trying to decide whether or not to be offended.
For the record, I wasn't even Greek.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
What I've Learned From Soap Operas
For two years of my life, my grandmas watched me during the day while my parents worked. At my maternal grandmother's house, no day was complete without soap operas. She watched CBS which included Young and the Restless, A Search For Tomorrow, As the World Turns and Guiding Light (RIP GL).
Sadly the addiction began way back as a tiny little person and it continued into my teenage years. I remember being so embarrassed when the actors would start muggin' down. I'd pretend to be reading something or looking the other way when they'd make out...which is quite a lot on soaps.
Even into my 20's I was recording soaps...you just never know what you might miss. =)
It was a sad day in September of this year when Guiding Light went to be with the Lord. That's where all good soap operas go, right? Well, it wasn't sad because I'd have a hole in my day, as I'd ceased my soap obsession, but it was like a part of my grandmother (who passed 10 years ago) died again that day. I will always think of her when I see a soap.
All of this to say (making a very long post) I think I learned not to lie from soap operas. It doesn't take long to see that there would be absolutely NO story line if the people would be straight forward and honest. I really have no patience for lying...especially from my kids.
Take today for example. I'll spare you the details but basically Girl Wondertwin disappeared for 15 minutes during Brunchinner (we woke up too late for breakfast and she leaves for school too early to eat lunch...it was also dinner because she was eating her meal from the night before that she had refused to eat). I finally got her to come upstairs to eat and I asked her if she had been watching TV. No, of course not Mom.
I knew she was lying but didn't say anything until I went downstairs and found the TV on. She lied AND didn't bother to turn off the evidence. Wasting electricity was added to her list of iniquities.
She then missed her school bus and will be spending 30 minutes in her room after school. I was TICKED.
When do children learn NOT to lie? I have little patience for it. She needs a good soap opera to teach her a lesson.
Sadly the addiction began way back as a tiny little person and it continued into my teenage years. I remember being so embarrassed when the actors would start muggin' down. I'd pretend to be reading something or looking the other way when they'd make out...which is quite a lot on soaps.
Even into my 20's I was recording soaps...you just never know what you might miss. =)
It was a sad day in September of this year when Guiding Light went to be with the Lord. That's where all good soap operas go, right? Well, it wasn't sad because I'd have a hole in my day, as I'd ceased my soap obsession, but it was like a part of my grandmother (who passed 10 years ago) died again that day. I will always think of her when I see a soap.
All of this to say (making a very long post) I think I learned not to lie from soap operas. It doesn't take long to see that there would be absolutely NO story line if the people would be straight forward and honest. I really have no patience for lying...especially from my kids.
Take today for example. I'll spare you the details but basically Girl Wondertwin disappeared for 15 minutes during Brunchinner (we woke up too late for breakfast and she leaves for school too early to eat lunch...it was also dinner because she was eating her meal from the night before that she had refused to eat). I finally got her to come upstairs to eat and I asked her if she had been watching TV. No, of course not Mom.
I knew she was lying but didn't say anything until I went downstairs and found the TV on. She lied AND didn't bother to turn off the evidence. Wasting electricity was added to her list of iniquities.
She then missed her school bus and will be spending 30 minutes in her room after school. I was TICKED.
When do children learn NOT to lie? I have little patience for it. She needs a good soap opera to teach her a lesson.
A Conversation with Little Dude
This is what Little Dude said to me yesterday.
LD: "I kick butt, Mommy?"
Me: "What?"
LD "I kick butt?"
Me: "Did you just ask me if you kick butt?"
LD: "Ves" (translates to Yes from 3 year old speak to English)
Me: "We don't say butt, buddy. Where did you learn that?"
LD: "God and Jesus taught me."
Well of course they did. And yes, Little Dude does Kick Butt.
LD: "I kick butt, Mommy?"
Me: "What?"
LD "I kick butt?"
Me: "Did you just ask me if you kick butt?"
LD: "Ves" (translates to Yes from 3 year old speak to English)
Me: "We don't say butt, buddy. Where did you learn that?"
LD: "God and Jesus taught me."
Well of course they did. And yes, Little Dude does Kick Butt.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Another Way to Save
Hi Blog friends! Just wanted to share a great link with you.
www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=nhLHZx%2BpURwisjAqvroa%2Fw%3D%3D
This is Ebates! If you are like me you are making a lot of online purchases right now. I've been doing all the Christmas shopping for my in laws (meaning I'm buying the kids' presents that will be given by my in laws). Not an easy task when I'm shopping for my 3 but at least I'm using their $$!
I've been using Ebates and so far I'm getting $13 dollars back! Not bad since I'm not spending my own money in the first place! Use the link above and check it out.
www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=nhLHZx%2BpURwisjAqvroa%2Fw%3D%3D
This is Ebates! If you are like me you are making a lot of online purchases right now. I've been doing all the Christmas shopping for my in laws (meaning I'm buying the kids' presents that will be given by my in laws). Not an easy task when I'm shopping for my 3 but at least I'm using their $$!
I've been using Ebates and so far I'm getting $13 dollars back! Not bad since I'm not spending my own money in the first place! Use the link above and check it out.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Lost and Found
It's a day like this when I thank my Good Lord above for my blog. Buckle your seat belts, blogworld, because I'm about to vent.
Against my better judgement (but REALLY needing a workout since I skipped Saturday) I dragged my 3 to the athletic club. The twins were excited to go but Little Dude was dragging his feet (both literally and figuratively). We arrive and park as far away as humanly possible from the front of the building.
The twins fly out of the car and seemingly disappear into some portal in space. Worried about Little Dude and his ginormous fit that he his throwing, I'm consumed with him. I finally get his pants zipped and I refuse to zip his coat because I realize that the twins are long gone. I try to rush Little Dude but anyone with a 3 year old knows that this is generally counterproductive. He dug in his heels and would NOT move. Keep in mind, it's 29 degrees outside and flurries are flying.
Somehow I finally convince Little Dude to move in a forward motion. After who knows how long we arrive at the entrance of the building. Right away there is a desk where a "professional" checks you in using a membership card. I ask her, with a little bit of concern in my voice, "Did you see 2 five year olds run past here?" "Nope" she answers flppantly. A little more concerned, I say, "Are you sure you didn't see 2 five year olds run past here?" "Nope" she says without a care in the world. Just to clarify, I say, "So, you are telling me that 5 year olds did not come through here?" NOPE was her answer, obviously annoyed by my tenacity.
Worry and dread crosses my face as I begin to rush toward the child center. The woman behind me, sensing my urgency, says, "I'm sure they went to the child center". At least she cared. At least she was human.
The child center is in the very back of the building. When I finally reached the Child Center (with Little Dude still moping along SLOWLY behind me) I found the Wondertwins hanging up their coats. Relieved, I begin to tell the child care workers what happened. They could not believe the lack of concern I received at the entrance. Realizing that it wasn't just me, that this was an obvious oversight in humanity, I went back to the "professional" at the entrance.
I said to her, "Just so you know, my 5 year olds DID pass you". Without a care in the world, she says, "Well, I didn't see them". At this point I started to fume. Wouldn't a normal person say, "Oh, I'm so glad you found your kids." Or anything but how she chose to respond. I then said, "Well, I was VERY worried when you said you didn't see them and that made me think that they didn't come in...that maybe something terrible had happened to them." She says, "I just told you that I didn't see them". REALLY?? REALLY?? Is this how a normal human responds?
Nothing could stop me at that point, after telling her that I didn't appreciate her attitude, I went straight to the Manager. Telling him that this MUST happen on a daily basis, he responds with understanding and saying he would pull the "professional" from the front and put her on another duty after a "talk". He then offered me free lunch for my kids and myself.
I didn't take him up on his lunch. That wasn't my point. Anyone with multiple children understands how easy it is to get separated from one while tending to another. All this "professional" needed to do was offer me just a little bit of humanity. A, "Gosh, I'm so sorry" or "Can I call down to the child center and make sure they are down there" or "Wow, that must have been really scary". ANYTHING. All she did was defend herself.
I don't want this girl to get fired or anything but goodness! I think she would have been MORE concerned if I had told her I lost my earring. She would have at least directed me toward the lost and found.
What the heck is going on in this world?
Against my better judgement (but REALLY needing a workout since I skipped Saturday) I dragged my 3 to the athletic club. The twins were excited to go but Little Dude was dragging his feet (both literally and figuratively). We arrive and park as far away as humanly possible from the front of the building.
The twins fly out of the car and seemingly disappear into some portal in space. Worried about Little Dude and his ginormous fit that he his throwing, I'm consumed with him. I finally get his pants zipped and I refuse to zip his coat because I realize that the twins are long gone. I try to rush Little Dude but anyone with a 3 year old knows that this is generally counterproductive. He dug in his heels and would NOT move. Keep in mind, it's 29 degrees outside and flurries are flying.
Somehow I finally convince Little Dude to move in a forward motion. After who knows how long we arrive at the entrance of the building. Right away there is a desk where a "professional" checks you in using a membership card. I ask her, with a little bit of concern in my voice, "Did you see 2 five year olds run past here?" "Nope" she answers flppantly. A little more concerned, I say, "Are you sure you didn't see 2 five year olds run past here?" "Nope" she says without a care in the world. Just to clarify, I say, "So, you are telling me that 5 year olds did not come through here?" NOPE was her answer, obviously annoyed by my tenacity.
Worry and dread crosses my face as I begin to rush toward the child center. The woman behind me, sensing my urgency, says, "I'm sure they went to the child center". At least she cared. At least she was human.
The child center is in the very back of the building. When I finally reached the Child Center (with Little Dude still moping along SLOWLY behind me) I found the Wondertwins hanging up their coats. Relieved, I begin to tell the child care workers what happened. They could not believe the lack of concern I received at the entrance. Realizing that it wasn't just me, that this was an obvious oversight in humanity, I went back to the "professional" at the entrance.
I said to her, "Just so you know, my 5 year olds DID pass you". Without a care in the world, she says, "Well, I didn't see them". At this point I started to fume. Wouldn't a normal person say, "Oh, I'm so glad you found your kids." Or anything but how she chose to respond. I then said, "Well, I was VERY worried when you said you didn't see them and that made me think that they didn't come in...that maybe something terrible had happened to them." She says, "I just told you that I didn't see them". REALLY?? REALLY?? Is this how a normal human responds?
Nothing could stop me at that point, after telling her that I didn't appreciate her attitude, I went straight to the Manager. Telling him that this MUST happen on a daily basis, he responds with understanding and saying he would pull the "professional" from the front and put her on another duty after a "talk". He then offered me free lunch for my kids and myself.
I didn't take him up on his lunch. That wasn't my point. Anyone with multiple children understands how easy it is to get separated from one while tending to another. All this "professional" needed to do was offer me just a little bit of humanity. A, "Gosh, I'm so sorry" or "Can I call down to the child center and make sure they are down there" or "Wow, that must have been really scary". ANYTHING. All she did was defend herself.
I don't want this girl to get fired or anything but goodness! I think she would have been MORE concerned if I had told her I lost my earring. She would have at least directed me toward the lost and found.
What the heck is going on in this world?
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Recommended Reading
Just finished 90 Minutes In Heaven. I have to admit. I was skeptical.
Don't get me wrong. I totally believe in Heaven and I look forward to eternity there. I just wasn't sure that this man actually visited Heaven. After reading it, I have to say that I might just believe him.
In case you haven't heard this man's story, he got in a terrible car wreck, getting hit by an 18 wheeler. For 90 minutes he remained in his car while various EMTs and rescue workers checked his pulse and covered him up with a tarp, declaring him dead. During this time a pastor came upon the wreck and felt "called" to pray over this dead man. During his fervent prayer, the man came back to life.
The book has a chapter about his experience in Heaven but much of the book is about his recovery process and everything he went through. What I took away from the book is a stronger view of the possibilities of Heaven and the reality of it's existence. I've believed in Heaven since I was a little girl but this book caused me to think about it in a whole new way, that someday I will be there without a worry or a care. My only concern will be telling God how great HE is.
Could this man have made it all up? Possibly but I think there are a lot of factors that back up his testimony. God is a big God and I think it is real that He might have allowed this unique opportunity to this man so that we might know HIM better.
I don't know. What do you think? 90 Minutes in Heaven is well worth the read and can be read easily in a day.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Snow Pride
There are many WEIRD sources of pride in the world. Over the past 6 years (the amount of time we've lived in the snow belt) my husband has pointed out that we Ohioans are VERY proud people. This is saying a lot coming from a Texan, I must say. He says we are all about ice cream and snow pride.
I agree with the ice cream thing. I'm pretty sure (and Oprah agrees so it must be true) that we have the best ice cream in the world. The fave brand here is Graeter's but there are two others that are quite compettitive, in my opinion. Those brands include Jeni's and Handel's.
More about ice cream in another post.
This one is about snow. Yesterday Houston got 4 inches of snow. I really don't know how they measured that since the ground was probably around 60ish degrees so it basically melted on impact. It did snow enough that my 7 year old nephew was able to build a 2 foot snowman. It sounds like it was the kind of snow that anyone NORTH of the Mason-Dixon line wouldn't even bother to put on snow boots.
Snow is such a big deal down there since it happens so rarely that every Texas Facebook friend had some picture or verbal posting about the snow. Many schools called off and some businesses sent their workers home. It's easy to laugh at this after enduring a 20 inch storm a few years but hey, that Texas snow (that melted in hours, mind you) was a big deal that might not happen again for years. Who knows.
My "snow pride" tells me those Southerners are big wusses but I bet I would have been out playing in that snow too if I lived down there.
PS. Sorry for the rambling...I should have gone to bed an hour ago. I'm exhausted.
I agree with the ice cream thing. I'm pretty sure (and Oprah agrees so it must be true) that we have the best ice cream in the world. The fave brand here is Graeter's but there are two others that are quite compettitive, in my opinion. Those brands include Jeni's and Handel's.
More about ice cream in another post.
This one is about snow. Yesterday Houston got 4 inches of snow. I really don't know how they measured that since the ground was probably around 60ish degrees so it basically melted on impact. It did snow enough that my 7 year old nephew was able to build a 2 foot snowman. It sounds like it was the kind of snow that anyone NORTH of the Mason-Dixon line wouldn't even bother to put on snow boots.
Snow is such a big deal down there since it happens so rarely that every Texas Facebook friend had some picture or verbal posting about the snow. Many schools called off and some businesses sent their workers home. It's easy to laugh at this after enduring a 20 inch storm a few years but hey, that Texas snow (that melted in hours, mind you) was a big deal that might not happen again for years. Who knows.
My "snow pride" tells me those Southerners are big wusses but I bet I would have been out playing in that snow too if I lived down there.
PS. Sorry for the rambling...I should have gone to bed an hour ago. I'm exhausted.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Bakugan Hell
This is actually a Bakugan Alarm Clock but it is basically a large version of my sons' obsession. Almost a year ago today I saw my first Bakugan Ball. I thought it was the coolest thing ever. My sons soon got their first Bakugan Balls and we've been all about it ever since. The bad thing about these little things is that they are VERY easy to break and even EASIER to lose.
Take today for example. Little Dude received a Bakugan Ball as a gift yesterday and for 24 hours straight he had this thing in his little mitts. We headed out to the mall today to use a 15% off coupon that I'd forgotten the last time I was there. (Side Note: It took this girl 15 minutes to return and then "re-sell" me the items I purchased just days ago. I even had to tell her HOW to do it. I haven't worked retail since college. Grr.)
Somewhere along the way, Little Dude had left his new Bakugan Ball. As the cashier struggled with my purchases, the woman behind me said that she had just seen a Bakugan Ball in the bathroom by the playland. I left the struggling cashier and booked it to the bathroom. Guess what? No Bakugan Ball. You know some grubby kid grabbed that $6 ball as soon as he saw it. His mom probably encouraged it knowing how much those obnoxious things cost.
I don't have to tell you that Little Dude screamed the whole way home. I have a stash of Bakugan Balls as stocking stuffers but I may take them back. I know they really love these things but if he is going to leave a trail of $6 Bakugan Balls everywhere we go, I just can't go there.
It's just a season, right? He won't be 3 forever.
Unprecedented
I'm begging Hubby to do a guest post here at Ventalicious regarding his Santa conversation with Girl Wondertwin. Hopefully he chooses to share with us. It was definitely an ironic and humerous conversation.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Funny
I have nothing against Florida State. Whether it was right or not to fire Bobby Bowden, I really have no idea. If it was his time, maybe JoPa should follow suit...although JoPa is winning.
Anyway, this video is pretty funny.
Anyway, this video is pretty funny.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
"A Child is Abandoned Every 18 Seconds"
This is a post written by a friend of mine. She adopted a baby from the other side of the world. I asked her to write a blurb about her experience. I posted it here. It's well worth the read.
I Must Be Sick
You know how it is. After you have kids it's not about you anymore. Well, for most parents anyway. It's all about the kids' needs, wants and volume.
I've been feeling pretty cruddy after picking up whatever Girl Wondertwin found along the way. For her she had a low grade fever for 12 hours, missed a day of school and made me crazy the whole time because she never really felt sick.
Then Little Dude got it and it hit him harder. His fever was higher and he was really, really grumpy.
Then it hit me. Pretty hard I think, although I haven't had a lot of time to sit back and think about it. My only evidence is that I crashed around 5:30pm (just as hubby was walking in the door) and didn't wake up til 7:30pm. That's saying a lot considering how loud my kids are.
By 11:30 I was so exhausted I went back to bed and didn't wake up til 8:30am. Again, pretty amazing considering the general volume of my children.
I must be sick.
I've been feeling pretty cruddy after picking up whatever Girl Wondertwin found along the way. For her she had a low grade fever for 12 hours, missed a day of school and made me crazy the whole time because she never really felt sick.
Then Little Dude got it and it hit him harder. His fever was higher and he was really, really grumpy.
Then it hit me. Pretty hard I think, although I haven't had a lot of time to sit back and think about it. My only evidence is that I crashed around 5:30pm (just as hubby was walking in the door) and didn't wake up til 7:30pm. That's saying a lot considering how loud my kids are.
By 11:30 I was so exhausted I went back to bed and didn't wake up til 8:30am. Again, pretty amazing considering the general volume of my children.
I must be sick.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Earning Their Keep?
I was in a mad rush today. After the gym we ran home and stuffed our faces in order to get the kids on the Kindergarten bus and Little Dude to preschool. I had to jump in the shower too.
After fixing the kids lunch, I jumped in the shower. With soapy hair, I realize there is no bar soap in the shower.
Apparently hubby had run out and took my bar to his shower. Grr.
Doing what any mom would do (who couldn't afford another day without soap!!!) started screaming for the kids' help. Finally all three of them show up in my bathroom. I explain to them what I need and they all run away.
I kid you not, each kid brought something into my bathroom a total of 7 times each.
They brought: Liquid soap, hand soap, conditioner, cleaning products of many different varieties, and who knows what else. It was literally 10 minutes (and remember, we were in a hurry) Boy Wondertwin found a bar of soap.
Why don't my children know what soap is and when will they start earning their keep around here?
After fixing the kids lunch, I jumped in the shower. With soapy hair, I realize there is no bar soap in the shower.
Apparently hubby had run out and took my bar to his shower. Grr.
Doing what any mom would do (who couldn't afford another day without soap!!!) started screaming for the kids' help. Finally all three of them show up in my bathroom. I explain to them what I need and they all run away.
I kid you not, each kid brought something into my bathroom a total of 7 times each.
They brought: Liquid soap, hand soap, conditioner, cleaning products of many different varieties, and who knows what else. It was literally 10 minutes (and remember, we were in a hurry) Boy Wondertwin found a bar of soap.
Why don't my children know what soap is and when will they start earning their keep around here?
Monday, November 30, 2009
Deals All Around
I can't help myself. I'm really getting into Cyber Monday this year. There are amazing deals everywhere I look. No worries though, as soon as I get excited the frugalista in me jumps out and takes over. I hate spending money and I'm all about the numbers getting BIGGER in the bank account, not smaller.
This being said, I feel great about spending money when I know I'm making a smart decision.
Today I received an email in my junk account for Crazy 8. It's owned by Gymboree but their prices are better. Basically they compete with Childrens Place (TCP).
I've not found a more affordable clothing store than TCP. This is saying a lot coming from a person who does the majority of her (kid) shopping at a semi-annual consignment sale. In fact, the prices I find at Childrens Place often rival my consignment sale AND I'm able to sell most of the clothes for the same price for which I bought them. Oh, I love that. I can't even tell you what that does for me.
Since I'd already purchased the deals I wanted during free shipping Friday (side note: today is also free shipping at TCP, fyi), I ventured off to surf Crazy 8 today. I'd been to the site in the past and found it to be much more expensive so I never went back. Today though I hit the jackpot. I found 11 pieces of clothing for $45 dollars AND I got $20 in Crazy 8 Bucks to spend in January. Now, I fully realize that I'll have to go to Crazy 8 in Jan when there may or may NOT be good sales...and I'll have to spend $20 to get $20 off but the 11 items for $45 was good enough for me.
Boy Wondertwin (BWT) got 4 long sleeve shirts (for next Winter) and 4 Tshirts (for next Spring). Girl Wondertwin got 2 long sleeve shirts (for next Winter) and 1 pair of very nice jeans for next Winter.
I'm all about buying ahead for the following season because my savings is unbelievable. The thing to remember though is the shopping season ends just as the real season is getting started. I went to Gap last year after Christmas and they had Spring stuff out...no sales to be found. TCP is later, thankfully. Even though I've bought ahead some, I plan to hit the outlets at the end of January and stock up on 7/8s for the twins.
If you plan to check out Crazy 8 or ANY retail store today (it is Cyber Monday after all) be sure to sign up under a site like Ebates or Cashbaq. That way you can get a percentage of your sale via paypal. Also, don't forget to go to www.retailmenot.com to get the best deals via coupon codes.
Happy Cyber Monday to YOU!
This being said, I feel great about spending money when I know I'm making a smart decision.
Today I received an email in my junk account for Crazy 8. It's owned by Gymboree but their prices are better. Basically they compete with Childrens Place (TCP).
I've not found a more affordable clothing store than TCP. This is saying a lot coming from a person who does the majority of her (kid) shopping at a semi-annual consignment sale. In fact, the prices I find at Childrens Place often rival my consignment sale AND I'm able to sell most of the clothes for the same price for which I bought them. Oh, I love that. I can't even tell you what that does for me.
Since I'd already purchased the deals I wanted during free shipping Friday (side note: today is also free shipping at TCP, fyi), I ventured off to surf Crazy 8 today. I'd been to the site in the past and found it to be much more expensive so I never went back. Today though I hit the jackpot. I found 11 pieces of clothing for $45 dollars AND I got $20 in Crazy 8 Bucks to spend in January. Now, I fully realize that I'll have to go to Crazy 8 in Jan when there may or may NOT be good sales...and I'll have to spend $20 to get $20 off but the 11 items for $45 was good enough for me.
Boy Wondertwin (BWT) got 4 long sleeve shirts (for next Winter) and 4 Tshirts (for next Spring). Girl Wondertwin got 2 long sleeve shirts (for next Winter) and 1 pair of very nice jeans for next Winter.
I'm all about buying ahead for the following season because my savings is unbelievable. The thing to remember though is the shopping season ends just as the real season is getting started. I went to Gap last year after Christmas and they had Spring stuff out...no sales to be found. TCP is later, thankfully. Even though I've bought ahead some, I plan to hit the outlets at the end of January and stock up on 7/8s for the twins.
If you plan to check out Crazy 8 or ANY retail store today (it is Cyber Monday after all) be sure to sign up under a site like Ebates or Cashbaq. That way you can get a percentage of your sale via paypal. Also, don't forget to go to www.retailmenot.com to get the best deals via coupon codes.
Happy Cyber Monday to YOU!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
And Bob's Your Uncle
Okay, this one cracked me up and I had to research it. I was watching a home improvement show on HGTV. It was a brittish show host working with Americans and American homes. She was demonstrating how important it is to have a clean house when you are on the market.
She was standing in front of "the cooker" or stove and explaining how easy it was to replace the metals around the coils. She said, replace the rim and the ring, and bob's your uncle, you've got yourself a new cooker. Thankfully I was watching the tv that has a DVR on it so I rewound. Sure enough, she said, "and Bob's your uncle". It's now my personal goal to spread this throughout America. Join me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob's_your_uncle
She was standing in front of "the cooker" or stove and explaining how easy it was to replace the metals around the coils. She said, replace the rim and the ring, and bob's your uncle, you've got yourself a new cooker. Thankfully I was watching the tv that has a DVR on it so I rewound. Sure enough, she said, "and Bob's your uncle". It's now my personal goal to spread this throughout America. Join me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob's_your_uncle
Friday, November 27, 2009
Toys R Us Shoppers Racist???
On my way home from a friend's house today I stopped into Toys R Us to pick up a birthday gift for a friend of Little Dude. The store was completely trashed and Black Friday had quite obviously had it's way with this particular store. There were leaves and dirt all over the store. It was gross, trash on the floor and nothing was where it was supposed to be. I feel bad for those poor retail workers who are cleaning up that store as I blog. Nasty.
Anyway, there was an end-cap that was practically in tact. You know that freaky Barbie head? The one where you can do her make-up and fix her hair but she has no body? Well, all the blonde Barbies were gone but the shelves were full of the African American Barbie heads. I thought that was interesting. Again, the picture would have been better. Reason #87 why I need an IPhone...or at the very least a data package.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
The Childrens Place
Go to www.childrensplace.com to shop. There are many shirts for 3.99, 5, 6, 7 and 8 dollars.
Once you've found your goodies, go to checkout.
On Thanksgiving ONLY, enter this code for FREE SHIPPING. FSTG9
Then, enter
Not a bad deal.
To add to the savings, check out www.ebates.com to get 3% cashback on your order.
I'm buying ahead for next FALL. It's a little risky as I don't really know what size my kids will be in but at these prices, I can either sell the clothes for the same price I'm buying them OR I can hold them for a few years until they fit someone in our family.
It sure beats venturing out into the post Thanksgiving craziness.
Too Smart For Their Own Good
Anyway, thinking on my feet, I gave him some garbage about it being a gift for our friend Bryce. I didn't lie since one of these really is for Bryce. BWT doesn't know that we have 2 of them. Hopefully he'll be surprised, nonetheless. We'll see. He's got a memory like a steel trap!
Feelin' All Bloggy
Since I'm feelin' all bloggy today, I just had to post this.
I'm in awe.
She's like a modern day princess or something.
I don't want their life nor the stress/responsibility that rests on their shoulders but just once. JUST ONCE.
I'd love to have an evening like that. It's like she pulled up in a horse drawn chariot or something.
She looks amazing.
He on the other hand...looks kind of goofy. Just being honest.
She's like a modern day princess or something.
I don't want their life nor the stress/responsibility that rests on their shoulders but just once. JUST ONCE.
I'd love to have an evening like that. It's like she pulled up in a horse drawn chariot or something.
She looks amazing.
He on the other hand...looks kind of goofy. Just being honest.
SAX HELL
Will I ever learn? After almost 6 years of parenting, I should be a pro at this right? A good mom knows her kids' limitations. She knows what her kids can handle and when to call it quits.
Well, this highly choleric personality knows those limitations well but constantly crosses the line.
Take today. We had Bible Study this morning and afterward, we decided to meet my mom for lunch. We went to sit down restaurant and besides the 3 kids going to the bathroom twice each, they sat still well and ate their lunches. Even my husband would have called it a successful lunch. I promise that's saying a lot. He's the same man who has told them numerous times that they will NEVER again see the inside of a restaurant.
Somewhat impressed with my 3 under the age of 6, we piled into the van. Eyeing the mall across the street, I couldn't resist. I've been meaning to step into SAX for a few weeks now. I just couldn't resist. (Side note, I go to SAX maybe twice per year. It's not a regular stop on my mall tour. I needed something that is only sold in that particular store). I thought Sax would be an easy stop since it's just in and out. No need to even enter the Mall. So I thought.
We walked to the escalators and went up. That's sounds easy right? Did I neglect to mention that they had to put their tiny little mits on EVERY Christmas decoration we passed? Don't forget the endless commentary about the mannequins, which ones were headless, which ones didn't have faces etc. Oh, and my kids have no idea what an inside voice is so every grandma in the store turned to either smile (as in, Oh, I remember) or scowl (as in, what evil human would bring those germ freaks in MY store while I'M having a nice relaxing day.)
We finally hit the department I was looking for. Lucky me. It's right across for the the children's department. The 6 little paws preceded to tear apart the whole place while I chased from one to the next..."No, don't touch, put that down. That's not yours. Etc." You get it.
I peeled them away from the kids' area, only to observe some of the most atrocious behavior I've ever exhibited out of my children (in public). As I was looking at the desired item (the reason for this particular hell) my boys started a spitting fight. Yep, you know those nasty raspberries that kids like to pass back and forth. The woman, old, ugly and obnoxious might I had, was helping me with the item. She then turns and says, "Your children are spitting all over the clothes."
Yes, thank you Ms. *^(^#&)(#%. I really need your commentary.
I grabbed two hands, yelled for Girl Wondertwin to follow behind us and through the store I marched these hoodlums. We found the exit quickly and I might have yelled the whole way home. I can't exactly remember but I know my voice is hoarse so I must have been yelling.
Needless to say, I put the kids straight to bed when we got home. They don't nap often anymore but today was not an option. It was either they go to sleep or I was going to have to leave the house. To avoid possible jail time, I decided forced sleep was the only option.
Grr. I'm still bitter.
Oh, one more thing I forgot to mention, Girl Wondertwin was messing with a toy gum ball machine that was FOR SALE and not in it's box. She somehow got a gumball out of it AND ate it. The boys then had fits because they didn't get one. And this lady was surprised that a little kid would actually try to eat the gum in the machine that was placed at KID LEVEL. Stupidity abounds.
Well, this highly choleric personality knows those limitations well but constantly crosses the line.
Take today. We had Bible Study this morning and afterward, we decided to meet my mom for lunch. We went to sit down restaurant and besides the 3 kids going to the bathroom twice each, they sat still well and ate their lunches. Even my husband would have called it a successful lunch. I promise that's saying a lot. He's the same man who has told them numerous times that they will NEVER again see the inside of a restaurant.
Somewhat impressed with my 3 under the age of 6, we piled into the van. Eyeing the mall across the street, I couldn't resist. I've been meaning to step into SAX for a few weeks now. I just couldn't resist. (Side note, I go to SAX maybe twice per year. It's not a regular stop on my mall tour. I needed something that is only sold in that particular store). I thought Sax would be an easy stop since it's just in and out. No need to even enter the Mall. So I thought.
We walked to the escalators and went up. That's sounds easy right? Did I neglect to mention that they had to put their tiny little mits on EVERY Christmas decoration we passed? Don't forget the endless commentary about the mannequins, which ones were headless, which ones didn't have faces etc. Oh, and my kids have no idea what an inside voice is so every grandma in the store turned to either smile (as in, Oh, I remember) or scowl (as in, what evil human would bring those germ freaks in MY store while I'M having a nice relaxing day.)
We finally hit the department I was looking for. Lucky me. It's right across for the the children's department. The 6 little paws preceded to tear apart the whole place while I chased from one to the next..."No, don't touch, put that down. That's not yours. Etc." You get it.
I peeled them away from the kids' area, only to observe some of the most atrocious behavior I've ever exhibited out of my children (in public). As I was looking at the desired item (the reason for this particular hell) my boys started a spitting fight. Yep, you know those nasty raspberries that kids like to pass back and forth. The woman, old, ugly and obnoxious might I had, was helping me with the item. She then turns and says, "Your children are spitting all over the clothes."
Yes, thank you Ms. *^(^#&)(#%. I really need your commentary.
I grabbed two hands, yelled for Girl Wondertwin to follow behind us and through the store I marched these hoodlums. We found the exit quickly and I might have yelled the whole way home. I can't exactly remember but I know my voice is hoarse so I must have been yelling.
Needless to say, I put the kids straight to bed when we got home. They don't nap often anymore but today was not an option. It was either they go to sleep or I was going to have to leave the house. To avoid possible jail time, I decided forced sleep was the only option.
Grr. I'm still bitter.
Oh, one more thing I forgot to mention, Girl Wondertwin was messing with a toy gum ball machine that was FOR SALE and not in it's box. She somehow got a gumball out of it AND ate it. The boys then had fits because they didn't get one. And this lady was surprised that a little kid would actually try to eat the gum in the machine that was placed at KID LEVEL. Stupidity abounds.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Tree
I was with my mom tonight when we ran into one of her old co-workers. It had been about 5 years since they had seen each other. They both seemed excited to reunite and the co-worker (let's call her Y) proceeded to ask my mom a million questions about her life and how she was.
My mom answered her questions, briefly and succinctly, but little detail. The questions continued from Y as my mom gave her 1-5 word answers. I noticed that my mom didn't ask her one question. Nor did she give the obligatory, Wow, you look good too.
I say all of this because over the years since I made my secession from the family unit, I've noticed a few things about myself. I somehow dodged the etiquette lessons during my growing up years. Of course I know my pleases and thank yous. I know the his and byes. What I feel like what I don't do is "play the game". You know...all the obligatory, "Oh, you look great too. You haven't changed a bit. You look just like you did in high school (20 years ago!!!)" You know what I mean, all the niceties that adults are supposed to pass back and forth.
About myself I've noticed that I often let the conversation be about me without passing the spotlight back to the other person. Over the past few years I've tried to make a conscious effort to "play the game". (As a sidenote, it isn't always a game. Sometimes there are those conversations where things go deep, beyond niceties...I'm more referring to the shallow, hallway conversations that happen with people you may never run into again.)
It wasn't until this afternoon that I watched my mom in this semi awkward situation and realized why I am the way I am. Do you ever do that? Do you see yourself in close relatives? Sometimes it's flattering and other times you just want to run as fast as you can. Other times it makes you want to change and be a better person. So you can hold me accountable because I'm working on it.
My mom answered her questions, briefly and succinctly, but little detail. The questions continued from Y as my mom gave her 1-5 word answers. I noticed that my mom didn't ask her one question. Nor did she give the obligatory, Wow, you look good too.
I say all of this because over the years since I made my secession from the family unit, I've noticed a few things about myself. I somehow dodged the etiquette lessons during my growing up years. Of course I know my pleases and thank yous. I know the his and byes. What I feel like what I don't do is "play the game". You know...all the obligatory, "Oh, you look great too. You haven't changed a bit. You look just like you did in high school (20 years ago!!!)" You know what I mean, all the niceties that adults are supposed to pass back and forth.
About myself I've noticed that I often let the conversation be about me without passing the spotlight back to the other person. Over the past few years I've tried to make a conscious effort to "play the game". (As a sidenote, it isn't always a game. Sometimes there are those conversations where things go deep, beyond niceties...I'm more referring to the shallow, hallway conversations that happen with people you may never run into again.)
It wasn't until this afternoon that I watched my mom in this semi awkward situation and realized why I am the way I am. Do you ever do that? Do you see yourself in close relatives? Sometimes it's flattering and other times you just want to run as fast as you can. Other times it makes you want to change and be a better person. So you can hold me accountable because I'm working on it.
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Santa Dilemma
It comes down to this. I want Christmas to be Christmas. I want it to be about the birth of Christ. I can't block out every cultural influence and I don't know how to make Christmas totally about Jesus but I can take some of the distractions out. For our family, that major distraction is Santa. The other issue is that I am committed to being as honest as possible with my children. I would have a really hard time playing along with the whole Santa thing. Anyway, enough of my issues.
Here's the Santa dilemma...As committed as I am to our family's decision not to "do Santa", I don't want my kids to ruin the fun for the others. Last year (when they were 4, turning 5) was the first time this became an issue. I heard Boy Wondertwin ask a friend if he believed in Santa. Then BWT proceeded to say, "Well, you know he isn't real, right?" Fortunately, the boy thought he was talking about a ceramic Santa that happened to be in the room. We played it off.
Afterward, I threatened BWT with his life.
I have a feeling that this year is going to be even more awkward with their increasing verbosity and inability to guard their tongue. We've been invited to a friends' house where Santa will arrive and presents will be given out.
Suggestions? Should I duct tape my kids' mouths so they can't speak all day? Or bribe them with lots and lots of candy? Fortunately Little Dude is still a little young to spill the beans and maybe...just maybe, the twins are old enough to understand.
From what I hear, the magic of Santa starts to fade around age 6 but I still don't want my kids to be the ones responsible for their friends' loss of youth.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Potty Trained?
I think I mentioned before that Little Dude potty trained himself without us really noticing that it happened. This came as a gift from God after the hellacious experience of potty training Boy Wondertwin. I think Little Dude was taking notes the first 24 months of his life so when it became his turn, he took to it pretty naturally.
Even though it came easy to him, it doesn't stop him from doing weird things like this.
Even though it came easy to him, it doesn't stop him from doing weird things like this.
Apparently Little Dude didn't feel like crossing the hallway to the kids' bathroom to relieve himself. Instead he found this papercup/bowl thing. I tell ya what, these men start early.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Bath Time
What is the acceptable amount of baths for a child in one week? Is it 10? 5? 3?
My hypothesis is that it's all about the number of kids you have in your home and how many of them are able to bathe themselves. I know several families who have only one child and these kids are the cleanest people I know. Some of these moms claim to bathe these children twice a day. There was a time in my kids' lives where my three were lucky to get 2 to 3 baths a week. We're up to 3 or 4 now. More in the Summer of course.
Just feeling a little guilty after talking to a 1 kid mom.
My hypothesis is that it's all about the number of kids you have in your home and how many of them are able to bathe themselves. I know several families who have only one child and these kids are the cleanest people I know. Some of these moms claim to bathe these children twice a day. There was a time in my kids' lives where my three were lucky to get 2 to 3 baths a week. We're up to 3 or 4 now. More in the Summer of course.
Just feeling a little guilty after talking to a 1 kid mom.
Friday, November 20, 2009
What Was I Thinking?
About a week ago I decided to make chicken and dumplings. There is not a better cold weather food in the whole world. Having made the Cracker Barrell recipe in the past, I didn't give a second thought to the recipe. I pulled out the first two or three necessary ingredients and got started.
After it was too late to turn back (or turn it into another fatal concoction) I remembered that I had used all the flour in my last batch of chicken and dumplings. Stumped, I started searching the pantry. The desperation took hold as I can across an unlabled ziploc bag with white, flour-like contents. I didn't give it a second thought. Wanting to believe it was flour, I went ahead with my plan.
After mixing the water and "flour", I noticed the consistency was off. I just figured I hadn't added enough flour so I went ahead, added more and then threw it in the broth.
That evening at dinner I wasn't getting the oohs and awes that I'd elicited on previous nights when I served this meal. I also thought there was something a little off about it...and it was the dumpling.
It wasn't until this morning (more than a week later) when I was again in my pantry trying to concoct something (non frozen and somewhat fresh) for breakfast adn I ran across the unlabeled ziploc bag. Wanting to believe it was pancake mix this time, I decided to taste it. Yep. Pancake mix.
No wonder there was something off about my Chicken and Dumplings. On the brightside, we had a lovely breakfast this morning.
PS. The Cracker Barrell recipe is linked above in case you want to try it with flour instead of pancake mix. Moral of the story...label ziploc bags.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Food Failure Redemption
Thanks for the food ideas, blog friends. I will check out those organic nuggets. I've found some at Costco that have all kinds of omega 3 and no preservatives which has replaced Tyson. Sorry Tyson.
Mostly I just feel guilty when I'm cramming food (or so-called food) down their throats so we can run off to gymnastics or soccer. Tonight we actually had a real meal and it was decently healthy...and they ate it! They really ate it.
Here's the recipe in case you want to try it. It's a favorite (of the non kid meals) around here.
Rice Krispie Ranch Chicken
Dip chicken breasts into egg yolk (or just the whites).
Then in a separate bowl, dip the chicken into a mixture of:
parmesean cheese
rice krispie cereal
1 packet of ranch dressing (the dry kind)
(I usually pour the mixture remnants into the baking dish too...)
Place in baking pan at 375 degress for 30-45 minutes.
I usually go in and cut the chicken breasts in half after about 30 minutes to check how they are cooking.
We had green beans and bread.
Anyway, I redeemed myself for one day this week. I still need to cook some extra pancakes to freeze for emergency situations. The problem is that my kids will eat EVERY pancake I make so there are none left to freeze..and if anything IS left over, hubby jumps in and consumes. These people can't resist a fresh pancake.
Mostly I just feel guilty when I'm cramming food (or so-called food) down their throats so we can run off to gymnastics or soccer. Tonight we actually had a real meal and it was decently healthy...and they ate it! They really ate it.
Here's the recipe in case you want to try it. It's a favorite (of the non kid meals) around here.
Rice Krispie Ranch Chicken
Dip chicken breasts into egg yolk (or just the whites).
Then in a separate bowl, dip the chicken into a mixture of:
parmesean cheese
rice krispie cereal
1 packet of ranch dressing (the dry kind)
(I usually pour the mixture remnants into the baking dish too...)
Place in baking pan at 375 degress for 30-45 minutes.
I usually go in and cut the chicken breasts in half after about 30 minutes to check how they are cooking.
We had green beans and bread.
Anyway, I redeemed myself for one day this week. I still need to cook some extra pancakes to freeze for emergency situations. The problem is that my kids will eat EVERY pancake I make so there are none left to freeze..and if anything IS left over, hubby jumps in and consumes. These people can't resist a fresh pancake.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Failing on the Foodfront
So, just a question for my fellow parents out there. What is the respectable amount of times that a child can eat pizza, chicken nuggets, and macaroni and cheese in one week? I'm pretty sure we've busted right through that number this week and it's only Wednesday. Children can flourish on Tyson Nuggets, right?
Any new child friendly food tips out there? I'm needing some healthy quick meals for those times when we aren't sitting down for a family meal. When we do sit down for dinner (maybe 3-4 times per week) the kids eat what I make but it's those off nights where I'm pretty sure my kids are living on preservatives...I hate that.
Oh yea, and did I mention the frozen pancakes and frozen waffles? Ugh.
Any new child friendly food tips out there? I'm needing some healthy quick meals for those times when we aren't sitting down for a family meal. When we do sit down for dinner (maybe 3-4 times per week) the kids eat what I make but it's those off nights where I'm pretty sure my kids are living on preservatives...I hate that.
Oh yea, and did I mention the frozen pancakes and frozen waffles? Ugh.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Yep, I'm the Cool Mom
I was driving 2 other girls to gymnastics tonight. I'd met one of them but the other was a friend of the 1st girl. Anyway, A (the 2nd girl) gets in my car (a Toyota Sienna) and says, "Wow, this car is so cool. It's the coolest car I've ever been in."
Did I mention I drive a Toyota Sienna?
During the 10 minute drive this girl kept telling Girl Wondertwin what a cool car she has. On my to do list is finding out what cars her parents drive. I'm guessing their cars are cooler than my minivan...at least in an adult's mind.
Had to share. I thought that was hilarious.
Did I mention I drive a Toyota Sienna?
During the 10 minute drive this girl kept telling Girl Wondertwin what a cool car she has. On my to do list is finding out what cars her parents drive. I'm guessing their cars are cooler than my minivan...at least in an adult's mind.
Had to share. I thought that was hilarious.
Friday, November 13, 2009
For those of you in Ohio...
Free Day at the Air Force Museum in Dayton:
November 21st 10:00AM-3:00PM
Family Day at the
National Museum of the US Air force
Dayton, OH
http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/
Museum Hours
Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day
Virtual Tour
Groups & Tours
FREE admission!
Museum Location
1100 Spaatz Street
Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433
(937) 255-3286
Driving Directions
From the West:
Take 71South to 70West - it is right off teh hioghway.
Those coming from the west on I-70 should exit at I-675 South (exit 44A).
Travel to Exit 15 (Col. Glenn Hwy), and as you exit, stay in the right-hand
lane. At the end of the exit, turn right at the traffic light (Col. Glenn
Hwy). Travel to the third traffic light (Harshman Road/Wright Brothers
Parkway) and turn right. Exit at Springfield Pike; turn right at the end of
the exit ramp. The entrance to the museum is on the right.
FAMILY DAY: November 21st 10:00AM-3:00PM
November 21st 10:00AM-3:00PM
Family Day at the
National Museum of the US Air force
Dayton, OH
http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/
Museum Hours
Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day
Virtual Tour
Groups & Tours
FREE admission!
Museum Location
1100 Spaatz Street
Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433
(937) 255-3286
Driving Directions
From the West:
Take 71South to 70West - it is right off teh hioghway.
Those coming from the west on I-70 should exit at I-675 South (exit 44A).
Travel to Exit 15 (Col. Glenn Hwy), and as you exit, stay in the right-hand
lane. At the end of the exit, turn right at the traffic light (Col. Glenn
Hwy). Travel to the third traffic light (Harshman Road/Wright Brothers
Parkway) and turn right. Exit at Springfield Pike; turn right at the end of
the exit ramp. The entrance to the museum is on the right.
FAMILY DAY: November 21st 10:00AM-3:00PM
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Deals Galore
Click HERE if you are looking for deals. I blogged at the Columbus Mothers of Twins Club Blogsite.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
$255 Stinkin' Dollars Later
After THIS happened, our granite place took pity on us and gave us a deal...if you can call $255 extra dollars (that we didn't plan to spend) a deal.
Problem solved and crisis averted.
Oh yea, and to the left you can see my laundry shoot. i SOOO love that thing.
Problem solved and crisis averted.
Oh yea, and to the left you can see my laundry shoot. i SOOO love that thing.
Go to Toys R US Right NOW!
I just found the best deal at Toys R Us. If you are looking for some fun games to add to your repertoire head on over to TRU right now.
Many games are on sale and Hasbro has a rebate to go along with it.
I just bought Chutes and Ladders, Candy Land, Boggle Jr, and 3 games of Memory.
My grand total was $29 but it gets better. 5 out of 6 games were 3.99 each. Boggle Jr was $7.99 but I'd had that on my wish list for months now so it worked out well.
With this deal, there are $2 rebates on all but the Boggle Jr game. Since I spent over $25 dollars at TRU today, I received a $10 gift card for a later purchase.
After receiving my $10 rebate check, my cost was $19 out of pocket WITH a $10 gift card in hand. Basically, I spent $9 for 6 games. My husband would call this fuzzy math but I'd call it a good deal.
*You can find the rebate information in the game aisle of Toys R Us.
Many games are on sale and Hasbro has a rebate to go along with it.
I just bought Chutes and Ladders, Candy Land, Boggle Jr, and 3 games of Memory.
My grand total was $29 but it gets better. 5 out of 6 games were 3.99 each. Boggle Jr was $7.99 but I'd had that on my wish list for months now so it worked out well.
With this deal, there are $2 rebates on all but the Boggle Jr game. Since I spent over $25 dollars at TRU today, I received a $10 gift card for a later purchase.
After receiving my $10 rebate check, my cost was $19 out of pocket WITH a $10 gift card in hand. Basically, I spent $9 for 6 games. My husband would call this fuzzy math but I'd call it a good deal.
*You can find the rebate information in the game aisle of Toys R Us.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Enough to Make You Sick
As I've blogged previously, we purchased a foreclosure almost 2 years ago and it has been nothing but renovations for 23 solid months.
I would list it all but you'd probably never read my blog again. It's not exciting reading. Suffice it to say (I love that phrase...although I used to think it was sufficit) we have renovated almost everything that COULD be renovated in a home. Our last major projects are the kids' bathroom and the master bath.
Just today I was saying how easy those will be compared to what we've been through so far. J said, "Oh, don't say that". I'm not a superstitious person and didn't see a problem thinking optimistically.
Until this happened.
I'm just sick.
I would list it all but you'd probably never read my blog again. It's not exciting reading. Suffice it to say (I love that phrase...although I used to think it was sufficit) we have renovated almost everything that COULD be renovated in a home. Our last major projects are the kids' bathroom and the master bath.
Just today I was saying how easy those will be compared to what we've been through so far. J said, "Oh, don't say that". I'm not a superstitious person and didn't see a problem thinking optimistically.
Until this happened.
I'm just sick.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
The Beginning of an Era
I wondered when this would happen. The motherly sheltering has been rendered ineffective and the daughter is stepping into the deep end, aka the land of American Girl. She has requested a trip to Chicago to go to the American Girl store to have lunch and shop. During the same conversation, Boy Wondertwin made a similar request...to go to Chicago to go to the Lego store. I informed him we have a Lego store in town and he seemed content with that.
I thought the idea of going to Chicago for the twins' birthday sounded intriguing but didn't think much of it until Girl Wondertwin mentioned the idea to my mom. Within seconds my mom had the trip planned, knowing exactly where we would stay and what we would do. Maybe I should send her and Wondertwin alone!
I'm expecting the Chicago birthday to become quite the extravaganza. If it wasn't so FREAKING cold in the Windy City in FEBRUARY, I'm sure the in-laws would insist on going as well.
All of this to say...I'm losing hold (aka influence) on my only daughter. She didn't know what American Girl was (nor what Chicago was for that matter!) til she started Kindergarten. Now she has us gallivanting all over the world for a doll and her little doggie. Hmm...
Someday I'll look back on this and laugh right? Little kids, little problems. Big kids, Big problems. That's what those "old and wise" moms tell me...usually when I'm in the grocery store with all 3 kids, one screaming at the top of their lungs while the other is pooping in his shoe...because at the time our problems feel so little. See Pooping In Shoe Post Here It really happened. I promise.
Not that this is a problem really but more of a symptom of a bigger issue. My little ones are growing up and I'm not their only influence any more. That's a good thing, right? I really do love hearing their stories from Kindergarten...who they like, who they painted with, what story they read in Library class. I love it. I just don't want them becoming independent individuals too fast...and I don't want them spending all my money at the American Girl store.
I thought the idea of going to Chicago for the twins' birthday sounded intriguing but didn't think much of it until Girl Wondertwin mentioned the idea to my mom. Within seconds my mom had the trip planned, knowing exactly where we would stay and what we would do. Maybe I should send her and Wondertwin alone!
I'm expecting the Chicago birthday to become quite the extravaganza. If it wasn't so FREAKING cold in the Windy City in FEBRUARY, I'm sure the in-laws would insist on going as well.
All of this to say...I'm losing hold (aka influence) on my only daughter. She didn't know what American Girl was (nor what Chicago was for that matter!) til she started Kindergarten. Now she has us gallivanting all over the world for a doll and her little doggie. Hmm...
Someday I'll look back on this and laugh right? Little kids, little problems. Big kids, Big problems. That's what those "old and wise" moms tell me...usually when I'm in the grocery store with all 3 kids, one screaming at the top of their lungs while the other is pooping in his shoe...because at the time our problems feel so little. See Pooping In Shoe Post Here It really happened. I promise.
Not that this is a problem really but more of a symptom of a bigger issue. My little ones are growing up and I'm not their only influence any more. That's a good thing, right? I really do love hearing their stories from Kindergarten...who they like, who they painted with, what story they read in Library class. I love it. I just don't want them becoming independent individuals too fast...and I don't want them spending all my money at the American Girl store.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Bite Your Tongue
As unique and individual as people are, they can really be grouped into types. I feel like I'm okay with people. For the most part I can talk to just about anybody and hold my own in most situations. There is a certain personality type with whom I struggle. It's the type with whom it's wise to just nod, smile, agree and move on with your day. You know the type I mean.
Yea, I'm not good at that smiling, nodding and agreeing thing. Take today for example. I have a weekly interaction with a woman who likes to uh...let's just say take me under her wing. She suggests certain activities for me, gives me unheeded advice and thinks she's way beyond me in the ways of this world.
Most peace loving people would let it slide. Yep, I don't know how. Today for example, she told me that I needed to check out this particular seminar. Dumb me. I told her that I already had experience with that particular topic and was not interested. Why couldn't I just smile, nod and thank her for her advice? Because I don't know how.
Anyway, she didn't take it well and continued to lecture me on how I needed to be better informed concerning this topic. What's wrong with me? Why do I have to make waves? I can't just keep the peace?
How is it possible to keep the peace and not be fake? IS it possible? I hate fake.
Yea, I'm not good at that smiling, nodding and agreeing thing. Take today for example. I have a weekly interaction with a woman who likes to uh...let's just say take me under her wing. She suggests certain activities for me, gives me unheeded advice and thinks she's way beyond me in the ways of this world.
Most peace loving people would let it slide. Yep, I don't know how. Today for example, she told me that I needed to check out this particular seminar. Dumb me. I told her that I already had experience with that particular topic and was not interested. Why couldn't I just smile, nod and thank her for her advice? Because I don't know how.
Anyway, she didn't take it well and continued to lecture me on how I needed to be better informed concerning this topic. What's wrong with me? Why do I have to make waves? I can't just keep the peace?
How is it possible to keep the peace and not be fake? IS it possible? I hate fake.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
My Last Post Concerning My Latest Obsession
My friend Anne thought I was referring to those 80's Eastlands. Remember those??? They were totally flat, no heel whatsoever. If you were cool you curley-qued the laces so you didn't have to tie them. I'm pretty sure that was the same time period as the "pegging" (or rolling) of the jeans. I could be off on my timetable though.
Anyway, I posted the shoes with jeans to show that admittedly they are ugly but not THAT ugly. Granted, I don't run around in them all the time but sometimes UGLY shoes are necessary...don't you think?
And NOTICE...I'm not wearing those SKINNY jeans either. WHO can look good in those things? I have a pair of skinny pants that I ONLY wear with tall boots...even a super model can look "pear-shape" in skinny jeans. Just my opinion.
Fight!
Today I was walking through the fitness club parking lot with my 3 children (any mom's favorite thing to do, right?). There were several cars waiting for one spot. An old man took the spot (prematurely, apparently) and a 30ish mom in a minivan sat there and honked like a crazy woman. She was TICKED that this man took her spot and displayed her dismay.
Why is it sooo important that these people have the BEST spot in the lot when they there whole purpose for being there is to walk/run/step or whatever. The point is to get a workout right? If I hadn't been pulling out of a closer spot, I think this woman would have had it out with this old man. Thankfully I played peacemaker in this scenario and gave this grumpy woman a better spot.
If it had been raining or really cold...or if she had 3+ kids? I could kinda get it but really. She was a 30ish mom ALONE in a minivan and was ready to come to blows with a 60ish year old man.
How ridiculous is this world.
Why is it sooo important that these people have the BEST spot in the lot when they there whole purpose for being there is to walk/run/step or whatever. The point is to get a workout right? If I hadn't been pulling out of a closer spot, I think this woman would have had it out with this old man. Thankfully I played peacemaker in this scenario and gave this grumpy woman a better spot.
If it had been raining or really cold...or if she had 3+ kids? I could kinda get it but really. She was a 30ish mom ALONE in a minivan and was ready to come to blows with a 60ish year old man.
How ridiculous is this world.
Monday, November 2, 2009
You Decide
Okay, so I posted last week how I wore a pair of shoes on the Kindergarten field trip and Girl Wondertwin was just appalled. I admitted that they aren't my favorite shoes either but because of their pragmatic attributes, I wear them on rare occasions...basically times when I can't wear a heel. The complete post is here.
My question is:
Are they really as ugly as my 5 year old daughter says? I mean...I know they are UGLY but really, they need to be trashed? I just don't want to be THAT mom.
One of these days I'll post one of her favorite outfits that she puts together. We'll vote on that one too.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Potty Talk
How come no one told me how hard it would be to keep the toilet clean? With 2 boys in this house, 1 husband and 3 toilets, I'm pretty sure it could be a full time job just to keep these grimey bathrooms clean. Any secrets out there?
I'm about to break out the cherrios again to help Little Dude with target practice. It really isn't pretty.
I'm about to break out the cherrios again to help Little Dude with target practice. It really isn't pretty.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Free DINNER!!!
Tonight we hit Taco Bell for 5 free tacos and then we went to Chipotle for 3 FREE burritos. Wow, was it a yummy day. We won't talk about the caloric intake.
And the Crazy Sleeping Gene Takes Hold on Yet Another
I've blogged about my crazy family and this weird sleeping gene that has evidently passed from my husband to Boy Wondertwin. See here.
Well, evidence suggests that Little Dude has also been overcome by the crazy sleeping gene.
We found Little Dude like this at about 10PM. I went into his room before I went to bed. I panicked a little because he wasn't in his bed, under his bed or anywhere on the floor. I then searched the house including all bedrooms. No Little Dude.
I returned to his bedroom and opened the closet. This is what I found.
Should I be fearing the future in this home? I may need to start deadbolting the doors at night...not so people don't break in but so that my family doesn't break out!
Well, evidence suggests that Little Dude has also been overcome by the crazy sleeping gene.
We found Little Dude like this at about 10PM. I went into his room before I went to bed. I panicked a little because he wasn't in his bed, under his bed or anywhere on the floor. I then searched the house including all bedrooms. No Little Dude.
I returned to his bedroom and opened the closet. This is what I found.
Should I be fearing the future in this home? I may need to start deadbolting the doors at night...not so people don't break in but so that my family doesn't break out!
Krazy in Kindergarten
So there is this little thing going on in my twins' Kindergarten class and I don't like it. With 6 girls and 15 boys in the class, it appears that they are pairing off. My daughter comes home and tells me (over and over again) that her boyfriend is "so and so". She then goes on to name almost every girl in her class and who they are girlfriends' with. Here's the sad part.
On the way home the other day Boy Wondertwin (BWT) said, "Mom, I don't have a girlfriend."
I said, "That's okay. You're 5...you don't need a girlfriend."
BWT said, "But Mom, I don't really want a girlfriend but Kelly isn't my girlfriend".
Confused, I inquired, "Well, buddy, was Kelly ever your girlfriend? Did she tell you she was your girlfriend"
BWT answered, "Well, we painted together during free time so I thought we were "boyfriends" but now she likes Mike."
A sad little pang hit me but I was also torn because let's face it. These kids are 5and it's just too early for drama and broken hearts.
At the class Halloween party I discovered who might be responsible for promoting this silliness. A mom leaned down to greet her daughter and she said, "Now show me which one is Doug". After the little girl showed him which one he was the mom responded, "Oh, baby, he is sooooo CUTE!!!"
Innocent puppy love is cute and I too remember chasing boys on the playground as a Kindergartener but maybe it's going too far when a 5 year old boy is lamenting over NOT having a girlfriend or another 5 year old girl is heartbroken because a certain boy has dumped her. Really?
My question is this...is this a normal part of growing up and typical of a Kindergartener or are there parents behind this (like the one mentioned above) egging this on? Can't we just enjoy our little ones right where they are?
P.S. All names have been changed to protect the innocent...or not so innocent.
On the way home the other day Boy Wondertwin (BWT) said, "Mom, I don't have a girlfriend."
I said, "That's okay. You're 5...you don't need a girlfriend."
BWT said, "But Mom, I don't really want a girlfriend but Kelly isn't my girlfriend".
Confused, I inquired, "Well, buddy, was Kelly ever your girlfriend? Did she tell you she was your girlfriend"
BWT answered, "Well, we painted together during free time so I thought we were "boyfriends" but now she likes Mike."
A sad little pang hit me but I was also torn because let's face it. These kids are 5and it's just too early for drama and broken hearts.
At the class Halloween party I discovered who might be responsible for promoting this silliness. A mom leaned down to greet her daughter and she said, "Now show me which one is Doug". After the little girl showed him which one he was the mom responded, "Oh, baby, he is sooooo CUTE!!!"
Innocent puppy love is cute and I too remember chasing boys on the playground as a Kindergartener but maybe it's going too far when a 5 year old boy is lamenting over NOT having a girlfriend or another 5 year old girl is heartbroken because a certain boy has dumped her. Really?
My question is this...is this a normal part of growing up and typical of a Kindergartener or are there parents behind this (like the one mentioned above) egging this on? Can't we just enjoy our little ones right where they are?
P.S. All names have been changed to protect the innocent...or not so innocent.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Trick or Treat
Tonight was Trick or Treat. Don't ask me why it's on the 29th. I really have no idea. Interesting evening. My husband invited a family from Korea over for dinner. This is their 2nd year in the United States and they really knew nothing about trick or treating. They have a 3 year old son and a 4 month old baby.
We let the 3 year old pick (out of our play clothes bin) whatever he would like to wear. He chose a fireman costume.
So off we went into the wild blue yonder to snag some chocolate. You would not believe this little Korean boy. You would think he had been trick or treating for years. He ran like a banshee from house to house yelling "Trieee o Trea" "Triee o Trea". If you said anything to him he would say, "yea!".
My husband asked him if Elephants eat Jiraffes and he said "yea". His "yea" sounds quite fluent. Come to find out after a few random questions (like the elephant question) that he doesn't understand much English. All he knows he has learned on Noggin.
Anyway, it was fun to be a part of this little boy's first American experiences. He had a blast and his parents thanked us over and over again for hosting them. They said our home was the first American home they had ever been in...and they've been here for 15 months. Goodness. We were blessed to share our American culture with this family.
Happy Trick or Treat to you and yours.
We let the 3 year old pick (out of our play clothes bin) whatever he would like to wear. He chose a fireman costume.
So off we went into the wild blue yonder to snag some chocolate. You would not believe this little Korean boy. You would think he had been trick or treating for years. He ran like a banshee from house to house yelling "Trieee o Trea" "Triee o Trea". If you said anything to him he would say, "yea!".
My husband asked him if Elephants eat Jiraffes and he said "yea". His "yea" sounds quite fluent. Come to find out after a few random questions (like the elephant question) that he doesn't understand much English. All he knows he has learned on Noggin.
Anyway, it was fun to be a part of this little boy's first American experiences. He had a blast and his parents thanked us over and over again for hosting them. They said our home was the first American home they had ever been in...and they've been here for 15 months. Goodness. We were blessed to share our American culture with this family.
Happy Trick or Treat to you and yours.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
They Know Me
Have you ever watched a show or a movie and felt like someone was peeking in your window or had cameras in your house for episode ideas?
The moment my husband and I caught our first glimpse of EveryBody Loves Raymond, we were sure that someone had written a show about our lives.
We are currently 1000 plus miles from the extended family but all the same, they might as well be next door. I just watched the epidode (via DVR) where Robert and his new wife return from their honeymoon and Marie (Ray's mom) is pestering her that she has yet to write her thank you notes.
I promise you...we had yet to even open our wedding gifts and J's mom was already obsessed about the thank you notes. We didn't even know what to thank them for yet but somehow I was supposed to have these written.
Don't get me wrong. I love my in-laws and they are truly wonderful people but at the same time, I'd pretty convinced that someone was spying on us when this show was written. Scary.
The moment my husband and I caught our first glimpse of EveryBody Loves Raymond, we were sure that someone had written a show about our lives.
We are currently 1000 plus miles from the extended family but all the same, they might as well be next door. I just watched the epidode (via DVR) where Robert and his new wife return from their honeymoon and Marie (Ray's mom) is pestering her that she has yet to write her thank you notes.
I promise you...we had yet to even open our wedding gifts and J's mom was already obsessed about the thank you notes. We didn't even know what to thank them for yet but somehow I was supposed to have these written.
Don't get me wrong. I love my in-laws and they are truly wonderful people but at the same time, I'd pretty convinced that someone was spying on us when this show was written. Scary.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Bzz Bzz Bzz
I'm still doing BzzAgent and wanted to let you in on an awesome shampoo! AVEENO NOURISH + Hair Care is a new line by AVEENO (Get your free sample here). I've always trusted this brand and had positive experiences. This shampoo/conditioner combination is excellent. I've been trying a lot of different brands recently including Pantene, Tresemme, Arbonne and others.
While I've always gone back to Pantene after a brief stint with others, I may stick with AVEENO for a while. It's that good. There are a few different verisions including moisturizing and volumizing. It's worth a trial.
If you haven't checked out BzzAgent yet, it's worth a trial. This Bzzcampaign provided free shampoo and conditioner (full sized bottles) as well as coupons and samples. Check it out!
While I've always gone back to Pantene after a brief stint with others, I may stick with AVEENO for a while. It's that good. There are a few different verisions including moisturizing and volumizing. It's worth a trial.
If you haven't checked out BzzAgent yet, it's worth a trial. This Bzzcampaign provided free shampoo and conditioner (full sized bottles) as well as coupons and samples. Check it out!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Acne at 35?
Yep, I'm 35 and I've just encountered my first bout with acne. And yes, I'm bitter. I finally bit the bullet and made a dermatologist appointment yesterday. I was able to get in the same day for what I thought would be a little tlc and sympathy.
Nope.
Friends I have with a lot of derm experience tell me that dermatologists have the least bedside manner of any doctor. I thought I'd get a "Wow, acne at 35? That stinks. Let's see how we can take care of that."
Instead she had no answers and basically rushed me out of her office. Good news is that she gave me Retin A which will take care of those minor lines and wrinkles that I've recently developed. Since I received my prescription 48 hours ago, 2 friends have already tried to swipe my Retin A. I guess it's a valuable "street" drug. =)
A good friend seemed to think that the breakouts were a result of all the working out that I do. Unfortunately the Dermatologist had no answers for me nor did she want to even think about the cause. Drugs are the answer I guess. It's disturbing to me that doctors aren't concerned with causes...only making the problem go away.
So the teenage years are still raging here. I'll keep you posted on the results.
Nope.
Friends I have with a lot of derm experience tell me that dermatologists have the least bedside manner of any doctor. I thought I'd get a "Wow, acne at 35? That stinks. Let's see how we can take care of that."
Instead she had no answers and basically rushed me out of her office. Good news is that she gave me Retin A which will take care of those minor lines and wrinkles that I've recently developed. Since I received my prescription 48 hours ago, 2 friends have already tried to swipe my Retin A. I guess it's a valuable "street" drug. =)
A good friend seemed to think that the breakouts were a result of all the working out that I do. Unfortunately the Dermatologist had no answers for me nor did she want to even think about the cause. Drugs are the answer I guess. It's disturbing to me that doctors aren't concerned with causes...only making the problem go away.
So the teenage years are still raging here. I'll keep you posted on the results.
Out of Style?
Okay so I've never been labeled "best dressed" but I do try to stay with the times to a certain extent. I mean...I didn't fall for the UGGS trend and there is no way I'm hitting the skinny jeans but I try to brush my hair, put on light make-up and look presentable in public.
I get little comments from my kids once in a while, generally regarding my garb. Once in a while one of the boys will tell me I'm pretty. It always feels good to hear it from my sons. Hubby throws out compliments when he thinks of it or feels like he should but you know how it is after 12 years of marriage.
Often during the Winter I wear black ankle boots that have a nice heel. I've found that they are versatile and dress up a pair of jeans. I have a pair of brown ones too. These are my 2 favorite shoes and on any given day, chances are good that I'm rocking one of these two pairs. They are comfortable and bordering on stylish.
Yesterday we went on a field trip to a working historical farm. I chose not to wear the boots with heels due to our activities. We hiked through the whole farm, dodged horse manure and played in a barn. The shoes I chose are brown Eastlands that I've owned for a million years. I'm not proud of them but hey, we were going to a farm.
Girl Wondertwin looked down at my shoes and said, "Mommy, I didn't want to tell you this but those are really BAD shoes. They are just ugly. Maybe you shouldn't wear them anymore". Yep, she's 5.
I have to agree with her though, they aren't attractive but this day in age, can't anything be pragmatic? I was trying to follow the rule of no gym shoes with jeans and I get tagged (by a 5 year old!) with an unattractive shoe comment.
What really makes me nervous is that she's only 5. That and you should see the outfits she puts together. I wouldn't call her the next "Rachel Zoe" anytime soon.
I get little comments from my kids once in a while, generally regarding my garb. Once in a while one of the boys will tell me I'm pretty. It always feels good to hear it from my sons. Hubby throws out compliments when he thinks of it or feels like he should but you know how it is after 12 years of marriage.
Often during the Winter I wear black ankle boots that have a nice heel. I've found that they are versatile and dress up a pair of jeans. I have a pair of brown ones too. These are my 2 favorite shoes and on any given day, chances are good that I'm rocking one of these two pairs. They are comfortable and bordering on stylish.
Yesterday we went on a field trip to a working historical farm. I chose not to wear the boots with heels due to our activities. We hiked through the whole farm, dodged horse manure and played in a barn. The shoes I chose are brown Eastlands that I've owned for a million years. I'm not proud of them but hey, we were going to a farm.
Girl Wondertwin looked down at my shoes and said, "Mommy, I didn't want to tell you this but those are really BAD shoes. They are just ugly. Maybe you shouldn't wear them anymore". Yep, she's 5.
I have to agree with her though, they aren't attractive but this day in age, can't anything be pragmatic? I was trying to follow the rule of no gym shoes with jeans and I get tagged (by a 5 year old!) with an unattractive shoe comment.
What really makes me nervous is that she's only 5. That and you should see the outfits she puts together. I wouldn't call her the next "Rachel Zoe" anytime soon.
Monday, October 19, 2009
My How Times Have Changed
So I was sitting in the dermatologist's office today and I overheard the following conversation between a mother and daughter. "Would you like laser hair removal for your graduation present?"
Okay, so I have heard of students receiving a computer or a printer but laser hair removal?
Interesting.
I'm looking for something to graduate from so I too can get laser hair removal as a graduation present. Hmm...
Okay, so I have heard of students receiving a computer or a printer but laser hair removal?
Interesting.
I'm looking for something to graduate from so I too can get laser hair removal as a graduation present. Hmm...
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
FREE Geotrax DVD
If your kids are Geotrax fans...or if you're just looking for a FREE Christmas present like me, sign up for THIS.
A few months back they were offering a free Barbie DVD that I have already received. I am looking forward to Geotrax. Gotta stuff another stocking!
A few months back they were offering a free Barbie DVD that I have already received. I am looking forward to Geotrax. Gotta stuff another stocking!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Hack Hack Hack
It's hit. Whatever "it" is, it's here. Everyone is hacking here at our abode. What really stinks is that 2 of us caught a ridiculous cough in the middle of August. It lasted for almost a month for those 2 and passed onto 2 more. Just as Little Dude was getting over "the hack", his nose started running and he was sneezing like a bansch!
Now all 5 of us are feeling like crud and we sound like a really bad percussion band. I'm guessing it's not the pig flu since not one of us is down for the count. We're just "those people" who are getting shunned in public because of the hack.
I feel bad but seriously. You can't keep your kids in the house for 2 weeks while they recover from this nasty cold.
Speaking of cold, it is so freaking cold outside. We had a high of 55 degrees today. We average 67 for the middle of October. Generally we hit a week or two of Indian Summer as well. No such luck. It's just freaking cold. That could explain the hack. Dang Al Gore. What happened to Global Warming?
Now all 5 of us are feeling like crud and we sound like a really bad percussion band. I'm guessing it's not the pig flu since not one of us is down for the count. We're just "those people" who are getting shunned in public because of the hack.
I feel bad but seriously. You can't keep your kids in the house for 2 weeks while they recover from this nasty cold.
Speaking of cold, it is so freaking cold outside. We had a high of 55 degrees today. We average 67 for the middle of October. Generally we hit a week or two of Indian Summer as well. No such luck. It's just freaking cold. That could explain the hack. Dang Al Gore. What happened to Global Warming?
Monday, October 12, 2009
Oooohs and Ahhhs...
I guess I should be used to this by now but I'm not.
Today I went to a meeting for all the "Room Moms". The official title of the group of moms who are at the beckon call of the teacher at any given moment and who officially plans the holiday parties.
We were all sitting in a living room and introducing ourselves. You know the drill. Name, age of kids and teacher's name.
Halfway around the circle it was my turn. My name is KP and I have twins in Mrs. X's class. Before I could even finish my sentence I heard, "ooh, awe, ooh, twins ooh." It never ceases to amaze me. Given the number of twins in the world these days, it seems like a mom would need at least quads to produce that kind of reaction.
Yep, I'm super mom. Not.
Today I went to a meeting for all the "Room Moms". The official title of the group of moms who are at the beckon call of the teacher at any given moment and who officially plans the holiday parties.
We were all sitting in a living room and introducing ourselves. You know the drill. Name, age of kids and teacher's name.
Halfway around the circle it was my turn. My name is KP and I have twins in Mrs. X's class. Before I could even finish my sentence I heard, "ooh, awe, ooh, twins ooh." It never ceases to amaze me. Given the number of twins in the world these days, it seems like a mom would need at least quads to produce that kind of reaction.
Yep, I'm super mom. Not.
Friday, October 9, 2009
SNL and The Nobel Peace Prize
The news from early this morning surprised even the president. It was announced that President Obama had won the prestigious honor and 1.4 million dollars.
The irony though is this...does Saturday Night Live understand something that the Nobel Peace Prize Committee does not?
The irony though is this...does Saturday Night Live understand something that the Nobel Peace Prize Committee does not?
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
HO HO HO!
I know I mentioned Christmas in October in an earlier post but Gheesh! I just saw a Santa commerical on CBS. Seriuosly? Christmas commercials already? I'm just not ready for this! I'm still in denial that FALL is here, much less Winter and Christmas. Anyone started their Christmas shopping yet? Guess it's time to make those lists and check them twice.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Advice to My "TO BE" Mom Friends
I probably have more advice on the tip of my tongue than any new or "to-be" mommy would every want. I'll spare you.
Here's my one piece of priceless advice. Enjoy your "alone" time in the bathroom now because once that baby comes you will never have more than 5 minutes in the bathroom again.
Take today for example. I was returning home from a workout and a workout spoiler (lunch at Chick Fila) and I REALLY had to go to the bathroom, if you know what I mean.
I had just sat down and started when I hear SCREAMS of AGONY coming from the garage. Little Dude had pinched his ENTIRE hand in the sliding door of the van! I hear, "I'm STUCK, Mommy, I'm STUCK".
What does a Mom do in this instance? It wasn't pretty but of course I got up and ran to the garage to rescue Little Dude from his agony. Amazingly he was very brave, and despite the bruises, he barely cried.
Isn't it crazy when they get REALLY hurt, they barely cry but when Big Brother taps them on the shoulder they scream like banschees?
Oh, I love being a mom.
Here's my one piece of priceless advice. Enjoy your "alone" time in the bathroom now because once that baby comes you will never have more than 5 minutes in the bathroom again.
Take today for example. I was returning home from a workout and a workout spoiler (lunch at Chick Fila) and I REALLY had to go to the bathroom, if you know what I mean.
I had just sat down and started when I hear SCREAMS of AGONY coming from the garage. Little Dude had pinched his ENTIRE hand in the sliding door of the van! I hear, "I'm STUCK, Mommy, I'm STUCK".
What does a Mom do in this instance? It wasn't pretty but of course I got up and ran to the garage to rescue Little Dude from his agony. Amazingly he was very brave, and despite the bruises, he barely cried.
Isn't it crazy when they get REALLY hurt, they barely cry but when Big Brother taps them on the shoulder they scream like banschees?
Oh, I love being a mom.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Christmas Morning in October???
It might look like Christmas morning but it's really the morning after the twin sale. Every 6 months our twin club does a ginormous sale that does over 80,000 dollars worth of business in just 6 short hours. Friday night is open to multiple moms only and we have 2 hours to do some major damage.
I was able to find a lot of Polo, Hilfiger, Gymboree and other various brands for 1,2 and 3 dollars each. I also got a Little Tykes doll house FOR FREE!!! as well as a NICE booster seat, Ninja Turtles, Transformers, Lion figurines (12 of them to be exact) and all the Winter clothes the kids will be needing for under $200!
I love the twin sale. I just hope the kids understand that it is different than Christmas because it sure did look like Christmas morning!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
So Much!
Tonight I am frantically tagging for the semi annual consignment sale. I'm a part of the mothers of twins club here in town and we have an amazing sale where over 80,000 dollars worth of STUFF is sold in about 6 hours. It's phenomenal what can be accomplished in a short period of time.
I'm busy tagging hundreds of items. So far my sale total will be $325 dollars worth (the club gets 10%) and I'm scouring the house, trying to find so much more. I just want to get this stuff out of my house. Primarily because I will be coming home tomorrow night with at least that much stuff.
Thankfully I'm selling some big stuff, including 2 tricycles, 4 bins full of clothes and another bin full of toys. As a minimalist, i love getting this stuff out of my house and it feels pretty good to get my kids' play clothes as well as some church clothes and severely discounted prices.
I'm using the sale while I can. I'm fully aware that my little ones will soon be big and won't be wearing consignment clothes for much longer. I already see my daughter's eyes lighting up when we pass Justice for Girls. I'm saving my pennies now so I can afford to dress them when their tastes are more expensive.
I'm busy tagging hundreds of items. So far my sale total will be $325 dollars worth (the club gets 10%) and I'm scouring the house, trying to find so much more. I just want to get this stuff out of my house. Primarily because I will be coming home tomorrow night with at least that much stuff.
Thankfully I'm selling some big stuff, including 2 tricycles, 4 bins full of clothes and another bin full of toys. As a minimalist, i love getting this stuff out of my house and it feels pretty good to get my kids' play clothes as well as some church clothes and severely discounted prices.
I'm using the sale while I can. I'm fully aware that my little ones will soon be big and won't be wearing consignment clothes for much longer. I already see my daughter's eyes lighting up when we pass Justice for Girls. I'm saving my pennies now so I can afford to dress them when their tastes are more expensive.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Funniest Status Update of the Day
Courtesy of a FaceBook Friend via Status Update:
Jason would like to publicly thank the lady in line who picked the gum off the back of my shirt. The same gum that I had unsuccessfully flicked out the window about an hour earlier.
Jason would like to publicly thank the lady in line who picked the gum off the back of my shirt. The same gum that I had unsuccessfully flicked out the window about an hour earlier.
A Reconciliation?
I, along with an apparent 9 million other people, have stopped watching Jon & Kate Plus 8. More accurately, I've stopped keeping up with it. I have not been a regular viewer ever, although I did enjoy the first 2 specials before their series began. You know, when she was like the rest of us, struggling to chase kids without the help of a nanny or a hair stylist.
Today her face (Kate's, that is) was plastered to my inbox so of course I clicked. I'm weak, what can I say.
What snagged me was "Jon puts halt to Divorce" or something like that. I'm sorry. I had to click on it. It's the voyuer in me...that and I have to say, I've been praying for this couple and their sweet kids. It's just not right what those 8 have been through...or that there are 8 of them, in my opinion. But I'll keep that part to myself.
I'm all about big families. The more the merrier if you can take care of them but after a high risk twin pregnancy (no invitro involved) I know how scary it is to bring 2 into the world at once. We aren't goats, people. Sextuplets is just unfathomable to me.
I truly believe that NO marriage is beyond the healing powers of our Great and Awesome God. I obviously don't know what is at work here in this situation and technically it's none of my business but I'm praying for the best for this couple and those sweet children.
Today her face (Kate's, that is) was plastered to my inbox so of course I clicked. I'm weak, what can I say.
What snagged me was "Jon puts halt to Divorce" or something like that. I'm sorry. I had to click on it. It's the voyuer in me...that and I have to say, I've been praying for this couple and their sweet kids. It's just not right what those 8 have been through...or that there are 8 of them, in my opinion. But I'll keep that part to myself.
I'm all about big families. The more the merrier if you can take care of them but after a high risk twin pregnancy (no invitro involved) I know how scary it is to bring 2 into the world at once. We aren't goats, people. Sextuplets is just unfathomable to me.
I truly believe that NO marriage is beyond the healing powers of our Great and Awesome God. I obviously don't know what is at work here in this situation and technically it's none of my business but I'm praying for the best for this couple and those sweet children.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Freakin' Kids
It's officially 10:25PM and my children are not asleep. My hub and I are so tired that neither of us is getting our tush off the couch to deal with their madness. How can we be crashed while the kids are up and kickin?
And if Girl Wondertwin comes in one more time and says, "Uh, uh, uh, uh, mom, uh, uh, uh do you remember, uh, uh, uh"
At this point I say, "Bed, NOW"
10 minutes later, same thing, repeat performance.
Oh will they be regretting it if/when I get myself off this couch and deal with this banschees...
And hubby is hiding in the Lower Level. Thanks J.
And if Girl Wondertwin comes in one more time and says, "Uh, uh, uh, uh, mom, uh, uh, uh do you remember, uh, uh, uh"
At this point I say, "Bed, NOW"
10 minutes later, same thing, repeat performance.
Oh will they be regretting it if/when I get myself off this couch and deal with this banschees...
And hubby is hiding in the Lower Level. Thanks J.
New Friends
I think I've posted something very similar to this before. Does anyone else suffer from great angst when making new friends? Geesh! It's my 4th decade on this earth and you'd think it would get easier. Instead it's harder. Way harder.
It's not just hard because I'm in my mid 30's and would rather fall back the oldies/goodies but I've also fallen into a very tight knit neighborhood and elementary school. I'm slowly realizing that everyone is related somehow and beneath the surface lie the Desperate Housewives of this Midwest city. I'm sure this is the case in every neighborhood in the country. It's just new to me to be in such a small network again...almost like high school.
Don't get me wrong. It's time to settle down, make this place home and make some new friends. With my kids in school I now have an opportunity to branch out and make friends with their new friends' parents. Community is a natural longing I think but so is safety and security. Tell me. Is this angst normal? Tell me please.
It's not just hard because I'm in my mid 30's and would rather fall back the oldies/goodies but I've also fallen into a very tight knit neighborhood and elementary school. I'm slowly realizing that everyone is related somehow and beneath the surface lie the Desperate Housewives of this Midwest city. I'm sure this is the case in every neighborhood in the country. It's just new to me to be in such a small network again...almost like high school.
Don't get me wrong. It's time to settle down, make this place home and make some new friends. With my kids in school I now have an opportunity to branch out and make friends with their new friends' parents. Community is a natural longing I think but so is safety and security. Tell me. Is this angst normal? Tell me please.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Yucky, Smelly Messes
So I can't believe that I'm sharing this on a post but we're all close, personal friends, right? Just a tight little circle. So here it goes.
Little Dude created the BIGGEST mess ever today. I woke up this morning to a smell that is easily identified by any mom. The scent of feces was permeating every nook and cranny of our home and I was ready to puke.
After utilizing my best sleuth skills, I found the culprit. Little Dude had defecated in a pink Transformers costume while sleeping. Who poops in their sleep? (Or, what male sleeps in a pink transformer outfit?)
Apparently that's nothing for a 3 year old. He must have woken up in the midst of the action because then, according to my best detective skills, he must have ripped off the pink suit and dragged it down his legs (in the middle of the night, might I add), stepped all over it, and then slid it down the hallway, down the stairs and to the laundry room. How do I know this? He left a trail and ICK! Was it nasty!
When I woke him up this morning I found his legs AND feet covered in DRIED poop. I threw him in the tub while I scrubbed his room, the hallway and laundry room. Needless to say we were VERY late to Bible Study this morning.
I felt the need to blog about this for 2 reasons. One, I knew you could relate. Two, I want it chronicled so I can look back at this post the next time I'm the least bit tempted to have another baby.
Little Dude has been potty trained for over a year now and we have been downright spoiled. It's just once in a great while that an incident like the above happens. When it does though, he succeeds with flying colors. Nasty.
No worries, though. I've anti-bacterialed (that's a verb, right?) every square inch of our house and I think that disgusting smell is gone...I think. Or maybe I'm just so used to it that I don't recognize it anymore. Sad.
Little Dude created the BIGGEST mess ever today. I woke up this morning to a smell that is easily identified by any mom. The scent of feces was permeating every nook and cranny of our home and I was ready to puke.
After utilizing my best sleuth skills, I found the culprit. Little Dude had defecated in a pink Transformers costume while sleeping. Who poops in their sleep? (Or, what male sleeps in a pink transformer outfit?)
Apparently that's nothing for a 3 year old. He must have woken up in the midst of the action because then, according to my best detective skills, he must have ripped off the pink suit and dragged it down his legs (in the middle of the night, might I add), stepped all over it, and then slid it down the hallway, down the stairs and to the laundry room. How do I know this? He left a trail and ICK! Was it nasty!
When I woke him up this morning I found his legs AND feet covered in DRIED poop. I threw him in the tub while I scrubbed his room, the hallway and laundry room. Needless to say we were VERY late to Bible Study this morning.
I felt the need to blog about this for 2 reasons. One, I knew you could relate. Two, I want it chronicled so I can look back at this post the next time I'm the least bit tempted to have another baby.
Little Dude has been potty trained for over a year now and we have been downright spoiled. It's just once in a great while that an incident like the above happens. When it does though, he succeeds with flying colors. Nasty.
No worries, though. I've anti-bacterialed (that's a verb, right?) every square inch of our house and I think that disgusting smell is gone...I think. Or maybe I'm just so used to it that I don't recognize it anymore. Sad.
Monday, September 21, 2009
My Friend Jen
I have a friend who is seriously the energizer bunny. She just goes and goes. Her plate is always full but you wouldn't ever know it. She can balance like nobody's business. You know that saying? The one for the military and how they accomplish more before 6AM than most people do all day? That's my friend Jen.
I've known her for 20 years now and I've been in constant awe for what she can handle. Just recently she had her 4th and 5th child. Yep, twins. You wouldn't even know it. Somehow she has just kept ticking like twins were the average, everyday experience.
It just so happens that Jen had 2 college students living with her over the summer. After a weekend at her parents' house, she returned to her own home and her own coffee. For 4 days Jen was dragging. All she could think of was that her trip home had been more tiring than she thought and she just couldn't catch up on her sleep. It wasn't until 4 days later that Jen realized her college student guest had switched out the coffee from caff to decaf.
Finally her Achilles heel was exposed.
After being in awe of my energizer bunny friend for 20 years, I've finally discovered her secret. Coffee. If only I could handle caffeine without becoming a jittery mess. Maybe I could raise 5 kids with my hands tied behind my back too.
Nope, probably not.
I've known her for 20 years now and I've been in constant awe for what she can handle. Just recently she had her 4th and 5th child. Yep, twins. You wouldn't even know it. Somehow she has just kept ticking like twins were the average, everyday experience.
It just so happens that Jen had 2 college students living with her over the summer. After a weekend at her parents' house, she returned to her own home and her own coffee. For 4 days Jen was dragging. All she could think of was that her trip home had been more tiring than she thought and she just couldn't catch up on her sleep. It wasn't until 4 days later that Jen realized her college student guest had switched out the coffee from caff to decaf.
Finally her Achilles heel was exposed.
After being in awe of my energizer bunny friend for 20 years, I've finally discovered her secret. Coffee. If only I could handle caffeine without becoming a jittery mess. Maybe I could raise 5 kids with my hands tied behind my back too.
Nope, probably not.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Funny thing...
So, I mentioned in the previous post that I've been busy. One thing that has been time consuming recently is my voluntary status with an organization called International Friendships INC. It serves the international students at Ohio State and many other universities in the region.
Yesterday I participated in the annual garage sale day. This is where over 75 people from churches all over the city volunteer to drive 200+ international students all over town in order for them to furnish their dorms/apartments.
I had 3 Chinese girls in my car for 4 hours yesterday afternoon. I learned a lot from these girls including one interesting little fact. The Chinese do not use sheets. They don't use sheets. What? Apparently they lay on a mattress with a blanket on top of them. From my days in China I know there are sheets in the country and in fact, I used sheets while I was there, both on sleeping trains and hotels. It seems though that the average Chinese person is not accustomed to sheets.
I told my friend Faby (who works with internationals on a daily basis) that her goal needs to be converting these Chinese people to sheets! Really? Can you imagine a life without sheets? Goodness.
Yesterday I participated in the annual garage sale day. This is where over 75 people from churches all over the city volunteer to drive 200+ international students all over town in order for them to furnish their dorms/apartments.
I had 3 Chinese girls in my car for 4 hours yesterday afternoon. I learned a lot from these girls including one interesting little fact. The Chinese do not use sheets. They don't use sheets. What? Apparently they lay on a mattress with a blanket on top of them. From my days in China I know there are sheets in the country and in fact, I used sheets while I was there, both on sleeping trains and hotels. It seems though that the average Chinese person is not accustomed to sheets.
I told my friend Faby (who works with internationals on a daily basis) that her goal needs to be converting these Chinese people to sheets! Really? Can you imagine a life without sheets? Goodness.
Shame on Me!
It's been 5 days since my last post. Oh the horrors. I have nothing to say for myself other than I've been running around with my head cut off. When I come up for air again, hopefully I'll post something creative and worthy of the written word. Hopefully.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Little Dude's Big Day
This marks the first day of preschool for Little Dude. I contemplated a tear of sadness but instead decided to party in the streets. Marc's and Kroger was all I could accomplish in the short 2.5 hours. Do you hear me complaining? I loved every minute of it, although it did give me a minute to realize that I'm going to have my life back again one of these days. And then what will I do with myself? That's a question to be answered another day.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Aren't they a little young?
So Girl Wondertwin keeps telling me that she has a boyfriend. This is an excerpt from today's dinner conversation:
GWT: I'm going to keep telling "D" that he is my boyfriend.
Me: What does "D" say when you tell him that?
GWT: He says I'm his girlfriend.
Me: Where did you hear those words, boyfriend and girlfriend?
GWT: Well, Evan and Ella are bfriend and gfriend and so D is my bfriend.
She's 5. Any bets on how long "D" is her boyfriend?
GWT: I'm going to keep telling "D" that he is my boyfriend.
Me: What does "D" say when you tell him that?
GWT: He says I'm his girlfriend.
Me: Where did you hear those words, boyfriend and girlfriend?
GWT: Well, Evan and Ella are bfriend and gfriend and so D is my bfriend.
She's 5. Any bets on how long "D" is her boyfriend?
It's getting a little weird around here.
Not sure if I've blogged about it but my husband is NOTORIOUS for doing very strange things in his sleep. I'll blog on that later but it looks like my oldest son got the "weird sleeping" gene.
Last night hubby and I were in the living room watching a movie. When it finished, J went into the kitchen to get some milk and this is what he found.
We have no idea what happened. Did he sleepwalk to the fridge? Was he thirsty but too tired to get a drink? And how long was the fridge open? Of course I'm more worried about wasted electricity than my son sleeping on a hard stone floor. I'm blaming hubby's genes on this one!
Last night hubby and I were in the living room watching a movie. When it finished, J went into the kitchen to get some milk and this is what he found.
We have no idea what happened. Did he sleepwalk to the fridge? Was he thirsty but too tired to get a drink? And how long was the fridge open? Of course I'm more worried about wasted electricity than my son sleeping on a hard stone floor. I'm blaming hubby's genes on this one!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Wanna Laugh?
Skip ahead to 2:40 or so if you don't want to watch the whole thing. THIS IS HILARIOUS! Well worth the watch!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Mom, I'm Falling In Love
Yep. You read that right. That phrase came out of the mouth of 5 year old Girl Wondertwin. She's "falling in love". REally? Really? You are 5!
There is a little boy in his class and she is diggin' his chilli. Does anyone say that anymore? Now, before I start freakin' (because I really can't deal with boy problems before she enters her 2nd decade of life) I will continue to remind myself of this. She also told me today, "Mom, I think Winston (my mom's dog)is falling in love with me". My guess is that she heard this phrase somewhere along the line and now it's time to process what it really means.
I'm guessing everyone is going to be falling in love with everything over the next month or so. Funny though that kids understand, even at the tender age of 5, that there is this thing called love and it is no longer reserved for mom, dad, siblings and pets. Hello world! GWT is ready to take you on!
There is a little boy in his class and she is diggin' his chilli. Does anyone say that anymore? Now, before I start freakin' (because I really can't deal with boy problems before she enters her 2nd decade of life) I will continue to remind myself of this. She also told me today, "Mom, I think Winston (my mom's dog)is falling in love with me". My guess is that she heard this phrase somewhere along the line and now it's time to process what it really means.
I'm guessing everyone is going to be falling in love with everything over the next month or so. Funny though that kids understand, even at the tender age of 5, that there is this thing called love and it is no longer reserved for mom, dad, siblings and pets. Hello world! GWT is ready to take you on!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
The Trouble With Twins
I thought I'd dealt with the hardest things about having twins. IE. Pregnancy, breastfeeding 2 babies, differing sleep schedules, potty training, and enduring the terrible 3's times two.
I'm wrong. I'm now stumbling into new territory, that of Planet School. Tonight I went to curriculum night where I spoke privately with the teacher. She and I discussed Boy Wondertwin without her ever having mentioned my daughter. I wonder if this is going to be a regular thing. I hope that neither of my kids will "suffer" as a result of having another just like him/her. I'm starting to see why parents choose to split up their twins.
No cause for panic presently but I do hope that both twins get equal treatment and equal attention. I guess we'll see.
I'm wrong. I'm now stumbling into new territory, that of Planet School. Tonight I went to curriculum night where I spoke privately with the teacher. She and I discussed Boy Wondertwin without her ever having mentioned my daughter. I wonder if this is going to be a regular thing. I hope that neither of my kids will "suffer" as a result of having another just like him/her. I'm starting to see why parents choose to split up their twins.
No cause for panic presently but I do hope that both twins get equal treatment and equal attention. I guess we'll see.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Hungy Hungry Hippos and Walmart
Just to vent a little bit from my last Walmart trip, I admit I have a real biased (and not in a positive way) toward Walmart. I'm trying to like it. I know that their prices are good and I can save money there but I tell you. I break into hives when I walk into that place; I can rarely find a worker who speaks English. Today I had to ACT OUT Hungry Hungry Hippos for this worker (HHH Travel Version is supposed to be on sale for $4.97 and I have a coupon for $4 off). Still she couldn't find it for me, although I was just alerted I will be winning an Oscar for my performance!)
I don't have this same experience in Target. I walk into Target, find what I need and smile while I'm there. Today I was constantly dodging carts, trying to manuever around forklifts, and searching for items that were obviously not there. Or at least they weren't there according to the non-English speaking employees I encountered.
Every time I enter Walmart I promise myself I will never return. 2 months later I repeat the same experience. What is wrong with me? Am I that dog returning to it's vomit? Nice word picture. Sorry about that. Walmart brings it out in me.
And I never found the travel version of Hungry Hungry Hippos.
So, it turns out...
As a Kindergarten Mom, you don't have to be at the bus stop afterall. I was up at Walmart (I detest that place btw) and having issues with coupons of course. I was telling the lady to skip the coupons and just check me out b/c I was running late. Well, not sure how much English she spoke (I think she was originally from Appalachia) and wouldn't do as I asked.
I was in line for 8million yrs, got stuck in crazy traffic because it was dripping out side and people FREAK when it rains around here. Finally I arrived home, just 2 minutes after the bus dropped the kids off. I found them ringing the doorbell. Sounds like the bus driver doesn't care whether mom is home or not! Who knew! (Oh, and please don't call Children's Services on me!)
This won't be happening again, I'll tell you that! No more shopping for me after 2PM! That was wretched! Poor kids. They were a little wet when I got home!
It's week #3 and I'm already THAT mom. Yikes!
I was in line for 8million yrs, got stuck in crazy traffic because it was dripping out side and people FREAK when it rains around here. Finally I arrived home, just 2 minutes after the bus dropped the kids off. I found them ringing the doorbell. Sounds like the bus driver doesn't care whether mom is home or not! Who knew! (Oh, and please don't call Children's Services on me!)
This won't be happening again, I'll tell you that! No more shopping for me after 2PM! That was wretched! Poor kids. They were a little wet when I got home!
It's week #3 and I'm already THAT mom. Yikes!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
When is a Deal not a Deal?
I'm going a little deal crazy lately. It's like a drug. How cheap can I get something? Well, 2 weeks ago I spent $27 on about $60 worth of "stuff" at Walgreens. I got $15 in Walgreens Bucks for my purchases.
Because my Walgreens bucks were to expire on Sept 5th, I hurried in to cash in my $15. With my purchases, I acquired $13 more in Walgreens Bucks, having spent $4.55 out of pocket. I then went in yesterday to cash in more and walked out with $10 new Walgreens bucks, having spent $2.95.
Because I'm now an addict (and admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery, right?) I returned today. I cashed in my $10 in Walgreens bucks for 4 bags of Tostitos and a men's razor that contained 2 cartridges inside. I walked out having spent $2.24 and $4 in Walgreen's bucks in my pocket for another day.
My husband now has enough razors and cartridges to last him a lifetime. We also have more toothpaste and deoderant than any household needs. If you haven't tried the Walgreens/CVS game yet, I highly recommend it.
Check out www.dealseekingmom.com for instruction.
In the meantime, you'll find me in rehab. My name is KP and I'm addicted to Deals.
Because my Walgreens bucks were to expire on Sept 5th, I hurried in to cash in my $15. With my purchases, I acquired $13 more in Walgreens Bucks, having spent $4.55 out of pocket. I then went in yesterday to cash in more and walked out with $10 new Walgreens bucks, having spent $2.95.
Because I'm now an addict (and admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery, right?) I returned today. I cashed in my $10 in Walgreens bucks for 4 bags of Tostitos and a men's razor that contained 2 cartridges inside. I walked out having spent $2.24 and $4 in Walgreen's bucks in my pocket for another day.
My husband now has enough razors and cartridges to last him a lifetime. We also have more toothpaste and deoderant than any household needs. If you haven't tried the Walgreens/CVS game yet, I highly recommend it.
Check out www.dealseekingmom.com for instruction.
In the meantime, you'll find me in rehab. My name is KP and I'm addicted to Deals.
Friday, September 4, 2009
ObamaObamaObama
My friend and I made an important observation yesterday. Children love Obama. I rarely touch politics here on this blog but my opinions aren't hard to guess. I'm pretty conservative and very fiscally conservative so with that combination you can deduce that I'm not a liberal.
I keep my opinions to myself when it comes to my kids but my husband is a little more vocal with my little people. They knew he voted for McCain and my daughter actually cried when she found out that McCain lost. We have a video of it. I'll have to post it sometime. It's pretty humorous.
Anyway, with that being said, my kids are obsessed with Obama. They hear his voice, see his picture on a magazine or notice him on television and they freak! They dance around and sing this litle chant they made up about Obama.
My friend Julie said her 4 year old daughter is the same way. My conservative friend Wendy has a husband who is VERY Republican and her boys love Obama too. She concluded that her boys love to say his name. What is it about our President? Just a simple observation but it cracks me up.
I keep my opinions to myself when it comes to my kids but my husband is a little more vocal with my little people. They knew he voted for McCain and my daughter actually cried when she found out that McCain lost. We have a video of it. I'll have to post it sometime. It's pretty humorous.
Anyway, with that being said, my kids are obsessed with Obama. They hear his voice, see his picture on a magazine or notice him on television and they freak! They dance around and sing this litle chant they made up about Obama.
My friend Julie said her 4 year old daughter is the same way. My conservative friend Wendy has a husband who is VERY Republican and her boys love Obama too. She concluded that her boys love to say his name. What is it about our President? Just a simple observation but it cracks me up.
Awkward Moments at Walgreens
Recently I have discovered Walgreens/CVS deals and I'm loving it. Don't ask my husband's opinion though. He thinks we're stockpiled in toothpaste for eternity.
I didn't realize how eclectic the drugstore clientele really is. Take today for example. Little Dude and I stopped by a Walgreen's is an old part of town. As I was searching the aisles (because every Walgreen's is DIFFERENT! Ugh!) Little Dude got behind the wrong pair of legs and followed her to the pharmacy. I noticed pretty quickly and corrected him by saying, "Did you follow the wrong legs?"
The woman responded, "I wish my legs were as nice as yours".
Um...okay so I should have taken this as a compliment right? Somehow I felt violated. I smiled, scurried away saying, "Ummm..Uh...thank you".
The next encounter was worse. I was buying Carefree pantyliners because they were $1.99 and I was going to get $2 in Walgreens bucks back. So my 3 year old and I were scouring the aisles when a guy walked up and was searching each of the shelves for the right maxi pad. He then turns to me and says, "My dog is in heat and I need pads for her." Oh, uh...okay was all I could think of.
Am I having an off day or were those 2 really odd encounters?
Thursday, September 3, 2009
And I lived to tell about it
I just survived my first PTA meeting. I'll tell ya, it was actually enjoyable. Everyone was very friendly and I didn't sign up to help with anything. Gotta love that. No guilt trips either.
And another thing, it beats the pants of Twin Club Meetings...trust me.
And another thing, it beats the pants of Twin Club Meetings...trust me.
Will You Be My Friend?
I took the kids to the pool today after school. Because I'm supermom. No, because I'm boycotting this Fall thing and I'm trying to live out every tick of the last minutes of summer.
I was standing on the edge of the pool (because some moron made the rule that parents had to be within 10 feet of any child who can't swim 75 consecutive meters...I hate that person) and I was watching Girl Wondertwin swimming to her heart's content (notice, I'm not 10 meters from all 3 kids...literally impossible). Anyway a girl about the age of 6 swam up and asked GWT, "Will you be my friend?"
GWT gives her a discontented look and swims away.
I pulled GWT out of the water and promptly lectured her on the need to be nice to people and how we can never have too many friends. At the same time I felt torn. I knew she needed to learn a lesson about being polite to others but I did envy her. If I were honest, there are a few people (not many but a few) to whom I would like to say that very thing. "No thank you. I would rather not be your friend but thanks for asking". Let's face it. We can't be friends with everyone.
What if the world worked that way? At least we would know who we can trust and who are true friends are. Chances are that GWT won't ever see that little girl again. I tried to get GWT to go over to her and apologize. Unfortunately she was scared and refused to do it. I sort of admire her confidence though. She just swam away and entertained herself until the next rest period. I guess I should be thankful that she can be content on her own when she so desires.
I was standing on the edge of the pool (because some moron made the rule that parents had to be within 10 feet of any child who can't swim 75 consecutive meters...I hate that person) and I was watching Girl Wondertwin swimming to her heart's content (notice, I'm not 10 meters from all 3 kids...literally impossible). Anyway a girl about the age of 6 swam up and asked GWT, "Will you be my friend?"
GWT gives her a discontented look and swims away.
I pulled GWT out of the water and promptly lectured her on the need to be nice to people and how we can never have too many friends. At the same time I felt torn. I knew she needed to learn a lesson about being polite to others but I did envy her. If I were honest, there are a few people (not many but a few) to whom I would like to say that very thing. "No thank you. I would rather not be your friend but thanks for asking". Let's face it. We can't be friends with everyone.
What if the world worked that way? At least we would know who we can trust and who are true friends are. Chances are that GWT won't ever see that little girl again. I tried to get GWT to go over to her and apologize. Unfortunately she was scared and refused to do it. I sort of admire her confidence though. She just swam away and entertained herself until the next rest period. I guess I should be thankful that she can be content on her own when she so desires.
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