All About Me - by Shey

One of my mom's oldest friend's daughter, Ella tagged me back before Christmas to write a bit about me and since mom is WORN OUT from vacationing in Disney last week, I decided to post the last entry of 2007.

1. I just had my first staring appearence in our Holiday Program at school. Another little girl and I danced to a cool song by Sean Paul and then a few more kids joined us to do the Penquin dance. We knew it was a hit when all the moms and dads laughed as we turned around to shake our bottoms at the audience.

2. I am a momma's boy through and through. I express my feelings by telling daddy quite freqently whenever he tries to help me, "I don't like you." I think I am starting to wear mom down, especially when I pitched a fit at the entrance of Sea World because she refused to carry me anymore.

3. I am content to play by myself if my brother will just leave me alone. I like to pretend and play with my trucks. I also like to sing.

4. I think I am pretty smart. I know my colors, shapes, numbers to 10 and left and right. Mom says I also color almost as good as Peyton and I'm starting to write my name. Of course, I also think elephant and lion is spelled "shey" so I guess there is room for debate.

5. While at a nice restuarant in Orlando, I spilled a whole glass of Sprite right in mom's lap. Although mom's seat and pants were soaked, the server was very nice and said it was "ok". Now, I've learned that whenever I do anything wrong, like dump out a whole bag of cereal while mom was trying to do 8 loads of laundry that I should say, "I'm sorry," then say, "but it's ok?"

6. I turned 3 years old on December 9.

7. I like to sneak into mom and dad's bed in the middle of the night.

8. I had my first pony ride on Christmas day.

I think I am pretty cute.



Thanks, Ella! That was fun.

Quietly Creeping Towards the Holidays

Last week's sickness has been hanging on for dear life and I have still been exhausted much of the week. But, that's ok, because we leave for Disney on Saturday! That being said, the kids aren't getting much for Christmas this year, which is just as well since our bank account is hovering near the red. I'd like to pick them up one more thing a piece, but it will probably wait till one day when we are in Disney and involve one of the adults sneaking back into a store to grab a special have to have item.

With all that being said, this will probably be my very last post of 2007.

Happy Holidays and New Year!

How do you choose?

When the World Wide Web exploded into almost every home in the United States approximately 12-15 years ago, the way we view business, friendships, shopping, research, well, basically life, changed forever. The information that is now available to the average person is just mind boggling.

But let's just say that you want to own your own little slice of the Internet pie? What if you have a great product that just has to be marketed? Or, what if you are a talented writer who needs to be heard? Say you have family that lives hundreds of miles away and you want to keep in touch? We all know by now that that having a personal web page is one of the best ways to accomplish all of these goals and so much more.

With so many hosting options available, how is one to chose the perfect company for their particular needs?

http://www.webhostingchoice.com is a site that provides a searchable data base of hosting companies based on your inputted data. There are several categories to chose from, as well as a FAQ regarding choosing the correct hosting company and a quick start guide that helps you set up your page.

If you are interested in creating a domain of your very own, this may be the first place you need to look.

---

This post is sponsored.

Still here, barely.

I have been fighting a sinus infection which was extending into my ears and progressing into bronchitus for the past 4 days, and I still feel like I've been run over by a truck. I'm waiting for everyone to get back from lunch and I am going back home and back to bed.

As such, here are some pics from Shey's 3rd birthday. He had a lot of fun.

All Bubbly Inside

Today when I went to the school to help my reader, T, the first thing she asked me was, "Where were you last week?" I explained about my grandfather dying and that I had to go to Alabama for a few days. She understood, but I was a little annoyed that her teacher hadn't let her know I wasn't coming. The annoyance was quickly overshadowed as I watched as T took an AR test, and then we decorated a couple of small trees that her teacher had brought in. She skipped around the room and complimented me on my mad decorating skills.

As the class came inside from recess and T went to her seat, the teacher stopped me and said with a big smile, "I don't know what you did, but T loves reading now. It's like night and day."

If that doesn't make your heart swell with happiness, I just don't know what will.

A Big Thank You

I spoke to my friend, Shannon yesterday and let me tell you, your prayers worked! She went in Tuesday for her biopsy and they ran blood work beforehand. Her doctor has a lab on site, so they were able to get the results quickly. Her white blood count is in normal range, so they didn't have to do the biopsy. She has to go in a couple of weeks for a retest, but are hopeful that switching her Lupus medication will be the answer to the low count.

Thank you so much!

And with that . . . NaBloPoMo is OVER!

The Holiday Store

*****MOM, DON'T READ THIS ENTRY*******

This week, Peyton's school has a holiday store open. Last week, I was required to make a list of the people Peyton could buy for, the price range of each gift and send in a check so my 5 year old could shop. When I got home last night around 9:30, I had forgotten that yesterday was his day to buy and was surprised by the little plastic gift bags all over the kitchen table.

As I started looking through them, I smiled at the gifts. Key chains with the words "Mom", "Grandma" and "Grandpa" were purchased for me and Larry's parents. Larry received a coin collector thing in the shape of a basketball. My dad, a wallet (??) and Larry's brother a screwdriver set. It was cute to think of Peyton looking through the store to pick out the special objects.

When I opened my mom's though, I had to laugh.


The African American Nativity Scene

And while it is highly specialized, as mom is the one who helps reinforce the bible lessons he learns and is forever sending him bible books, it just cracked me up that he picked up an African American one.

As I was regaling the story to my boss this morning, after his laughter died down, he said, "Well, I guess it's a good thing that he doesn't see color." I think Jesus, black or white, would aggree.

Going Home Today

Some Kind of Wonderful is a great movie.

Day 27

Must. Post. Three. More. Days.

Reconnecting

This afternoon I went and spent some time with my grandmother. She's been in a nursing home for about five months now and is really doing well there. Better, in fact, than she was this time last year.

Mom has been playing Uno and Chinese Checkers with her, so I stopped by the store and picked up Connect 4. Do you know how hard it is to let someone win Connect 4 without being totally obvious? Very. Also, my grandmother would win, but not realize it, and I couldn't point it out because that's just not the same. So, she would "win" a couple of times, but not notice it and we would keep playing til she did see the four red checkers in a row. But, oh, how nice it is when she does see the win. She would smile and point it out to me and I would mock surprise.

After a few games of Connect 4 and Uno, we went outside to sit on the porch. We talked for a bit, and just sat quietly for a while. It was nice and it's times like these that I am sad I live so far away.

Lazy Day

Today we've mostly sat around the house and napped. I've needed a day like this for a long time.

I'm sad that my trip home was under these circumstances, but it has been nice having my parents to myself.

WAR EAGLE!

The Funeral

This morning was the funeral and it was weird. My grandparents got divorced 22 years ago and my pappaw started another family with a woman who is 5 years older than my mom and had two children that were only a little older than I am. For a few years, I would go to visit them (they lived a couple of hours away), but as I got older and a couple of unpleasant visits, that came to an end. When I moved away from home and eventually to Florida, I would send cards for holidays, but I never received one in return. Mom would tell me happenings whenever she would talk to them, but that was rare as well.

The last time I saw my grandfather and his wife was two years ago.

It's strange, I still cared and loved him, but he has been out of my life for a long, long time, and when mom called me to tell me the news, I was actually surprised about how affected I was.

At the funeral, I felt like an outsider. Everyone kept pushing me to the front and telling me what a wonderful man my granddad was and all I could do was nod. He was wonderful to me, my favorite grandparent . . . 22 years ago.

I felt sad and was moved, especially by the military salute, but I wasn't distraught like his other family.

It was nice that my grandfather's sister and her family was there. I haven't seen them since I was a kid. We went to my cousin's house after lunch and stayed for a couple of hours. I really enjoyed it and I hope we stay in touch.

Most of all though, I'm glad today is over.

In Alabama

My mom called me early yesterday morning to tell me that my granddad passed away from a massive heart attack Wednesday night. I flew into town early this morning and the funeral is tomorrow morning.

It's a very confusing time for me. I'll have to write more on it later.

Asking for Prayers

On this day of Thanks, I am asking for prayers for my friend Shannon. Shannon has Lupus that she has been treating for over ten years and now her white blood count is really low. On Tuesday, she is going in for a bone marrow biopsy to determine what is causing the low count, one of the fears is that it is leukemia. Please pray that it is just her lupus getting worse, which even though not a great diagnosis, is better than the alternative.

Happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy your loved ones.

NaBlo Day 21

I'm here, I'm posting, now I'm going to have a glass of wine.

Sigg Water Bottles

Friday, after getting sick of smelling my plastic liter water bottle, I broke down and ordered a Sigg Lifestyle Loop Top Water Bottle in Maharadsha red. The bottle arrived on Monday, and really I couldn't be happier. They are a bit pricey, but considering I drink at least 2 liters of water a day while at work, it is worth it.

It sounds cheesy, but I can't believe how much better the water tastes coming from this bottle rather than my yucky plastic one that I used over and over again. They come with several different tops and Monday I ordered the sports flip top for convenience.

Sometimes items that are all the rage are not really all that, but sometimes, like with this cool bottle, they are.

And the Hair has it

I almost had a cow and then a wreck when I glanced over to my left while driving home the other day. This photo does not do this man's head justice, but it was the best I could do without killing myself.

We had this friend, H in high school whose dad was going bald and he insisted on wearing the most awful fake toupee in the whole wide world (well, until I saw this guy). Everyone knew it was fake and we all giggled over it. There were a few times when we would show up at our friend's house unannounced and all we would see through the side window would be good old Stan flying through the house to his bedroom to plant his hair safely on his head.

H and one of our other friends nabbed the hair one time and took photos in it, which was quite possibly one of the funniest things I have ever witnessed.

A couple of years ago, at our reunion, H had some pictures of her family and Stan was there sans the hair!!. It was amazing how much better he looked.

So, here's to you, random old guy driving beside me, Rock on with your bad self!

So Close . . .

Cash Advance Loans

Grey's

Watching Grey's Anatomy just isn't as much fun without your best friend.

Day 17

Day 17 of Nablo blah blah. Tell me again why I sign up for this?

I took an excellent photo yesterday in the car that I will post on Monday to the delight of my high school buddies. Stay tuned.

Day 16

The temperature dropped below 70 degrees, so I built a fire outside 8 bbbbbm,./ in our fire pit. m (courtesy of Shey) q w While we were sitting by the fire, Peyton s asked me, "how did dad's car fly Pudge to Heaven?" k n I guess g sitting by the fire is in his blood because it brings out the introspective in him.

(Shey was hitting the keys as I typed.)

Tales from the Carpool Line

This morning, I decided to wait until 7 am to get up and I decided to apply make up AND dry my hair. You know what this makes me? A late mother. As I walked into the kitchen and realized that we had 16 minutes to get Peyton to school, I yelled at Larry to throw a shirt on, so I could hop out with Peyton as he drove by the school in order to get him in the fence on time without waiting in the god-awful slow carpool lane. (Holy batman, long sentence)

Larry took his sweet time putting on a shirt, but failed to grab his wallet, a mistake which would possibly bite us in the butt later on. As Larry drove ever so slowly to the school (he didn't get the whole "Mother mad dash around the neighborhood" drive), I fidgeted and fidgeted until finally when he stopped at the first stop sign, I grabbed Peyton and jumped out of the car.

I challenged Peyton to a race down the sidewalk (go quick thinkin' momma) and we made it to the gate as the first bell was ringing. I started walking down the sidewalk towards the sports plex, glancing over my shoulder for Larry.

As he drove up beside me he yelled out the window, "Get a move on." I told him to wait till the crosswalk, so I wouldn't be jumping in the car in the middle of the street. Sooooo, as Larry goes to turn into the parking lot of the sports plex, pedestrians were trying to cross. Larry, being the outstanding citizen he is, stopped for the people, WITH THEIR CHILDREN to let them pass. I seized the opportunity and hopped in the car. Oops, that, apparently was a no-no and we heard, "Whoop, whoop" behind us.

Larry looked over at me and deadpanned, "I am getting pulled over for picking you up."

Oh the cop was not amused with our excuses of not wanting to hit the people in the walkway and Larry was stopped already, why shouldn't I get in the car? And on top of that, Larry didn't have his license. On second thought, that probably saved us, because the nice police officer only wrote him a ticket for driving without a license, which is a $7.50 fine, as opposed to hopping in a moving car, which is a $117.00 fine.

Larry has been calling me a hardened criminal all day.

Ornery

I am getting yet another sinus cold flu thing and I feel like crap. Every sound is just vibrating in my head. I told Larry yesterday I didn't feel good (he's out of town) and then he called this morning and asked what was wrong and I told him again I didn't feel good. He made the brilliant observation, "You don't feel good more than you do feel good." Well, Sherlock, I am a working mother of two with a needy husband, what do you expect?

I understand he worries about money and all, but I do too, plus, I worry about raising the kids and running the house and making sure homework is done and spelling words are learned. Plus, Peyton's class has all these holiday projects going on, so I am continously at the store buying things for him and making sure they get to school when they are supposed to. Our house needs a good cleaning out and organizing, so that is in the back of my mind. Also, I am trying to exercise more, which is just one more thing. Everyone is writting about feeding their kids healthier foods, so yeah, one more obligation.

Responsibility is kicking my ass and my mental health.

I think the best part about this weekend with Tamara was sitting on her couch all day Sunday and watching a John and Kate plus 8 marathon. Sometimes I wish I could just do that all day long. Being an adult just really blows sometimes.

Anyone out there taking Monavie? My friend in TX has been taking it a couple of months and says she can tell a difference in her energy levels.

Dumbass on a Plane

Tamara and I had a great weekend and Peyton did as well. My parents took him to the park, to see the Bee Movie and to run around Bass Pro Shops all in the span of 48 hours. While at Bass Pro Shops, they bought him a silky alligator pillow that is as tall as he is. Of course, we brought the alligator on the plane with us.

We flew Southwest and lucked out that when it was our turn to board, the front seat was only occupied by an old lady. As I stuffed my carry on bag (clothes from Ann Taylor Loft (shhhh, don't tell Larry)), Peyton's book bag and the alligator in the overhead compartment, the old lady snidely remarked that I couldn't put anything on the floor in front of us, being on the front row and all. I nodded politely (nu-uh, really?) and started getting Peyton settled in. While I was doing that, I sat my purse on my seat. I guess she was a little annoyed and decided she didn't want to sit by us, because she asked the couple to our left if she could sit with them.

After she moved, she leaned over again and said, "you can't put your purse on the floor." Now, I was a little annoyed at her tone and replied, "I know, I'm going to hold it in my lap." She snotily replied to the air, "they wouldn't let me do that."

By now, the plane was almost full, the seat beside me taken and the attendants were getting ready to close the front door. Old grumpy lady stands up, comes over to our overhead bin and loudly says, "well, if they are going to let her keep her purse, I'm going to get mine." and opens the bin. Out pops Peyton's alligator and bops the guy beside me on the head. I almost laughed out loud at the OGL's face has she determinedly tried to fight the alligator in an effort to get her purse and cane.

The flight attendant walked up and asked her to take her seat as she maneuvered the alligator back into the bin and closed the door. The second attendant rolled her eyes and murmured, "I told her she couldn't have the cane." I was glad OGL had changed seats because her purse was big and red and would probably have poked me the whole trip.

So, here's to you, OGL, I hope you enjoyed your flight to Jacksonville pissed off with your old lady handbag in your lap.

Going Home

We fly home today and I feel like doggy doo doo. I knew I should have bought the airborn at CVS on Friday.

Homesick

I'm having a great time here with Tamara, but I actually miss my kids. Weird. Plus, I think I'm getting sick. Blah.

Nablo blah blah

Day 10, day 10 I better win a prize for blogging while my BFF is upstairs making buffalo chicken dip.

Gotta go.

Erika

Erika is leaving tonight on a Plane.
I can see red tail lights heading for B-ham.
Oh, and I can see Erika waving good bye.
How I miss Erika
Must be the clouds in my eyes.

or

My girl likes to party all the time
party all the time
party all the time.

Exhausted

Today, I completed my first lesson for Meet the Masters, a program to bring art to life for the students. I'm teaching a class of kindergarteners and wow, I take back all those mean things I said about Peyton's teacher. Well, at least some of them, she did chose to be a kindergarten teacher.

I wasn't really sure what to expect. Another mother who had kindergarten last year warned me that their attention span isn't that long or great, so keep it short. I did prepare a few things to go over with the kids, but I wasn't as prepared as I should have been. Honestly, I just didn't know what to do or how much. Also, I let the kids get away with too much talking because the teacher kept interrupting to tell them to sit down and be quiet.

It was definitely a learning experience and I think next time will be even better.

Lock Down

For any readers out there in the Broward area, (speaking mostly to my Maya's mom friends), if you haven't heard the news, Broward County Schools are on lock down.

A convict escaped this morning from a transport van and shot a deputy the city east of where we live and work. Apparently, he also lives in our city.

This is truly an odd feeling. I know the kids are safe (Shey's daycare is locked as well), but motherly instinct is kicking in to protect the cubs. I have the radio on listening for updates.

Pray they catch this guy quick. There's a picture of him on the linked site.

*Edited to add: The police caught the guy. Thanks.

Gobble, Gobble

Peyton had to make a poster board size turkey for school, so I ran to Michael's last night to pick up supplies. I found these great fall centerpiece things way on sale that we used for the feathers, then I glued felt on top of that for the body and a different color for the head. We then added googly eyes, of course, and a bunch of pompoms for the hangy down thing.

I really love being creative and making things and I wish I could do it more often. I am in such a cycle right now. I want to do all these things like take a photography class, take a sewing class, make some crafty things, but they all take time and money, neither of which I have. I guess it's a leap you have to take if you want to change your path in life.

How do you pay the bills in the meantime?

A Nice Night

Last night, after my excrutiating experience with the esthetician, Larry and I took the boys to Bonefish Grill for dinner. Larry was leery as he had been with Peyton and Shey for three hours that afternoon and they were both whining and carrying on. I armed us with a notebook and 64 pack of crayons and off we went.

The boys were . . . surpisingly good, really good actually, as in we can do this more often good. Shey had fun coloring on the tabletop paper, Peyton completed his word search and Larry and I shared a bottle of wine. Peyton and I also played about a million games of tic-tac-toe and while there were some I let him win, he won on his own almost as often. As we were leaving and on the ride home, I raved over their behavior hoping the positive praise would stick and they would see happy mommy is so much more pleasant than screeching crazy mommy.

Speaking of sticking, our pastor used duct tape to illustrate a point in his lesson on Sunday, The Perfect Church for Imperfect People, which is the second part of a five part "No Perfect People Allowed" series. It never fails when I don't go to church for a few weeks that the message feels like it is directed right to me when I return.

While getting a Brazilian Wax

my Esthetician and I agreed that I needed my own domain name, and as such, I have a couple of ideas for websites, but if anyone wants to contribute, feel free.

Happy Happy birthday to my best friend in the whole wide world, Tamara. This time next weekend, I'll be with her having a great girl's weekend. I cannot wait.

Day 3

Day 3 of NaBloblah blah and I don't really have anything to write about.

If anyone has a good work at home opportunity that will make me some cash, do share.

We'll just let that speak for itself.

For Tamara

Post Halloween Post

Yesterday morning, I helped with the Halloween party and parade at Peyton's school. Let me just tell you, one never appreciates how many children attend an elementary public school until you have to parade a class of 17 kindergartners around the whole building and in front of all the students. I was amazed at how organized the teachers and staff were to make the parade run without a hitch.


After the parade, we played musical pumpkins, which Peyton won using his lightning fast reflexes.





As you can see, Peyton was a Vampire. I think the red eyes were a nice touch. I can't believe that he stayed in the make-up all day. He was especially excited about the blood, although I'm not sure he really got the concept of what a Vampire really is.



After a party at school and another party at daycare, Peyton was not real excited about going out again to Trick or Treat. He told me he didn't want to go and when I said ok, he said, "Will you get me candy then." After I told him that's not how it worked, he decided to perk up a bit and we headed to Larry's parents.



Their neighborhood has a couple of big circles and is full of families, so it's generally a better place to get the loot. Plus, Larry's dad makes cotton candy every year. Who can turn down that?



Don't you just want to put him in your pocket and take him home with you?



By the end of the circle (or the beginning), Shey was done. On the way home, his sugar kicked in and he entertained us by singing made up songs at the top of his lungs. It was totally a moment that could later be shown on VH1's Behind the Music with a narrator in the background, "Even at a young age, Shey was an entertainer."

Hope you had lots of treats and no tricks.

Across the Pool in 20 Seconds

Florida has a program at the elementary schools that allows the younger kids to take two weeks of swimming lessons during the morning at school. Peyton finished a couple of weeks ago and is swimming like a fish now. Here he is going the length of the pool.



I'm also uploading some photos from our trip to the "pumpkin patch" last night. Just click here.

Living the Life

The City of Hollywood recently renovated their beach by adding a new boardwalk made of really nice pavers. A lot of the stores also updated their facades and a couple of new hotels opened. Larry and I went there almost every weekend when I first moved down. At that time, the beach was barely used and was obviously old. Now, more families are going and the area has really livened up.

Last weekend, Larry took the boys while I was cleaning for his party and while he was there, he took them to breakfast at the Marriott. He said it was perfect because they have tables right on the boardwalk, so he could sit and enjoy his meal and when the boys were done eating, they could play right in front of him either on the sidewalk or even on the sand.

We decided to go back this Sunday for breakfast and some family time. The boys are generally more well behaved when we are aware from the house in an area where they can run around. imagine that.

Larry and I sat and enjoyed our meal while the kids played and kicked a ball around. Hollywood was hosting a Buddy Walk, so there were a ton of people around and the boys dodged in and out of the "people with the blue shirts."

As much as South Florida bugs me sometimes, there are days like these where I can't imagine living anywhere else.

Evan Almighty

Last night, we watched Evan Almighty and if you haven't seen it yet, I recommend it. Being that it was rated PG, it really was kid friendly and the boys liked all the animals. I enjoyed Bruce Almighty, but this segment had even more of a moral story than Bruce did. I like the way that a movie with such big stars and a biblical background can make it mainstream.

I'll tell you, it was just amazing to see the completed "ark" and all of the animals file in two by two. It brought tears to my eyes just the sheer magnitude of the whole situation and thinking about the real life event. It's also nice to see God depicted as a being with human qualities and humor. Morgan Freeman tells a nice story about Noah saying that most people like to look at the flood story as God being mean and horrible, but it was actually a love story too. He explained that Noah's family worked together and the animals came in pairs as a display of solidarity and sticking together. And although I know that God was punishing the people on the earth at that time, that was also a new twist and added dimension to a story I have heard all my life.

New Hobby

Last night I went with a friend to a Close to My Heart scrapbooking workshop. I've always enjoyed looking at scrapbooks, and I've even bought a few supplies before, but I never felt I had the time or the money to go all out with it.

The consultant that worked with us last night was really cool though. She has several small groups that meet once a month for workshops that range from $10-$20. The group or club rotates houses so everyone gets a chance to play "hostess" two or three times a year and reap the rewards of hostess gifts. The members of the club agree to spend a certain amount once a month, which includes the workshop fee, and then the hostess earns her free or discounted supplies. It seems like a great way to work on a scrapbook without being overwhelmed. Plus, you get to meet once a month with a few friends for some fun, food and wine. What more could you ask for?

I'm going to set up a party next month for my friends down here just to go over the basics and introduce everyone the tools of the trade, then if I have enough people interested, I'd like to start my own club.

I'm really happy with the pages I made last night and can't wait to add to it.

And Your Little Dog Too

Suzy Soro, a comedian, is hosting a contest with funny pics of animals dressed in their holiday finest. I couldn't resist when I went home for lunch taking a couple of quick pics of Zeus. He was amazingly cooperative (much more than Peyton or Shey), I should take pics of him more often.


Here is Dead Christmas Dog


Here is Wino Christmas Dog

Break It Down

Last night was one of those rare times where I actually felt like a patient, involved, good mother. Larry was out with a business associate, so it was just me and the boys. I went walking with a coworker after work, and since I picked the kids up a little late, I stopped by Burger King to treat them and take some dinner stress off me.

We all sat at the table, without the TV on and actually talked about what happened during the day. After a nice dinner, the boys watched a brief 20 minutes of cartoons while I showered, then we sat down to complete Peyton's homework and practice his spelling words. We blew through all the pages he needed to complete for the week AND we made a "book" out of some pages in his math workbook. After homework, the boys got in the bath and although they made a mess, they were actually getting along. When bath time was over and PJs were on, we sat on the couch and read Peyton's library book, then the boys went to Peyton's room to play for a bit before bed. Go mom!

Then Larry arrived home . . .

Larry Turns 30

Larry's birthday was Saturday night and I threw a big party for him at the house. I was planning on a "Frat Party" theme, with games and all, but the only elements of frat party that emerged was my new wood floors got thrown up on and two people passed out. Also, we had several companies represented that we work with and there was a lot of internal drama going on. Other than that, Larry had a great time, which is really all that matters.

I brought a caterer in, which I think was the best idea I've ever had. We had about 40 people there and I was able to relax between refereeing and not worry about cooking. I have to take a moment to describe the excellent spread. For starters, there were stuffed mushrooms, assorted quiche, shrimp cocktail, veggie crudites, and fresh fruit. For the dinner, salad with candied walnuts, blue cheese, cranberries and raspberry vinaigrette, smoky bbq ribs and grilled chicken, this amazing bow tie pasta with a cheesy sauce, green beans, red roasted potatoes and rolls. Then for dessert huge chocolate chunk cookies and to die for brownies. We have enough left overs to feed us for a month.

In keeping with the Frat theme, I did make Margarita jello shooters, which were really good.

Being that most of the guests have kids, the party had pretty much wound down by 12, and we were in bed by 2, which is a good thing, as I am getting old and just can't hang like I used too.

It Can Change in an Instant

On the way back to work from lunch, I was listening to the country station and they were taking requests. A lady called and brokenly asked if she could request a song. She went on to say that she had just been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She dedicated "Live Like You Were Dying" to her children and promised, with a tearful voice, that she would fight it. Tears welled up in my own eyes as I thought about this poor woman and her family. I pray that God watches out for them.

Bragging on Shey-Shey

Shey has really blossomed over the past few months. His vocabulary and comprehension is amazing. He knows all his colors, shapes and can count past 10. What really gets me though, is his fine motor skills. I swear he colors in the lines almost as good as Peyton. I took a couple of videos of him last night doing his "homework." Just look at that concentration. :)



And here he is singing. The first part is a song he made up, but then he falls back to a couple old standards.

200th Post

It's only fitting that for my 200th post on Blogger, I answer a tag by an old friend who I recently found again, Kristin. (not sure why it's fitting, but it sounded poetic, no?)

1. Who is my man? Larry, or Lawrence, but no one calls him that.
2. How long have we been together? 10 and a half years.
3. How long did we date? We dated 10 months, and were engaged for a little over a year and a half.
4. How old is he? 30 this Saturday
5. Who eats more? Larry
6. Who said "I love you" first? I'm pretty sure it happened during an online chat and was phrased, "You know you love me."
7. Who is taller? He is.
8. Who sings better? I do, but that doesn't mean I sing well.
9. Who is smarter? I would venture to guess my IQ is higher.
10. Who has more of a temper? He does
11. Who does the laundry? We share, mostly.
12. Who takes out the trash? He does.
13. Who has sharper computer skills? Me, by a slight margin.
14. Who sleeps on the right side? He does. We used to sleep reversed, but when I was pregnant with Shey, I had to sleep on my right side, and I hate facing in.
15. Who pays bills? I do.
16. Who mows the lawn? He does mostly, I will every once in a while.
17. Who cooks? I do.
18. Who drives when we are together? He usually does.
19. Who pays when we are out together? It just depends on whose debit card is easiest accessible.
20. Who is more stubborn? We both are.
21. Who is first to admit it when they are wrong? Neither, thankfully, we very rarely are. ha ha
22. Who asked out who? Well, that's a hard one since we met online. I initiated the initial conversation though.
23. Who kissed who first? It was mutual, but he worked for it.
24. Who is more sensitive? I guess me, but that's not saying much.
25. Who has more friends? Larry has never met a stranger.
26. Who has more siblings? He has one brother, I'm an only child.
27. Who wears the pants? It depends on the situation.

I tag Chell, Dixie, and Nicole.

And My Heart Grew Three Sizes Bigger

Even though I work full time, I really wanted to volunteer as much as I could at Peyton's school this year. One of the activities I signed up for is their Read with Me Program. Each volunteer is given a student who is struggling with their reading, be it basic words, or comprehension, and we go to the school once a week for 20 minutes to read with the child.

I was given a little girl,T, in fifth grade. Last week when I showed up for the first time, the teacher was not very encouraging. She stated that T showed signs of ADHD, lack of socialization and stubbornness when it came to reading. She agreed with me when I mentioned that even just having a conversation with T would be a good starting part in an effort to help her open up more.

T was very friendly to me and didn't seem ashamed at all that she was reading in front of a total stranger. She brought a Curious George book to start, and while she knew most of the words (English isn't her first language), she barely paused for the periods or commas. Also, there was no expression whatsoever in her reading.

As I was reading, I gave her a pencil that I had grabbed out of the resource room, as well as a Create a Pepper dog tag I had bought at Chili's. I was unsure what a fifth grade girl would like as a "prize" for reading that day, but thought the dog tag would be a cool little thing. I also wasn't sure how T handled reading to me or what she thought.

I went back today and T walked in the classroom just before me. She turned as the door was shutting, then did a double take as she saw me and smiled big. I smiled back, pleased that she was happy I came back. We sat down to finish the Curious George book and about halfway through, she reached down the collar of her shirt and lifted out the dog tag. I thought my heart would burst out of my chest.

When we went for the orientation, they said how much having an adult help out meant to the kids, but I didn't really understand till that minute what an impact I could make on this young girl's life. Apparently I'm not as emotionally stunted as I sometimes think.

Little Helper

Peyton has had a bit of a talking problem since he started kindergarten. Actually, let me rephrase that, he has always had a bit of a talking problem, but now it is getting him in trouble. I feel a big part of his problem is that a lot of the things they are going over now is review for him. Peyton is not one to sit still when he doesn't have a task at hand. Couple this with his teacher being brand new out of college, and there was a bit of a conflict at first.

After two weeks, his teacher spoke to me about his talking and hitting. We got the hitting under control, thankfully, but Peyton is still running his mouth. His teacher and I agreed that she would send home daily reports so I could keep tabs on his behavior. Now see, while I know my son, I also think his teacher either lacks control of the classroom, or has an unrealistic expectations for these 5-yr olds. On the daily sheets, there is a sad face for Needs Improvement, a straight face for Good and a smiley face for Excellent. Even when Peyton "did well" or "behaved" for the day, she still gives him a straight face. Not once has she given him a smiley face. I take it with a grain of salt, and Peyton is praised for a straight face. I really feel that's all I can ask from him at this point.

Friday, his teacher did finally have a good idea and now when he starts talking or is finished with his work, she makes him the helper. He's very proud of this new job, and I really think it will help him keep his mouth in check. We have a conference Friday, and I think my first question will be, "Just what does he have to do to get a smiley face?"

Sometimes there is Peace

Last week, I TiVoed Spy Kids 3 for the boys and they have been enthralled with it ever since. This morning as soon as Shey woke up, he asked, "Can we watch the movie with the yellow and purple guy?" "Sure," I replied, even though they had just watched it last night. I turned on the movie, provided some juice and went about getting ready for work.

I heard the boys talking about which guy they were on the big screen and who was doing what at the time. I looked over as I was putting on my make-up and they were cuddled together at one end of the couch, heads together, pointing to the screen. I wanted to grab the camera, but I knew the moment would pass before I could adequately capture it. And five minutes later,

"You're the purple guy," said Peyton, "You just died. Shey died! Shey died!"

I guess all treaties are meant to be broken.

Nature at Work

The following video is just incredible.

All Hail the Dermatologist

For the past three months, I have been going to the dermatologist as my skin decided to revert back to the age of 15. We tried a couple of antibiotics, but my body didn't react well with them, so I stopped that. She also has given me a chemical peel the last two times I went. Combine that with my new favorite product, Dove's SkinVitalizer Facial Cleansing Massager* and Differin at night, my face has NEVER looked better. The texture is just amazingly smooth. I am in awe of my skin, and I have never felt that way.

I've also been using mineral powder foundation, which I've fallen in love with as well. It's so easy to put on. Yea for good skin!

*If you don't want to get the battery operated part of the massager, the pillows by themselves would probably provide adequate exfoliation. It's not so much though that it's irritating.

P.K Phone Home

Peyton made his first telephone call to a person outside of our family last night and let me just say I think it was one of the cutest things I have ever witnessed. He started off by asking me why Tyler didn't come over to play with him. I answered that I wasn't sure, but it may have something to do with the fact that it was raining and dark out. So then I asked him if he wanted to call Tyler. He said yes and even agreed to ask for him. I dialed the number and handed Peyton the phone. This was my side of the conversation.

"Tyler?"
"Tyler?" Bewildered look at me.

Me whispering, "Ask to talk to Tyler."

"Can I talk to Tyler?"

Apparently it started to take to long for Peyton's liking because he started to sing, "Tyyyylllleeeer, Tyyyylllleeerrr."

Peyton then gave me the bewildered look again and handed me the phone. I could hear Tyler's family talking in the background and his mother say, "The phone's for you."

Finally, Tyler answered.

"Tyler?"

Me whispering, "Tell him it's Peyton."

"Peyton."
"Why didn't you come over?"

Then Peyton put it on speaker phone so I could translate. Tyler answered that his mom said he couldn't because it was a school night.

Peyton replied, "It's ok if you get wet. Boys can get wet." (Larry had told him that earlier in the day when it was raining.) I explained that Tyler couldn't come over because it was too late. Then Peyton just stopped talking. I prompted him to talk.

"Tyler"

"yeeeahhhh?" Tyler replied, clearly not impressed with Peyton's phone skills.

Whispered by me "Tell him you'll see him this weekend."

"I'll see you this weekend."

Whispered, "Talk to you later."

"Talk to you later."

Whispered, "Bye."

"Bye."

Whew! I may not have to worry about him getting married till he's 30.

Adventures in Puppy Sitting

Friday morning on the way to work, I passed an English Bulldog and Shitzu running down the road together. As I drove past, I contemplated what I should do about it and by the time I reached the next light, I decided to turn around and see if I could help. I thought there would be someone near by screaming for their dogs to come home, but no such luck. As I drove back to where I saw the dogs, the bulldog ran right out in front of my car and I quickly pulled into the turn lane to try and nab her before she got ran over. Thankfully, the puppy was very friendly and hopped right in my car. I circled around, but still didn't see anyone looking for a dog and the Shitzu had disappeared as well.

I drove on to work thinking I could decide what to do then. I called our friends who live in the neighborhood near where I picked the little guy up, but she didn't know anyone with a bulldog. She said she would keep an eye out for signs.

At work, the puppy feasted on Ritz crackers and water as I talked it over with my coworker what we should do. A quick trip to the vet revealed that the dog had a microchip, but it wasn't registered. So home the puppy went with us. Larry was less than thrilled, but what was I going to do?

That night, I pulled out Zeus' old, old crate and set it up for the new visitor. What started off as a fun adventure, quickly turned into what was I thinking? The puppy was so hyper that Shey was scared of her, and although she was very sweet, she was also super possessive of the chew toys we gave her. Then there was the 4 o'clock in the morning bark to be let out. Ahhhhh!

At 9 the next morning, our phone rang and it was our friend calling to say that she had seen a sign for a lost bulldog and called to let them know the dog had been found. She said the woman was hysterical on the phone and hung up before our friend could tell her that I didn't live in the same neighborhood. Not a problem, I replied, I will bring the dog over now.

About 30 minutes later, the owner finally showed up and was so grateful. She helps run an English Bulldog rescue and the dog I found was staying at a "foster parents" house when she got out. Also, she was set for adoption next week. So, yea for my good deed. Also yea for an experience to prove to me that I do not really want a puppy or a baby even though I have been having baby fever lately. The whole experience just emphasized how much easier having a 5 and almost 3 year old is than a little baby.

Just a Little Technical Difficulty

Ecery week, Peyton brings home site words to help with his reading. This week included the word "see"

Me: Ok, sound it out. What letter is that?

Peyton: S

Me: Ok, how does S go>

P: ssssssss

Me: Ok, two e's together make it a long vowel, that's eeeee.

P: eeeeee

Me: Now, put it all together. What do you get?

P: It?

Me: . . .

September 11

This day holds such bittersweet memories for me. As many of you who either know me in real life, or have met me through here know, on September 11, 2001 at 6:15 or so in the morning, I found out I was pregnant with Peyton and our lives changed forever. Then barely 3 hours later, the attacks occurred and the world as a whole changed forever.

The first event was over a year and a half in the making, the second, who knows.

The first event filled me with wonder, happiness and fear, the second, terror and wondering what kind of place was I bringing a baby in to.

I remember mom calling me to see if I was ok and if I had heard while I was calling her to tell her she was going to be a grandmother. My emotions bounced from thrilled apprehension to nervous dread.

Today, especially, I pray for all those children who lost parents on that fateful day, for the mothers and fathers who are raising their children alone, and for the rest of us, that we may never feel that way again.

Our life (in bullet points)

- Already had a conference Tuesday with Peyton's teacher. Apparently, last week, he was hitting kids whenever they bothered him and talking excessively. This week, he didn't hit anyone, but is still talking excessively. I consider that an improvement.

- I also found out that this is his teacher's first year teaching and there are a large amount of boys in kindergarten this year. Great.

- Shey is potty trained. Whoop.

- Bathroom, still not done. Not whoop

- I think the anti-depressants are working, but I am just bored with work right now. I'm really ready to be a school mom.

- Huh, that's all I can think of. (see above bored)

Mr. Smarty Pants

Tuesday, Peyton's reading teacher send home a set of flashcards with color words on them for Peyton to practice his reading at home. We went over them that night and he did fairly well, with a little difficulty on the B words, blue, black and brown. I reminded him to look at the last letters too to get a hint on the word. He sat down with the cards by himself and practiced as well.

Last night after his bath, I picked the cards up from the counter where he left them and held them up for practice. He sped through them, not even hesitating on the B's like Tuesday. I was amazed and told him how good he did. He grinned up at me and said, "I put them in order of the rainbow."

How ingenious is he?

Peyton is Finally Swimming

Peyton's First Day of School

He walked right in, like a champ.

Where did you go?

A couple of my regular reads have gone missing. It's funny how we grow concerned for these people who we will probably never meet in real life, but know more about than some of our closest friends. I hope that they are ok, and just too busy or writer blocked to write. This leads me to wonder, if a tragedy were to befall me, who would let my 5 readers know? I will have to ponder the proper procedures and put something in place. Maybe a special spot in my will, if I ever make one.

All of this brings us to the following, we will be on vacation next week and hence, the blog will be quiet. I just didn't want you to think something terrible had happened to me, especially after the last entry.

Doctor Visit

Anti-depressants and a tetnus shot. I would consider that a successful doctor's appointment. Wouldn't you?

And So it Begins . . .

I took Peyton this morning to his new school for the placement test for kindergarten. There were already a couple of moms there when we arrived and their kids were already being tested. After they called Peyton back, I asked the person checking them in what all the test involved. She told me that they would be questioned on their shapes, colors, alphabet, writing their name, etc. One of the moms piped in that it was pre-k basics. The other mom added, "My son can already read." The first mom was quick to reply, "Oh yeah, mine has been been reading since he was two and a half." (*coughbullshitcough*)

I stood there for a second and then said, "Mine knows Algebra."

The moms nodded appreciatively till I skipped a beat and said, "I'm just kidding."

After they both left, I looked at a grandmother that was left and said, "If they know how to read by kindergarten, what are they going to learn in kindergarten?"

She smiled and replied, "I know, you might as well keep them at home."

You know, it wasn't even that their kids could read that got under mine skin so bad. Peyton knows his letters, he knows their sounds, he knows some words and he's starting to sound out words on his own, which is where I'd expect him to be now and will help him when school starts. I was more annoyed with the whole Look at my kid! See what he can do!

As the moms were leaving, one couldn't help but throw in after she mentioned that her son attended one of the temples for pre-k that he counted in Spanish (which most kids in South Florida do) and spoke Hebrew. I was so close to retorting, "yeah, well, my kid hits butts AND talks about his pee-pee!"

Caution: Complete Mess

I am just a mess lately. My hair is dry and stringy and I can't style it anymore. My nails are a wreck and keep peeling off. My energy level is non-existent. My face looks like a pepperoni pizza and I've gained about 4 pounds.

I blame it on the bathroom.

People have asked me why I'm letting this dang blamed bathroom bother me so bad and I don't have a good answer except to say that it is a mystical bathroom which holds my life force and it won't release it till the renovations are completed. Which, by way, looks as though it will be another two weeks out even though our contractor promised us it would be done last Friday. Whatever. Your workers have to actually show up for the project to get completed.

On a brighter note, we placed an order for bamboo flooring, which should be delivered shortly and we'll have installed after our vacation to see my folks the first week of August. That will be nice, and hopefully the soul sucking bathroom will be completed by then and then my hair will have some luster and my face a healthy glow.

Shey's Adventure

it's just been one of those days

One Sentence Story

My One Sentence Story finally made it. Vote thumbs up for me. :)

More Pics . . .

Here are some more pics of Peyton I found. I think these are around when he was one.


Just chillin' at the beach.

Mommy and Peyton

In Key West.

Who took the Cotton Candy?!?!

This is one of a group that I took that are some of my faves.

Mother Theresa, I Am Not

We hosted a huge party for the 4th of July and a good time was had by all, with the exception of Larry. While playing host and trying to encourage the kids away from the water slide during the thunderstorm and into the bounce house (much safer, I know), he slipped. One leg went south and the other leg headed north. Two doctor's appointment and an MRI later, we learn that he has a torn MCL. Luckily, this tendon will regenerate itself with some time and physical therapy, however, Larry is stuck with a knee brace and crutches for the next few weeks.

And while my husband has been more than appreciative of my waiting on him hand and foot, I am still waiting on him hand and foot. The waiting, oh it is becoming taxing. Already.

Today at lunch he was moaning about the crutches and I said, "You know, some people spend their whole lives on crutches." He nodded, then asked for a Coke.

I know it sucks and I am trying to be sympathetic, but let's face it, I am just not meant for servitude. I think that's a main difference between us. If it was me, I would still be trying to get stuff done and figuring out how to maneuver on the crutches, but he's scared of falling or balancing or something, and just doesn't risk it. He may have to learn real quick like though.

---

A funny: Shey came into our room around five this morning announcing over and over again, "I'm wet, I'm wet, I'm wet." I crawled out of bed (which I propped up with a case of water by the way) and followed him to his room. As I was stripping the bed, Shey asked, "Who turned the water on?"

Baby Peyton

I found some old discs last night with pictures on them of Peyton when he was a baby. Thought I'd share.

Here he is still in the hospital.

Look how young I look.

All bundled up.

Sweet, sweet baby.

One month old.

Weekend Warriors

Oh, the weekend, she was busy

First, we finished the flower/shrub area under the bay window.

Then, we broke our bed (dirty jokes are actually appropriate, go us!)

Notice how my side slopes downward. Here's a close up.

See the wood frame on the floor? yeah, it's not supposed to be there.

Let's see, then last night, I installed a shower door in the guest bathroom.

The workers were busy Saturday in the bathroom also. It's doesn't look like it, but they are making progress. The frame for the tub is in and they started the tile work there and in the shower.

Last week, we had the interior painted. Here's the color in the living room. I love it. Several walls are this chocolate brown color and the other walls are a light coffee with heavy cream color.

And, this wasn't from this weekend, but here are a couple of gratuitous pics of the boys at the beach.

And on one further note, here's a funny for you. The other week, I grabbed some lotion out of one of the boxes where our master bath is stored and rubbed it on my legs. It was really thick, but the bottle said it was with Shea Butter for extra whatever, so I just thought it was extra moisturizing. I've used it a few times since and even moved it to the counter of the guest bathroom for easier access. Last night, Larry pointed to it and said, "Is that what you've been using?" I confirmed and he said, "Isn't that body wash?" and sure enough, it was. No wonder the stuff took forever to rub in. ha At least I was clean.

This May be Funny Some Day o/k/a I May be Losing It

Sunday I got it in my little bitty head that I would redo the flower/hedge area in front of our bay window. By Sunday night, I had yanked my back out and spent Monday with a heating bandage around my lower back. Wednesday, I was back at it, pulling out the rest of the hedges and last night I raked the area in preparation for the planting, which will commence this weekend.

We also have these decorative stone brick things that line the area. I thought it would be a good idea to wash those things off and apply a coat of paint to match the exterior of our house. (Little pre-story, we are redoing our bathroom, which has been going on for over 2 months now (bastards) and we had the inside of the house painted, which took three and a half days (angels), so I am a little displaced right now) So anyway, I wanted to hang out outside and the rock brick things looked like they could use a fresh coat of paint and off I went.

I moved all 14 of them to the grass, washed them off, then moved them to an old comforter on the driveway for painting. I spent the next hour or so painting those dad-blasted things. Not one second (literally) did I wash off the paint brushes and close the paint bucket up, when the heavens opened up and rain decended on my head.

You've got to be fucking kidding me. (You know, I had really been trying to clean my language up, but this last couple weeks has sucked ass.)

I sat there and stared at the brick/stone things for a while, then went to the back of the house to jump in the pool before my blood boiled over. I stripped down off back and wrapped a towel around me to go back to the front of the house to look at the newly painted, now rained upon brick/stone things.

They were once again not painted. And paint was running down my driveway. And the comforter was soaked and full of paint.

So, if you live in the South Florida area and you saw a crazy woman with a towel wrapped around her hauling brick/stone things back to their original spot, then dragging an old comforter down the driveway, then washing down said driveway all in the rain and with a towel wrapped around her, never you mind, she'll be ok as soon as her fucking bathroom is finished.

Starring Me!

Because all the
cool kids are doing it. Go to The Simpsons site if you'd like to make your own.

Just Because . . .

Vroom, Vroom

I'm a Chevrolet Corvette!

You're a classic - powerful, athletic, and competitive. You're all about winning the race and getting the job done. While you have a practical everyday side, you get wild when anyone pushes your pedal. You hate to lose, but you hardly ever do.

Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.