Adventures in Babysitting

The Hoops We Jump Through...

2012-02-02T21:32:00.001-06:00

As I was laying, or maybe I should say propped, by Jacob while he was falling asleep, I realized that I spend many uncomfortable minutes trying to make my children happy. I was perched on the edge of his bed, laying there, with my knees on the ground, wanting to go to sleep myself. Sometimes it takes hours to get a child to sleep. Desperation strikes at times, and you fall asleep only to be awakened by the child climbing over you to get a toy, a snack, or leg warmers. I was still in the game, but barely... I forced my eyes to stay open. I was staring at the side of his head, admiring the wax that is so plentiful in my children's ears, just wondering when he would fall out, when he turned his head, and closed his eyes. I could see what is left of his darling baby face through the gaps in my bangs. I wish I could have captured a photo just like that, with my hair in the way, his baby face exposed just enough to remind me how sweet and innocent he is, and how much we have to learn from each other. Then he was asleep, breathing deeply, and I was filled with relief, as well as excitement;I could now get on with my evening. It was a fleeting, precious moment, I am so glad I looked.

Musing on Men: Why Mine is Better than Yours

2012-02-01T12:04:00.003-06:00

Ladies...(and I address the ladies because it is exceedingly doubtful that any man reads this, including my own AND you must imagine that I am talking as if we are sharing a cup of tea,

sampling cake, and wearing fine dresses, with parasols by our sides)

It is not a new thing to get a compliment on my husband. Oh yes, he is a great Man Child, and does not volunteer to clean the toilets, and frequently falls asleep during church, but that is what I call Charm. You know, Charm, right? The things that children and husbands do that are most bothersome, but no one is brave enough to tell you to your face, so they say they have "Charm". I myself am guilty, and I apologize if I have told you that you or your children, or your dog are full of Charm. If you feel the need to take offense, then consider that I would never tell someone they had Charm, if I didn't have a special place in my heart for them. It is almost pre-requisite. And don't worry, if you haven't measured up yet, you will. I have the ability to find Charm anywhere, for Charm adds variety, and I like variety.

Now back to my Charm. I recently received a lovely compliment on how my husband helped me during a moment of distress, of his own accord. Indeed, he saved me from having a complete emotional breakdown in the presence of everyone we know. Instead, I was able to carry on in the bathroom. Thank you, Dear ! It could only have been better if he had handed me an handkerchief as he swept the babe from my skirt. I accept these compliments, like I am the deserving recipient of them. Of course, the Man Child is the one who should be receiving them, and I always pass them on, and he is very humble, and even more deserving in my eyes. I find that I am overwhelmed by how he helps me; I, an awful hormonal creature who often makes his life so much more stressful. He takes me as I am, and knows what will get me where I need to be, he occasionally admits that I am right, he puts the boys to bed, and has amazing biceps.

I have found that I am, perhaps, proud. Indeed, I have noticed that he has competitors. He is no longer the hands down winner of this non-existing competition. I informed him of this, and he was shocked. Shocked that there was such a competition going on within my brain. In the end, he was not surprised, for even though he swears he will never understand me, he definitely knows me. He is racing, he just doesn't know it, and though he may not win, I suppose, I am just glad that he is in the running.

Boy Shopping

2011-09-12T09:02:00.001-05:00

I was laying in bed last night reading a book, where one of the characters is called Ghost-Boy. This naturally led me to thinking of all of the names that I used to give the boys on which I had crushes in college. You know the ones that I was afraid to talk to.
First-Aid-Boy, Yard-Boy, Danny-Boy, ROTC-Boy, Running-Boy,
Library-Boy (Also known as lets-go-to-the-library-and-"study"-every-day-for-a-semester-until-you-start-to-get-a-crush-on-me-and-then-announce-your-fiance-is-coming-from-the-phillipines-boy),
and Bagelby's-Boy (whom my roommate actually liked, but I later found out was also my neighbor's Social-Dance-Boy).

I had an epiphany: My search for boys was similar to impulse-shopping.

First, lets review the boy search (I was boy crazy, afterall):

I saw the-boy. I thought I would die if I didn't talk to him.

I talked to him in class, or at devotional. Whatever.

I thought I would never be able to live without him.

I agree to a date.

Next, lets compare it to my impulse-shopping:

I see the cutest bracelets I have ever seen. So cute they make my heart ache.

I look at them while I am shopping.

I move on, continue shopping, all the while thinking about these bracelets, knowing they would look perfect with that black top in my closet. My heart was aching after all.

I give in and go back.

Finally, the conclusion:

They are cute, but would be cuter on someone else's arm.

They kind of itch and aren't very comfortable.

I most definitely would never be able to live with them.

I forget about them.

At least the boy-shopping has been retired. Now to master the impulse-shopping.

Pop Tarts...The New Perfume

2011-06-23T09:12:00.000-05:00

Recently, a friend was telling me of the differences in the frequency of child-bathing between her and a sister. One was an "every-day-bather-no-matter-what", and one is a "few-times-a-week-and-absolutley-always-before-church".

P.S. There was no judgement there, just differences stated. All I could think was "Where do I fall in there?" Because I most certainly could not pin point a time when all my kids were bathed in the same day.

You see, we have entered that phase where some shower and some are still bathed by their mammy. Its hard when they start showering. For a few reasons:
1- I no longer have complete control over the bath situation.
2- The standard of clean that I would like to maintain is different than the child's, mainly because he doesn't have one.
3- I am pretty sure that they aren't even aware of all of the places that need to be washed.
4- It frequently involves the use of an entire bottle of shampoo.
5- No one remembers how to properly use a shower curtain and I am certain the whole bathroom is going to fall through the floor thanks to all of the water that ends up on the floor.

I also find that my standard is lowered during the summer, when swimming pools are frequented, and we have no where to go. Am I alone in this? Perhaps, we have the only filthy kids in town.

This morning I announced to my children that a bath was in order. "Why" was thrown out and I replied with a "because you're stinky". Cooper then commented, "I don't smell stinky... I smell fresh...like a Pop tart."

Amazing.

I do have other kids....

2011-05-26T15:13:00.000-05:00

Lately I have noticed that Zaida gets top billing around here, so lest anyone forget,

we do have other children!

Cooper about died when they went to Free Comic Book Day and these guys were there, along with an overly healthy Captain America.

Evolution of the Moustache

2011-05-26T14:53:00.001-05:00

Oh ye month of May, how I long for you to end!

Who Needs Toys?

2011-05-26T08:18:00.001-05:00

School's out for summer!

2011-05-25T14:46:00.001-05:00

So I recently polled my children to see what type of activities they would like to do this summer. This is what they want to do:

1. Go to Logan's. (Not Krista's, or Nonnie's. Logan's.)
2. Go to the Beach. (This is already a reward for a goal that is in place, but it is summer!)
3. Visit cemeteries. (What? My kids are scaredy cats!)

We will do those and many other things I am sure! I just have to find a new motive to get up early!
What kinds of things are y'all doing?

Yummmmmmmm.

2011-04-26T15:14:00.000-05:00

birthday pics

2011-04-18T09:25:00.004-05:00

Bless the Child Who Lost His Shoestring

2011-03-22T15:10:00.002-05:00

We have had many adventures in the past few weeks. Apparently when we moved, I developed amnesia when it came to taking Jacob places. It has most definitely been established that I can take him NOWHERE.
YESTERDAY, we went to Earth Fare. A grocery store across town that has lots of specialty stuff, and where I tasted the most delicious blueberry yogurt covered pretzels. We ordered lunch for the kids, looked around, dished up some plates from the salad bar, and headed to the tables to eat. It was lovely, for about 2.5 minutes. What was it that spoiled the mood? The children not liking their food? No. The abominable fruit-on-the-bottom yogurt that I had to stir up? No, fortunately my children have no such aversions. The company was the best, and could only have been better if the children had been left out of the equation altogether. What was it then? Oh, that's right. Maybe I forgot one of the details. Jacob, revolted. He ran back and forth through the automatic doors, continually slammed the doors to the trash cans, tried to play in the bathrooms, and once caught, screamed incessantly. At one point, I had him sitting on my knee, with my other leg crossed over him, and trapped by the free arm which was not feeding Zaida the aforementioned yogurt and trying to keep her from dumping the $5 pretzels, her sandwich, Caroline's sandwich, Jacob's pizza, and my salad onto the floor. Most of it did hit the floor at some point, and I suppose I may as well have thrown the monetary contents of my pockets on the floor and saved myself the "she needs to get a grip on her kids" looks that were hurling at me.
We have been walking to and from school a little. The other day we had a tantrum because Jacob wanted to push the stroller. No biggie. TODAY was also amazing. Jacob rode his trike. Cooper walked his scooter. I pushed Zaida. All was well. Sure, I was annoyed that Cooper was moving slower than the rest of us. I was even terrified and embarrassed when Jacob rode his trike out into traffic. The main problem on this trip was the lack of a mule. Jacob quit riding and pushed his trike out into school traffic, abandoning it. Cooper gave up also after Fred Flinstoning the trike for a while, he is less than coordinated. Add the backpack and stroller and it was MY FAVORITE. (So I carried it all for a while) I passed a lost shoe string on the sidewalk. I went back after trying to push Jacob along one kick at a time and now the trike has a leash! Thank you to the child who probably made his mother very unhappy, your service will be remembered every time I pull the trike.

Inspire me, Please.

2011-03-09T12:17:00.007-06:00

I am having style confusion.
Now that I have my own house,
and the space to create and personalize,
I don't know what I like anymore.
It is okay because their is plenty to keep me busy,
I just happen to be delaying
my dive into reality right this minute.
But only for a minute!

The Answer to Your Question is...

2010-11-28T21:33:00.002-06:00

MOST DEFINITELY NOT.

Not right now anyway, and not for a while, and most definitely not until my husband experiences some divine intervention to tell him to keep on. JK. And if you have no idea what this is about, then you didn't have any questions.

When I Grow Up...

2010-11-02T10:22:00.004-05:00

like father.....................like son

One of the questions I most commonly ask people is "What do you want to be when you grow up?" I still have things that I would like to become. Such as: a librarian...or a patient mother of five children.
I asked both of my boys (the one's that I don't have to decipher their words) this question and they both responded by saying that they wanted to be what their daddy does. Awww. So sweet. Right? Granted his job is very cool and it's a small niche to be a flying photographer (the unofficial title I just made up). That sounds so awesome, except they think he actually pilots the helicopter and plane. I think they really want to be pilots who take amazing pictures of themselves flying. And who wouldn't?
I do think it is lovely that they want to be just like their daddy. I am sure they will want to be a many great and wonderful thing before they decide to be a something that works in a cubicle. Like an astronaut, or an artist. Samuel seems to have loftier goals than Cooper. Cooper says he will be a security guard in Sam's factory, or to be a worker in that same factory (I am pretty sure he thinks that Star Wars toys are made there).
They remind me frequently that I am already grown up, to which I respond with surprised astonishment. I can't be the only one out there that still thinks of myself as 17. When I meet people and they are my age, I automatically think they are older than me. And you know I am getting older and grown up because the nurses treated me like I might know something during the delivery of my last baby (which I don't). Sam turns 8, and will be baptized in a few weeks. That is the biggest reminder that I am indeed in the middle of my life and well on my way to being grown up.

What I Failed to Mention...

2010-10-05T15:18:00.003-05:00

I most certainly was so excited to see that moustache come off from my husband's face and I can't believe that I didn't share the before and after pics.

I would like to say some positive things before the memorial begins. First, it was a fun and very free hobby. Second, it was fun to have around for a little while, just not so long next year. Last, I will admit that we have wished he still had it for novel occasions, such as a Mario and Luigi birthday party.

Like here.

But it had to go. Something was wrong with our family picture. It was off balance.

The Problem.

The Confrontation.

The Compromise.

The Veruca Salt Syndrome

2010-08-22T14:02:00.007-05:00

More commonly known as the "I want it and I want it now" syndrome.

We all have had it, or at least know someone who has , or quite possibly will get it, or maybe even cause it. Most of us are probably in denial on all counts.

The best example I can think of is a newly-wedded-wifey that wants her husband to provide her with the same fine chariot that her father is currently providing for her mother. Or something else along those lines, whether it be a house, a car, a vacation, a horse, a barn, whatever.

It can display in different ways, and it often causes a wishing away of time, and is perhaps the root of the sarcasm in my, I mean her, tone.

Maybe it's the new skill set Veruca wants. She wants to be able to pop n lock, but she just started and she still has a lot of practicing ahead.
Or maybe she wishes she could yodel for the upcoming talent show, but she hasn't taken the time to learn, so she won't be the show stealer like she really wants to be.
Or perhaps she sees her awesome older sister and is jealous of the fact that her children are all in school, and can't wait to get there herself.

My current (smaller and fairly unimportant) cases:
•Whatever the case, I can tell you that I have a uncommon case of the "I wonder if I will ever miss that moustache!" (Though perhaps there is an end in sight, and you will all know it when it happens!)
•Also I currently want a house of my own, to paint and to grow into, and I am having a hard time waiting.
•I would also like my child's teacher to return my phone call so that I can be happy and know what is going on and why the child doesn't have any spelling words.

Update Overload

2010-08-20T09:06:00.002-05:00

Well, I just updated the ole blog. And I posted about a million pictures, since I have been so neglectful! Hopefully I will find brains to actually write with soon, even though I think people like to just look at pictures. However, this is all about me, right?
Samuel has begun the 2nd grade. So far so good. Cooper is rather impatiently waiting for preschool to start, so that he can play on their playground. Jacob is still reigning master of destruction, having successfully ripped the part of my couch that is under the seat cushions. Zaida is rolling a little and chattering a little. It's awfully cute. I am loving my kids right now. Collin, aka, Mr. Pringle is still sporting his stache, btu now with wax. It's amazingly fake looking. And he loves it. I am still rooting for the disappearance of said stache! But I love you anyway honey! And I am ardently voiding housework, but that is nothing new!

Star Wars!

2010-08-06T08:48:00.002-05:00

The boys loved the exhibit. The costumes were fun to see, and they had some fun interactive things. Unfortunately, the land speeder was not one of those things...

The Milennium Falcon was of course, the highlight. The "jumped to light speed" and proudly wore there souvenir pins.

We visited Sean and Stacey and fam, including the newest addition:
Stella...
And spent a few minutes with my very wonderful Auntie Elna! I have so many wonderful memories of her as a child, and I am excited that we will be living near her soon!

We had a great time!

Zaida's Day

2010-08-05T08:19:00.004-05:00

These are from the day Zaida was blessed. I really wish I had taken the time then to write down some of my feelings, but alas, I did no such thing, but she has been the very best baby and we love her so much. Sam sits by her play pen and talks to her while having his snack or whatever. I asked him last night, "Why do you like to do that?" He just said, "Because I just love her so much and she's so cute." I said, "Yeah, me too."

Eclipse Movie Night

2010-08-01T09:19:00.000-05:00

All I am going to say is that we had fun. It was a chance to go with the loveliest gals of my acquaintance, eat junk, talk, be silly, and not worry about my kids! So say what you want, I am not a Twilight freak. It's not like I have posters or signs hanging up. And that was Holly's t shirt I was wearing. I will admit that I was probably not acting like my youthful age (22), and did pout a bit when I was reprimanded by a 11 year old for taking too many pictures.

The Dreaded Summer Rehash, Part II

2010-08-01T08:13:00.000-05:00

Fourth of July Sparklers...
Cooper and Zaida...
Sad World Cup Cookies...
Sam's favorite activity: swimming...
Jacob and Zaida....

The Dreaded Summer Rehash, Part I

2010-07-13T20:04:00.001-05:00

The Dreaded Summer Rehash, Part III

2010-07-10T16:34:00.003-05:00

We have spent most of our summer playing and adjusting to life with the new babe. It's been most challenging for me, and quite possibly Collin, but I am sure it's mostly me, to get courage to go places with four. I think I can do it now. I figured out the swimming thing, even with three non-swimmers. I had many dreams about Jacob being in peril at the pool or lake, so I was a little hesitant. We have had so much joy just watching Zaida grow, and seeing the changes in Sam, Cooper, and Jacob as well.

Expected Departure Date: UNKNOWN

2010-07-09T08:48:00.003-05:00

Some of you may have noticed that Collin has a new toy.
It is hard not to since it is planted right under his nose.

Moustache May turned into Toy Time.
He currently has no plans for shaving it.
He is waiting for the curls to come in on the sides.
Yay.

I am not a particular fan of my husband's latest accessory, but I agreed to let him keep it a little longer. I fear he will never shave it unless I make him.
(or he wakes up and half is missing-whichever happens first)
I have decreed that next year's prize mustache must be shaved June 1.
(and for the record, he agreed.)

Summer Fun?

2010-05-31T11:51:00.003-05:00

While trying to convince my children to play outside in the pleasant heat of our backyard, amidst the ever-present biting mosquitoes, and non-confrontational carpenter bees, I think I promised them something about races and water balloons tomorrow. Wow, I hope it rains! Just kidding, I am not all frump over here. However, I did think of a few (meaning three) games that we could play in such conditions (heat, bees, and mosquitoes).

1. BWHF (Backyard Water Hose Fights) akin to WWWF (World Wide Wrestling Federation).
It would be nice if we had a three headed spicket with three hoses so my kids could drench the house, each other, make the yard a bog, and further attract yet more mosquitoes to multiply in my yard. Unfortunately, we only have one hose for our single headed spicket, so on to option 2.

2. Minute to Win it: Backyard Edition.
In this round, contestants compete against each other to see who can get the most mosquito bites in one minute. The prize? A bottle of Caladryl Clear to sooth those war wounds!

3. BeeMinton.
We have found it rather therapeutic to take our aggression (when we have them-so rare!) out on the bees that drill into the beams and rafters of our glorious back porch. So, give everyone a racket and see who can hit the most off the porch!

So what do you do in the summertime?

2010-05-18T07:59:00.005-05:00

I knew my child had super skills...

So Sam is already good at multi-tasking. What more can a mother ask for. If only he could fit Jacob into this equation somehow, but come on! There has to be a limit to what a 7 year old can accomplish right?

So I am sure this is what they would like to be doing all summer, but I have news for them (and mostly for myself): This is not what it will be like. I would like to think that I will plan a fun outing every week, but alas, I am lazy and have a new baby and will use every excuse I can to stay indoors.

So these are the things on our agenda, but it is not planned or complete:

1. Learn Spanish. (Sam's greatest desire)
Luckily, I know just enough conversational French to get us by. Just kidding.

2. Go to the Star Wars exhibit.

3. Visit family.

So that's about it (so far), but I intend to add more items that will stimulate my children's minds. But I also know that if I make a huge, elaborate plan, we will never accomplish half of it. Did I mention that I have a new baby and have to feed her every five minutes?

So I hope you have a fun summer (and hopefully you don't dread all of your kids being home like I do-because one more is so much harder and all) and will give me some great ideas to entertain and possibly subdue my minions.

Some pics of Zaida...

2010-05-09T17:24:00.000-05:00

We love our baby!

2010-04-23T16:35:00.001-05:00

To Pump, or Not to Pump: Always the Question

2010-04-22T15:52:00.003-05:00

WARNING: IF YOU SUFFER FROM THE FOLLOWING,

YOU MAY WANT TO SKIP THIS POST:

1) YOU ARE A MALE
2) BREASTFEEDING MAKES YOU UNCOMFORTABLE
3) YOU THINK BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS SHOULD GO INTO CAPTIVITY TO FEED THEIR BABE
4) YOU FIND SUCH TOPICS INAPPROPRIATE FOR BLOGGING

I have rejoined the world of lactating crazy people. This is one of those things that I must have blocked from my pregnant mind because it didn't occur to me to get ready in any way to feed a baby. Silly, you may say, but it does require a little forethought. At least as far as getting out appropriate undergarments and such. I am lazy. I have never denied this, and I stand by it. Firmly. And this is where my dilemma lies. And I know some of you have experience with both sides of this, so opinions are welcome!
I have always pumped at the beginning. With Sam and Cooper, they were in the NICU and so I had to. Jacob had a hard time latching at first, so I pumped until I wasn't so engorged. Remember what it's like when your milk comes in? Especially the first time it comes in? I remember I woke up, after days of pumping, (which I fondly refer to as titty torture) and Voila! I had the most foreign and painful things attached to my chest! And they were leaking everywhere! I was in a horrible hospital room, on the most horrible post-partum floor ever, with milk soaked sheets that I was sure my nurse would not notice or change. I felt like I was wearing this:
And so I feel the same way now, except without the pain. I really think that I could have picked whatever size nursing bra I wanted, and I would have filled it in. You want to be a 40 GGG, put it on, and let your milk come in. Only joking, but it did seem that way. (And I don't know any woman who would aspire to such a size.)

My quandry lies in this: I pump now for convenience. It is just plain frustrating to get a small baby to latch properly. I know when she reaches 7 pounds, she will do fine. I am tempted to pump entirely, but I know it gets old. While it is less time spent feeding baby, it is more work.
So for those of you who have pumped for your babes, how did it go for you and what did you like/hate about it?

I am fortunate enough to have an abundance of milk, and Collin was kind enough to look up a recipe for cheese, made from breast milk. Ah, that is most disgusting. Ice cream? Maybe. Just kidding. I would rather eat mayonnaise. And that is saying something.

'My Three Sons' is now 'Adventures in Babysitting'...

2010-04-20T11:11:00.002-05:00

I decided that it would be appropriate to change the name of my blog since we no longer have only three sons. Yay for baby girls! More to come...

2010-04-16T12:33:00.000-05:00

Zaida Olive Magonigal
April 16, 2010
12:33 pm
6 pounds 10 ounces

19.5 inches

Birthday Boys

2010-04-15T11:15:00.000-05:00

We wished our sweet little boys a Happy Birthday by having cake with family and friends, and by going to the movies. Sorry, Jake, you got left behind, but none of us would have had any fun if you went! It was also Uncle Ian's birthday on Monday, so we shared some cake with him.

I think I'm Hyperventilating...

2010-04-09T13:03:00.004-05:00

The doctor's office called this morning to change the time of my c-section.

"Congratulations! You get to fast until lunch and the doctor can fit you in on his lunch break."At least I don't have to arrive at 6 am.

For the record, I did ask if we could do the pulling and cutting and searing a day sooner, but alas, he is booked. That must be why I am now on the lunch agenda. Maybe he will sew me up faster.
After I asked for an earlier date, and was promptly denied, I started realizing that I would indeed be crazy to want that because I have waited to do all things improbable until the final 6 days before the baby's birthing. This is my awesome list, and I would be happy to contract some of these things out (and blogging about this is what I am doing to avoid getting started):

1. Hand quilt Zaida's blanket (and find the hoop to put it in)
2. Make cute burp cloths
3. Beg Stacey to embroider Zaida's name on a few things (check)
4. Take Cooper to see the Tame your Dragon movie for his birthday (planned)
5. Have cake and ice cream with family and friends for Jacob's and Cooper's birthdays (check)
6. Sew crib skirt (honestly that can wait)
7. Make room for Zaida's clothes by cleaning my maternity clothes from my armoire
8. Somehow clean up the huge mess that has evolved over the last few days.
9. Laundry (see picture)
10. Sterilize bottles, etc
11. Pack my hospital bag

I am quite certain that there is more, but definitely not less.

9 days, and counting...

2010-04-06T19:32:00.011-05:00

I managed to ignore the entire month of March, blogwise. Just like I am ignoring the fact that my kids are watching Voltron on Netflix (Wii Streaming is amazing) and it's 7:37 pm. They should be going to bed, but dearest daddy is away for the evening and I am avoiding temper tantrums by pretending it's 6:37 instead. I can take only so much arguing over the Wii. And it's quiet (maybe they fell asleep?) and I would hate to disturb the peace.
I would really like to know if anyone has any good systems or suggestions that I may implement into a system to regulate how much they can play video games, the computer, or watch television. I can think of many things for Sam, but Cooper is one week shy of four, and while he is very bright, I am not sure that he will get it. So please give me ideas!
I have been very lazy as of late, letting them watch too long, etc. I realized this when I noticed that the one-week-shy-of-two year old is captivated by the TV. I really don't think that the high ratio of TV to toy time is the affector; I think he is just becoming interested. I just don't to foster it now, especially when I think has finally perfected his tantrum cry. So do I impose the "No TV Week" now, and detox them now, knowing that I am having a baby next week, or do I wait and let them become more influenced by the Sketchers ads on Saturday mornings? I think I will find something better to stress about, like lactation.

For the record, I did check my camera for pictures, just in case I took one, but no. Every picture on there has been taken by my one-week-shy-of-two year old. I wish I had some cute new ones, but old ones will have to do. In honor of our new baby arriving on the 16th, I have posted a few baby pictures of the others.

Pictures in order: Jacob, Cooper, Sam

Procrastinating...

2010-02-19T15:59:00.002-06:00

I am currently avoiding the rest of the tasks on my list for today. None of them are especially unpleasant, and some of them are downright enjoyable, but alas, my blood pressure is rising, and I feel the need to delay.
So I will share with you, with words, the two amusing and totally picture worthy snapshots of my day. Sorry no pictures today, folks. You'll have to use your fine imaginations.

First, the boys were playing in the backyard. I had rolled the windows in my car down in the front yard. Jacob had also previously scooted his cozy coupe out to the front porch. I hear yells of distress from Cooper, and I ran as they were coming from the front yard, the escapees. I ran out to see that Jacob had given Cooper a boost with his car, to help him try to climb into my car via the window. No Dukes of Hazard here, please! Unfortunately for Cooper, Jacob had left him in his need, and was hanging from the window. The amusing part is that Cooper's pants and such were creeping down so low that he could have been the poster child for "Crack Kills".

Second, the charming children escaped to the front again, unbeknownst to me. I walk bythe door, wondering why it's left open, and at the same time, wondering why I didn't leave it open because it feels so fantastic out today. Earlier, Jacob had run to the street, stopped, and pointed with murmurs of "I know I shouldn't". I informed him that the street was for cars, not little boys who still sucked on pacifiers. So when I found the door open, I expected to see Cooper diggin up my tomato bush that I have never gotten to, but no! Jacob has pushed his cozy coupe into the street, (has been there for who knows how long) and when he sees me, he proceeds to run his car down the hill. Yay! I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to Josie-Grossie-run fast enough to get him. It was cute, and I am sure that anyone would have seen him and not run over him. It was still very hard not to laugh while scolding him.

Now, back to baking and taming my mane.

Free Admissions

2010-02-17T14:26:00.002-06:00

I have been spending most of my early mornings sitting on the freezing leather couch with a babe in arms. A babe that is particular about his covers, and refuses to let them touch his arms, requiring me to freeze or contort my body in unseemly ways to get my arms covered. If I could just remember to put a robe on before I pick him up!
While I have been enjoying these early mornings, wishing for sleep, and waiting for the sun to rise with my almost 2 year old, I have pondered the following things (and found myself guilty):

* I really don't care that my children make race car tracks up and down the hall with (unused) toilet paper. Sure, it is wasteful, and when I run out and am in dire need, I am positive my mind will reflect upon their creations. Until then, I will scold them, but really, it's much easier to pick up than legos. And if they shred it? Bonus! I can vacuum it up!

* I have never really learned how to accept disappointments. Like not buying the dishes I wanted from Target 2 years ago, that they obviously no longer carry now that I have money to buy them, or the time I got written up in the 6th grade for mouthing an obscenity at a jerk-kid who just yelled one at me (he didn't get written up and I did and it ruined my perfect record).
And I don't know how to let other people be disappointed either.

* It is shameful how much housework I do not do. Please do not look at my bathroom or behind the couch. My kids know they aren't allowed to eat in the living room. I know that my kids aren't allowed to eat in the living room, but alas! I still find candy wrappers and occasionally a juice box behind the couch, in their own personal land fill. I think I always get the point in my pregnancy when I realistically cannot keep up with all of the shenanigans around me, and not be more exhausted than I am now. It does seem that it would be easier take a torch to the bathroom than clean it.

* I make lots of excuses. I realized this as I was giving my mom a list of bogus reasons that I do not regularly take my vitamins. This was called the "Dear Liza" syndrome when I was a teenager. My sister would always start singing "There's a hole in my bucket, dear Liza, dear Liza..." when I wouldn't accept anyone's solution to my problem, or their suggestions of what to wear.

* I have a lot more gray hair than I thought, and I hate coloring it. I find it to be an evil trap. And every time I begin the viscous cycle, I end up with black hair. Unflattering, unbelievably black hair. Maybe I will stick with highlights.

* I like reading sad books. Edith Wharton really didn't write any heart warmers. And apparently I like to cry. Collin still states that I have a heart of stone, and is sure my tears are residue of hormones gone wild.

* I currently see that my child is potentially making a huge mess, doing the dishes and all, however, I don't really care. It's more energy efficient to clean the mess up when he is done. However, he is taking some of the dishes in to the living room, and that is where I draw the line!

2010-02-02T14:12:00.002-06:00

I really and truly wish that I had something to blog about. However, I find that my life is pretty unexciting right now. Don't get me wrong, it is exciting that we are having a baby soon. Otherwise, Jacob's escapades are about the most compelling thing around here, next to cereal being stuck to the floor, which was probably caused by said child.

The highlights:
*I fell flat on my stomach yesterday, slicing my hand open at the same time.
Just evidence that 1) The human body is designed to protect a developing child, 2) I should have promptly replaced the huge box of bandaids that Jacob threw into the toilet, and 3) No matter if I have blood dripping from my hand, Cooper will still cry about his orange not getting peeled. ( I did empty 6 storage bins of baby clothes, the actual highlight! That's what I was working on when I got up to save Cooper from Jacob, who was whacking him in the head with a folding chair)

*Collin returns from his trip two weeks early. Thus giving me a break from putting the kids into bed. Actually I prefer bedtime. If I had a choice, I would scrap the morning routine all together if I could. I just cannot get enough sleep. And it's not like the male people in my house leave me any hot water in the morning. I would also put Sam on the bus if it didn't come before he even wakes up. I would also let him buy a lunch every day, if he would eat it. That would make life much easier. Not that it is that hard, I just really like it when Collin feeds the kids in the morning. I really shouldn't complain, though I do. I have such wonderful people in my life, enough to make up for any disappointments that may come. So thanks for being so great!

*I have been enjoying a BBC movie marathon. Really if you have not had the pleasure of watching any of the Elizabeth Gaskell movies, you should. Such bliss. If you like that kind of stuff. I am not really sure why I am not watching the last one right now, in fact. Maybe because Jacob turns the TV off every five seconds.

*I realized this week that my children (some of them, okay, just Sam) comprehend my sarcasm, which makes me feel like a bad mom. But at least they know how to detect it, I guess. Well, I have far too many other flaws to worry about, so I will consider that spilled milk.

*Sam can carry a tune. A new and exciting development in our house. I am determined to start now to teach him the primary songs for this year. That and to not act like a monkey when standing in front of the congregation performing with the Primary. I am sure some of you have witnessed his skills. While I love making people laugh, that is just embarrassing. Especially when they are 7. So the bribery begins. Candy motivates. The only reason I memorized the scriptures in seminary was to get candy. (It's the childhood greed that I still have not outgrown.) Hopefully he will even have a cavity to show for it. In fact, I may request a silver crown with a music note punched out. Then he will always remember his hard work.

Ventures through space... for the geeks.

2010-01-11T15:43:00.012-06:00

I don't know if you can see the fine detail in this picture or not, but that is Jango Fett attempting to assassinate Anakin Skywalker:

Collin was playing with the boys whilst I was napping, and this is the result: The Millenium Falcon Photo Shoot. They took tons of pictures, but I will spare you, for the most part. And I get a big fat F for not taking pictures of my kiddos as of late. And probably for letting Jacob sit on the floor with a dry erase marker while I do this. He is probably coloring his pants.

Jacob controls the sounds. It's the only thing the older boys will allow.

As you can see, Luke is sunbathing, while flying through space. It's amazing.

Point being this: Did my 7 and 3 year old think to do this all alone? Doubtful. I think Collin had just as much fun as they did. Santa sure is good at picking gifts the whole family will love!
(That nap shouldn't even count toward my tally.)

By the way! The Star Wars Imagination exhibit is coming to Huntsville in June!

Thankyou Mr. Weatherman!

2010-01-08T15:20:00.003-06:00

I know that many of my dear friends are so deep in snow and freezing temperatures that they could only dream of being in our part of Alabama, where it simply will not snow. To be certain it is cold here, but pleasantly so.
I have a 7 year old who is desperate for snow. All week we talked listened about the possibility of snow on the news. Samuel trusts these weathermen more than me, apparently, for he would not believe that it simply wasn't going to snow! And now, we have had no snow, and he is crushed! Okay, he got over it rather quickly, but he has inherited one of his parent's dramatic instinct. I will let you guess from whom he got it.
For the record, the weather folks did say it was only chance, but some of us only hear what we wish to hear!

Idealism: Out. Optimism Tinged with Realism: In.

2010-01-05T16:10:00.005-06:00

What an idealist I was at the age of 13. I remember telling Tara Taylor that I was going to have 10 kids (and all kinds of other VERY ambitious things that I am sure I will not accomplish). She replied by stating that I would be pregnant for 8 years. I was sure that I wold love the pregnant state of being and therefore, no problem! I was going to be a baby factory! How naive I was. On so many levels. Don't mistake me, I think my 3 are great, and I look forward to the girl child coming to our family in April, as well as any others that may like to come after an extended period of time. I just don't see 1) me mothering 10, or having 10 c-sections, and 2) me being sane and kind and domestic about it all. I truly admire such women! That being said, I have had the pleasure and misfortune of having 3 soon to be 4 children without a labor pain. I didn't opt for it to be this way, but finding the perks in an undesirable situation is good, right? C-sections work for me (and I will thank a very distant ancestor of an ancestor, Ephraim McDowell, for performing the first successful abdominal surgery in 1809).

Back to being an idealist! I am sure many can relate to making a to do list with 600 things for the morning alone. For a while, I was really good at making REASONABLE lists. Unfortunately, I got doused with that super human feeling that I could accomplish it all and made myself some pretty ambitious goals for the week. Lucky for me, I caught whatever my kid brought home from the nursery on Sunday, and had a great excuse for not getting it all done. Which I am sure I totally would have otherwise (wink wink).

In my attempt to ditch this former line of thinking, I present the aforementioned Optimism Tinged with Reality. Clever? I know. I stole that from the dictionary. I have tried to set reasonable goals for the year (do more family history, have the guts to take Jacob's pacifier away, be an 8 cow wife, etc), and feel that I can accomplish them with great effort along with great help (having 10 children, NOT being one of them).

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-23T12:00:00.000-06:00

Not my child...

2009-12-17T17:01:00.002-06:00

Samuel went on a field trip today, and I have no pictures of him skating, or climbing rock walls, etc, because I am a bad mom and didn't go. Something about being pregnant and roller skating. I always want to, and I am sure that many others may be adept enough to do so, but I am extremely coordinated and wouldn't want to make the 1st graders feel bad.

I gave Samuel $16 to spend. A very generous amount, but I thought, "He is going to be there all day, and it was all allocated for certain things. This is where I doubt that he is mine. He brought back $6.25. I was really shocked, and impressed. When my lovely momacita gave me money, I used it all. When she gave me a twenty, and asked for change, I literally brought her change. (At least 75 cents, three quarters is a lot, right?) Collin is telling me as I type that he always brought back change. So, I guess there is hope that Sam will be less impulsive than I. Thanks for contributing your more level headed, sensible genes, Honey!

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas...

2009-12-17T16:15:00.002-06:00

I am sure I remember it snowing one Christmas in my youth, however, my sister just informed that I am crazy. Well, she doesn't remember anyway. According to Wikipedia, it never snowed on Christmas in my county. I still think it did. Probably the year that my dear brothers threw my doll carriage into the tree tops, and was never recovered. I obviously never recovered from that particular trauma. I remember looking for it even after we moved. Sigh...

So while I am dreaming of a White Christmas, I will also dream of clean toilets and self-cleaning clothing. It is a proven fact, at least in my house, that if a clean, fresh bath mat gets put down one of the following will occur, in record time:

1) Some little boy, will be too distracted to aim properly,
2) Some other little boy will put "some little boy's" shirt, socks, or toothbrush in said toilet, making a large splash in the process of retrieving treasured item, OR
3) Some other bigger boy will use so much toilet paper, it must overflow. The attraction to the floor mat is too great!

Well, I guess I may still get the "White Christmas", just not the way I want.

(Almost) Finished Project...

2009-12-02T09:53:00.005-06:00

I have been planning to redo this china cabinet since I was pregnant with Cooper. Procrastinate much? Four years and 2.5 children later, it's almost complete. Thanks to my lovely momacita, we finally started the dreaded project!

≈

For anyone who wants to know...

2009-11-15T21:06:00.004-06:00

We are having a girl! (April 15th ish)

Responses from our dear children:

Cooper: In the car, way after the fact, "Mom, I don't want a girl."
Me: "Do you mean you don't want a sister?"
Cooper: "Yeah, Elizabeth is mean to me." About two months ago, his friend took his paintbrush. He isn't a grudge holder or anything.

About 11 hours later:

Me: "Cooper do you want to tell Sam what kind of baby we are getting?"
Cooper: "Yeah! Sam, we are getting a brother!"
Me: "No, actually it is a girl."
Sam: With the cutest little about-to-be tears in his eyes, "A sister? Really? A girl?" Followed by hugs and much happiness, as he has been begging me to produce a sister for him for the past 2 years.

Cooper is now happy about it, and Sam's reaction was priceless. Collin seems to think that we are nearing the finish line now that our collection is near completion. Hmmm. Ask me in about 3 years for an accurate, non-hormone influenced answer.

No, Sam, You Can't Have Sideburns.

2009-11-09T08:47:00.004-06:00

Samuel occasionally wants a certain hairstyle. "I wanna spike it in the front", or "This part is too pokey looking." Usually he wants whatever will get him off the dreaded chair the fastest. "I want my hair long on top", "I want it long in the back", or as he professed on Saturday,
"I want sideburns."

You may not be able to glimpse his chops all that great, but there they are. He turned 7, by the way. Which is weird! Happy Birthday to him! He received some great gifts, his favorite being this bow and arrow. Thanks Ryan and Neisha!

He thinks he is Robin Hood now. It's really fun, and he is very generous with his turns. He was looking for a bear to shoot on Saturday. I assured him that his best bet would be a squirrel, and that he should just stick with the paper target, since I am not ready for him to hunt, and am not really confident that he could choose appropriate living targets.

Quick Photo Update...

2009-11-07T09:05:00.000-06:00

This is Jacob looking innocent. He is the most mischievous child I have. He is the one who touched the hot oven every time its on, and never learns. He is constantly getting into everything. He loves appliances with cords. Curling irons and hand mixers are his favorite right now. The chairs are all in the garage so he can't climb, and I am just waiting for him to learn to open the fridge. I am amazed daily that he hasn't tried to climb out of his bed, or hasn't has success anyway.

I took Cooper and Madeline fishing last week. We only caught a little lake grass, however. They loved it though!

Sam has a wicked set of teeth right now. One of his front teeth will not let go, and is hanging crooked. Its disturbing to look at, even his teacher begged me to pull it out! But with his other loose tooth, and his new tooth coming in, it makes a pretty picture worthy!

Halloween kiddos: Jango Fett, Harry Potter, and Charlie Brown (who did not get rocks)

You are FIRED!

2009-09-14T13:45:00.003-05:00

"Honey, the freezer got left open and is completely defrosted." Well, this is what every woman wants to hear at 5:58 am. Awesome. Followed by: "And Cooper wet his bed." Then I hear for the vast majority of the day, different rendetions, mind you: "Whaaaaaaaaa!"

So Sam indeed left the freezer open yesterday morning, after obtaining a gogurt. My mistake, I should have put his snacks in the inside freezer, or at least checked the freezer to make sure it wasn't standing wide open before I went off to enjoy a blissful night of sleep.

And Cooper indeed, did wet his bed this morning. Not in the middle of the night, for which I am very glad, but wet pee pee sheets are wet pee pee sheets.

Jacob is a different story. He is 17 months today. (One more month until nursery! ) I am reminded of a time when I worked as a temp. I apparently worked too fast. They told me to slow down and pace myself. Sure in a hotdog eating contest, I thought. But time and time again, I ran out of work. I was just too efficient! And I didn't have anything to worry about like real work. I was frustrating the project leader, probably because my amazing work and fantastic hair was making him look bad. Well, Jacob is making me look bad. He is most efficient at his work. And he has fantastic hair. I have tried the same stategy! Slow down! Pace yourself! One box of Legos is enough to dump out at one time! Climbing on the counter is not permitted! Especially when you dump out my purse, or throw my cup of water on the floor! His ground tactics are bad enough. He likes to put things in the toilet. Most recently: Sam's underwear. He likes to hang out in my fridge too, so I find bottles of salad dressing all over the house. He is a master of devastation and destruction. he is just too good at his job. Can't I fire him for this?

Good news for all of you! He is for hire. His current skills include: ironing, destroying phones, spraying the junky clorox ready mop all over the house, bringing in toys covered with dirt, and cleaning the bathroom floors with bath water.

We Heart the Zoo

2009-08-05T19:30:00.004-05:00

Today we went to the zoo in Montgomery. It was a splendid, hot day full of trying to 1) keep up with Sam as he ran ahead to each exhibit, and 2) keep Cooper moving fast enough so that we could actually look like we were part of the same family. The monkeys were mostly in hiding, but we brought our own, so that worked out okay. And all of the cool animals were sleeping, but what else should I have expected going at lunch time? We decided to go to Sonic afterwards, opting to get a cheaper lunch, and of course the kids want to eat at the tables. This is something I usually would deny them with a false promise of future payout. However, why not? At least Collin was with me. It was REALLY annoying that Jacob kept pushing the call button and examining car tires (at least he wasn't eating them - sorry Christy, I couldn't resist). So we get our food and get everyone settled and finish our slushies before eating our food, and suddenly it turns into this:

Next thing we know, is the wind is blowing like a hurricane. I can see children watching us anxiously, if not amusedly, as our napkins and bags fly everywhere. I got my hands holding all of the paper down when Coopers french fries start flying past me. Then goes Sam's slushie. "Ma'am? Can I have a new cup? Thanks!" So Collin picks up the trash and puts the rioting kids in the car. I was contemplating how to get the remains of their food in the car, for we had used their bags as plates, and each had a nice glob of ketchup right on top. But the wind had it in for me, and thwarting me all the while, blew them right onto my pants. Sweet! "Ma'am? Could I get another bag? Thanks!" And thanks for watching all of this happen with your mouth hanging open. So leftovers in a bag, trash picked up, me covered in ketchup, we settled into the car and headed home before the torrential downpour. At least we had that going for us.
We had a great time and I have never had a more exciting time at Sonic.

I never knew...

2009-07-31T23:05:00.007-05:00

I had no idea, until recently, that facial hair could be a hobby. A hobby, you say? Yes. A hobby. Apparently there is an attraction for a man to participate in this type of activity, especially is his friends do it. I can only compare this to a woman growing her hair out for Locks of Love, except it's totally different. Unfortunately for me, Collin is dying to do this next May. You may be able to sense my growing excitement about having my husband look like he should be wearing black leather and riding a Hog. Perhaps I will be optimistic and hope for something a little more like Smokey and the Bandit. Or if I am lucky, the Pink Panther.

These are some fine examples:

Here are the rules from americanmustacheinstitute.org:

"The Man Laws of Official Mustache May:
The grandeur of the mustache must be worshiped in truth and singularity. Therefore, no mustache can be accompanied by any other form of facial hair. In other words, don’t hide behind the beard (spousal compromise).
On May first you celebrate and live the Mustached American lifestyle, parading about with a large, unvarnished mustache.
Destroy any DVD or Blue Ray copy of "Sex & the City."
No complaining due to lack of action. It ruins the spirit of the 'stache. We are all in this together and nobody said it would be easy. Be creative with it, like "Ladies, it tickles when we kiss. Wanna try?"
No cats, except in an omelet.
Be proud of your mouth mullet. Don’t avoid public or mingling with the opposite sex because you are ashamed of your facial hair. The hairy upper lip is empowering!
It's not what's on the upper lip, it's what's in your heart. Don’t shirk participation because you think your lip curtain is weak or pathetic. Not everybody can grow a nose garments like Tom Selleck. Michael Jordan got cut from his high school basketball team for God sakes.
Never forget Dave Navarro is weak and pathetic. Here's why.
Hook up your fellow Mustache May participants. If you wait tables, free drinks would be an appropriate gesture.
Encourage others to grow the 'stache. It’s liberating, so spread the love.
Applaud anyone who walks by you wearing any semblance of a mustache.
Some of you men may face severe pressure from the ladies in your life to not participate. Here is the secret in helping her become a Mustache enthusiast: Invite her to choose the mustache style for the month. After that, have her shave you down to that sexy mustache she chose. Then it now become "our" mustache and not "your" mustache. She will love it and stand by her man the whole month long."

This is what Collin's is sure to look like:

Home Happenings

2009-07-31T07:47:00.004-05:00

You may not think that a bath is noteworthy, but I have not been able to get a picture of this kid in a clean state in a while. He absolutely hates the bath! Do any of your kids act like you are torturing them in the bath? It drives me crazy, and I have been a lazy mom, maybe even horrible, about giving baths this summer. That will end soon.

Horrible Mommy Scenario 2: This is what happens when you lay in bed like you are oblivious to the world around you. It was very cute. Sam got Jacob out of bed, fixed breakfast for all three of them. Of course he was serving cereal, and that is fantastic, but I think he poured an entire quart of milk on Cooper's cereal alone. Thank you Sam.

Ah, yes. Well, Collin uncovered a hive of yellow jackets that were out to get him. So this was his covert operations apparel. I thought it was a bit much, but then again, he didn't get stung by the bees that were desperately seeking him. Thanks for making our yard a safe place, Honey. And our kitchen a humorous one.

Super Cooper built a temple, and it has two Moroni's. I was just happy that he
1) built a structure, 2) called it a temple, and 3) knew Moroni goes on top.

Sam's Photography: He's getting better

2009-07-28T07:41:00.000-05:00

Missing

2009-07-22T14:09:00.000-05:00

If anyone knows the location of the following items, I will reward you with a plate of m&m cookies or some such delicacy:

1. The 1st disc of Pride and Prejudice
2. Cooper's MP3 player
3. Sam's MP3 player
4. The book in which I would find all of the family history anwers I need

That is all I am looking for today.

Relief Society Activity!!!

2009-07-17T07:47:00.001-05:00

Here are the pics from last night!
I thought they were all very cute, and the activity was
GREAT!
I think I know almost everyone's name now!
Thanks to the party planners!!!

More Pictures (I just figured out Picasa)

2009-07-16T22:40:00.001-05:00

Sprinklers!

2009-07-15T15:07:00.001-05:00

12:01 am

2009-07-15T07:58:00.011-05:00

This is my official review of Harry Potter: It was a great movie. If you are hoping to see Harry Potter through your mind's eye, or even through. JK Rowling's, you may be disappointed, but for the non-purists out there, it is great. We debated the entire drive home about this topic. I firmly believe that Harry Potter fans would like an accurate, or closely accurate film, and that such a thing is possible. (Apparently that is me being negative and pessimistic. Whatever, it kept Collin awake for the drive home.) Thank you Erin for babysitting! I missed all of the good costumes, which included a chicken named Hedwig.

Yikes! A Climber!

2009-07-13T18:32:00.005-05:00

This was sweet Jedi Jacob yesterday. Apparently cutting off his own hands. Today Jacob is climbing. He has been getting stuck on the little tykes chair for a while. Yesterday, he figured out how to get off by himself. Today, he can climb the regular chairs, and the table is his new perch. I guess I just thought he would give me a little longer before he started this venture. Climbing at 14 months is by no means a record, I know, but still! Cooper didn't even walk until 17 months.

First Impressions Warrant Second Chances

2009-07-13T07:21:00.003-05:00

During one of my brief educational experiences, I took a British Literature class. It was great. I read lots of Old and Middle English, learned how to write a paper properly (not represented in my blogging), and somewhere in there became enamored with Queen Elizabeth. I will admit that I had thought of signing up for the British Novel course. Who wouldn't want to read Jane Austen, or some such author all day and then write a paper about it all night?

The professor looked like Bob Saget. I fully expected this man to act like Bob Saget's character on Full House. (If you have never seen that show, I don't know what planet you live on.) In theory he did. I just imagined he was the real version of Danny Tanner. The way he conducted himself seemed perfectly, awkwardly scripted. I saw him driving his car, perfectly following the speed limit, in a practical car that fit the part. I am sure he would be disappointed that someone thought all of this about him, because I am certain there was a much more interesting side to his life. In fact, I think he may have been quite wild when compared to my opinion of him. This was made clear when I read something he had written or lectured on, that struck me as vulgar; I realized he was probably more like Bob Saget's brand of comedy, rather than the character I had aligned with him in my mind.

*As a side note, it was, however,the first time I ever actually received an A in an English class (that I really earned, I mean). Also, the first time I ever earned an A on a paper. Which is surprising in itself, I know.

Nonetheless, first impressions are usually deceptive, are they not? You can meet someone five times, and from casual conversation, know nothing about them, except that they are a girl and are from Canada. I have been told often that I was not what was expected. Meaning they thought I was frumpy, but then found out that I was awesome. First Impressions was the first title of Pride and Prejudice. Imagine what would have happened if Miss Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy had never recovered from their first impressions of each other: I suspect Jane Austen would not have become so immensely popular, and Mr. Darcy not quite so supremely ideal. I also suspect that if we never take the time to look more closely at people, we will never be friends with them, and probably miss out on something great.

Harry Potter. Tuesday. Midnight.

2009-07-07T21:36:00.003-05:00

How did I get this job?

2009-07-07T01:11:00.002-05:00

I gave in. I took the still unnamed puppy. There was only one left, and I am sure someone else would have taken it. Or at least taken it to the pound. So why is the girl who is afraid of the dark taking the puppy out in the scary yard at 1 am? Who leaves a box of puppies outside the church anyway? Someone smart, I suppose.

Former Compulsive Liar. Present.

2009-07-03T00:58:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I tell a story, give my opinion, or share details of an event, and realize that it may or may not be true. I have been known to make things up. (Like I am a tennis player.) Sometimes, my memory has distorted the actual happening into what I wanted it to be. (Like I am a good tennis player.) I usually am not well informed, and do not have many of the facts, but I like to think that I am an expert. Therefore, I am a self-declared know-it-all, who really only knows what she thinks, what she sees, and what she thinks she sees. Observant as I am, the fine details which I think mean something, usually amount to something excessively unremarkable, and not as romantic as I had imagined.

I do not like to hear bad news. I do not relish in gossip. I do not like to talk about people in any way that may hurt their feelings. But it happens, and I always feel bad. Ask anyone who has been trapped with me for more than a few hours; I end up saying something remotely unkind about someone known or unknown to me. Then I feel such distress that I make my apologies to ears that usually do not remember. I always commit myself to not saying anything about anyone for any of their faults, or personal annoyances, but I am an obvious imperfection in the crowd of humanity, and thus the cycle rounds. See an older post for further examples.

I am also guilty of embellishment, as I previously alluded to, and I am deeply troubled that I may give the wrong impression about myself or my fine abilities. Or anyone else's. These statements are characteristically followed by a statement such as, “Well, I am not really sure it happened that way”, “That isn't what I really said”, or perhaps, “This is only my opinion, please don't take it as doctrine.”

I am a people watcher. I notice mannerisms, and the awkward movements that you always hope no one sees. I notice mispronounced words, incorrect usage, etc. Not that I do not myself make these mistakes, for I am guilty. Reason steps in and tells me that people don't care, and likely do not pay close enough attention to notice such things. So as I watch people, I do not look for imperfection, but good things. In my mind, I find certain files are fuller than others. If I take those items out and arrange them all behind my eyes, I feel like I can tell you a great deal about this person. My conclusions are usually idyllic.

This is not to say that I do not tell the truth in general. For I do tell things as accurately as I can, and often still my tongue for wont of information. I am constantly plagued by things I have said for the truth that may or may not be found in them, but mostly I lack courage to accept that someone may not like what I say; and so I set out to know a detailed knowledge of the subjects on which I express my thoughts. I do not endure any form of rejection well. A tragic, common flaw, yes. I say lots of things that people may not like, but the things that are important to me are hard to say; the stories I want to write are hard to let others hear.

And so much of the time, I remain silent.

Aviaiton Museum, take 216

2009-07-02T00:38:00.000-05:00

Susiecation

2009-07-01T18:19:00.000-05:00

As some of you know, especially those of you who were babysitting for me (thank you ever so much!!!), I went to see a good friend of mine for a few days. Somewhere along the way I lost Susie and I am super excited to have found her again (i can't believe i am about to say it! thankyou facebook!). She is the craziest of my friends and always makes me laugh.

In true Amanda fashion, we got lost coming back from the airport. What would a trip be without 3 extra hours in an awesome bug? We saw lots of beautiful landscapes, a Herbie car, and met many people who we thought were insane, but in all actuality, they knew where we were, and we didn't.
We got to spend time at the Greenbrier doing fun things. Facials, pedicures, swimming, sleeping. You know, all of that stuff I didn't know I couldn't live without. I could have just looked at the grounds. It was fantastic.

We also had a very unsuccessful yard sale. No one showed up until 9am. Here, people are knocking on your door at 6am. I was quite relieved actually, we stayed up so late.

We had a fun time, there was lots of laughs, and movies, and music, and it sure was weird being away from my kids for that long. I think I like being responsible for someone else.

Salt, please.

2009-06-22T11:26:00.003-05:00

I like salt. However, my cereal tasted a little salty this morning. That I do not like. It reminded me of the time when I baked a Texas Sheet cake and served it to my family, a friend, and the missionaries. I followed the recipe, the cake turned looked fabulous! No sink holes or anything. (I am not a great cake baker)
I served it to those poor, unfortunate young men. They ate it. Luckily, the frosting was perfect, and was served with a scoop of ice cream. The original recipe called for 1 1/4 teaspoon of salt. I had written 4 Tablespoons when I copied it. So, you can imagine that it was rather like eating play dough. Sadly only one person mentioned it and it was far after everyone had finished theirs. Oh well, what's one more strike against my kitchen skills?

Things are just things.

2009-06-17T10:30:00.003-05:00

Today I met a woman, while shopping for groceries, who was amazing. She was an ordinary 83 year old woman at first glance. As I talked to her, I learned that she had three children by the age of 20, has only bought one dress in her life, makes all of her own clothes, took care of her husband until he died. I asked her if she ever got lonely, and she said that she had plenty of work to do and was not lonely. She still tends her garden and sews her clothes. She was buying patterns. She said they lived off of nothing when their children were growing up. Out in the country and everything was simple, and they worked hard.

It reminded me that things are not that important, and while it is nice to have a nice new TV, or a bedroom suite, it is much more satisfying to make my own skirt, even if my prideful heart wants to tell everyone that I made it. I think I forget that Work is so rewarding. The tomatoes from my flower bed taste better than the ones I buy. The things I make remind me that I have had many gifts and talents given to me, and builds confidence that I am using my time wisely.

The woman was so grateful for everything. I read an article in a back issue of The Friend, and it was about a little girl who was compelled by her mother to find something to be thankful for in every situation. What an attitude improver. That is my goal this week; to find something to be grateful for in every situation. So when the clothesalanche falls on me, I guess I will be grateful the clothes are clean, and not dirty.

Cake Balls by Bakerella

2009-06-11T22:54:00.004-05:00

http://bakerella.blogspot.com/2007/12/red-velvet-ca ke-balls.html

For Becky, and anyone else who wants to make or eat beautiful treats.

Amanda's High School Happenings.

2009-06-09T22:30:00.005-05:00

This is a news clip about my high school...
from worldnetdaily.com,

"The ACLU had sued the school six months earlier and as part of the discussions over that dispute, the school's separate counsel had agreed to a consent decree that "essentially bans all Santa Rose County School District employees from engaging in prayer or religious activities," Liberty Counsel's report said.
The ACLU had alleged that during a dinner event at the school, Lay had asked the athletic director to bless the meal. In a second incident, the ACLU claimed Winkler's husband, who is not a school board employee, offered a prayer at an awards ceremony.
As preparations were being made for the 2009 graduation, the ACLU demanded the school censor students from offering prayers or saying anything religious. As a result, two student leaders traditionally allowed by the school to address their graduation were banned from doing so.
Staver said class members, furious with the ACLU for hijacking their free speech rights, assembled the plan on their own. As soon as Lay asked everyone to be seated for the ceremony, the graduating seniors remained standing and recited the Lord's Prayer."

2009-06-01T17:18:00.000-05:00

Please Validate My Ego

2009-05-28T16:17:00.003-05:00

I used to be a person who told everyone every little thing about myself, in horrifyingly boring detail. In a way I still have this horrible habit, perhaps a little muted. Lucky readers. In thinking about my quest for validation, I realized that we all seek it. I happen to be starving for it. Whether it is the child who begs for a compliment on his school work; the girl who shows ridiculous pictures to her friends, looking for compliments; the girl who sends pictures to her dad, knowing he won't respond, the woman who can't even let her husband take a bite of his food before asking if he likes it, or maybe even the woman who cleans her house just to get the compliment. Maybe the compliments are the motive for some. If I could get people to stamp my ego like a parking validation, my insecurities would be much more discreet.

Last Day of Kindergarten.

2009-05-27T17:41:00.008-05:00

It is a good thing that Sam's end of the year program was today, and not last week. Good for my mascara that is. Last week, I would have been an emotional wreck, desperately trying not to spill my salty tears. Not today. Today I was even able to make normal human conversation, with one exception. Let me introduce myself, in case you don't know me:
I am Mr Jekyll Jekyll Hyde, Mr. Hyde Hyde Jekyll.

I realize that was awfully random, but the song, especially the chorus, is stuck in my head. It is also my theme song. I made it through the day, all thanks to my heart of stone! Well, this is not about my social awkwardness, but about Sam, so...

I told Sam he could take some pictures in his classroom. These were the result:

No classmates, or where he sat, tissue boxes, and I think the kitchen center too. Well, his favorite Kindergarten haunts have forever been digitized. Samuel had the same teacher that Collin had for Kindergarten. Same classroom too. I really wish I had taken a picture of Collin with Sam and his teacher. But alas, traveling parents get no such perks.

Good job Sam on making it through Kindergarten. I wish I were in Kindergarten. Well, not really. I am happy to be 30. And not in danger of being put in time out, which I most certainly deserve! And really, is the cap and gown necessary? It is cute I suppose.

Where oh Where did my humor go?

2009-05-27T17:40:00.001-05:00

I was reading through some older posts, looking for a morsel of info, and decided that this blog has taken the picture trail, which was not intended. My intent was to show everyone how much fun I have on an hourly basis. Actually it was an exercise to write and let people read if they were so very fortunate to stumble upon my golden words. Pictures started forcing their way onto the pages via Peer Pressure. And I like it, so long as I still am funny.

How are ya likin' all the rain?

2009-05-26T22:54:00.002-05:00

Cooper thinks it is his personal responsibility to bring mud into the house. He swept my car with the same broom with which he cleaned the flooded sidewalk. Thank you Cooper. I now remember why I didn't plant anything I cared about in my flowerbeds. They flood like crazy when it rains. I hope my tomatoes, and other less important things, survive! I did get my very first tomato on Monday, but I ate it and forgot to take a picture. At least I succeeded in growing one tomato!

Tattle Tale

2009-05-24T15:49:00.003-05:00

Cooper said he thirsty, ran to the fridge, said he wanted milk, and got it out.
Not unusual.
When I looked again, he was chugging, a very nearly empty jug of milk.
As you see.

Cute you might say.
When questioned by his father,
Cooper stated: I was drinking milk. Like Mommy.
Way to give me away, kid!

Days like these...

2009-05-21T10:07:00.002-05:00

Make me INSANE!

Luckily I have wonderful friends who make it better, and also make me realize that is just a bad day, and NOT the end of the world.
Top 10 things of Yesterday:

10. Samuel screaming & crying for 30 minutes before school because I ate the last piece of pizza that he was hoping to eat for breakfast.

9. Jacob has been on antibiotics for his never-ending ear infections, and thus has the most horrible diaper rash he has had yet. I love changing a screaming baby's diaper! It's super!

8. Going shopping for food and plants, only to realize that I cannot find my wallet, after ringing it all up.

7. Jacob figured out how to mutilate my basil plant.

6. Cooper digging up all of my new plants and gouging all of the blooms off with his shovel.

5. Coming home from choir at 9 pm, in hopes that my children were sound asleep, only to find that every last one of them was still awake. 1/3 of which were crying.

4. Being thwarted at every attempt to make it to the quilt shop.

3. Stepping in milk that Jacob spilled all over my carpeted kitchen.

2. Being Wendy Whiner all day. I really did have to stretch to find all ten of these. BECAUSE I did have a lot of lovely things too!

1. Cooper* locking himself, Jacob, my keys, and my cell phone in the hot car at 1:oo in the hot afternoon.**

*Cooper is re-banned from playing in the car, as most kids should be. He has been banned before. He filled my tape deck with pennies. He has left the lights on at least 3 times and killed my battery, and has tried spraying the hose inside. Thankyou Cooper for all of your help!

**Sorry no pictures of the 2 police officers, and the cussing locksmith that were racing to get my kids out of the car.

Swinging

2009-05-18T21:16:00.005-05:00

Seriously, this is the only face that Cooper ever makes.
He is such a "pretty" child as people in waiting rooms
describe him; he just does not photograph well.
I blame it on my camera.
I am also aware that I do not use the
semicolon
correctly, and I would be happy to be educated on that.

Way to Go Collin!

2009-05-16T11:54:00.007-05:00

Collin won first place in Army Aviation Magazine's photo contest, as well as an honorable mention. Good job sweetie!

The Three Muskateers

2009-05-13T07:41:00.002-05:00

The Three Muskateers is being performed as we speak, at the Shakespeare Festival. Through the month of May and a week of June. I am planning on attending this fine event, even if alone, but if anyone would like to accompany me, please say so!

Just made me laugh...

2009-05-11T12:49:00.000-05:00

Its Official: I have a child old enough to lose a tooth.

2009-04-28T20:00:00.004-05:00

I know I have been asking everyone what the Tooth Fairy did at their house, and alas, while playing on the playground tonight, Samuel yanked out his tooth. Really?
You know, or most likely you don't, I am not really that sentimental. I have my moments, but maybe my kids will be. There have been a few times that I have wished I had not thrown something out, but it passes quickly enough. I think Sam will be attached to things. I have no clue where his lock of hair from his first hair cut is, etc, but I will now keep his memories better than my own.

And the Boring Blog Award Goes To....

2009-04-28T14:50:00.002-05:00

ME! I congratulate myself hardily on this! I know that this blog is mainly for my own benefit, so it bothers me that it has been so idle. For many reasons, firstly, I have nothing funny, sad, quirky, or otherwise informative to say, for my brain is not in that mode. It is on, however, enough for me to know that I could just post some pictures, and quell the inner and oh so unnecessary guilt at not maintaining one more thing, which most people like. Pictures, not guilt. Secondish, I do think that just posting pictures is productive, and I like looking at pictures, etc, etc, but I started this for me to get these insane thoughts out of my head, in hopes of making Mr. Collins laugh at me. However, this will never be accomplished via my blog, for he does not read it. Its a shame. I even tried writing a tribute to him and he will not read! He has better things to do, like work! Ha! Just kidding. Thirdliest, Samuel informed me this morning that he thinks we are having six more kids, and I think that he is 6 and insane himself. If that is the case, then indeed I will be insane, or more so for the next ten years and will not have time to do anything. Or time to waste anyway. At least he amended his order, and changed it to two more boys and a girl (whom he thinks he gets to name. Negative.) Sorry, I think that he is dreaming.

Happy Birthday Cooper!

2009-04-15T07:27:00.010-05:00

Cooper is 3 today. And I believe "I Love Rock n Roll" (so put another dime in the jukebox baby!) was playing in the operating room. It seems so long ago! This morning as I was wishing Cooper a happy birthday, he giggled and got back under his covers. I thought he was embarrassed, but no, just hiding. Well, Happy Birthday Coop!

Happy Birthday Jacob!

2009-04-14T07:28:00.004-05:00

Nonnie! Come Visit Me!

2009-03-11T12:55:00.006-05:00

How can you say no to this child's smile?

Or this fantastic carpet?
The boys are excited and Samuel said you can even have the top bunk!

Five Senses

2009-03-09T12:23:00.002-05:00

Well since I think that blogs are "in" like aqueous martinis and pinstriped suits, I will participate in this tag. This is the dealeo:
You list 4 things you love, and one thing you hate, for each of the 5 senses. Then tag 5 people, leave them a note on their blog so they know. Also, let the person who tagged you know when you post yours.

Taste: i LOVE one-tomatoes and cheese together on anything; two-homemade pizza; three- peanut butter; four- yeast rolls; i HATE potato salad.

Smell: i LOVE one-cinnamon oil boiling in my kitchen (the smell of Fall); two- new books; three-freshly cut grass and turned flower beds; four-Collin; i HATE the smell of ketchup.

Touch: i LOVE one-fresh sheets and shaved legs; two-getting my hair cut; three-walking barefoot; four-forming dough in my hands; i HATE it when people touch my neck.

Sight: i LOVE one-words on a page, especially mine; two- people ( I stare a lot- I Can't Help it!); three- trees in fall with red leaves; four- beautiful fabrics; i HATE unflushed toilets.

Sound: i LOVE one- my children talking (quietly); two-inspiring music; three-Collin's car pulling in; four- the thunk of a bat hitting a ball; i HATE footsteps outside my tent in the middle of the night.

I tag the following: Lorie S, Lindsay G, Jessica N, Penny W, and Stacey A

March Bookclub - InkSpell

2009-03-05T12:32:00.003-06:00

Hello all! Book Club is March 26th (Thursday) at 9:30 am.
We will be meeting at
Monique Phipps
and will make sure you know how to get there.
For any newcomers,
we are reading a sequel this month, but you have plenty of time to catch up!
Fulfill your hearts desire and come discuss
Inkspell by Cornelia Funke.
Bring ideas for next month's book and get ready to talk to some fabulous women!

Oscars Opening

2009-02-27T15:00:00.002-06:00

Yeah, I am posting another video. I didn't get to watch the Oscars, but this was definitley worth watching, if you like musicals and/or Hugh Jackman. I know I told a few people about it, but I doubt any one looked it up. Now you can watch it from the convienence of my blog!

Book Club Reminder

2009-02-25T09:26:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow is book club. In case you forgot.

Please sign your life away...

2009-02-20T09:51:00.002-06:00

This is a tag I can do! Who else want to play? I think my audience is diminished, but hopefully I still have at least five friends left!!! Just Kidding! That was me playing on your guilt strings. No pressure.

The first FIVE people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!

2- What I create will be just for you.

3- It'll be done this year. (might be a little while)

4- You have no clue what it's going to be.

5- I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must re-post this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did win a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift by me! Oh, and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it! Sounds like fun, right?

February Book Club

2009-02-16T09:25:00.003-06:00

Hey Bookie Friends! Just a reminder that Book Club is
Thursday, February 26 at 9am.
At Stacey's.
For anyone who may want to come, we are reading Inkheart by Cornelia Funke. I am done, so if someone wants to borrow, let me know. Hope to see you there!

I recommend these...

2009-02-10T15:50:00.000-06:00

I was a beggar and ye gave me food...

2009-01-28T20:59:00.003-06:00

I was thinking about Sam's lunch today and how my mom went on a streak of making my lunches in high school, and then how I bought pizza for the longest time, then how good the chocolate cookies were. (My recipe is not as good, but as close as I am going to get.) I remembered that for a time, duration unknown, I would walk around and ask people for money. When I remembered this, I flushed with embarrassment, first, for my mother, then second, for myself. How annoying I must have been, because if I didn't have money, it was sheerly because I was forgetful. Should have had that remembrall!
On the other hand, I was reading in the scriptures where it talks about giving when asked. Something like, if your neighbor asks for something, give him more. Well, today we are surrounded by people who ask for donations. I think it has always been this way, it has just become less personal. On the street, on the phone, via the tv, and occasionally a personal vocal request. At what point do we say no? I know I hang up on everyone. (The quick apology doesn't really make it better) Maybe that isn't that nicest way, but they call back! On the street, if you hand out money (cause this happens and all, and I don't mean getting mugged), then those people would come back too. Mr Fauchelevent, in Les Miserables, he handed out money (becasue he knew the need and was generous), and went for walks on purpose to do so. And if he encountered someone who needed more, he would make arrangements to give it to them. He was truly compassionate, almost to a fault. So how can we be like this in the present day? Granted, he was wealthy, but is it our time that we must give? Or our homemade caramels? (which really is our time) I suspect that giving our time is just as worthy, if not more so, than dropping money in a cup (although it has great merits when it is used properly).

Book Club!!!

2009-01-28T10:09:00.003-06:00

Don't forget Book Club on Thursday!
At 6:30.
At my house.

Bring a book you want to read or a suggestion.
I will see you then!

It's not you, It's me...

2009-01-27T19:57:00.003-06:00

That famous break up line. I am breaking up with all of you, JUST KIDDING! I messed my blog up somehow, and I have to fix it. But seeing as how I was recently fired from my job as housekeeper, by my boss, Collin, I have to work really hard to earn my non profit position back. I would rather Collin fire our laundry service. She just seems really slackerish lately...

So I was wondering and would like some opinions. I was just having a heart to heart with a dear old gal pal, and realized how vague people are in general. Am I crazy, or do people really talk about nothing all of the time? I guess I have been in the mode of expressing my thoughts to anyone who will hear lately, and it has made me feel a lack of depth in most of what I say. Does everything have to have depth? No. Can't I just participate in idle chitter chatter? I like it, and I do it, but I really love exchanging worthwhile meaningful words. But I also like to be amused, so it is a crafty individual who can provide both. So what do you think? Are people afraid of letting people in and so never delve into the surface of their feelings? Am I just more open than other people or does it just seem that way because I am always around people that I trust? Maybe this doesn't make sense, but not much that is in my head does. Or used to not. It's not you, it's me.

Injustice For All

2009-01-25T22:28:00.004-06:00

Well, what is it that makes me crave justice? I suppose that would be my conscience. And my desire to be happy. Here is a fine example for you (no doubt from high school):

Chemistry teacher : I don't care if you copy each other's work, just don't let me see it.
Amanda: Hmmm, I will have to remember that.

Amanda: Hey Chadly, can I borrow your homework? (No? Well, we are sharing a locker, so I will just borrow that and put it back before you go to class!)

Chemistry teacher: Hmmm, what have you got there? That looks like you are copying homework!
Amanda: Class hasn't started and you didn't see me copy it! (I was done, he just assumed I didn't have mine, like usual)

Chemistry teacher: Oh well, I will take both of those, you are both getting big fat zeros!

Amanda: (Oh no! Chadly said I couldn't borrow his homework and now were both getting zeros!) Chad didn't know that I borrowed his homework, so please don't give him a zero.

Well, that is a sad example, but I felt the injustice greatly. He said we could copy! At least he didn't fail dear Chadly. I realize that I was cheating in the first place and deserved every missing point of that grade. I feel the weight of little injustices here and there (maybe you don't) and I realized today that I am hanging on to those threads, demanding justice be served, and who knows if anyone else even remembers it. I can use my energy a little better I think.

Who sliced these tomatoes anyway?

2009-01-25T14:23:00.005-06:00

Well, when I worked at Chet's Seafood Restaurant, a great little place to eat without many menu selections, I worked in the kitchen. I made grits and banana pudding and junk like that and I also occasionally sliced the tomatoes. One of the kitchen guys was always complaining about the tomatoes being cut funky, but one day he said "Whoa, who cut the tomatoes?" I owned that I had and he was impressed. Then I always cut the tomatoes. And ever since then I have tried to cut a tomato to this standard. Point being this: Saturday I was slicing tomatoes, and I was slicing it ever so well, and I thought "If Collin would just say hey, you slice tomatoes really well" sometimes it would make me ever so happy. Well, he does do that, just not about tomatoes. And I ought to try doing that too. Sam does it in his own way. He compliments me on the funniest things, like turning the light on or giving him a poptart for breakfast. "Good job momma, you're good at opening the frigerator." So I guess that I could do better, and be a little more complimentary to my family.

Happy Birthday Collin!

2009-01-23T06:28:00.006-06:00

Collin is 30 today. I am thankful for such an adoring husband. He works so hard to make me happy, and is a great dad. Thank you sweetie, I love you.

30 things I love and drive me insane about Collin:

He doesn't get mad at me when I eat his cookies.
He lets me pretend I am in charge.
He unloads the dishwasher for me faithfully.
He is super easy to shop for.
He is nice to me, even when I am grumpy.
He supports me in all of my activities and takes me to the temple.

He makes me feel loved, especially when I feel I don't deserve it.
He likes to read books with me. (Although he refuses to read Twilight, but insists on making fun of it, like he is an expert or something)
He is forgiving.
He is a man child.
He wants me to be happy.
He gets mad at me.

He has an annoyingly good work ethic.
He says embarrassing things.
He asks questions that I am afraid to ask.
He tries to make me get over my phone phobia.
He thinks I look good when I look like junk.
He likes everything I cook when we camp.

He is persuadable.
He is cautious, which balances my fierce impulsiveness.
He tells me he will take me golfing. Though doesn't make me go.
He takes the boys fishing.
He loves his family.
He has a great family.

He is stingy with his family time.
He makes sure we have sufficient junk food in the house.
He remembers names of Sam's classmates.
He knows what to do with a tiny baby.
He gets up with the kids at night.
He loves Heavenly Father.

5:25 and not a soul in sight

2009-01-23T05:25:00.003-06:00

Its been one of those sleepless nights, and I was yet again crowded out of my bed by boys. I got up walked around, noticed that yeah, I should have done the dishes last night. I really want to do them, but its not worth it to wake up the kids. (Although Sam has been up since at least 5 am. He is such a funny boy. I am sure some have noticed his current clothing trends. He tucks in every shirt, even pajamas. I bribed him not to tuck in his sweater vest on Sunday.) I then thought laundry! Oh, what? I actually have it all folded. That's unheard of.

Well, I had to make myself a list of things to do when situations such as this occur. My newest distraction is Indexing. If you don't know what it is, its a program offered by FamilySearch.org. You download a page of a census and interpret the handwriting and put the info into a form. Its interesting and I finally did a page right and submitted it. It is easy and productive. Its helping me kick my facebook addiction.

So I have been left alone with my thoughts for hours tonight, and usually I drive myself crazy. (Last week, I took a Midol, and had no idea it contained caffeine. Well, I can't think of another time I have had caffeine since I was at Ricks. So I was wired, shaky and very awake. I figured it our by about 4 am. That is ridiculous! ) I was already in a poor frame of mind, and Collin was about to leave for a few days, so I worked myself up good. I decided that thinking is a double edged sword. I think too much and try not to dwell on things and so never really think about anything. Just fleeting glimpses of things I would like to take out and peruse at my leisure, but tonight I decided to face many of those things and wrote about them in my journal, and I feel better. I know what kind of woman I want to be, how far I am from it, and now I have an idea of how to get there.

Calorie Counter

2009-01-22T09:20:00.002-06:00

So lately I have been starving. I wake up and think I will never make it because I am so hungry. Well, I do make it and sometimes I make it all morning and forget to eat, and sometimes I am a hobbit and eat first and second breakfast. It feels like I am pregnant. But lets make this clear, I am not. For sure. So, after a few days of this, and a few nights without real dinners, I figure I really need to eat better. I mean I am 30 and my metabolism is 30, my wii fit age is like 43, and I have been finding every reason under the sun not to go walking. (Its too cold, I have a sprained ankle, I can't smell, my blog is lonely...)

The last time I had success I counted calories, and that was great. Except who wants to be obsessed with how many calories are in everything? I tell you people look at you like you're insane when you start spouted off how many calories they are holding in their hands. And I cannot help it. I have to do it. Its a vile compulsion. I feel like there is this wealth of information hanging there between us and I can think of nothing else to say until those words are out. Unfortunately this tends to repulse people, and then I am still left with awkward conversation. Admit it, most of you have experienced odd or gawky conversation with me before. Ah well, we can't all be socially able.

So back to counting those calories. We recently went to Chuck E Cheese to celebrate Collin's 30th birthday. Unfortunately the pinball machine was broken, which is my favorite*, and I like to play games as much as the next kid, but the ticket muncher was working. I haven't showed it to the kids yet. There is an unspoken understanding that I get to so this. And it is likely the only thing I get to do without a child the entire time there. I love to stick a really long string of tickets in and let it get munched. Well this got me thinking: What is I had one of these muncher counter things, but for calories? I could just get a print out at the end of the day, or meal even to see how much I had consumed. Or a scanner in my watch to let me know how much I was about to consume. I realize this is alien technology we are talking about here. I guess I will stick to adding in my head (why use a calculator- there is no room for mistakes) and try to be as happy as I can while stuffing spinach in my mouth.

* We had a pinball machine when I was a child. I loved it, it loved me, and I have never found a pinball game that I like as well.

Book Club Update!!!

2009-01-18T12:40:00.003-06:00

Our first club meeting will be at my house,
Thursday, January 29th, at 6:30 pm.
Finish up whatever book you are currently reading and tell us about it!
Bring some ideas for upcoming reads and we will make out a rotation.

This is how I propose we rotate:

Whomever picks the book for February will host
book club at the end of the month.
Do we want to do snacks or a meal?
I think we will start with snacks,
and since I am hosting, I will have them.

Whoever wants to come is welcome!