Now that I have dragged myself up from the dregs of sickness hell, I can provide updates for the recent events around here. I know you have all been on the edge of your seats.
First off, I spoke with Jim this morning and he sounded good albeit tired and still in a lot of pain. His blood levels are doing good and his kidneys seem to be picking up again, so they have quit dialysis for now. They have started physical therapy on his upper body and leg. The past couple of days, they have had him out of bed and sitting in a chair in his room. He still can't put any weight on the damaged leg, but is hopeful that by next week they will have him out of ICU and in the rehab hospital.
He is a bit overwhelmed at the outpouring of love and help that has come his and his families way since all this started. He truly is a wonderful man and friend. I couldn't ask for a better boss. Thank you again for all your continued prayers.
Next, I finally met with the principal today at Peyton's school and I think it went really well. He listened to my concerns, read the letter Ms G wrote and agreed with a lot of my issues. We also talked about Peyton and the type of personality he has. The Principal brought up Peyton's placement for next year before I did and told me he would make note to make sure he was placed with someone with the experience to work with a child like Peyton. He told me he would speak with the teacher and let me know how it went and if there were any concerns regarding Peyton's progress.
Yesterday when I was looking through Peyton's backpack I saw his reading list and the teacher's name was now Ms. G. When I asked Peyton about it, he told me they had dropped his reading level. In the course of the year, he has gone from the third level, up to the fourth level, back to the third level and now dropped to the second level. I'm not thrilled with Ms. G being is reading teacher as well now, especially with her grammatical issues and her appearant inability to provide Peyton with the structure he needs. I'm worried that Peyton's high frustration level and impatience is starting to affect his schoolwork and learning already.
I'm wondering if I should make an appointment with his pediatrician to have him tested? I wonder if it is an attention problem, or just an impulse problem? Is that the same? Anyway, all you gals with older children and my teacher friends, let me know what you think.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
First Year Poopy Head
I'm sure I have written this before, but let's be clear, shall we? Peyton's kindergarten teacher is a brand new, straight out of school, no prior experience first year teacher. Her first ever kindergarten class is not so forgiving. There are several children that are a bit of a handful, Peyton included, but in the times I have helped out with parties and such, they aren't mean spirited children, just rambunctious.
That being said, Ms G has a little bitty voice to go with her small frame and does not command the respect or the attention of the kids at all. I also feel that Peyton was targeted from the beginning of the year as a "problem" child and now he doesn't catch any breaks. The parties I have helped with, he would sit on the carpet when asked and then when Ms G picked people to go to the different centers, he was often overlooked till the end.
Yesterday, Peyton tells Larry and me that his class is having a sleepover with their second grade buddies and Ms G told him he can't go. Do huh? So he hands us a letter and I wish I would have saved it to quote it verbatim, but I was so aggravated I threw it away last night.
The gist of the letter was we're having a slumber party, we (kindergarten teachers) feel that some of your children would not behave properly at a slumber party causing it to be unsafe for others and not allowing the children to sleep. If you didn't get a permission slip with this letter, then your child is one of these kids. If you speak with your child and they behave properly the rest of the week, then I may give them a permission slip.
Peyton did not get a permission slip.
You know, I am the LAST one to say that Peyton is perfect. I know he talks a lot. I know he gets frustrated easily. I know he likes to hit people on the butt to show affection, but I also know that he is not a vindictive child and if you keep him properly engaged as a kindergarten teacher should, he will do his work and be your biggest helper. Also, if they really feel he would be a problem, then ask me to chaperone. I just don't see how they can have a school event and exclude some of the kids.
You know what even bothers me the most about this whole thing? Every correspondence and newsletter, including this one, that I have received from this teacher has had at least one, if not more, grammatical errors. Larry was reading the permission slip letter out loud to me and even he stopped and said to me, "This doesn't make sense." If you are going to teach my child and have the nerve to complain about my child, then you damn well better express yourself in complete sentences.
I'm going to the school today to read with my fifth grader and I am going to find out who I need to speak with in order to ensure that Peyton has a teacher next year that properly handles their classroom and has a grasp on the English language.
That being said, Ms G has a little bitty voice to go with her small frame and does not command the respect or the attention of the kids at all. I also feel that Peyton was targeted from the beginning of the year as a "problem" child and now he doesn't catch any breaks. The parties I have helped with, he would sit on the carpet when asked and then when Ms G picked people to go to the different centers, he was often overlooked till the end.
Yesterday, Peyton tells Larry and me that his class is having a sleepover with their second grade buddies and Ms G told him he can't go. Do huh? So he hands us a letter and I wish I would have saved it to quote it verbatim, but I was so aggravated I threw it away last night.
The gist of the letter was we're having a slumber party, we (kindergarten teachers) feel that some of your children would not behave properly at a slumber party causing it to be unsafe for others and not allowing the children to sleep. If you didn't get a permission slip with this letter, then your child is one of these kids. If you speak with your child and they behave properly the rest of the week, then I may give them a permission slip.
Peyton did not get a permission slip.
You know, I am the LAST one to say that Peyton is perfect. I know he talks a lot. I know he gets frustrated easily. I know he likes to hit people on the butt to show affection, but I also know that he is not a vindictive child and if you keep him properly engaged as a kindergarten teacher should, he will do his work and be your biggest helper. Also, if they really feel he would be a problem, then ask me to chaperone. I just don't see how they can have a school event and exclude some of the kids.
You know what even bothers me the most about this whole thing? Every correspondence and newsletter, including this one, that I have received from this teacher has had at least one, if not more, grammatical errors. Larry was reading the permission slip letter out loud to me and even he stopped and said to me, "This doesn't make sense." If you are going to teach my child and have the nerve to complain about my child, then you damn well better express yourself in complete sentences.
I'm going to the school today to read with my fifth grader and I am going to find out who I need to speak with in order to ensure that Peyton has a teacher next year that properly handles their classroom and has a grasp on the English language.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Update -Part 2
I was going to head up to the hospital this afternoon, but Peyton was sick this weekend and Shey is snotty now, as well as I don't feel that great either, so it's probably best I don't go. I feel really bad about it though.
Jim is progressing well. They took him off the ventilator earlier this week. With that, they quit sedating him so he is awake more, but then he gets tired easier as well. They have been doing dialysis to help his kidneys out, but the doctors have said that this doesn't mean it will be a permanent thing, but rather there is so many toxins and fluid in his body that the kidneys just can't process it all.
I spoke with his girlfriend a little bit ago and they had brought a walked in for him to stand for a minute, so that is really good news. I even got to talk to him. He sounded really slow, but was appreciative of all the prayers. After we hung up, I cried.
I am so quick to distance myself from situations and people that are hurting so I stay neutral. I remember one time when I was still in Alabama and Larry had come into town to see me. We went with my parents to the lake and I was almost ignoring him. Mom made a comment about me doing the distancing thing then and I didn't even realize it. I'm there but I'm not at the same time.
It's hard though with this. Someone brought in a big (huge) teddy bear and it is sitting in Jim's office. Every time I see it, it hurts.
Please continue to pray for him. Pray that he continues to improve and pray that his attitude remains good. Pray for his daughter and son too. They lost their mom four years ago to cancer in the same hospital Jim's at now. I can't even imagine.
Jim is progressing well. They took him off the ventilator earlier this week. With that, they quit sedating him so he is awake more, but then he gets tired easier as well. They have been doing dialysis to help his kidneys out, but the doctors have said that this doesn't mean it will be a permanent thing, but rather there is so many toxins and fluid in his body that the kidneys just can't process it all.
I spoke with his girlfriend a little bit ago and they had brought a walked in for him to stand for a minute, so that is really good news. I even got to talk to him. He sounded really slow, but was appreciative of all the prayers. After we hung up, I cried.
I am so quick to distance myself from situations and people that are hurting so I stay neutral. I remember one time when I was still in Alabama and Larry had come into town to see me. We went with my parents to the lake and I was almost ignoring him. Mom made a comment about me doing the distancing thing then and I didn't even realize it. I'm there but I'm not at the same time.
It's hard though with this. Someone brought in a big (huge) teddy bear and it is sitting in Jim's office. Every time I see it, it hurts.
Please continue to pray for him. Pray that he continues to improve and pray that his attitude remains good. Pray for his daughter and son too. They lost their mom four years ago to cancer in the same hospital Jim's at now. I can't even imagine.
Friday, April 11, 2008
An Update
I've spent the last three days in the ICU waiting room and now Peyton is home sick, so I haven't been in the office at all.
Monday, my boss, Jim, went in to have his hip replaced. This was being done because in January, when he went in to have the right hip done, the doctor didn't account for the difference in the new hip and the hip he had replaced about 3 years ago, so his legs were about 3/4 of an inch off. (He's only 52)
So anyway, Jim decided that he would rather have the old hip redone because the technology has improved so much in the past few years. During the initial surgery on Monday, the doctor told his girlfriend, Linda, that they had to give him some extra blood, but the surgery went well and he was in recovery. A little while later, Jim started complaining that his stomach was bothering him and his blood pressure started fluctuating greatly.
They knew he was bleeding somewhere, but they didn't know where. They took him for a CAT scan, but it didn't show anything. Finally about 2:30 in the morning, they took him back in to surgery. They went in through his stomach and when they opened him up, his stomach cavity was full of blood. They also found that the artery in his leg, the one that brings the blood up from the leg back to the heart had about a four inch section missing out of it. The artery was so mangled that they couldn't repair it and instead tied it off to stop the bleeding.
They had to give him 20 units of blood, apparently, the body only contains 8-10 pints, so he was losing it rapidly. Later the vascular surgeon said that he shouldn't have survived and they had to bring him back a couple of times.
Due to that amount of blood they had to give him, his organs shut down and his body had to accept and process the extreme amount of fluids they were giving him. Thankfully, it appears most of his organs are fully functioning, with his kidneys lagging behind, but they are hopeful they will recoup as well.
The blood doctor is happy so far that his body is acclimating to the new blood and is starting to coagulate and act as it should. He is still heavily sedated, with a ventilator, but he knows we are there and is aware enough to look around at us and squeeze our hands or gesture with his.
For now, he is stable, and they are watching his leg very closely. The hope is that the other capillaries and veins will take over the circulation in his leg. Right now, they have two slits cut into his leg along the sides to aid in getting all the fluid out. His poor hands and feet are so swollen. Wednesday, his stomach was also really swollen, but it had gone down a lot yesterday.
We are thankful to God that he is still alive and I know it is because of all the hundreds of people praying for him, even those who don't know him. I thank you.
Monday, my boss, Jim, went in to have his hip replaced. This was being done because in January, when he went in to have the right hip done, the doctor didn't account for the difference in the new hip and the hip he had replaced about 3 years ago, so his legs were about 3/4 of an inch off. (He's only 52)
So anyway, Jim decided that he would rather have the old hip redone because the technology has improved so much in the past few years. During the initial surgery on Monday, the doctor told his girlfriend, Linda, that they had to give him some extra blood, but the surgery went well and he was in recovery. A little while later, Jim started complaining that his stomach was bothering him and his blood pressure started fluctuating greatly.
They knew he was bleeding somewhere, but they didn't know where. They took him for a CAT scan, but it didn't show anything. Finally about 2:30 in the morning, they took him back in to surgery. They went in through his stomach and when they opened him up, his stomach cavity was full of blood. They also found that the artery in his leg, the one that brings the blood up from the leg back to the heart had about a four inch section missing out of it. The artery was so mangled that they couldn't repair it and instead tied it off to stop the bleeding.
They had to give him 20 units of blood, apparently, the body only contains 8-10 pints, so he was losing it rapidly. Later the vascular surgeon said that he shouldn't have survived and they had to bring him back a couple of times.
Due to that amount of blood they had to give him, his organs shut down and his body had to accept and process the extreme amount of fluids they were giving him. Thankfully, it appears most of his organs are fully functioning, with his kidneys lagging behind, but they are hopeful they will recoup as well.
The blood doctor is happy so far that his body is acclimating to the new blood and is starting to coagulate and act as it should. He is still heavily sedated, with a ventilator, but he knows we are there and is aware enough to look around at us and squeeze our hands or gesture with his.
For now, he is stable, and they are watching his leg very closely. The hope is that the other capillaries and veins will take over the circulation in his leg. Right now, they have two slits cut into his leg along the sides to aid in getting all the fluid out. His poor hands and feet are so swollen. Wednesday, his stomach was also really swollen, but it had gone down a lot yesterday.
We are thankful to God that he is still alive and I know it is because of all the hundreds of people praying for him, even those who don't know him. I thank you.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
My Boss
Yesterday, my boss, Jim went in to have his hip replaced and the doctor nicked a large vein. He lost a lot of blood and is in ICU fighting for his life. Larry and I are about to leave to go to the hospital. He is my FLorida dad. Please, please add him to your prayer list.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Peyton
Last night Larry and I were eating a late dinner and the boys were sitting on the couch watching TV when Peyton turned around with the blanket around his head like a shawl and made a funny face. It struck how big he is and I had a momentary lapse of reason when I longed for a baby.
Peyton is such a unique child/person that I don't even know how to describe him. He seemed to go from baby to child. There really was no in between and we've always treated him older than he is because he gives that impression even though his actions are still that of someone his age. See, even that didn't make sense. Let's see, he's always been smart, but Shey has too, and Shey still acts like a baby, or has babyish ways about him at 3. Peyton never had these baby ways. Sometimes he is very affectionate, but other times, he holds back. Like when he does programs at school and such, he acts embarrassed already that we are there.
I think all this is why it is hard to parent him at times. Sometimes he is so very reasonable and willing to help, and other times he is just downright confrontational. It's always extremes with Peyton. The boy came out of the womb high maintenance.
I worry for him as he ages, his extremes and what they will mean.
Peyton is such a unique child/person that I don't even know how to describe him. He seemed to go from baby to child. There really was no in between and we've always treated him older than he is because he gives that impression even though his actions are still that of someone his age. See, even that didn't make sense. Let's see, he's always been smart, but Shey has too, and Shey still acts like a baby, or has babyish ways about him at 3. Peyton never had these baby ways. Sometimes he is very affectionate, but other times, he holds back. Like when he does programs at school and such, he acts embarrassed already that we are there.
I think all this is why it is hard to parent him at times. Sometimes he is so very reasonable and willing to help, and other times he is just downright confrontational. It's always extremes with Peyton. The boy came out of the womb high maintenance.
I worry for him as he ages, his extremes and what they will mean.
Friday, March 21, 2008
4x4 Meme
Anne tagged me to complete a meme and it's Friday, so I have agreed. Also, she has a wonderfully huge house for sale in Minnesota, if anyone is interested in moving there and freezing their tushes off.
4 jobs I have had (I'll try to offer new ones than last time): Gift wrapper at x-mas time, salesperson at an eel skin store (those were both with the same guy), Assistant to a lady selling health insurance out of her house (that one sucked big time!) and I worked for about a week, well long enough to do the training, at McRaes before they went out of business. I actually skipped town on the last one to come see Larry and called them to quit.
4 places I have been: Alaska, Mt. Rushmore, Bahamas, Yellowstone
4 shows I watch: Lost, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, Grey's Anatomy and The Office, oh and Biggest Loser Couples
4 foods that I like: I made these awesomely delish jalepeno, cream cheese and bacon apps from a recipe from The Pioneer Woman last night and they were YUMMY. I like hummus, hamburgers and fish as well.
Yay for Friday! Happy Easter everyone.
4 jobs I have had (I'll try to offer new ones than last time): Gift wrapper at x-mas time, salesperson at an eel skin store (those were both with the same guy), Assistant to a lady selling health insurance out of her house (that one sucked big time!) and I worked for about a week, well long enough to do the training, at McRaes before they went out of business. I actually skipped town on the last one to come see Larry and called them to quit.
4 places I have been: Alaska, Mt. Rushmore, Bahamas, Yellowstone
4 shows I watch: Lost, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, Grey's Anatomy and The Office, oh and Biggest Loser Couples
4 foods that I like: I made these awesomely delish jalepeno, cream cheese and bacon apps from a recipe from The Pioneer Woman last night and they were YUMMY. I like hummus, hamburgers and fish as well.
Yay for Friday! Happy Easter everyone.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
My Stained Glass Masquerade
I'll admit that after reconnecting with some of my high school (and even further back) friends lately on blogger, that I have censored my posts and the information I offer to the blogging community. We went to a small private Christian school and it was an automatic response to keep certain traits and habits hidden. And while I feel I have grown tremendously in the past couple of years in my efforts to reconnect with my upbringing, there are still some activities that I do partake of and hold on to that don't coincide with the 75% of me that is trying to live a more Godly life.
All that being said, there is one habit I am ready (although maybe not all the way willing) to ditch and I am going to put it out there for your prayers and accountability.
I started smoking (cigarettes, not the other) when I was 18 and have continued to do so more on than off the past 12 years. I stopped when I was pregnant and then stupidly picked it back up again after having each boy. I've never been a heavy smoker, 3 maybe 4 a day, and if I needed to, I could go days to a week without having one and be fine, which really just makes it even sillier that I keep it up. I rarely buy my own, content to bum off my friends around me and give them money, or buy their coffee instead.
I only smoke at home when we have friends over, but Peyton is definitely old enough to be influenced and remember it now, so it is time for me to be an adult and quit. If not for my own health, then for my kids.
I haven't had one since Friday, but I also haven't felt well this week, so it's been easier. In a few days when I have my energy back and I'm bored, stressed, or whatever at work, I know I will think "one won't hurt."
So that's it, all out there for everyone to see. And no, while it's not the worst habit in the world, like crack or whatever Amy Winehouse is on, it's not the best either. Please send your thoughts and prayers this way, I'm going to need them.
All that being said, there is one habit I am ready (although maybe not all the way willing) to ditch and I am going to put it out there for your prayers and accountability.
I started smoking (cigarettes, not the other) when I was 18 and have continued to do so more on than off the past 12 years. I stopped when I was pregnant and then stupidly picked it back up again after having each boy. I've never been a heavy smoker, 3 maybe 4 a day, and if I needed to, I could go days to a week without having one and be fine, which really just makes it even sillier that I keep it up. I rarely buy my own, content to bum off my friends around me and give them money, or buy their coffee instead.
I only smoke at home when we have friends over, but Peyton is definitely old enough to be influenced and remember it now, so it is time for me to be an adult and quit. If not for my own health, then for my kids.
I haven't had one since Friday, but I also haven't felt well this week, so it's been easier. In a few days when I have my energy back and I'm bored, stressed, or whatever at work, I know I will think "one won't hurt."
So that's it, all out there for everyone to see. And no, while it's not the worst habit in the world, like crack or whatever Amy Winehouse is on, it's not the best either. Please send your thoughts and prayers this way, I'm going to need them.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
A Meme for you
My computer is frozen at work, so here's a quick Meme as I was tagged by Kristin.
What I was doing 10 years ago: Larry had just moved to Montgomery and we were deciding what we were going to do. He wanted to move back to South Florida to finish school as he had pre-paid college, but he never did, and we're still here.
5 Things on my To Do List today: I have to go to Hialeah to pick up a surveillance tape from a strip club. I'm going to clean the kitchen tonight and maybe try to get some knitting in. I've been slacking on that lately. That's about it.
Snacks I Enjoy: I like wheat thins and hummus. Papaya is always good with a spritz of lime juice. Does caramel lattes count?
Things I would do if I were a Billionaire: I really would just like enough money to not have to worry about paying my bills with some left over for some fun. I would donate more too.
3 of my Bad Habits: Picking at my nails, not spending enough time in the evenings with my kids, and another one that I'm working on.
5 places I have lived: Montgomery, AL, Cooper City, FL, Plantation, FL and Coral Springs, FL
5 Jobs I have had: Daycare teacher, barista at Barnie's, customer service, office manager/adjuster
Okay, I'm unstuck, back to work.
Oh, I'm not going to tag anyone, but if you are up for it, leave me a comment.
What I was doing 10 years ago: Larry had just moved to Montgomery and we were deciding what we were going to do. He wanted to move back to South Florida to finish school as he had pre-paid college, but he never did, and we're still here.
5 Things on my To Do List today: I have to go to Hialeah to pick up a surveillance tape from a strip club. I'm going to clean the kitchen tonight and maybe try to get some knitting in. I've been slacking on that lately. That's about it.
Snacks I Enjoy: I like wheat thins and hummus. Papaya is always good with a spritz of lime juice. Does caramel lattes count?
Things I would do if I were a Billionaire: I really would just like enough money to not have to worry about paying my bills with some left over for some fun. I would donate more too.
3 of my Bad Habits: Picking at my nails, not spending enough time in the evenings with my kids, and another one that I'm working on.
5 places I have lived: Montgomery, AL, Cooper City, FL, Plantation, FL and Coral Springs, FL
5 Jobs I have had: Daycare teacher, barista at Barnie's, customer service, office manager/adjuster
Okay, I'm unstuck, back to work.
Oh, I'm not going to tag anyone, but if you are up for it, leave me a comment.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Scrapbooking
For the new scrapbooker in me, here is a great site for free fonts made from people's handwriting to download Fonts. My scrapbooking journaling just got a whole lot easier.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Life with Shey
(On the way to Peyton's baseball practice last night)
Peyton: On Saturdays when we go to
Shey: On Saturdays when we go to
P: Mom, on Saturdays when we
S: Mom, on Saturdays when we
P: Ugh, Mom (really fast) on Saturdays when we go to
S: (even faster) onSaturdayswhenwego
P: Shey! Stop!
S: Shey! Stop!
P: MOM!
S: MOM!
Mom: Shey, stop.
Shey: Sheeeey stooop
P: (bravely trying again with a bit of a whine) Mom, on Saturdays when we go to
S: onsaturdaysjfdkfnff (He quits making sense at this point, kinda like Steve Carrol's character in Bruce Almighty)
P: (half laughing, whining, crying) Mom! When we go to
S: (screaming) MOM! WHEN WE GO TO
We finally arrive at the field. I don't think Peyton ever got the whole sentence out.
The Blur
At Peyton's soccer celebration
Peyton: On Saturdays when we go to
Shey: On Saturdays when we go to
P: Mom, on Saturdays when we
S: Mom, on Saturdays when we
P: Ugh, Mom (really fast) on Saturdays when we go to
S: (even faster) onSaturdayswhenwego
P: Shey! Stop!
S: Shey! Stop!
P: MOM!
S: MOM!
Mom: Shey, stop.
Shey: Sheeeey stooop
P: (bravely trying again with a bit of a whine) Mom, on Saturdays when we go to
S: onsaturdaysjfdkfnff (He quits making sense at this point, kinda like Steve Carrol's character in Bruce Almighty)
P: (half laughing, whining, crying) Mom! When we go to
S: (screaming) MOM! WHEN WE GO TO
We finally arrive at the field. I don't think Peyton ever got the whole sentence out.
The Blur
At Peyton's soccer celebration
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Lunar Eclipse
As it was cloudy most of the day yesterday, I didn't think we would have the best view of the lunar eclipse, but the sky opened up as night approached and I was able to get some really clear shots.
The boys were in and out of bed looking at it till about 9:40 and then when I went to see if they were still awake around 10:00 for the full eclipse, of course, they had fallen asleep. I promised them pictures though.
The boys were in and out of bed looking at it till about 9:40 and then when I went to see if they were still awake around 10:00 for the full eclipse, of course, they had fallen asleep. I promised them pictures though.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Eye Freak
For the past three days, my left eye has been twitching almost non-stop. So much, in fact, that when it doesn't, my poor eyelid and eyebrow muscles are actually a little sore. What is up with that?
Peyton had a dentist appointment this morning and as always, he was excellent and had no cavities. I think I would live at the dentist if they would let me.
I've gotten a little scrapbooking club going and we met last night and will start meeting every third Monday of the month. There are seven of us, and it is so much fun. Throw in some wine and finger foods and it's a party. It's an eclectic group of people, but we mesh really well. I'm excited to have a mandatory girl's night at least once a month.
Peyton had a dentist appointment this morning and as always, he was excellent and had no cavities. I think I would live at the dentist if they would let me.
I've gotten a little scrapbooking club going and we met last night and will start meeting every third Monday of the month. There are seven of us, and it is so much fun. Throw in some wine and finger foods and it's a party. It's an eclectic group of people, but we mesh really well. I'm excited to have a mandatory girl's night at least once a month.
Monday, February 18, 2008
For Fun
For those of you with kids who love Spongebob, the following should make you at least smile.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
10 to 15
I'll admit it, I am a HUGE Harry Potter fan. I devoured all the books, twice and my mom and I made it a point to see each of the movies through The Goblet of Fire in the movie theater. Due to scheduling conflicts, I wasn't able to see The Order of the Phoenix on the big screen, so when I saw it playing on Pay Per View, I TiVoed it right away.
I saved it though, had to have the right time to watch it. Preferably alone, and at night so I could take advantage of our big screen TV and surround sound. With Larry out of town, last night was perfect. The kids were actually asleep by 9, so I settled into the couch and let the movie begin.
May I just say that Daniel Radcliffe as turned into quite ahot fine young man? The broadness of his shoulders emotions onscreen were just phenomenal. The chiseled way his face character responded to the situation at hand left me a little breathless overcome with emotion. I was amazed at just how sexy good he had become.
The movie itself was also very entertaining. I know they can't cram the whole book into 2 and a half hours and they chose plot and character development wisely. I recommend renting it right away so you candrool enjoy Daniel Radcliffe and his fellow companions as well.
I saved it though, had to have the right time to watch it. Preferably alone, and at night so I could take advantage of our big screen TV and surround sound. With Larry out of town, last night was perfect. The kids were actually asleep by 9, so I settled into the couch and let the movie begin.
May I just say that Daniel Radcliffe as turned into quite a
The movie itself was also very entertaining. I know they can't cram the whole book into 2 and a half hours and they chose plot and character development wisely. I recommend renting it right away so you can
Monday, February 04, 2008
Being a Grown-up
After talking with Tamara about their refinance, I started thinking that Larry and I should do the same. We have a 30-yr mortgage and an equity line that I wanted to consolidate. I kept putting if off though just because it's one of those things that's just a pain, you know.
Today I finally called our mortgage company and I'm so glad I did. It was super-easy as we are already customers and it got all the inital stuff done over the phone in about 20 minutes. Plus, we're going to save about $500.00 a month. Hallaleuh!
I feel like such a shmuck now for putting this off for so long, but now that it's in the works, I feel like such a responsible adult. Like, wow, I really am a grown-up. ha ha
Anyway, yay me!
(ok, spellcheck is not working, so I apologize for any misspellings.)
Today I finally called our mortgage company and I'm so glad I did. It was super-easy as we are already customers and it got all the inital stuff done over the phone in about 20 minutes. Plus, we're going to save about $500.00 a month. Hallaleuh!
I feel like such a shmuck now for putting this off for so long, but now that it's in the works, I feel like such a responsible adult. Like, wow, I really am a grown-up. ha ha
Anyway, yay me!
(ok, spellcheck is not working, so I apologize for any misspellings.)
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Kindergarten is for the Birds
First off, thank you everyone who left comments yesterday and are keeping me in your prayers. I feel better today, not quite so lost, or alone, so the prayers are working.
Aannnndddd, now that I know not only my friends from high school are reading, but their mothers as well, no more drug crazed orgy stories for you! (Don't bother searching Google users, it was just a joke.)
Seriously though, I really appreciate the thoughts and prayers and I am so very glad that our little chorus group has reconnected!
eight
nine
ten
eleven
twelve
thirteen
fourteen
fifteen
These are the words that Peyton's KINDERGARTEN reading teacher sent home last night for a SPELLING test on Monday. I really don't even know how to begin teaching my son how to spell these words. I mean, really, twelve? How many five year olds know that tw make the twah sound?
I'm planning on making him sit some each day to write a couple of the words, but again, five years old, we all know the attention spans of this age. I know they are not graded, but I just hope he doesn't feel bad for not being able to spell them all.
I hate to see what first grade will be like.
Aannnndddd, now that I know not only my friends from high school are reading, but their mothers as well, no more drug crazed orgy stories for you! (Don't bother searching Google users, it was just a joke.)
Seriously though, I really appreciate the thoughts and prayers and I am so very glad that our little chorus group has reconnected!
eight
nine
ten
eleven
twelve
thirteen
fourteen
fifteen
These are the words that Peyton's KINDERGARTEN reading teacher sent home last night for a SPELLING test on Monday. I really don't even know how to begin teaching my son how to spell these words. I mean, really, twelve? How many five year olds know that tw make the twah sound?
I'm planning on making him sit some each day to write a couple of the words, but again, five years old, we all know the attention spans of this age. I know they are not graded, but I just hope he doesn't feel bad for not being able to spell them all.
I hate to see what first grade will be like.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
East to the West
I could listen to Casting Crowns "East to the West" on repeat all day long. They will be here in February and I really wanted to go to the concert, but Mom had a wedding they were commited to and my friends here that I know listen to Christian rock are planning a wedding and can't afford the extra expense. Anyhoo, maybe Way FM will give tickets away and I can win some.
Pretty much all of Casting Crowns' songs strike a nerve within me and "East to the West" is no exception. It's so incredibly hard to live in an area where none of our close friends are church goers and having a husband that is Jewish. Larry's gone with me to church, but he's just not comfortable there. I never appreciated how difficult it was for mom to take me alone week after week until I had the kids and got myself together enough to find a church home.
Tamara and I were talking the other day about those videos they would show us in high school about drug addicts and the like hitting rock bottom and finding Christ. I remember at the time, and even sometimes now, envying them in their struggles because they had something in their life that was so difficult that they had to rely on their faith and the changes in their life were so drastic.
I know this is silly and immature and I don't wish heartache on myself or my family. My personal demon is waiting for a huge sign when I should be listening for the whisper. To know that even though I don't feel the change, that it is being made within my life and my children are benefiting more than I could ever know.
Pretty much all of Casting Crowns' songs strike a nerve within me and "East to the West" is no exception. It's so incredibly hard to live in an area where none of our close friends are church goers and having a husband that is Jewish. Larry's gone with me to church, but he's just not comfortable there. I never appreciated how difficult it was for mom to take me alone week after week until I had the kids and got myself together enough to find a church home.
Tamara and I were talking the other day about those videos they would show us in high school about drug addicts and the like hitting rock bottom and finding Christ. I remember at the time, and even sometimes now, envying them in their struggles because they had something in their life that was so difficult that they had to rely on their faith and the changes in their life were so drastic.
I know this is silly and immature and I don't wish heartache on myself or my family. My personal demon is waiting for a huge sign when I should be listening for the whisper. To know that even though I don't feel the change, that it is being made within my life and my children are benefiting more than I could ever know.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
About a Boy (or Two)
Because so many of you are nosey and want to know the sordid details of our fellow seniors that I kissed, here are the stories. Please remember, I was 17 at the time. With all that said, they aren't as interesting as I made them out to be.
I'm pretty sure it was winter time our senior year when the first non-boyfriend kiss occurred. My parents were somewhere for the weekend and I think Robert and I were either on the outs or in a fight. I know I wasn't happy with him and I was feeling bold, wanting to do something bad. ooooooooo ha ha It's funny because when I think back on the incident, I can conjure up the feelings of that night, my restlessness.
I remember that I wanted to loosen my inhibitions, so I raided dad's liquor cabinet, which wasn't that much really, and made a vodka and orange juice. Robert and John M had become friends, so the three of us had been hanging out a lot. Since Robert and I were fighting or whatever, John agreed to come over. He shows up, we're hanging out, I may have had another drink, I don't recall. The next thing I know John was sitting on the couch and I straddled him and then we were kissing. Right after that Tamara and her date showed up and I freaked out. I remember pacing up and down the kitchen and John left. ha ha ha I never did tell Robert about that and I don't think John and I ever talked about it.
The next kiss happened in the spring, I think. Ashley C, Heidi, Tamara and I had planned a trip to Gulf Shores, I think. Ashley and Michael D were friends at the time and Ashley had a crush on him, so somehow he was invited along too. The exact sequence of events is a little fuzzy, but I know that Heidi and Tamara were out at the beach with some guys we met and it was night. I was laying on the bed and I remember hearing Ashley and Michael talking in the bathroom/changing area of the hotel room. I think they may have kissed, but I'm not sure as I was trying to block them out. It was obvious though that Ashley liked him and something was happening.
Sometime later, Michael came over to where I was lying down and was rubbing my back and the next thing I know, his tongue was down my throat. Ugh! I was soooo not attracted to him and did not ask for that at all. Ashley got extremely pissed off and left to find Tamara and Heidi. I was mad because I didn't do anything wrong and everyone was mad at me. I remember Michael and me looking for Ashley and Tamara and Heidi because everyone had disappeared. I'm not sure where we all slept that night, and it was a long quiet car ride home.
So there you go. Now girls, it is your turn to share!
I'm pretty sure it was winter time our senior year when the first non-boyfriend kiss occurred. My parents were somewhere for the weekend and I think Robert and I were either on the outs or in a fight. I know I wasn't happy with him and I was feeling bold, wanting to do something bad. ooooooooo ha ha It's funny because when I think back on the incident, I can conjure up the feelings of that night, my restlessness.
I remember that I wanted to loosen my inhibitions, so I raided dad's liquor cabinet, which wasn't that much really, and made a vodka and orange juice. Robert and John M had become friends, so the three of us had been hanging out a lot. Since Robert and I were fighting or whatever, John agreed to come over. He shows up, we're hanging out, I may have had another drink, I don't recall. The next thing I know John was sitting on the couch and I straddled him and then we were kissing. Right after that Tamara and her date showed up and I freaked out. I remember pacing up and down the kitchen and John left. ha ha ha I never did tell Robert about that and I don't think John and I ever talked about it.
The next kiss happened in the spring, I think. Ashley C, Heidi, Tamara and I had planned a trip to Gulf Shores, I think. Ashley and Michael D were friends at the time and Ashley had a crush on him, so somehow he was invited along too. The exact sequence of events is a little fuzzy, but I know that Heidi and Tamara were out at the beach with some guys we met and it was night. I was laying on the bed and I remember hearing Ashley and Michael talking in the bathroom/changing area of the hotel room. I think they may have kissed, but I'm not sure as I was trying to block them out. It was obvious though that Ashley liked him and something was happening.
Sometime later, Michael came over to where I was lying down and was rubbing my back and the next thing I know, his tongue was down my throat. Ugh! I was soooo not attracted to him and did not ask for that at all. Ashley got extremely pissed off and left to find Tamara and Heidi. I was mad because I didn't do anything wrong and everyone was mad at me. I remember Michael and me looking for Ashley and Tamara and Heidi because everyone had disappeared. I'm not sure where we all slept that night, and it was a long quiet car ride home.
So there you go. Now girls, it is your turn to share!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Heath Ledger
A small percentage of the population can claim friendships with celebrities; however most everyone who has seen a television show, movie, magazine, interview, etc feels a connection with the bigger than life stars. Many of us recall first movies we saw with loved ones, the song that was playing when the first kiss finally happened or the actor who always draws us to the box office.
I fell in love with Heath Ledger after watching A Knight’s Tale. I quickly became enamoured with the leading man and his quest to rise above the life into which he was born. I imagined myself as Lady Jocelyn who experienced the thrill of having a man chase her so unabashedly. My eyes shining with tears as the Prince of Wales bestows the title of Knight to William Thatcher.
Heath Ledger was quickly added to my “list” (you know the one) and I sought out movies with my new favorite actor.
Despite the controversy surrounding Brokeback Mountain, I made it a point to see the film at the theaters and was not dissapointed. Aside from a few raw scenes at the beginning, Brokeback Mountain is a brilliant movie and Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal are phenomenal in portraying the struggles their two characters face. Also the cinementography is beautiful and the musical score haunting.
There were other movies as well The Patriot, Monster’s Ball, Casanova and the most recent movie I TiVoed of his Candy, a gripping story of two addicts in love and the struggle that comes with it.
When Larry pulled up Yahoo News yesterday and I saw the heading Heath Ledger dies at 28, I was shocked and saddened. I thought of his baby girl, Matilda, who will grow up without her daddy, his family who lost a son and a brother, and those who knew him who lost a friend. And while his passing may not affect my normal everyday life, I mourn the death of a talented actor.
I fell in love with Heath Ledger after watching A Knight’s Tale. I quickly became enamoured with the leading man and his quest to rise above the life into which he was born. I imagined myself as Lady Jocelyn who experienced the thrill of having a man chase her so unabashedly. My eyes shining with tears as the Prince of Wales bestows the title of Knight to William Thatcher.
Heath Ledger was quickly added to my “list” (you know the one) and I sought out movies with my new favorite actor.
Despite the controversy surrounding Brokeback Mountain, I made it a point to see the film at the theaters and was not dissapointed. Aside from a few raw scenes at the beginning, Brokeback Mountain is a brilliant movie and Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal are phenomenal in portraying the struggles their two characters face. Also the cinementography is beautiful and the musical score haunting.
There were other movies as well The Patriot, Monster’s Ball, Casanova and the most recent movie I TiVoed of his Candy, a gripping story of two addicts in love and the struggle that comes with it.
When Larry pulled up Yahoo News yesterday and I saw the heading Heath Ledger dies at 28, I was shocked and saddened. I thought of his baby girl, Matilda, who will grow up without her daddy, his family who lost a son and a brother, and those who knew him who lost a friend. And while his passing may not affect my normal everyday life, I mourn the death of a talented actor.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Bring on the Weird
Because I was chastised yesterday for taking the easy way out. Here are 5 things about me. (Most of them you already know.)
1. I have chin hairs that I have to pluck almost every day. I am so tired of the chin hairs, seriously! My plan is to get laser removal sometime this year if we can swing it.
2. I snort salt water every morning in the shower in an effort to clear my constantly congested sinuses. It's sorta working.
3. I kissed two of the guys in our senior class even though I was dating someone else from another school at the time. One I instigated, One I did not.
4. I'm teaching myself to knit.
5. I dream vividly almost every night and I remember most of my dreams. Last night I dreamed about two of the characters from Lost, Syiad and Jack. The Others were trying to get us all. They were letting Syiad go because he was on the "List" but they were running after Jack, then I turned into Jack.
1. I have chin hairs that I have to pluck almost every day. I am so tired of the chin hairs, seriously! My plan is to get laser removal sometime this year if we can swing it.
2. I snort salt water every morning in the shower in an effort to clear my constantly congested sinuses. It's sorta working.
3. I kissed two of the guys in our senior class even though I was dating someone else from another school at the time. One I instigated, One I did not.
4. I'm teaching myself to knit.
5. I dream vividly almost every night and I remember most of my dreams. Last night I dreamed about two of the characters from Lost, Syiad and Jack. The Others were trying to get us all. They were letting Syiad go because he was on the "List" but they were running after Jack, then I turned into Jack.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Tagged
I was tagged by Rebecca.
The Rules: Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
Share 5 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
or
Share the 5 top places on your “want to see or want to see again” list.
or
Share 5 things you never pictured being in your future when your were 25 years old.
Tag a minimum of 5, maximum of 10 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
The tagees have a choice of which they want to do.
5 Places that I would like to visit
1. New Zealand
2. Europe
3. Isreal
4. New York City
5. Australia
Most of my readers/friends have been tagged, so if you would like to do it as well, drop me a note so I can read it.
The Rules: Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
Share 5 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
or
Share the 5 top places on your “want to see or want to see again” list.
or
Share 5 things you never pictured being in your future when your were 25 years old.
Tag a minimum of 5, maximum of 10 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
The tagees have a choice of which they want to do.
5 Places that I would like to visit
1. New Zealand
2. Europe
3. Isreal
4. New York City
5. Australia
Most of my readers/friends have been tagged, so if you would like to do it as well, drop me a note so I can read it.
Friday, January 18, 2008
New Hair
After high school I would change my hair color every few months or so. I get bored easy and that was my way of having a big change without cutting my hair. It seems though in the last couple of years, I have eased up on the coloring and now I cut my hair off just to grow it out just to cut it off again. Which I did again last night. I think it may be about an inch shorter than I would like to keep it and I'm not sure about the bangs, but it's just hair and it will grow. I'm also posting some pics of the bathroom since it's been finished, well, almost, a couple of places need grout and I need to hang something on the walls.
I seriously have a LARGE nose.
I seriously have a LARGE nose.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Larry's Kidney
For those of you who know us in real life, or have been reading along for over a year, you may remember our huge scare last year with Larry's kidney. (You can read about it here, here, here, here, ok, you know what, it's pretty much throughout Nov and December of last year) Anyway, many links later and long story short, Larry has a mass on his right kidney that was approximately one and a half inches big. It was odd because it's not solid, but not completely liquid either. After seeing three specialist, we finally had a diagnosis of benign mass with retesting scheduled in a year.
On Friday the 4th, Larry went in for his CT with contrast. Larry is a wuss when it comes to anything medical related, so he popped a Xanax when we got there, which promptly put him in drunkville. I looked at the Rx later and the dr. had prescribed him 2mg. Holy Cow, it's a wonder he could walk. So anyway, we make it through the IV and the CT and now we just had to wait.
Last year, the waiting was brutal, we went back and forth with doctors who wanted to remove the kidney, to doing nothing, to freaking out, etc. This year, I was ok. He hasn't had any problems and I just had faith it was all right. Apparently, Larry had been a bit more concerned because when the doctor called him last night with the report, after the conversation, Larry's tone was noticeably lighter.
The Urologist told him that not only had the mass not grown, it had actually shrunk about a half an inch and was clearer for them to see. He followed by saying it is definitely benign and we will recheck again in a year.
For everyone who lived with us through this scare last year, I thank you again for your support and prayers.
On Friday the 4th, Larry went in for his CT with contrast. Larry is a wuss when it comes to anything medical related, so he popped a Xanax when we got there, which promptly put him in drunkville. I looked at the Rx later and the dr. had prescribed him 2mg. Holy Cow, it's a wonder he could walk. So anyway, we make it through the IV and the CT and now we just had to wait.
Last year, the waiting was brutal, we went back and forth with doctors who wanted to remove the kidney, to doing nothing, to freaking out, etc. This year, I was ok. He hasn't had any problems and I just had faith it was all right. Apparently, Larry had been a bit more concerned because when the doctor called him last night with the report, after the conversation, Larry's tone was noticeably lighter.
The Urologist told him that not only had the mass not grown, it had actually shrunk about a half an inch and was clearer for them to see. He followed by saying it is definitely benign and we will recheck again in a year.
For everyone who lived with us through this scare last year, I thank you again for your support and prayers.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Friday, January 11, 2008
Who Know if I will Survive
I hadn't thought to share this story, but here goes. For Tamara.
Peyton is definitely our high maintenance child. Shey, well, he's newly 3 and acts it, but it's a normal 3, not a sly, cunning, whatever I can do to piss you off 3.
Peyton, well, I'm generally not sure what to do with him. He's slick, if you know what I mean. I worry a lot that if we don't get it under control now, he will be out of control later on. Not much works for him, though, in the form of punishment. Any sympathy he has for acting up, hurting one of us and so on, quickly fades.
Yesterday after work, I picked the boys up and we headed to Wal-mart to get a baby present, school supplies and some juice. The boys were acting pretty well behaved and we were moving through the store with little incident. Shey had picked out a Dora coloring page and we were keeping an eye out for something for Peyton as well.
As I got to the very back of the store, Peyton suddenly says, "I have to go to the bathroom." His eyes were big and he kinda grabbed himself. (Which is a WHOLE other story and one I will ask for suggestions on later, the grabbing, the incessint grabbing!) I asked him to hold on, we were almost done and the bathroom is at the front of the store, next to the registers.
He whined a bit about needing to go, but that he could probably hold it. I tried to finish up as fast as I could and we quickly walked to the front.
I couldn't find a register directly in front of the bathrooms (I would have sent him to the women's), so we walked past the clerks and went to stand in front of the restroom. I told him to go on in, I was going to wait with the stuff and Shey right outside the door (still the women's and there is no real door, per se). He got a funny look on his face and said, "I really didn't have to go. I just wanted a drink of water and I knew you wouldn't let me get one."
I was livid.
As calmly as I could, I told him, no, I wouldn't have come to the front for a drink of water, but you could have gotten one on the way out. He argued that some time in the past, he had asked for water and I denied him. The nerve of me, I know!
I further informed him that because he had lied, he would not be getting a drink of water, OR a toy. Well, that got his attention and his eyes welled up.
We marched back to the line as he tried to plead his case. Nope, not hearing it.
I really don't think he would have felt any shame for what he had done had I not mentioned the toy. I think it is his lack of remorse that bothers me the most. He really has become a disrespectful smart mouth, and I am afraid one day, I may just slap the smirk off his face.
Larry and I talk about it quite often, and we try to be more patient with him, not raise our voice and so on, but he can just be infuriating most of the time. Even when he is being sweet, he goes overboard.
I really don't want to use medication for him, if it was maybe necessary, but I wonder if it wouldn't slow his mind down enough that we could actually work with him and enjoy being his parents.
Peyton is definitely our high maintenance child. Shey, well, he's newly 3 and acts it, but it's a normal 3, not a sly, cunning, whatever I can do to piss you off 3.
Peyton, well, I'm generally not sure what to do with him. He's slick, if you know what I mean. I worry a lot that if we don't get it under control now, he will be out of control later on. Not much works for him, though, in the form of punishment. Any sympathy he has for acting up, hurting one of us and so on, quickly fades.
Yesterday after work, I picked the boys up and we headed to Wal-mart to get a baby present, school supplies and some juice. The boys were acting pretty well behaved and we were moving through the store with little incident. Shey had picked out a Dora coloring page and we were keeping an eye out for something for Peyton as well.
As I got to the very back of the store, Peyton suddenly says, "I have to go to the bathroom." His eyes were big and he kinda grabbed himself. (Which is a WHOLE other story and one I will ask for suggestions on later, the grabbing, the incessint grabbing!) I asked him to hold on, we were almost done and the bathroom is at the front of the store, next to the registers.
He whined a bit about needing to go, but that he could probably hold it. I tried to finish up as fast as I could and we quickly walked to the front.
I couldn't find a register directly in front of the bathrooms (I would have sent him to the women's), so we walked past the clerks and went to stand in front of the restroom. I told him to go on in, I was going to wait with the stuff and Shey right outside the door (still the women's and there is no real door, per se). He got a funny look on his face and said, "I really didn't have to go. I just wanted a drink of water and I knew you wouldn't let me get one."
I was livid.
As calmly as I could, I told him, no, I wouldn't have come to the front for a drink of water, but you could have gotten one on the way out. He argued that some time in the past, he had asked for water and I denied him. The nerve of me, I know!
I further informed him that because he had lied, he would not be getting a drink of water, OR a toy. Well, that got his attention and his eyes welled up.
We marched back to the line as he tried to plead his case. Nope, not hearing it.
I really don't think he would have felt any shame for what he had done had I not mentioned the toy. I think it is his lack of remorse that bothers me the most. He really has become a disrespectful smart mouth, and I am afraid one day, I may just slap the smirk off his face.
Larry and I talk about it quite often, and we try to be more patient with him, not raise our voice and so on, but he can just be infuriating most of the time. Even when he is being sweet, he goes overboard.
I really don't want to use medication for him, if it was maybe necessary, but I wonder if it wouldn't slow his mind down enough that we could actually work with him and enjoy being his parents.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
New Ideas for X-mas Lights
Now that the holidays are over, most people are removing their outdoor Christmas lights and storing them away for another year. I say most, because there are always the few stragglers who leave their lights up for most of January and sometimes heading into February. It appears though, with the new LED Christmas lights, these neighbors may be on the right track.
LED lights, which have become quite popular over the past couple of years, are highly durable and relatively cost efficient to run year around. There are several great ways to utilize the lights, and since we have parties pretty often, it would be a great way to decorate the yard and back patio.
The LED lights are also nice for outdoor weddings and birthday parties. I think it's a great way to keep the holiday spirit prominent all year around.
This post is sponsored.
LED lights, which have become quite popular over the past couple of years, are highly durable and relatively cost efficient to run year around. There are several great ways to utilize the lights, and since we have parties pretty often, it would be a great way to decorate the yard and back patio.
The LED lights are also nice for outdoor weddings and birthday parties. I think it's a great way to keep the holiday spirit prominent all year around.
This post is sponsored.
Mark the Date
A remarkable event occurred last night. For the first time in his five and a half years, Peyton came to me, before his bedtime and asked if he could go ahead and go to bed.
*thud* (jaw hitting floor)
Larry and I said, "sure" in unison and I hurried to get up and brush his teeth before he changed his mind. In two minutes flat, teeth were brushed, toilet was used and his back was rubbed.
Of course, ten minutes, eleven minutes and twelve minutes later, he came to the living room to tell us something, but hey, it's a start!
Shey, on the other hand, woke us up about 12:30 crying and kept crying until Larry brought him into our bed. Then he woke up at least 3 times during the night carrying on, still mostly asleep. One time when I asked him what was wrong, he wailed, "Peeeyyttton."
Ooookay.
Reason number one for not wanting any more children: The ones I have refuse to sleep
If I had a third child to contend with, they would have to lock me up.
*thud* (jaw hitting floor)
Larry and I said, "sure" in unison and I hurried to get up and brush his teeth before he changed his mind. In two minutes flat, teeth were brushed, toilet was used and his back was rubbed.
Of course, ten minutes, eleven minutes and twelve minutes later, he came to the living room to tell us something, but hey, it's a start!
Shey, on the other hand, woke us up about 12:30 crying and kept crying until Larry brought him into our bed. Then he woke up at least 3 times during the night carrying on, still mostly asleep. One time when I asked him what was wrong, he wailed, "Peeeyyttton."
Ooookay.
Reason number one for not wanting any more children: The ones I have refuse to sleep
If I had a third child to contend with, they would have to lock me up.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Happy Day After my Anniversary to Me
Five years ago yesterday, I made my very first mark on the blogging world. In honor of that stupendous occasion, I decided to bring you my opening post. Peyton was just over 7 months old, and as you will read STILL not sleeping through the night.
Drugs for Babies?
I'm going to invent Tylenol PM for babies. Think about it. No more accidents due to sleep deprivation. No more crying through the night because your kids don't sleep. Just pop them a pill and out they go.
I think that my son thinks his crib is his own personal hell. Why else would he scream bloody murder every time we put him in it? All those well meaning people just tell me, let him cry, eventually he will learn that it is bed time and go to sleep. We have been. For almost three weeks. He still carries on for at least 20 minutes when we put him down.
Other friends tell me, just bring him to bed with you. We've done that too. He sleeps and I doze. He kicks and I roll off the bed. It's my bed, damnit. I love my son but I don't want to go with him to college cause he needs me to go to sleep.
I could live with this if he would sleep the whole night. But no, he must then wake up at 12, 3, 5 screaming as the flames are turned up and he thinks he needs to make us, his poor sleep deprived parents, aware of the situation.
So baby Tylenol PM is the only way. I'll get right on that. In just a few minutes. Actually the floor is looking pretty comfy. I'll just lay down for a bit first.
zzzzz.........
Drugs for Babies?
I'm going to invent Tylenol PM for babies. Think about it. No more accidents due to sleep deprivation. No more crying through the night because your kids don't sleep. Just pop them a pill and out they go.
I think that my son thinks his crib is his own personal hell. Why else would he scream bloody murder every time we put him in it? All those well meaning people just tell me, let him cry, eventually he will learn that it is bed time and go to sleep. We have been. For almost three weeks. He still carries on for at least 20 minutes when we put him down.
Other friends tell me, just bring him to bed with you. We've done that too. He sleeps and I doze. He kicks and I roll off the bed. It's my bed, damnit. I love my son but I don't want to go with him to college cause he needs me to go to sleep.
I could live with this if he would sleep the whole night. But no, he must then wake up at 12, 3, 5 screaming as the flames are turned up and he thinks he needs to make us, his poor sleep deprived parents, aware of the situation.
So baby Tylenol PM is the only way. I'll get right on that. In just a few minutes. Actually the floor is looking pretty comfy. I'll just lay down for a bit first.
zzzzz.........
Thursday, January 03, 2008
The Celebrity
It seems Zeus has been discovered and has no been immortalized on the net. Four years I've been blogging, and one picture of my drunk dog gets me on the map. ha
We always knew he was a good dog.
We always knew he was a good dog.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
And a Happy New Year to You
I must say that I have been blessed in that I have never faced a new year thinking "wow, this past year just sucked" and this year is no exception. Of course, there are always the stresses that plague everyone, but life keeps moving and I try to remember that. I tell myself that a lot, "This too shall pass." And sometimes with the help of meds, it does.
2007 was a big year, Larry and I both turned 30, I got uplifted boobs, Peyton started kindergarten, there were no hurricanes that affected us, we remodeled our bathroom and installed new wooden floors, the list goes on and on. For 2008, we hope to quit adding to our debt, the boys and I are going to make it to church more, and we're turning the office into a weight room. Larry won his fantasy football league for the second year in a row, so that money will come in handy with the last endeavour.
If nothing else, I want to slow down, attempt to enjoy my children more, and just appreciate life. That, of course, will be the biggest task of all.
2007 was a big year, Larry and I both turned 30, I got uplifted boobs, Peyton started kindergarten, there were no hurricanes that affected us, we remodeled our bathroom and installed new wooden floors, the list goes on and on. For 2008, we hope to quit adding to our debt, the boys and I are going to make it to church more, and we're turning the office into a weight room. Larry won his fantasy football league for the second year in a row, so that money will come in handy with the last endeavour.
If nothing else, I want to slow down, attempt to enjoy my children more, and just appreciate life. That, of course, will be the biggest task of all.
Monday, December 31, 2007
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.
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.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
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!
With all that being said, this will probably be my very last post of 2007.
Happy Holidays and New Year!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
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.
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.
Friday, December 14, 2007
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.
As such, here are some pics from Shey's 3rd birthday. He had a lot of fun.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
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.
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.
Friday, November 30, 2007
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!
Thank you so much!
And with that . . . NaBloPoMo is OVER!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Monday, November 26, 2007
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.
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.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
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!
I'm sad that my trip home was under these circumstances, but it has been nice having my parents to myself.
WAR EAGLE!
Saturday, November 24, 2007
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.
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.
Friday, November 23, 2007
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.
It's a very confusing time for me. I'll have to write more on it later.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
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.
Happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy your loved ones.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
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.
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.
Monday, November 19, 2007
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!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Saturday, November 17, 2007
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.
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.
Friday, November 16, 2007
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.)
(Shey was hitting the keys as I typed.)
Thursday, November 15, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
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.
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.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
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.
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.
Monday, November 12, 2007
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.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
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.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
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.
Gotta go.
Friday, November 09, 2007
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.
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.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
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.
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.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
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?
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?
Monday, November 05, 2007
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.
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.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
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.
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.
Saturday, November 03, 2007
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.
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.
Friday, November 02, 2007
Thursday, November 01, 2007
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
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.
I'm also uploading some photos from our trip to the "pumpkin patch" last night. Just click here.
Monday, October 29, 2007
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.
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.
Friday, October 26, 2007
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.
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.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
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
Here is Dead Christmas Dog
Here is Wino Christmas Dog
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
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 . . .
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 . . .
Monday, October 22, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
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.
And here he is singing. The first part is a song he made up, but then he falls back to a couple old standards.
Monday, October 15, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
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?"
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?"
Friday, October 05, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
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