Pajama Mama

I Wish Time Would Hurry Up And Slow Down

2012-01-05T11:40:00.020-06:00

I'm doing a lot of soul searching and praying lately about homeschooling Ben and Ali again. I just read this post over at the Holy Spirit-Led Homeschooling blog and sobbed while reading every last word. Go over there and check it out and I dare you not to get all teary-eyed. After I read this very thought provoking post, I left the following in the comments section of the post:

"Thank you for this beautiful post. I sobbed out loud throughout the entire reading. After much consideration, we finally decided to register our children for school this year. Our son (age 9) and daughter (age 7) both currently attend private school. However, we homeschooled our son during his kindergarten year. He then went to private school for first grade. The following year, he went back to private school for second grade, while I home schooled our daughter that year for kindergarten. Last year, we home schooled both children (son was in 3rd grade and daughter was in 1st grade.) So, we have sort of went back and forth with private school and homeschool. We struggled all last summer trying to decide what to do and praying about our decision. Our son was convinced that he wanted to go back to school....he missed his friends. My daughter had never attended school, at the point, and expressed (very vocally) that she did NOT want to go to school. In the end, we sent them - thinking it would be fun for our daughter to have the "real" school experience, one that she had never had up until that point. Plus, our son said he missed his friends....and I thought I might have more time to clean the house. Huh? Ridiculous, I now realize. Well, four days after starting school, my daughter didn't want to be there and ran away from her teacher down the hall (kicking and screaming, literally) because she missed me. Also, it probably only took two months (tops) for our son to realize that, even though his friends are great, he would still rather be at home....with us. Eventually, our daughter accepted going to school and has adjusted to the routine fine. Our son was on the school soccer team and is now finishing up basketball season with the school's team. So, it hasn't been terrible and they never come home crying at the end of the day. However, they regularly express their desire to be home again with us, instead of going to school. Though my days have been more quiet than if they were home with me, I have never really adjusted to having them gone all day, every day. It just hasn't felt right, since the beginning of the school year....something feels off. Don't get me wrong, it's a very nice school, small and personable. There are no real problems, to speak of. Something just feels "off" when I send them "off" to school each day It was during their recent Christmas vacation that we realized just how much they want to be home with us and just how much we want them home, too. Though they said everything is fine at school and they both have many friends, they miss us when they're there. They went back yesterday, after their Christmas break. The night before, when I was putting our children to bed, my son (with a single tear streaming down his face) said something that stopped me in my tracks. He said that, although he misses us when he's at school and really wants to be homeschooled, he will do whatever we think is best. It nearly broke my heart. So, hear I sit - reading your post and crying....in a house that is no cleaner than if my kids were here with me and I have to ask myself: what is best?? They miss us and WANT to be home with us. We miss them and WANT them to be home, too. So, what's the point of sending them off for 7 hours every day? What's the point of paying tuition when I can be here for them? What can they learn and gain by going to school that they can't learn and gain from being home? Thank you so much for this post and for reminding us that our children won't be children forever. Time, no matter how hard we try to slow it down, it just keeps ticking away. You have beautifully stated how I have been feeling. I believe that "off" feeling that I get when I send them off each day is God whispering to me. Whispering to me "you have the gift of time right now, use it wisely." Thank you for helping me hear Him!!!

Are you hearing a whisper from God about homeschooling?
Yeah, me, too.

2012

2012-01-02T19:14:00.001-06:00

It's A Sparkly Hat Kind Of Day

2011-11-28T08:39:00.000-06:00

I Believe

2011-11-07T14:02:00.011-06:00

What do you believe?

Trick or Treat

2011-11-03T22:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween

from a jester and a Dorothy...as in The Wizard of Oz.

Trick or treating at Grandma and Grampa's house.

And so begins the war of the Snickers, Kit Kats and Peanut M & Ms.

Sadly, it's a battle I'm not prepared to win.

Easier Said Than Done

2011-09-27T10:16:00.000-05:00

"we women have a lot to learn about simplifying our lives. we have

to decide what is important and then move along at a pace that is

comfortable for us. we have to develop the maturity to stop trying

to prove something. we have to learn to be content with what we

are."

- marjorie pay hinckley

I'll try.

My First Blog Post This Year....and it's August.

2011-08-25T12:53:00.005-05:00

Talk about taking a break. I can not believe my last post was last December. Now that's just pathetic. I almost think it might be better to start all over with a whole new blog.....to pretend like that past 8 months didn't go undocumented. However, lots of life has happened during those 8 months. Lots of important stuff. Like, most recently, Ben and Ali starting school. Not home school. School as in a building that I drive them to. My heart is a little (lot) broken this week
.

The Birth of Christ - Facebook Style

2010-12-22T22:15:00.002-06:00

Go Ahead.....Elf Yourself.

2010-12-20T15:55:00.002-06:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

I just ate a big plate of chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream and homemade chocolate chip cookies.

2010-12-11T23:30:00.000-06:00

Happy birthday to me.
Happy birthday to me.
Happy birthday to me.
Today I turned 43.

The end.

Christmas Craft Show Open House

2010-12-08T23:33:00.009-06:00

My Mom and I hosted a craft show at my house over the weekend. My Mom used to do craft shows with my older sister back in the 90's but this was new territory for me. Although I have recently developed an interest in all things crafty I have little craft experience to speak of. We came up with the idea at the end of September sitting in the garage during our garage sale but we didn't really REALLY decide to go for it until around Halloween. So, basically 6 weeks to throw the whole thing together - and that included actually MAKING all of the crafts!!! Talk about a crash course for this girl who, two months ago, didn't know one end of a glue gun from the other! Anyway, my Dad (who will be 80 years old in March) put up a bunch of signs for us (in the snowing 20 degrees weather - thank you Dad!) and my husband made homemade cookies and hot apple cider and kept the fireplace going as we nervously opened the doors! I think the snow kept some people away but we did have some visitors throughout the weekend and most of them actually bought something! Really? Something I made. You actually want. to. pay. money. for. something. I. made? Really? Get out!

We even had a drawing to give away some fresh cut trees that we grew on our property! We had them on the porch as people came in the front door. :)

Here are a few snippets of our "craft shop".....

Thanks for stopping by!

I am linking up at the following parties. Won't you join me?

Long Time No Blog

2010-11-09T23:12:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it's been 5 months since I lasted wrote here at Pajama Mama. Time sure can get away from a person. Back in June, I just felt like taking a break for a few days, weeks, whatever. Then all of a sudden, nearly 2 months had passed since my last post. Then on August 5th, my older brother Scott passed away suddenly. He was only 46 years old and his death was unexpected. So, blogging took a back seat, as many other things suddenly seemed more important than blogging. This is going to be short post but I just wanted to get the ball rolling again. I have been putting it off too long, so I just decided "spur of the moment" to write a short post just to let my blog friends know that I am still here and will be around occasionally. I look forward to catching up. I can't promise any kind of regularity but I plan on dropping in every once in a while. Hope that's ok with my blog buddies. :) Take care!

Ali and Ben having lunch on the first day of homeschool for this school year.

Dear Philadelphia, Thank You!

2010-06-09T22:12:00.004-05:00

Dear Philadelphia, We Would Like To Have Our Stanley Cup Now Please......Pretty Please?

2010-06-09T21:50:00.006-05:00

Don't Mind Me, I Only Own This Blog

2010-05-21T23:39:00.005-05:00

OK.

So, it turns out I'm just a part-time blogger.

I suppose I can live with that.

I hope you can, too.

I don't have anything important to say today.

I just wanted to post something.

Anything.

The end.

Soul Searching

2010-05-03T13:12:00.005-05:00

Happy Monday (is there such a thing?)!!!

I can't seem to get my act together the past few months when it comes to my blog. I would love to get back into the swing of things, posting on a regular basis, but I just haven't been motivated enough to post. Lately, I have been a little pre-occupied with a few things, which have me staying up WAY past my bedtime. So, needless to say, I haven't been prioritizing my time properly and blogging seems to take a backseat.

One of the things that I have been pre-occupied with, which I am not quite ready to share just yet, has me doing a lot of soul searching. The issue is making me wonder whether it's God's will or my own. Sometimes it's really tough to tell the difference!

Anyway, I hope you are all doing great and enjoying some great weather in your neck of the woods. It's sunny and beautiful here in Illinois today! I can't believe it's already May....just a few more weeks and the kids will be done with school and then SUMMER!

OK, wasn't it just Christmas?? Where does the time go?

For now, I will leave you with two of my favorite souls......

Ali (brand new 6 year old) and Sherman (a few weeks away from being a brand new 18 year old....he's almost legal. AAAWWW!!)

My babies are growing up.

Again, I ask, where does the time go?

It Only Takes A Second And......

2010-04-18T20:31:00.003-05:00

This is why we should NEVER text and drive at the same time.

Seriously.

Update And An Interesting Observation

2010-04-10T22:31:00.006-05:00

Thank you all once again for your thoughts and prayers for my Mom and Dad. You ladies are just wonderful! I am happy to report that my Mom's surgery went exactly as we hoped and prayed for. They removed the entire tumor and all seems to be going well. She is in quite a bit of pain and has not had anything to eat since Wednesday but she is sitting up in a chair and seems to be coping as well as can be expected. We are, of course, praying that she makes a full recovery! My Mom and I having been planning for several months on having a garage sale in May. She fully expects to be "up and running" for the big event. I have no doubt that she will be! She is a strong woman and there isn't much that stands in her way! I love you Mom!

On a different note, Ali asked me today "Do I have black squares?" I was a bit confused at first, until it dawned on me what she was asking. "No, honey, you don't have black squares."

I guess Mommy's dark circles have her wondering if she takes after me. Thanks for noticing, sweetie. It's nice to be reminded how tired I look, just in case the mirror forgot to tell me.

She's awfully thoughtful, don't you think?

Family

2010-04-08T10:11:00.004-05:00

My Mom is in surgery right now. Thank you for all of your continued prayers.

PS - Happy birthday to my wonderful husband! Love you, honey!

It Doesn't Take Much

2010-04-07T19:20:00.009-05:00

It's amazing to me the amount of joy a $1 princess dress from a garage sale can bring a five year old little girl.

One Man's Trash......

2010-04-03T12:34:00.007-05:00

It's only day two of Easter break and I'm not sure that I'm going to survive another 9 days.

Just sayin'......

Onto other news.

As you may or may not know, I pretty much live for garage sales.

It's in my DNA.

So, with the weather being so beautiful the past couple of days, the kids and I decided to hit the pavement, in search of signs for garages sales, rummage sales, estate sales......ANY kind of sales! Here are a few of my finds:

I also find a great table that I plan on using in my new craft room. I have been searching Craigslist for about 3 months now without any luck. But today I hit the jackpot. I stumbled upon a great wood workbench for the whopping price of just $10. I LOVE A GREAT BARGAIN! I am going back to pick it up today, so I will post a picture soon.

I picked up this shabby chic cross and shabby chic birdhouse for just $1 each. Can't beat that! Plus, I just really love saying shabby chic.

What kind of great finds have found a new home with you?

Have a blessed Easter!

Sometimes You Just Need A Break

2010-03-31T16:59:00.011-05:00

First, I want to say thank you to my loyal friends for welcoming me back. You girls are great! I missed you and I can't wait to catch up with each of you! Second, welcome to my new friends, who visited me for the first time while I was taking a break. Glad you found me and I look forward to getting to know you better!

Since I last posted back at the beginning of February, life has gotten a bit crazy. But rather than going into details right now, I think I will just highlight some of the things that have kept me away.

Shortly after my Dad came over to help with the electric outlet in our basement, he had to go into the hospital to have a stint put in. He had been experiencing chest pains for about six weeks so he decided to see the doctor and discovered two arteries were severely blocked. In 2001, my Dad had open heart surgery, so the blockage was a bit of a surprise. We didn't realize that arteries could become blocked again. Anyway, he had the stint put in but, after a couple weeks, was still experiencing chest pains. So, back to the doctor. Long story short, they put the stint in the WRONG artery. So, he had to have the surgery AGAIN, in order to have a stint put in the proper artery. It's now been about a month since the last stint was put in and although he has had some relief, he is still getting chest pains occasionally. He has been putting off going back to the doctor for a follow up because he doesn't want to be "out of commission" right now. The reason being is because, during the same time my Dad was dealing with his stint situation, my Mom was diagnosed with colon/rectal cancer.

My Mom received this diagnosis back in February, but she waited a few weeks to tell me because she knew how excited I was about refinishing our basement and getting a new craft room. That's my Mom, always thinking about others. Anyway, she is scheduled for surgery next week. She is 77 years old and a diabetic and this is major surgery. However, she took the news rather well and has such a good attitude and sense of humor about it. She always says "If I don't laugh, I would cry...and I choose to to laugh."

I know that I don't really have to ask but if you could please keep my Mom and Dad in your prayers, I would be so grateful. Thanks! :)

And because it's really beginning to look a lot like Spring here in Illinois (it is 75 degrees right now at 5:30 in the afternoon), I decided to brighten things up around this here blog with a little something I whipped up today (with the help of one enthusiastic 5 year old chick.) Uh, that would be the basket of fabric eggs pictured above. Just in case it wasn't obvious.

Give me some of Ali's old shirts, a package of plastic eggs and a glue gun and I can make magic happen.

Am I talented or what?

Thankyouverymuch.

I'm Back

2010-03-25T12:40:00.004-05:00

I apologize for being away for so long. Lots of life's unexpected curve balls. I will share more soon. I've missed my blog friends.

You Have To See This

2010-02-07T14:00:00.009-06:00

Are you crying as much as me right now?

In the midst of all of our crazy home improvement projects, I really needed this beautiful reminder. Carpet choices and paint colors somehow don't seem all that important now.

Does It Ever End?

2010-02-02T22:30:00.006-06:00

Sorry I haven't been posting this past week. We have been super busy trying to finish up our home improvement projects. It seems like one project leads to another and another and so on......

Anyway, we should be winding up our major projects by the weekend, so hopefully I will have more time to post after that.

For now, I will leave you with a picture of my handyman.

I know. I'm lucky.

Waasup?!

2010-01-27T11:43:00.009-06:00

Along with all of my sortanizing, we've also been busy making me a sewing/craft room (yeah!!) and redoing our playroom in the basement. I have been coordinating these projects, which basically means that I tell everyone else what I want and they make it happen. It works for me.

Contemplating my next request......

Ray cutting a hole in the knotty pine wall to create a new doorway.

My Dad and brother Randy came over to help re-route an electrical outlet.

Ben helping Daddy......look at that concentration!

Somebody couldn't wait to help with the painting!

Well, that's it for now. I know, I know. You want more, right? Well, you're just going to have to wait until we are all done and I post more pictures. Can you stand the anticipation? I thought not.

I can't wait to get my craft on! Now I'm off to see what all of you have been up to. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Because I Know You've Been Wondering......

2010-01-22T11:43:00.010-06:00

Yes, I'm still on my quest to become a Domestic Diva.

I know you are probably getting bored hearing all about my domestic challenges. Sorry. I'd probably feel the same if the tables were turned. But it seems this cleaning and organizing thing is never ending and is consuming my every waking minute. Sometimes it even keeps me up at night (not really, I just thought I would throw that in to hit home the point of just how crazy I've become with this whole thing.) But I am determined to become one of those women who actually lets people inside my house when they come to visit. Call me a dreamer.

I also know what you're probably thinking right about now. "Just how messy and unorganized is your house?"

I have only one word for you......

VERY.

But the good news is, I am making a lot of headway. And that feels GREAT! I am taking some before and after pictures, just so I can be reminded of the progress that I am making. I might even post some of the pictures here, in hopes of inspiring other domestically challenged ladies. Because I'm thoughtful like that.

Nah. I just want to show off to the blog world my clean organized house.

Is that so wrong?

Oh, and guess what? I have a laundry day! No more flying by the seat of my pants, when it comes to providing my family with clean clothes. We will no longer be living out of laundry baskets. That's right, my friend, the madness has finally ended. I have seen the light! It's like I'm seeing the world in a whole new way. And it's wrinkle free.

By the way, my laundry day is Friday. So, I'm off to do another load! I can only imagine how envious you might be right now.

Unless, of course, your laundry day is Friday too.

A Little Late

2010-01-19T09:48:00.006-06:00

Happy 1st birthday to my sweet nephew

Thomas the Tank Engine,

who turned ONE on December 18th!!

Now you're a BIG BOY! Auntie Val loves you!!

Less Is More

2010-01-15T22:11:00.011-06:00

"Project Organization" is coming along quite well, thank-you-very-much! I have sorted through and purged all of the useless contents from my entire house (I only have a few more rooms and closets left to tackle) and, surprisingly, I'm kind of having fun with this whole process. I'm actually sort of sad knowing that the "sortanizing" (as Ali likes to call it) is almost done.

Oh, I'm kidding. Because......well......that would make me a complete dork, missing something like sortanizing.

As if.

However, there is something very freeing about letting go of "stuff." Especially stuff that wasn't really needed in the first place and was just taking up space and creating chaos in my life. Chaos that was slowing stealing my sanity, one Lincoln log after another and one Polly Pocket accessory after another. I mean really, could toys these days have more pieces?

I am, however, happy to learn that what they say is true - less is more.

Now, if I can only get the scale to relay that to my hips and butt, I'd be all set.

Brings A Little Tear To My Eye

2010-01-12T13:41:00.001-06:00

Organization......it's a beautiful thing.

Storage Containers Are My New BFF

2010-01-09T23:22:00.008-06:00

Cleaning, organizing and sorting......OH MY!

I'm kinda tired. I've been an organizing fool this past week and I'm not done yet. It's exhausting getting a house clean and organized. Who knew?

I'm pretty excited about the progress I'm making. I never thought it was possible to be excited about cleaning and organizing. Who knew?

I have to admit, I've been accused of being "over the top" at times. Becoming overly passionate about certain projects. I don't really see it in this particular situation. I mean, having dreams about storage containers, file folders and other various organizing paraphernalia is perfectly normal right?

That's not at all weird, right?

Don't answer that please.

By the way, I actually went to K-Mart today in search of new cutting-edge storage and organizing tools. Because I'm a weird dork who thinks that makes for a fun Saturday afternoon.

What's even weirder, I actually went to the store looking like this chick:

I may look very disheveled at this point but on the bright side my house has never looked better.

Putting Out The Trash

2010-01-06T17:35:00.001-06:00

I love Stie over at These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things. She's hilarious and a great writer! Yesterday, she wrote a thought-provoking post about whether we bloggers tend to keep it real on our blogs or if we only put our best foot forward, so to speak, only allowing our readers to see what we want them to see.

Do I intentionally only put my best foot forward and cover up the trash piles, far from the eyes of my blog friends? Sometimes. Because, really, life can be hard and messy and trashy at times and sometimes I just want to focus on the positive and leave the messy stuff out of it. Sometimes when I visit certain blogs, I also wonder if what I'm reading and seeing is actually the real deal. Some of these women's lives seem so perfect. Their houses are always spotless, their children seem to always be dressed in clean (and matching) clothes with clean faces and brushed hair, the laundry is washed (and put away) AND and there is always some awesome dinner baking in the oven!

Seriously? I'm lucky if I have ONE of things going on......but never all of them at the same time!

So, what do you think? Is it real or are they only revealing the parts they want us to see? The best parts. If it's genuine, more power to them! I would love to have my act a lot more together and I could probably stand to learn a thing or two from some of these wonder women. And I do believe there are some extraordinary women out there who really can do it all!

And really, I'm not jealous. Much.

I am, however, pretty genuine when it comes to my blog. I actually do "keep it real" with most aspects of my life. Although I will admit to not posting certain pictures of myself because, well, I wouldn't want anyone to die of fright. Also, there may be certain topics that I haven't posted about because it doesn't fit into the "image" that I am trying to present. You know, that image of being a cool, hip Mom who keeps a spotless house, spotless children and is a gourmet cook.

You weren't fooled, huh?

Considering that my house is typically not spotless, I don't know how to cook and I have been known to wear my pajamas in public, I'm guessing that you saw right through my pathetic charade.

So, here's to keeping it MORE real in 2010. I promise to let down my guard a little more and, as Stie says, "put out the trash." Because sometimes trash can be beautiful......it all depends on your perspective I guess. After all, how bad can it really be?

Apparently pretty bad. Messy house, no make-up, pajamas......

Just putting out a little trash.

Merry Christmas! (Better Late Than Never)

2010-01-04T12:17:00.000-06:00

From our family to yours!

I'll be back after the New Year and I can't wait to read all of your wonderful holiday stories and see all of your beautiful pictures!

**********

I originally planned on posting this on Christmas Eve but stuff got in the way......you know how that goes, right? Anyway, I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and I promise to visit all of my blog friends in the upcoming week! I can't wait to read about your holidays and to see what you are up to now. As for me, I am exhausted (I know, shocker) and today is the day that I begin my organization transformation!

Basically, I'll be cleaning my house. But in an organizing and transforming kind of way.

2010 is my year to finally get my act together! I'm going to clean like I've never cleaned before. I'm going to organize like I've never organized before. I'm going to containerize (as in storage containers and LOTS of them) like I've never containerized before. I AM WOMAN, HEAR ME ROAR!!

Sorry, I got a little carried away there for a second.

So, let the games begin. 'Cuz Pajama Mama is in da house and she's ready to get her clean on!

For shizzle.

Christmas Memories

2009-12-24T00:23:00.002-06:00

Apparently, three year old future Pajama Mama wasn't a big fan of the jolly old man in the red suit. (circa 1970)

My brother Scott, sister Kelly, sister Jennifer and me. Notice my arm around Jennifer? Every single picture of us growing up, I had my arm around my baby sister. (circa 1971)

My FAVORITE Christmas present OF ALL TIME!!! My Dad built this four and half foot tall Barbie house for my sister Jennifer and me! It was made of all wood and had fancy paneling and carpet! My Mom searched the whole summer before for furniture at garage sales and items she was able to order through the mail, so the house could be fully furnished by Christmas. It even had a garage!! I don't think I have to tell you that we were the hit of neighborhood. At least with the female crowd ages 5-13. My Mom still has it at my parents house (but I think it would look better at mine - wink wink!) (circa 1977)

Ray on Christmas morning, age 4.

Ben looks a lot like his Daddy did! (circa 1967)

Christmas card 2004.

Christmas card 2007.

What are your favorite Christmas memories?

Thanks For The Reminder, Mr. Schultz

2009-12-23T10:58:00.002-06:00

Go tell it on the mountain Linus. You 'da man.

Because It's Just Not Christmas Without A Turquoise Seal

2009-12-22T12:43:00.023-06:00

From top to bottom:

1. We made Christmas cookies! Do not fret, they taste better than they look.

2. Ben and his teacher at his class Christmas party.

3. Our "Days 'til Christmas" countdown banner.
4. Notice my beautiful staples at the top? Nice touch, don't you think?

5. Getting messy making ornaments.

6. Our painting station.

7. My attempt at trying to paint cool looking designs.

8. Ben's ornaments. Notice the turquoise seal?

9. Ali proudly showing off her ornaments.

10. And......BAM!!

A Northwoods Kind Of Christmas (Sort Of)

2009-12-19T01:35:00.000-06:00

We don't live in the Northwoods. Sorry to disappoint if you we're expecting to see pictures of a cozy little cabin nestled deep in the tall pines of northern Wisconsin. We do, however, live in a cozy little cabin in Illinois! Close enough, huh? My father-in-law does live in northern Wisconsin, if that counts. (By the way, if you have the opportunity to visit northern Wisconsin and you love fishing, snowmobiling and relaxing - I highly recommend it. Not that I love to fish or snowmobile......but relaxing, that I can do.)

Since we live in a log home, I was so excited when I found these Northwoods-y Christmas ornaments at a garage sale this past summer. And if you know anything about me, it's that I love my garages sales. The ornaments were brand new (still with tags) and I snagged them for 50 cents each.

Two words: cha ching.

I realize that a fishing themed Christmas tree might not be every body's cup of tea. I get that. Because, honestly, before I found these ornaments I never would have thought of myself as an outdoors-y Christmas tree decorating kind of woman. Especially since I love all things sparkly.

Plus the fact that I don't really do outdoors. Too many bugs.

But, you know what? My northwoods Christmas tree has grown on me. And nothing says Merry Christmas like jolly old St. Nick in flannel, a tackle hat and proudly displaying his trophy trout.

Kind of brings a tear to my eye.

Somebody Likes......

2009-12-18T14:11:00.014-06:00

......chocolate chip cookies

......playing with Barbies

......and dancing.

I Need Help Blowing Out My Candles

2009-12-15T09:46:00.021-06:00

I can't believe it's been nearly a week since I last posted. I'm sorry for my absence. I don't feel good at all about leaving you hanging like that. Really, I intended to post for a few days now. Honest. But it seems like I could never get around to it. Maybe it's because there never seems to be enough hours in the day to check off everything on my to-do list. Maybe it's the holidays and all of it's madness. Maybe it's because sometimes I can't think of anything interesting to write about. Or maybe it's because I'm old. Yep, I think that's the one. My birthday was this past Friday......

42.

Holy candles Batman!

Here are some pictures for your viewing enjoyment. I spent the day with my Mom and Dad and Ray and the kids. Every year on my birthday, I take my parents out to lunch at Famous Dave's. I take them out because I feel like I owe them for all that they have sacrificed for me over the years and for being the best parents that God could have ever given me. And what better way to show my gratitude than with BBQ ribs.

Did you read the last post on my blog? If not, go here. Go on. I'll wait. I'm not going anywhere.

Aawww!! Wasn't that sweet? I was so surprised that Ray thought to publicly wish me a happy birthday. Especially since he didn't even know what a blog was before I created Pajama Mama. Still though....love him! (Honey, if you are reading this, I am really touched by your birthday shout-out but next time I wouldn't care if you didn't mention my age......just sayin')

Thanks, also, to my bloggy friends for your birthday wishes. You all made me feel the love! :)

And now......

A little poem about getting old:

It was my birthday, this much is true

I went to sleep 41 and woke up 42.

The years pass quickly it's hard to believe

Pictures in my mind, memories to retrieve.

Enjoying life in the middle age range

Not a line on my face I would choose to change.

For with age come wisdom, this I now see

I pray I'll feel the same when I turn 43!

It's like I'm a famous poet. It would have been good to mention a famous poet at this moment but I don't know any. Plus, I'm 42 which is half of 84 and my memory is not what it used to be. So, even if I knew of any famous poets, I probably couldn't remember their names.

I wanted to post the two following pictures because I think they are so sweet. Ben gave me me a necklace with a little treasure chest locket on it, which he bought earlier that day at school at their Secret Snowman Shop. He was SO excited to give it to me. All evening, he couldn't wait for me to open his present. However, after I opened it, Ali quickly blurted out how the the treasure chest actually opens up. Well, Ben wanted to be the one to tell me that. Needless to say, he wasn't very happy with Ali for ruining his surprise.

Sad because Ali "ruined" his surprise.

Whispering sweet nothings to my sweet boy, telling him how much I love his gift!

Happy birthday to all who are celebrating a birthday this month! Even if you are younger than me, I won't hold it against you. :)

PS - I am now officially back to being 1 year, 11 months and 23 days older than my sister.

Birthday Mama

2009-12-11T20:18:00.003-06:00

This is Pajama Daddy posting :

Happy 42nd birthday to our Pajama Mama - our hot flannel wearing mama! ( a negligee would be nice too)

love Ray, Ben and Ali

An Angel Among Us

2009-12-09T12:06:00.011-06:00

In Loving Memory of Noah Biorkman

"He had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth,

with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it." - Genesis 28:11-13

My prayers and sympathy to this sweet little angel's family and loved ones. May the Prince of Peace comfort you during this unimaginable time.

If you wish, you can read more about Noah's passing here.

Lucy, Please Stop Calling Me - Part 2

2009-12-07T09:07:00.026-06:00

Back to our regularly scheduled program......click here for Part 1 of my "Lucy" story.

Part 2

So, after Ben jammed his finger at school last Monday, we headed to the hospital for x-rays that same evening. We were told that we wouldn't have the results for about 24 hours. I allowed Ben to stay home from school on Tuesday until we got the x-ray results back. He probably could have went to school but his finger was still very swollen and he couldn't bend it.

Big mistake.

As many of you probably know, when your child stays home from school either sick or injured, the sickness or injury usually does not stop that child from doing what they normally do - play. And if your child is anything like mine, they play HARD. Especially my son. I think it's a boy thing.

Anyway, I tried my best to help Ben understand that his finger may very well be broke and that it would be best if he did something that didn't require: a) him jumping on furniture; b) him chasing his sister through the house; and/or c) him being NOT quiet.

So, I strongly suggested that Ben do something a little less rambunctious, like taking a nap. When I realized that wasn't going to happen, I suggested that he sit down and QUIETLY read a book. I mean really, how am I supposed to waste my day away visiting my blog friends with all of this chaos swirling around me?

I don't do chaos.

So what did Ben do? I can tell you he didn't sit down and quietly read a book, that much I know.

Remember the chaos that I am not a fan of? Yeah, read on.

Ben decides that, with a potentially broken finger and all, it would be a splendid idea to stack up the couch cushions in the basement and then proceed to climb up the cushions like a rock climbing wall.

Huh? That is so not sitting quietly and reading a book.

Next thing I know, Ali is running upstairs saying that Ben "scratched" himself. My first reaction was "That's what happens when you don't listen to me, the Mom, who knows everything - including that (when in doubt) sitting and quietly reading a book is always the best choice."

So, Ben comes upstairs crying, holding his arm. At first, I didn't have much sympathy. After all, I told him to settle down, what with the whole broken finger thing.

After close inspection of his "scratch," I realized at that moment that I should have sent him to school. His "scratch" was actually three deep cuts on the inside of his left arm. His "broken" finger was also on his left hand. Apparently, when climbing his "rock wall," he fell off and then landed on his hand/arm on the edge of a furnace vent.

This child is going to give me gray hair. OK, more gray hair.

So, Ben's arm is now bleeding and he is crying and saying "I'm sorry Mommy, I'm sorry!" Two of the three cuts were pretty deep and because of the location, I started to freak out for a moment. I tried calling Ray at work but he didn't answer. Then I thought about calling 911. All the time, Ben is still crying, still apologizing and holding Ali's hand while I am trying to stop the bleeding.

And as quickly as it all began, the bleeding suddenly stopped. Thank you, God, for miracles.

Remember the chaos thing? I'm not sure but I think calling 911 and having an ambulance come to my house qualifies as chaos. I'm just guessing.

So, I made an executive decision and decided to take Ben right back to the same doctor from the day before, the one who handled Ben's finger situation. For those of you keeping track, this was our second visit to the same doctor, for the same child in less than 24 hours.

De ja vu, anyone?

Good thing I took him in because he did end up needing stitches. He was really scared but he handled it like a trooper, with only a few tears shed. I was so proud of him.

However, if the past two days weren't bad enough, the doctor started giving me attitude. He told me that even if Ben's finger was broke, he could have went to school. Well, excuuuuuse me! Who asked you anyway, doc? Seriously, my son has been injured twice within a 24 hour period, I have taken him to the doctor's office twice and the hospital once and now you are questioning my parenting decisions. Back off! I told him it was my decision whether to send Ben to school or not. The nerve of some people. He may be the doctor but I'm the Mom.

Can I get a woo hoo?

The good news, Ben's finger is not broke. He went back to school on Wednesday, sporting a nifty banged up pinky finger and 3 stitches in his left arm, which he was very excited to show his friends.

The bad news, all of the adrenaline induced chaos wiped me out and I spent the remainder of last week recovery from Ben's injuries by visiting my blog friends and napping.

I know. But at least this time I had an excuse.

40 Is The New 30

2009-12-03T10:47:00.019-06:00

Today is my sister Jennifer's birthday. She is 1 year, 11 months and 23 days younger than me.

"But wouldn't it just be easier to say that your sister is 2 years younger than you?" you might ask.

No. No it wouldn't.

Why? Because she's ONLY 1 year, 11 months and 23 days younger than me. That's why. But really, it's not like I'm keeping track or anything.

You see, in high school and as young adults, everyone always thought Jennifer was older than me. I HATED THAT. Because everyone knows that when you're 17, you desperately want to look older - NOT YOUNGER!

Why was my 17 year old self so dumb?? What I wouldn't give now for people to think I'm younger than my (ahem) current 40 something age. Seventeen year old Val, what was your deal?!

Anyway, over the years, I have come to realize what my younger self could not. Looking younger than your age: GOOD. Looking older than your age: BAD. And now that my "little" sister and I are back in the same decade again, I have decided that I am not two years older than her. Because in my mind, we are basically the same age. Forty, forty-one, forty-two, etc......it's all the same. Right?

Wrong.

My sister has a different story to tell. And that is, that no matter how old she is - she is always YOUNGER than me.

Touche, lil sis, touche.

Well, at least for the next 8 days, I can say that I am only one year younger than her (today she turns 40 and I'm still ONLY 41.)

But next Friday, I'll be back to being 1 year, 11 months and 23 days older than her.

Mother's Day - 2009

Jennifer's baby shower at my house - November, 2008

Jennifer gave me a plaque last year after her baby shower

with this poem on it:

My Sister, My Friend

My sister was a playmate

I knew was always near

My sister was a protector

From every hurt or fear

We share a bond of closeness

We know will never end

We're here for one another

My sister, my best friend

Lucy, Please Stop Calling Me

2009-12-01T20:44:00.030-06:00

Yesterday afternoon, Ali and I were shopping at Kohl's. We were there so Ali could pick out anything her little heart desired.

No, she's not spoiled. Yes, I know Christmas is coming up in just a few weeks.

However, she earned this little shopping adventure by wearing a patch on her left eye and filling up her patch chart with stickers (she has strabismus and has to patch her good eye in order to strengthen her weak eye, something she started doing right around the time of her 3rd birthday.)

Getting her to wear her patch daily has been a thorn in my side for the last 2 1/2 years. She is required to wear it for at least 6 hours every day, so I really don't blame her for putting up a fight. It sucks, I totally get that. However, the vision in her weak eye is at stake, so in order to get her to wear the patch (and keep it on) I need to bribe her.

There. I said it. I bribe my kids when need be.

Please don't judge my parental shortcomings because then I might cry......or maybe you've been known to bribe every now and then and can totally relate. Right?

Right?? OK. Maybe not. You just want to see me cry.

So back to the bribing that I do. I feel it's a trade off that's well worth it. Plus, if it were me and I had to wear a patch for 6 hours everyday, I would request a LOT more than a new Barbie. Like a vacation to Australia.

Anyway, our little shopping adventure was cut short when Ben's school called me on my cell phone, while I was in the middle of picking out a new pair of pants for Christmas because the pants in my current wardrobe may or may not fit at the present moment. I'll leave it at that.

Back to the call.

"Hello, this is Lucy from Zion school. I'm calling about Ben."

My heart stopped for a split second. I fear calls from Lucy because they usually involve informing me that Ben has been injured. Like last year in 1st grade, when she called to tell me that Ben and another student collided in gym class and Ben hit his head pretty hard and was acting not like himself and disoriented afterwards and to please come get him. Not the kind of call that tends to make my day (by the way, he was fine thanks to God.)

So, dear Lucy, you're a sweet woman. Really, you are. But please stop calling me. Hearing your voice scares me.

No such luck yesterday. And when I heard her voice, my mind shot straight back to last March.

This time, it seems my guy was playing a mean game of basketball during gym class with the likes of some pretty rough and tumble characters.

Seven year olds take their basketball very seriously.

From what I understand, one of Ben's friends accidentally hit Ben's hand, jamming his left pinky finger pretty hard. At first he seemed OK but shortly after the "jamming," his finger swelled up twice it's normal size and was sporting a large bump on the side and some colorful bruising.

There were no tears involved from what I've been told. However, the friend responsible for the "jamming" offered to let Ben borrow his Diary of A Wimpy Kid book to help him feel better. And everyone knows that the sacrifice of a Wimpy book to a friend in need is the most sincere form of apology.

At least to 7 year old boys.

So, I picked Ben up from school and headed to the doctor. He took one look at Ben's poor little puffed up pinky and sent us straight to the hospital for an x-ray.

Someone please tell me this stuff gets easier......

Tune in tomorrow for Part 2.

Well, probably tomorrow. But definitely, most likely sometime this week. I know for sure it will be in December.

I'm tired. Can you tell?

Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T22:01:00.028-06:00

Making popcorn. Yummy!

Ben won first place in the Thanksgiving coloring contest at school.

Having fun playing Barbies with Grandpa.

Ben and Grandma working on Thanksgiving puzzles.

Ray chillin' after cooking all day.
Ali showing off the table decorations she made.

Tired but happy at the end of a wonderful day spent with my family.

Sew What

2009-11-27T18:45:00.043-06:00

I have been visiting a lot of great blogs lately of women who are incredibly talented. I love to see all of the awesome things they create! I have been interested for some time now in learning to sew and these ladies really inspire me!

My Mom is a great sew-er. When I was little, she made all of mine and my sisters' clothes. There is one particular ensemble I like to call "Pirate Paradise," that will forever go down in my childhood fashionista history. Let's just say it included a striped shawl, skirt and matching bandanna pirate thingy.

At 8 years old, I was totally fashion forward.

Sew on Thanksgiving (get it?), my Mom brought over her trusty Montgomery Ward's sewing machine and attempted to give me my first lesson. It's been a few years since my Mom has dusted off her sewing machine but I figure it's like riding a bike.

Not so much.

It took us an hour to figure out how to thread the machine.

After we stopped laughing, we got down to the business of doing us some sewing.

Now I'm not saying my Mom is a strict teacher but at one point in the lesson she said, "If you break the needle, you're outta luck!"

Thanks for the vote of confidence, Mom.

I did manage to sew together two old wash clothes and was pretty proud of my first walk on the wild side of sewing.

With my first lesson under my belt and feeling pretty confident at all things sew-able, I decided to actually make something recognizable.

Sort of.

I found this great blog called Make It and Love It. Ashley, the owner, is really creative and talented. She does a lot of "re-purpose projects," making new things using material from old things. She made an adorable owl from a scarf. If you are interested, you can see her tutorial on how to make it here.

I attempted to make my version of her owl and this is what I ended up with:

When I showed Ray, he thought it was a cat.

Ben thought it was an alien.

Ali knew it was an owl.

That's my girl!

Thanks, Mom, for helping me get started with my new hobby! I can't wait for my next lesson.

Can you say obsessed?

What? Like that's a bad thing?

Things That Are Good

2009-11-25T10:22:00.017-06:00

......a family vacation to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia.

......a husband who provides. ......a daughter who loves to clean.......a car to drive my son to his first day of 2nd grade. .....a Dad who is always there for me.

......a beautiful Mom and sister to share flowers with on Mother's Day.

......a magic show put on by the cutest magician and his adorable assistant. ......a home for shelter.

What is good in your life?

I Am A Great Aunt (Again)

2009-11-23T21:33:00.007-06:00

My niece Shannon gave birth to her second baby on Saturday. Charles Lucas weighed 9 lbs. 4 oz.! WHOA BABY!! He is adorable and we can't wait to meet him. Congratulations Mommy Shannon, Daddy Charlie and Big Sister MacKenzie on the newest addition to your family.

Top Secret Give-A-Way

2009-11-21T14:05:00.008-06:00

Erica at Scottsville and her friends at Five Moms & A Blog are having a give-a-way!! They aren't revealing what they are actually giving away but I bet it's something awesome! For a chance to win this top secret gift, click on the present below!

Good luck!

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-18T15:17:00.017-06:00

Our very own lion king.

This is our sweet little Sherman 17 years ago. He has followed me around as my little shadow from the first day we brought him home.

This was taken almost 8 years ago, right before Ben was born. I was totally rocking the Tweety Bird maternity shorty-short nightgown, don't ya think? The black ankle socks really topped off this stylish ensemble.

And here's our Kick-A-Poo now. At age 17, he can sleep whenever and where ever he wants......even if it's right under the kitchen table.

Meow.

Bring It, Mr. Owl

2009-11-17T11:23:00.042-06:00

Remember the Tootsie Roll Pop commercial from the 70's and 80's that is now making a comeback? You know, the one with the wise old owl......

Boy: "Mr. Owl, how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop?"

Mr. Owl: "Let's find out." (Mr. Owl proceeds to lick boy's Tootsie Roll Pop)

Mr. Owl: "A one, a two, a three....." (Mr. Owl bites into boy's Tootsie Roll Pop)

Announcer: "The world may never know."

I LOVE THAT COMMERCIAL.

Mainly because it takes me back to my childhood.

But also because Mr. Owl rocks.

But I digress.

Over the weekend, we took on the mission of discovering just how many licks it does take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop. And with Halloween candy still miraculously laying around, we we're ready to get this show on the road.

Because we are all kinds of wild and crazy.

Ben was the official licker. I was the official counter and picture taker. Ray and Ali we're the cheerleaders. And by cheerleaders, I mean Ray watched tv and Ali played with her Barbies pretty much oblivious to what we were doing.

Here is the play by play:

This is towards the beginning of the challenge, at approximately 200 licks. I think Ben is feeling pretty confident.

Pacing himself.

The pressure seems to be setting in at this point......come on, Ben, you can do this!

The finish line is within sight......

1,517 licks later, Ben finally got to the center of his Tootsie Roll Pop.

Challenged completed but looped up on sugar......sweet victory!

And So It Begins......

2009-11-14T07:22:00.016-06:00

Somebody lost her first tooth yesterday morning.

Baggie containing the tooth, which she carried around all day.

She couldn't wait to show Daddy and Ben!

And yes, the Tooth Fairy visited Ali last night and left her $3 (but only after going to bed first and then suddenly remembering that she was on duty.)

Future American Idol......

2009-11-11T17:27:00.000-06:00

Ali is working on the letter "F" this week. Today we learned a song about fishies and frogs and she loves it! She keeps singing it.

Over.

And over.

I'm already prepared to have a hard time falling asleep tonight because of this catchy little tune spinning around in my head.

Over.

And over.

And over.

So, without any further ado, I give you your next......AAAAMERICAN IDOLLLL!

I heart saying "ado." Even though I'm not really sure what it means.

(Oh, and I tried to make "American" sound all exciting and dramatic like when Ryan Seacreast says it because that's how I roll.)

I heart this girl......

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-11T09:33:00.001-06:00

Counting my blessings......one, two, three.

For Noah

2009-11-09T12:33:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, Ben and Ali made cards for 5 year old Noah Biorkman. As I mentioned in a recent post, Noah has been battling cancer for a couple years but doctors are now saying that this little guy may only live two more weeks. Noah's wish was to celebrate Christmas with his family this past weekend (November 6-8) and to receive lots of Christmas cards.

If you or your children wish to send a Christmas card to Noah, you can mail it to:

Noah Biorkman

1141 Fountain View Circle

South Lyon, Michigan 48178

Be sure to pray for Noah and his parents and family, who I'm sure are praying for a miracle. Click here to read a little bit more about this brave little boy and to view a short video of Noah.

It's Official......Teenagers Are From Another Planet

2009-11-07T13:27:00.019-06:00

Apparently, this teenager's mother (God bless her) cancelled his "World of Warcraft" video game account.....whatever that is.

The following madness ensued:

Really? Seriously? This is what is awaiting me in 7-10 years??

And just for the record, would someone please inform me as to what is going on at 1 minute and 11 seconds of his tantrum?

That dude is jank.

Yeah, I know words......I learned "jank" from a very memorable episode of iCarly, in which Carly's teacher is mad at the world because her boyfriend broke up with her and angrily tells her students that "life is jank!" Then proceeds to stalk Carly's older but much less mature brother Spencer......

Did I just do a synopsis of a Nickelodeon show? I probably shouldn't know an episode of a children's show so thoroughly, should I?

Sorry, my bad.

BTW, I learned "my bad" from That's So Raven on the Disney channel.

I should probably stop typing now......

Peace out.

(I don't know where I learned "peace out" but I'm 99.9% positive it was NOT from a children's show. However, I do believe the phrase "I know words" comes from Nickelodeon's Drake and Josh.)

I am Val. I need to grow up.

Good day. I SAID GOOD DAY, DADDY!

(Yes, that's from an episode of Hannah Montana.)

Help me.

Christmas For Noah

2009-11-06T22:33:00.011-06:00

This breaks my heart, I don't even know what to say. Noah Biorkman is an adorable 5 year old little boy who lives in Michigan. He has been battling cancer for a couple of years and his doctors now say he may only have a couple weeks to live. His family has asked him what he would like to do this weekend (November 6th-8th) and Noah said he wants to celebrate Christmas.

And the thing Noah wants more than anything in the world is to get lots of Christmas cards. Such a small thing that would mean the world to this brave little guy. And I'm sure to his parents and family, too.

Tomorrow, the kids and I are going to send cards. I think I might ask the kids if they would like to make cards for little Noah.

If you feel led and want to help make a beautiful child's dream come true, will you please send Noah a Christmas card? All it will cost is the price of a card (unless you make one) and a stamp.

Please go here if you would like to read a little more about Noah.

If you wish to send a card, Noah's address is:

Noah Biorkman - 1141 Fountain View Circle, South Lyon, Michigan, 48178

Please keep Noah and his family in your thoughts and prayers this weekend and over the next few weeks. What a heart-wrenching time this must be for this family. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas, Noah!

It's Fun Being Sick

2009-11-06T13:42:00.028-06:00

For the past two weeks, like so many other families, we have been sick. Currently, I'm the one who is down for the count. Besides driving Ben to and from school, I've mostly been home doing mostly nothing. I think I'm coming down with cabin fever, along with this hacking cough and chest congestion. Yes, I definitely have cabin fever.

Or the plague.

Anyway, since I haven't been out of the house much and haven't felt like doing much, my 29 Day Giving Challenge has taken a backseat to all the fun we're having being sick. That's right, fun. Yes, being sick can be fun with the right attitude.

The sick-fun possibilities are endless!

Here are just a few of the perks that await you: you get to stay in your pajamas ALL day (and not just until 3:00 pm like on healthy days); you get to eat whatever you have a taste for, which may or may not include large quantities of Halloween candy and caramel apples; you get to watch the Real Housewives of Atlanta marathon in anticipation of the season premiere of the Real Housewives of Orange County, which everyone knows is by far the superior of the Housewives series; you get to take a hot bath AS MANY TIMES AS YOU WANT because it eases your aches and pains AND you can stay in the tub in the bathroom with the door locked for AS LONG AS YOU WANT and nobody can complain because, after all, you are sick; you get to put your domestic responsibilities temporarily on hold because when you have the plague, a messy house and dirty dishes are the least of your worries; you get to nap, nap, nap your day away; and finally, when you're sick, you get to do......nothing!

I know, I know. As Moms, we don't ever really get to do "nothing." But when we're sick, it's as close to "doing nothing" as motherhood will allow.

Don't get me wrong, I don't prefer being sick. But it's pretty much inevitable, so I like to approach my unhealthyness (it could be a word) with a positive attitude and as much gratitude as my immune system will allow.

I'm a "the glass in half full" kind of girl. I'm upbeat like that. But you already knew that about me right?

Back to my giving challenge. I'm continuing to walk that road but in the comfort of my home wearing my pj's and with a big bowl of Kit Kats in front of me. Sitting on the couch playing Barbies with Ali and reading a book to Ben counts as giving, right?

This is obviously not me reading to Ben but it is Ben reading. Doesn't he look all serious in his 3-D reading glasses?

And now, back to my sick-fun!

I think I'll take a nap......or a bath......or both.

Trusting Him

2009-11-06T13:27:00.006-06:00

There is someone very close to me who is struggling with a difficult situation. So, when I came across the following saying recently, I thought of this person. I would like to offer it to her and anyone else who is in need of a little encouragement. I know they are just words but they are POWERFUL words.

In happy moments, praise God.

In difficult moments, seek God.

In quiet moments, worship God.

In painful moments, trust God.

In every moment, thank God.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-03T23:11:00.000-06:00

Ben, cousin Natalie and Ali......all partied out.

Notice Natalie's hand on Ben's head.

Goodbye Dear Friend

2009-11-02T21:23:00.013-06:00

Today was Ben's first day back to school since last Tuesday. He was home sick Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. He is feeling much better and his cough is all but gone.

Wish the same was true for his mama.

Why is it that after all of the kids are sick and then on the road to getting better, that Mom catches it? Or is that just me?

I started coughing yesterday and today it seemed worst. No fever or aches and pains. Just a cough and some chest congestion.

Ok, this post just got officially boring. Am I really talking about chest congestion?

Normally when I feel like I'm getting sick, I just push myself until I crash. Then it takes me a week or two to get over it. I don't know if I am smartening up (is smartening a word?) or if I'm just too darn tired to push through this time but I am attempting to nip this "bad boy" in the bud before it "bites me in the butt." I am resting a little more than usual, drinking lots of water, taking all of my vitamins and trying to avoid all things sugary and processed.

And with all of the Halloween candy at my disposal, that last part is much easier said than done. Because over the past 48 hours I have been spending time with an dear old friend, who might not have my best interest in mind. I think you may know her.

Her name is Kit Kat.

And if lovin' Kit Kat is wrong, I don't wanna be right.

Reunited.

And it feels so good.

Kit Kat and me......me and Kit Kat. We go way back. Sure, we've had our ups and downs but she's helped me weather more PMS storms than I care to admit. She's been there to offer her sweet chocolaty goodness when my salad just doesn't understand. And when I run into her at the grocery store, she's always willing to come home with me to brighten up my day.

A friend like Kit just doesn't come along every day.

But, atlas, our relationship is fleeing. It comes and goes.

Just like my waistline if she stays too long.

So, goodbye dear friend. It was wonderful while it lasted......I wish you could stay just a little longer but you're no good for me. I realize that now.

Oh, and one last thing Kit Kat, give my regrets to Snickers when you see her because that one is just plain trouble when she comes around.

Thanks. I knew you would understand.

I'll miss you always......

OH, OK! I'll see ya' tomorrow!!

Pushy chick, ain't she?

The Future's So Bright......

2009-11-01T21:51:00.009-06:00

......I gotta wear shades.

I love my chickee in all her cowgirl cuteness.

What did I do to deserve her??

I'll post trick or treat pictures as soon as I get them uploaded. Hope y'all had a great weekend!

Shout Out To My Homeschool Homeys - Holla!

2009-10-30T00:19:00.021-05:00

I did a search on YouTube for homeschool videos.

Please don't judge.

My inner dorkiness thanks you.

Anyhoo, I came across this video from Christian comedian Tim Hawkins. The video is very clever and I appreciate his great sense of humor when it comes to all of the misconceptions about homeschooling. Plus, the music is great for this time of year.

For all of my homeschool peeps, this one's for you......I hope it makes you laugh! It's all in good fun.

Picture Day Was A Bust

2009-10-28T22:12:00.021-05:00

Ben stayed home from school today.

Again.

He was coughing up a storm this morning so I had to make the call.

Again.

I was kind of disappointed for him to miss today because it was picture day. All of my preparations down the drain. And by preparations, I mean giving Ben a quick haircut last night and picking out a cool "picture" outfit. I know he will eventually have his picture taken on the make-up day at the end of November but it's not the same as having it taken as a group with your class. I was bummed.

Ben, he could care less. He was just happy to play Wii all day.

But who is the one who is going to have to re-cut his hair in a month and pick out the same cool outfit again? I mean, really people, how much energy do you think I have? It's like you don't know me at all.

Anyway, we were home all day and basically did nothing. Except for all the Wii playing. And all the cartoon watching. And all the chicken noodle soup eating.

It was a looooong day but I had lots of opportunities to "give" on day 2 of my 29 Day Giving Challenge. Mostly involving one coughing child and his kind of coughing sister. I know these are things I would do anyway, without the challenge, because I am a Mom. But I have to say, the meaning behind giving is more present in my mind ever since I started this challenge.

All of three days ago.

Seriously, before the challenge, I might have viewed having to dispense cough medicine and reminding the kids to wash their hands for the 100th time and the stress that comes with taking care of your children when they are sick to be a chore - something I have to do because I am their Mother after all. And although that is true, I am starting to see it differently. It is a gift to take care of someone you love when they don't feel good, not a chore. Stressful at times, yes, but I am giving them tender loving care. I never really looked it at that way before.

So, throughout the very long day (again, did I mention it was a looooong day?) I found myself actually appreciating the situation. The fact that I am a Mom with two wonderful children is such a blessing. And although it isn't easy sometimes being a Mom, I have been given this gift from God.

And since He has so generously given to me, I'm pretty sure He would enjoy me working on being a different kind of giver. This challenge is already changing my attitude about how I give to my children and husband. And they are so very worth this shift in my outlook.

I can't wait to see what else I discover in the next 27 days!

PS - Everyone is sleeping now and I don't hear any coughing. Thank you, Lord!

Day 1 - Giving Challenge

2009-10-27T22:03:00.016-05:00

Today is Day 1 in my 29 Day Giving Challenge. It has been in my thoughts most of the day.

I didn't pick one specific thing to "give" today and then checked it off my "to-do" list. Instead, surprisingly, I was reminded to "give" throughout the day. Some of the things I did are things I might normally do but today my perspective was different. My attitude changed a little. I don't know how or why but doing these things just felt different today.

Here's what I did today in the way of "giving":

On Tuesdays, Ben is allowed to get pizza for lunch at school. Normally, we give him $5. This morning he asked if he could have an extra dollar to get bread sticks. My first reaction would be to tell him no, that $5 is more than enough to get a couple slices of pizza and something to drink. However, I found myself agreeing to give him that extra dollar. You would have thought I promised him a million dollars! He was so excited that I said yes and so happy that he would be able to get bread sticks with his pizza order. His smile and "thank you, Mommy" made my morning brighter. And it was a rainy morning!

After home school this morning, Ali asked if I would play Barbies. The girl loves her Barbies! Me, not so much. I am more of a Go Fish or Tic Tac Toe kind of woman. Not that I don't like Barbies themselves because I do. Jenn and I grew up playing with Barbies and we had THE best Barbie house ever. The house was built by my Dad and it was made of all wood, with paneling, three floors and a garage! It was nearly 5 feet tall. It was completely furnished with cool wicker furniture and it even had carpeting. My Mom still has it but I haven't been able to get her to give it up yet......hey Mom, you always said when we have daughters, we could have it......we have daughters now......how about it?? :) Anyway, back to Ali. So, she asked me to play Barbies. Usually, I try to get out of it by suggesting we play something else. ANYTHING ELSE. But today, I wanted to give to my daughter. So, I gave her my time and played her favorite thing in the whole wide world of the US of A - Barbies. It actually was a lot of fun and you will be happy to know that we had a great time with our Barbies at a wedding, at cheerleading practice, getting a snack at the mall and playing "Dance, Dance Revolution." Boy, those girls know how to party.

Ray had a very hard day at work. His leg was giving him problems and he was in a lot of pain after a long day of climbing ladders and climbing over walls. When he got home he joked that, although my incredibly tasty leftover mostacolli was very tempting to have for dinner, he wouldn't stop me if I wanted to drive to Quizno's and pick him up an extra large cheese steak sandwich. He's thoughtful like that. And even though I was tired and it was raining, I got out of my pajamas (oh, I kid......I kept my pajamas on) and drove to the next town over to get my man a cheese steak sandwich. And it felt good. Tasted pretty good, too.

The last thing I gave today was totally random. I was reading some new blogs and I came across across a blog called The Daily Dakin, written by a Mommy with a little boy who has a rare neuromuscular disease. She has such a bright and optimistic disposition and her little guy Dakin is just adorable. I am inspired by her and look forward to reading her entire blog and getting to know her and Dakin much better. In the meantime, I gave to Dakin and his Mommy by signing a petition to help with research and finding a cure for this rare disease. I don't normally sign things online but because of this challenge, I felt compelled. If you would like to get to know Dakin, you can read all about him at The Daily Dakin.

See you tomorrow.

In search of a very large hot dog......

2009-10-27T09:55:00.047-05:00

We attended my sister Kelly's Halloween party on Saturday......I haven't been to a costume party in 15 years! It was a lot of fun! I'm actually thinking about hosting some type of fall fest next year. We have lived in the country for 10 years now and have never had a fall get together at our place. With 10 acres of land at our disposal, we could have a big chili cookout and offer hayrides and play games. We also have a fire pit for roasting marshmallows and making smores - perfect for this time of the year. We could plant pumpkins and have everyone pick out their favorite from our very own pumpkin patch. So many fun things we could do!!

Overly enthusiastic crazy woman takes a moment to reflect on her wonderful idea and unusually high level of ambition.

Hmmm......on second thought, sounds like a lot of work. Maybe I should wait and see how I feel come next year! :)

Until then, enjoy these pics!

Like I always say - go big or go home.

Ali showing off her lasso skills.

My Mom, AKA "Purple Flapper Girl," and my nephew Mike.

As you tell, Mike has really been working out lately!

My nephew Josh as "Barry Sagittarius."

I know, I didn't know who he was either. Josh, you funny guy!

Instead of musical chairs, we played musical men.

My Mom survives another round with help from my brother-in-law Tom.

Cowgirl cousins.

Ali with my niece, Shelby. Ali LOVES Shelby!

My sister Jenn's family, from left to right:

Tom, 10 month old Thomas, Anthony, Nicholas, Jenn, Natalie & Tim.

Aren't they a creepy looking family but in a good way? :)

Don't know what's going on here but it looks like Ben just saw a ghost.

BFFs 4-Ever!

Al & Nat (isn't that cool that both of their nicknames are boys names?)

They were born just 9 weeks apart and are both in kindergarten this year.

The greatest parents! In March, they will celebrate 59 years of marriage.

Doesn't my Mom look beautiful and my Dad look dashing?

Mom and her girls,

Kelly, me and Jenn.

Ben channeling his inner Michael Jackson.

Dad won "Best Male Costume."

He was Juan Carlos.......or Don Juan......or Don Quiote......

Actually, I don't really know who he was but he

was pretty funny none the less!

Tom and baby Thomas.

The day before the party, Tom attended the funeral of his Mother, Nancy.

I think being at the party and with family helped take his mind

off his grief for a while.

Party on!

Changing Lives One Gift At A Time

2009-10-26T21:59:00.022-05:00

Today I signed up to do the "29 Day Giving Challenge." I was inspired to do so after watching an interview this morning of Cami Walker on the Today Show. After struggeling with multiple sclerosis and the pain and depression that accompanied her illness, Cami was encouraged to try giving for 29 days to see if it changed her perspective in any way. So, after a sleepless night at 3:00 in the morning, Cami decided to give the idea a try. Not only did it change her perspective about her illness, it changed her life in ways she never could have imagined! On day 14 of giving, she no longer needed to walk with her cane! You can read Cami's entire story at http://www.29gifts.org/ where you can also sign up for the 29 Day Giving Challenge. The gifts of giving can be whatever it is you feel compelled and able to do. Maybe you feel led to call a friend, who is going through a difficult time, to offer a few words of encouragement. Or maybe you want to make your husband his favorite dinner because he has had a tough week at work. Or maybe you smile and say hello to a stranger. Or maybe you have a few extra dollars and decide to pay for the cutomer behind you at McDonald's. Or maybe you bake some cookies for your eldery neighbor and deliver them as an unexpectied surprise. Or maybe......well, you get the idea!

I am really excited to begin my challenge tomorrow. I believe it will be the beginning of something really special. I'll be sure to post about my experience, as I begin this wonderful challenge!

When I'm An Old Lady And Live With My Kids

2009-10-21T10:41:00.018-05:00

When I'm an old lady, I'll live with my kids,

And bring so much happiness, just as they did.

I want to pay back all the joy they have provided.

Returning each deed, oh, they'll be so excited! When I'm an old lady and live with my kids......

I'll write on the walls with reds, whites and blues,

And jump on the furniture, wearing my shoes.

I'll drink from the carton and then leave it out.

I'll stuff all the toilets and, oh, how they'll shout! When I'm an old lady and live with my kids......

When they're on the phone and just out of reach,

I'll get into things like sugar and bleach.

Oh, they'll snap their fingers and then shake their head,

And when it is over, I'll hide under my bed. When I'm an old lady and live with my kids......

When they cook dinner and call me to eat,

I won't eat my green beans or salad or meat.

I'll gag on my okra, spill milk on the table,

And when they get angry, I'll run - if I'm able! When I'm an old lady and live with my kids......

I'll sit close to the t.v., all the channels I'll click,

Then I'll cross both of my eyes just to see if they stick.

I'll take off my socks and throw one away,

And play in the mud 'til the end of the day! When I'm an old lady and live with my kids......

And later in bed, I'll lay back and sigh,

I'll thank God in prayer and then close my eyes.

My kids will look down with a smile slowly creeping,

And say with a whisper "she's so sweet when she's sleeping!"

When I'm an old lady and live with my kids......

Poem by Joanne Bailey Baxter

Funny Girl

2009-10-20T22:41:00.019-05:00

Ali: "Mommy, do you want to hear a joke?"

Me: "Sure."

Ali: "O.k., what do you get if you have gold plus gold?"

Me: "I don't know......what do you get if you have gold plus gold?"

Ali: "Goldishy!" Followed by 5 year old daughter's hysterical laughter.

I don't get it.

But, of course, I laughed right along with her.

Finally, Ali followed up with: "I'm not really finished making up the joke yet. I'm still working on it."

Really? I couldn't tell. To me, it was perfect.

You're Faking

2009-10-19T13:32:00.060-05:00

Today is "not me" Monday. After reading about what I didn't do today, head over to MckMama and read about everyone else's "not me" day!

Today did not start off with the alarm screaming at me, signaling the start of another week. I most certainly did not stay under the covers for 15 more minutes, delaying the inevitable. I wake up every morning feeling refreshed and excited to begin my fun-filled day of domestic responsibilities. I'm perky like that. I'm a freakin' ray of sunshine. So, I woke Ben up for school in my normal cheerful way. What? It could happen. Anyway, when Ben declared that his belly hurt and then proceeded to grab his stomach in anguish in a very obvious and overly dramatic way, I did not say to him "you're faking, you just want to stay home from school today." What kind of mother questions her child's digestion disturbances? Not I. I did not for a split second have this conversation in my half-asleep head: "I guess it would be ok if he stays home just this one time...... plus, it's cold outside...... plus, we could just stay in our pajamas all day" (which would be highly unusual for me, I assure you.) Hmmm, what to do, what to do...... I did not then contemplate my complicated dilemma for 5 minutes, now leaving approximately no more than 12 minutes to get "sick" child ready for school, out the door and make the 10 minute drive to school. I then did not have a second conversation in my very confused head, that did not go something like this: "if he really is "sick" and I send him to school, then I will feel guilty for not believing him...... plus, then I will have to make the 10 minute drive right back to school to pick him up when the school calls and says he just puked all over his desk during a spelling test and, really, that's just a waste of gas and wear and tear on the car...... on top of it, I will have to hear Ben say "I told you I was sick......" Who needs that? Not I. So, after much consideration, I finally decided not to let Ben stay home from school today. And I most certainly did not take advantage of this "sick" day, by plopping "sick" child and his sister (who actually has had a cough for a few days) on the couch. I did not proceed to make them comfy with their favorite blankets and I did not turn on Curious George because when you are "sick", cartoons is not the best medicine. I did not then tell my adorable children that I was going back to bed for a while because I was not tired at all. I did not consider at all forgetting about my domestic responsibilities because that would just be taking advantage of this "sick" day and that's something I just don't do. Taking advantage of a situation, that is. Never. While I was laying down, I did not hear Ben and Ali upstairs in their room jumping on the beds and I did not yell at them to knock it off and go back downstairs and be quiet because Mommy thinks she is getting "sick" and needs to rest. No, I would not do that. I did not hear my children running down the hall downstairs and then I did not hear lots of laughter and lots of splashing water. I also did not get a little upset to discover them in the bathroom, trying to quickly wash off permanent marker and glitter glue, which they had painted all over themselves. I did not tell Ben that he isn't really sick and the next time he claims to be "sick," he is definitely going to school. And I didn't respond with a big fat YES when he asked "even if I really am sick?" It was not at that moment that I did not have the realization that I had been essentially duped by my 7 year old.....again. I did not vow that I will never fall for his "my belly hurts" routine ever again because I am not onto him.

Until the next time he gets "sick." I will probably not let him stay home from school......

To Nancy

2009-10-18T22:37:00.008-05:00

My sister Jennifer's mother-in-law, Nancy, passed away this morning. It was rather sudden, as she went to the hospital this past Tuesday and didn't even think she needed to be there, only to pass away 5 days later.

Nancy was 76 years old and was preceded in death by her husband nearly 17 years ago, two infant children, two adult daughters and one adult son who just passed away in February, 2009.

Nancy was a sweet, easy going lady and will be dearly missed by her five remaining children and her many grandchildren. My thoughts and prayers are with my brother-in-law Tom and his entire family. May your tears of today be replaced with a smile when you look back on all of the special memories with your Mom.

To My Better Half

2009-10-17T23:37:00.003-05:00

Happy Sweetest Day, Honey!!!

Here's to another 22 more Sweetest Days together!

Love,

Remembering Our Angel

2009-10-15T22:02:00.012-05:00

October 15th is National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day. It is a day to remember all babies who were lost to a miscarriage, stillbirth or other complications after birth, that result in a neonatal death.

April 2, 2008 was a life-changing day for my family and me. It was the day that we learned that our third baby, who we were so excited to welcome into our family, would not be joining our family after all. In the beginning of my 11th week of pregnancy, we lost our little one. My due date was October 30th, so if things had gone as we had hoped, we would be celebrating our baby's first birthday this month.

Although it was a devastating loss, and one in which the emotions that accompanied it can not be explained, time has made it easier to remember. Instead of being distraught when I think of my baby, as I was most of last year, it now makes me a little sad wondering what could have been. I don't think that wondering will ever disappear and, in a way, I am very grateful for that - because that "wondering" also makes me smile.....thinking of our one year old beginning to walk, opening presents and digging into birthday cake!

But most of all, I feel blessed. Blessed for the time I had with our baby, although short. Blessed that God was there to help me survive. Blessed that I have a wonderful husband, two other beautiful children, supportive parents and an awesome sister, who didn't even tell me she was pregnant when I miscarried because she thought it was more important to keep from hurting me than to share her joyous news.

And, finally, I am blessed because I will forever have a guardian angel.

Mommy loves you sweetheart.

The Things Kids Say

2009-10-13T22:00:00.013-05:00

Ben and I got to talking about milk today, for some odd reason, and it's not like it's all that interesting of a subject.

Unless you are a dairy farmer. Which I am not.

Anyhoo, Ben doesn't like milk, he's really never been a big milk drinker like Ali. I told him that I love milk but I can't drink it because I am allergic to it.

He then asked if I was black toast intolerant.

What the?

Ooohhh.....black toast intolerant.

Yes. Yes, honey, I am "black toast intolerant." I do not tolerate toast that is burnt. Unless it is covered with a half of pound of butter and a ton of grape jelly. Oh, and with a side of bacon. Then I can tolerate black toast just fine thankyouverymuch!

I love my guy Ben. He makes me laugh.

Things I Did Not Do Today

2009-10-12T21:53:00.021-05:00

Today I did not eat left over chili for breakfast because, seriously, who does that? Not me.

Today I did not watch Oprah, so I have no idea that Mike Tyson actually has a sensitive side.

Today I did not spend three hours reading my favorite blogs, so my eyes are perfectly rested and I did not strain them in the least by staring at my bright computer screen all morning.

Today I did not snuggle up with Ali and her favorite stuffed animals and take a two hour nap.

Today I did not spent $126 at K-Mart, which did not include purchasing cat litter, socks for Ali, a Spongebob t-shirt for Ben and miscellaneous Halloween costumes for an upcoming Halloween party which we are not invited to.

Today I did not play the memory card game with my 5 year old daughter and she definitely did not beat me...twice.

Today I did not forget that Ben's class was having a party for his teacher's 40th birthday, so I did not stay in all afternoon napping while the other moms were volunteering at the party.

Today I did not rush to the store, with only 10 minutes to spare before the store closed, to pick up roast beef sandwiches for tonight's supper.

Today I did not get pulled over by the police rushing to pick up roast beef sandwiches and I most certainly was not issued a $75 speeding ticket because I was driving 45 m.p.h., when the speed limit was only 35 m.p.h.

Today I did not tell the young, good looking man in uniform that "I was just following everyone else ahead of me...." And he did not say "Ma'am, you were going fast....do you want to see the video?" I did not reply "No, thank you. I believe you." I also did not mumble under my breath, did you have to call me ma'am?

Today I did not watch the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Making the Squad and it did not make me want to go on a diet.

Today I did not eat a gigantic bowl of cereal after watching the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Making the Squad because that would just be weird.....chili for breakfast and cereal for a bedtime snack?

And, finally, today I did not tell a bunch of lies to my blog peeps.

Nope. Never happened. :)

You Might Be A Stay At Home Mom If.....

2009-10-09T08:22:00.053-05:00

.....you start counting down the hours to the kids' bedtime, and it's only 10:30 a.m.

.....you find yourself singing "clean up, clean up, everybody do their share" while vacuuming, even when there's no one else around.

.....you shave you legs before going grocery shopping because an hour at the store is your "night out on the town."

.....you get excited when a telemarketer calls because you are desperate for adult conversation, so you keep her on the line for a half hour but when she finally insists (for the hundredth time) that she MUST get back to work, before she hangs up, you beg her to "call me tomorrow, my new BFF!"

.....you can recite every word to every episode of Caillou.

.....you can totally relate to Caillou's mom because she wears the same outfit everyday and, sadly, so do you sometimes.

.....you hide in your bedroom closet when playing hide & seek with the kids and when they can't find you and they shout "come out, come out, where ever you are," instead of coming out, you stay in there for 45 minutes because you see this as an opportunity for a little "me time."

.....you can't eat your sandwich at lunch unless the crust is cut off and it's cut into four little triangles.

.....you have a blog.

.....you invite other stay at home moms on the block to your house for a wild and crazy afternoon of board games and then spend the whole evening telling your husband how lucky he is to be married to the new "Candyland" champ.

.....you refer to yourself as a domestic engineer.

.....you consider the DVD player man's greatest invention and can't imagine how moms before the 1990's ever survived motherhood without one and lived to tell about it.

.....you tell your husband that the only thing you want for your birthday is for him to take the kids somewhere, anywhere, for the day so you can have some peace and quiet but then you call him a half hour after he leaves and beg him to come home because the silence is deafening.

.....you put on your fancy sweat pants to run errands.

.....you intentionally flush a bucket of Legos down the toilet, just so the plumber has to come over and when he arrives at your house, you greet him with a cup of coffee and say "Soooo, how are you?? What have you been up to lately? So, how's the whole plumbing thing going for you? Sit, tell me ALL about it!"

.....you refuse to clean the little hand prints that adorn your living room windows because you see them as "artwork."

.....you consider the highlight of your day a heated game of "Go Fish" with your 5 year old.

.....you think they should make the first day of school a national holiday, complete with a ticker tape parade honoring those moms who survived summer vacation.

.....you can't call in sick to work because you are already there.

And, above anything else, you can be CERTAIN you are a SAHM if.....you FINALLY get out of the house by yourself for a little while and all you can think about is quickly getting back home because you miss your children.

Do you have any "you might be a SAHM if...." that you would like to share?

Take A Walk With Me Down Memory Lane

2009-10-07T14:29:00.061-05:00

I am traveling down Memory Lane to April of 2008 for Ali's birthday. It was a Saturday and Ray had to work that day. So, I took the kids to the movies. If memory serves me (which many times it doesn't, even if it was only 18 months ago!) this was the first time I took both of the kids to the movies by myself. I think the movie was College Road Trip starring Raven Simone. It was the only movie playing that was mostly kid-friendly and it was a Disney movie, too.

Just a few weeks before, we lost our baby in the 11th week of my pregnancy. I was still grieving at the time and probably didn't feel much like doing birthday stuff but I needed to push forward for Ali's special day. Even in the midst of pain and loss, God reminds us that we can find joy and that there is always something to smile about.

Like my little girl's 4th birthday.

Waiting for the movie to begin. Ben looks less than thrilled that I brought my camera. Ali is holding her baby in one hand, while clutching her package of Starbursts with her other hand.

Ben can't wait for the movie to begin before diving into his popcorn, while Ali at least tries to keep up her smile all the while continuing to clutch her beloved package of Starbursts

(oh and her baby, too!)

Ben has apparently had enough of the whole picture taking thing
but Ali has never met a camera that she didn't like.

Later that night at dinner, the waitress at the restaurant brought her a
chocolate birthday cake and everyone in the restaurant sang Happy Birthday to her.
Notice the green icing on her face!

Wearing her birthday hat from Toys R Us.

While I was making her cake, Ali received a call to wish her a happy birthday.

I let her lick the spoon, as evidenced by the cake batter around her mouth!

Well, I hope you enjoyed sharing my walk down memory lane, even if it was only back to last year! Thanks, Erica at Scottsville, for setting this up! This is a great idea and so much fun!

Like Mother, Like Daughter

2009-10-07T10:15:00.013-05:00

Pajama Daughter

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Food For Thought

2009-10-06T09:15:00.040-05:00

My family likes to eat every day. They are needy like that. So, yesterday I went grocery shopping for food for the week. I'm thoughtful like that.

It's a relationship that works for us.

I usually do my grocery shopping on Mondays. It's one of my least favorite things to do, so I prefer to get it over with early in the week. It's kind of like removing a band-aid, I like to do it quickly and be done with it!

I made my list of items needed for the week, which may or may not have included a box of Entenmann's chocolate donuts. My intention was to get the shopping done before I picked Ben up from school at 3:15. Because shopping with one child is enough to make me lose it, let alone trying to get it done with two children in tow begging me for Pringles potato chips and Little Debbie's Nutty Butty bars.

Not that I ever buy Pringles or Little Debbie's.

Not for the kids, anyway.

However, I was extra tired yesterday afternoon, what with all the blog visits I made earlier in the day, so I tried to squeeze in a short nap before the dreaded event. I think I'm fighting a sinus infection and really wanted to rest before heading out. When I got up, it was 2:35.

Now, any rational thinking person might say to themselves "I don't have enough time to drive to the store (which is 10 minutes away), do a week's worth of shopping, check out, put the groceries in the car and then drive to Ben's school all in less than 45 minutes." But for someone who would rather have her wisdom teeth pulled out without the luxury of novocaine than do the weekly grocery shopping accompanied by her two children, rational thinking tends to take a back seat to crazy thinking.

Thoughts like "40 minutes? Psst! I'll do it in 30 and have 10 minutes to spare. Plenty of time to arrive to Ben's school early to welcome him with open arms as he emerges from the building, showering him with kisses and inquiries about his day at school and walk him lovingly to the car.

I'm a "the glass is half full" kind of girl.

What I didn't anticipate is that Walt's, my favorite eager-to-serve-you with a smile grocery store, was anything but eager to serve me.

There is a sign hanging above the courtesy counter at Walt's that reads: WALTS - We Always Love To Serve. Unless you are an idiot who only allows 15 minutes to do something that realistically could take 30-45 minutes to do. Which, apparently, I am. In that case, they don't so much as love to serve you, as much as they love to torture you.

So, all of the employees decided it was their civic duty to teach me a lesson about time management. Starting with the lady at the deli counter, who I swear, was giving me the evil eye the minute I walked in the store. I waited for a few minutes for my turn but she was slicing ham so painfully slow, that I decided to run and get a few other items that were near by and then come back to the deli. The only problem with that decision is that, when I came back, the line was even longer than the first time I was there.

I decided to ditch the deli because I'm sure Ray won't mind peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch all week. I then headed to the meat department to grab me some ground beef for the chili that I plan on making this week. Are you impressed with culinary ambition? I know. I even surprised myself with that one.

But the meat man, as I like to affectionately call him, was not aware of the fact that I had plans of welcoming Ben into my loving arms in less than 20 minutes. And I still had to find no less than 17 items. My list seemed to be getting longer as the minutes grew shorter and it was very clear that meat man was not down with giving me my meat in a timely fashion.

Now that's something I never thought I would say.

No, meat man walks to the beat of a different drummer. He's got all the time in the world to calmly do his job, even whistling all the while. Unlike that of this hurried housewife. He even takes time to visit with Ali, asking her about school, telling her a joke and asking if there is time for him to get her a sticker. "Oh yes, there's always time for a sticker!" he laughs.

Is he on crack?

There is never time for a sticker.

But, I politely smile and nod but inside I am screaming "Give me my meat!"

After I finally got my ground beef, I ran through the store like a lunatic searching for my remaining items. Ali is pushing the cart, while I ran ahead of her grabbing stuff of the shelves and recklessly throwing them over my shoulder into the cart. I'm pretty sure that people were looking at me with sympathy, knowing that I am domestically challenged. That, or they thought that I must have broke into my box of Entenmann's chocolate donuts and I was high on sugar.

After getting all of the items on my list, we headed to the checkout lanes and managed to get there without knocking over any elderly people or small children in the process. But when we arrived to the checkout lanes, I gasped. Never before has Walt's ever seen this many people at one time. Not since New Year's Eve of '99, when everyone thought the world was about to end and wanted to stock up on bread and milk. And Entenmann's chocolate donuts.

I scoped out the situation for the shortest lane and dashed to get in line. Big mistake. Huge. (Did you notice I was channeling my inner Julia Roberts from Pretty Woman? Remember? When she goes shopping on Rodeo Drive and the sales clerk won't give her the time of day, what with her being a hooker and all, but then she goes back and they realize she does indeed have money to spend.....oh, never mind.)

The cashier in my lane is either new and this is her first day on the job or, like meat man, likes her job just a little too much because she is not efficient in the way that I need my grocery store cashier to be.

Slowly, with just minutes before I need to be at Ben's school, I have advanced to second in line. But then the unthinkable happens. The lady in front of me pulls out a fist full of coupons and, at that moment, I know I have been defeated. New cashier lady is never going to enter those coupon codes in the speed in which I need her to.

So, I did what any self-respecting person would do in this situation.

I abandoned my cart in the corner of the store by the courtesy counter and ran out of there as fast as a 5 years old's little feet would allow me and drove to Ben's school. It was not the glorious reunion I had envisioned but the good news is that I got there at EXACTLY 3:15.

Can I time stuff out perfectly or what?

This story does have a happy ending. I went back to Walt's after getting Ben and my cart was still in the same place where I had left it, with all of it's contents undisturbed.

Except for the box of Entenmann's chocolate donuts. Word on the street is that some crazy woman ripped it open in a fit of frenzy.

A Slow Start

2009-10-05T11:10:00.020-05:00

My plan today was to begin my transformation into a domestic diva. Or at least to try to find my super hero Mom cape under the huge pile of laundry calling my name. Come to think of it, I don't think I own a super hero Mom cape.

Maybe that's why I stink at all things domestic.

No. It's because I lack direction. And a plan. Remember? Please stay focused. I obviously can't, so you will have to, ok?

So, because of the whole lacking direction and a plan thing, I didn't chart my chores for the week or tackle some serious messy closet issues. No, I spent 3 hours this morning visiting my favorite blogs. Sigh.

Please don't judge me.

I know. I know. Yesterday, I was all "I'm going to be a domestic diva! I'm going to be a domestic diva!" I was all prepared to bring it and get all up in my house's dirty grill. Really, I was. But then I woke up and I was tired. And it's Monday. And a few minutes on the computer couldn't hurt, I thought. The only problem with that last excuse, is that my brain doesn't understand "just a few minutes." It's like eating just one M & M. It's just not going to happen.

My only defense is that old habits die hard and it's hard to teach an old dog new tricks.

And I couldn't find my super hero Mom cape. Of which I do not own.

On the upside, I did stumble upon a great blog that, not only makes me laugh out loud but also offers great domestic-y kind of advice. If you are in need of some domestic inspiration, head over to Mom's the Word . Her post today is so true and exactly what I needed to hear. Whew! There is so much to learn. But to my defense, I have only been a SAHM for 7 1/2 years. I really shouldn't be good at all this stuff yet.

Should I?

Finally, so that you don't think I'm a total domestic loser, I did accomplish one of my very important duties today. I went grocery shopping. Ooohhh!! Aaahh!! I will post about that memorable experience tomorrow.

I promise.

Unless I forget.

Domestically Challenged? Welcome to My World.....

2009-10-04T16:20:00.030-05:00

Today was a "do nothing" kind of day.

I have been having a lot of those lately.

I don't know why that is. It actually could be because of any number of reasons. Including, but not limited to, the following:

A) I don't actually like doing things (if those things involve cleaning, scrubbing, organizing, grocery shopping, cooking and all things domestic.)

B) I am old and tired. 40 is not the new 30, no matter what they say.

C) I am allergic to dust. And cooking. Strange but true.

I know what you are thinking. These are all very valid reasons for not cleaning and cooking. I hear you, I do. However, I don't think any of them are the real reason why I am so domestically challenged. I think if I were to dig a little deeper, I would discover why I will never appear on the cover of Martha Stewart's magazine.

Does Martha Stewart even have a magazine? That's how "out of the loop" I am when it comes to this kind of stuff.

After reading blog after blog of other super hero Moms who are able to keep their household running on an even keel, I finally figured out what my problem is.

I lack direction. And a plan.

How do you like them apples? Pretty profound, huh?

In all honesty, I really do want a clean, organized home. I really do want to be a better cook and make delicious and healthy meals for my family. I really do desire to sew all of our clothes, make soap and churn butter.

My life motto is "Go Big or Go Home."

Seriously, I would love to be a better homemaker. Is "homemaker" politically correct? Or are we now called Domestic Divas? Again, out of the loop. Anyway, what I have found is that other moms who have it all together, seem to have some type of method to their madness. I am learning so much about domestic issues that I never knew I wanted to know.

Surprisingly, I am all excited about it.

Originally when I discovered the blog world, I really enjoyed reading humorous stories of women keeping it real for the readers. Stories of moms pulling their hair out and drowning their stress in a double mocha cappacino latte something or other. Those stories made me feel like I wasn't alone in this crazy ride we call motherhood. They still do.

Then I started to notice that many of these same hair-pulling, caffeine-drinking mamas were also getting stuff done. And they were pretty good at it, too.

Because they have direction. And a plan.

Whether it's following daily chore charts, preparing a months worth of meals and then freezing them or organizing the entire house in handy storage containers, there is a secret to their success. All have incorporated ways of doing things that have helped them to be more organized and efficient, thus succeeding at getting things done.

Did I just use the word "thus?"

So, I think when it really comes down to it, it's just a matter of learning the tricks of the trade. It's not rocket science or a "domestic gene" that I wasn't born with. It's just a matter of incorporating some of these clever little household tips, little by little and week by week, and maybe I just might start making some progress. I will continue to scour (scour, get it? oh, never mind) my favorite blogs for helpful hints and domestic advice. There are so many awesome domestic divas out there to teach me the ropes. So, if you have any smart little tips you would like to pass on, please don't hesitate to share! I'm very excited to begin the process and report on any transformation that ensues.

OK. Seriously, did I use the word "ensues" properly? You never know with me.

So, here's to starting over and turning over a new leaf. Tomorrow is a new day!

Because now I have direction. And a plan.

I Can Do This, I Think

2009-10-03T10:05:00.010-05:00

When I first started my blog back in June, I had every intention to post every day. If you're going to dream, dream big right? Well, 3 1/2 months later, I only have 13 posts to show for myself.

Mediocre at best.

I do love reading other people's blogs. There are just so many great ones! I could literally spend ALL DAY reading the touching stories and humorous antics on other people's blogs. Not that I have ever done that. All day? No. Never. Not me.

Really. Think about it. How would I be able to read blogs during my daily 3 hour nap?

Priorities people. Priorities.

Anyway, today's a new day and I am overcome with renewed ambition. God willing, from here on out, I am committed to posting every day. And by every day, I mean those days that my brain decides to cooperate with my computer keyboard. To be honest, my brain cooperating in any capacity is really hit or miss most days.

Keep me in your prayers. I'm gonna need it.

Best Mommy In The World?

2009-10-02T22:06:00.035-05:00

First, I want to give a big shout-out to the awesome ladies that left comments on my blog in the past 24 hours. Thanks so much for taking the time to come visit me! You made my day!! I'm feeling the love!

* * * * * * * * * * * *

I had a doctor's appointment today at 11:30. So, I promised Ali that afterwards (if she was a good girl in the waiting room), I would take her to McDonald's for lunch where she could also play in the indoor playland. I usually don't take the time to eat at McDonald's, so the kids don't get the chance to do the playland thing very often. I'm usually all "let's just take it home and have a picnic on the floor like Caillou's family would do!" Not that Caillou's family would actually eat McDonald's. But if they did, you know the mom and dad would totally have a picnic and make a learning experience out of it, all the while Caillou finding something to whine about.

And by the way, why is a 4 year old bald? I mean, Rosie has a head full of red hair and she is only 2 years old. What's up with that?

Anyway, I usually like to eat at home because then I can multi-task while I'm having lunch and by multi-task, I mean vegging out on the couch watching a thought provoking movie on the Lifetime channel starring the ever talented Tori Spelling, while balancing a double cheeseburger and a super-sized order of french fries on my lap.

Now that is talent, my friends.

But today I was feeling like "nice Mommy," so we skipped the drive-thru and headed inside. The only problem with this "best mommy in the world" moment is that the the playland was closed for repairs.

OK. Did NOT see that coming.

So, I had to think quick for an idea that Ali would think was equally as fun as jumping into a pit of germ infested plastic balls.

And if you think I do quick thinking, it's as if you don't know me at all. I am a planner and any deviation from the plan usually throws me into a tizzy.

I don't really think "tizzy" is a word but I like the way it sounds so I'm gonna go with it.

So, during our healthy lunch, which included the likes of one ginormous root beer for added "thinking" power, I had to do some some heavy soul searching and decide if I could actually bounce back from McDonald's so rudely deciding to do "repairs" to the indoor playground and jeopardizing my "Best Mommy In the World" title. I mean, who do they think they are? I am trying to earn some major Mommy points by actually eating inside McDonald's, instead of taking it home and eating in the comfort of my pajamas and they're all like "we're McDonald's and we can close our gross indoor playground for repairs whenever we want."

Repairs. Yeah, right. My hunch is that some kid went down the slide after eating one too many McNuggets and then ralphed all over the place and nobody wanted to clean up the smelly mess.

Would you?

Anyway, I finally came up with another idea that I hoped a 5 year old would find equally as stimulating as the indoor playland and one that would require minimal effort on my part. So, I carefully presented Ali with plan B.

"Honey, since the indoor playground is closed and I know how disappointed you must be, we could go to Dollar Tree and I'll you pick out a few things." She replied "OK. 'Cuz I didn't really want to go in the playland anyway. I just like sitting on these seats that twirl around and watching Barney on the McDonald's fancy big screen tv, even though I don't really like Barney but this is fun!"

Huh?

Note to self: stick to the original plan and if original plan fails, don't device a plan B because 5 year old daughter is happy to just twirl around and watch purple dinosaurs on tv.

When we got home, Ali hugged me and thanked me for the cool stuff I bought for her at Dollar Tree. She said she is so happy that I am her Mommy. I told her that I was so proud of her for being so good at the doctor's office and that I was the lucky one because God gave me the most special little girl ever.

Talk about a warm and fuzzy moment. You can't put a price on that.

Not unless that price is $5 for a princess paint set, a package of butterfly stickers, a jumbo coloring book, a purple wig and a box of Swedish Fish.

Now What?

2009-10-01T13:46:00.040-05:00

Now that I have finished my 100 things about me list, I have discovered that I may not have anything else to write about. I am drawing a blank big time. It was fairly easy coming up with 100 useless and random things about myself but now I am searching my foggy brain for something interesting to write about.

Nope. Nothing. Nada.

I gotta tell ya, this blogging thing isn't getting any easier. How do people find something interesting to post about EVERY DAY?

Is my life that boring? Am I not creative enough? Am I too tired for my brain to put coherent sentences together?

I think it might be all of the above. Especially the one about being too tired.

Speaking of being tired, have any of you (and by any of you, I mean my 1 reader - God bless her heart) watched the new tv comedy Cougar Town? Did you like that segway? I know. I just pulled it out of thin air. I guess I'm getting the hang of blogging after all.

Anyway, Cougar Town is about a divorced forty-something woman named Jules (played hilariously by Courtney Cox), who is trying to "re-capture" her 20's, which she feels she missed out on because she was raising her son during those crucial "partying" years. The trouble is, she's too pooped to party.

I can totally relate.

Except the part about being divorced.

And the part about having a baby in my 20's.

Oh, and the part about missing out on partying. I didn't so much as "miss out" as much as choosing "not to participate."

I am, however, in my 40's and I am also too pooped to party. So, I totally get her!

The difference between Jules and I is that I was happy spending my 20's with my boyfriend-turned-fiance-turned-husband doing absolutely no club hopping and what-not. My wild and crazy days weren't so wild and crazy. When it came to living on the edge, staying up past midnight on December 31st to watch Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve is about as wild and crazy as we ever got. Pathetic, I know.

Some things never change.

Don't get me wrong. We can shake things up a bit. Now on New Year's Eve, we throw confetti at midnight, made out of newspaper that we spent the whole day cutting into little pieces, that I will still be vacuuming up come 4th of July.

Do we know how to party or what?

My husband and I have never been big social-drinking-party-going kind of people. Except for the occasional wedding cocktail, I don't drink. I never had any interest. So even though I could have partied it up in my 20's, especially since we didn't have children at the time, I chose not to. It wasn't a conscious choice really. I guess I'm just more of a homebody. That's how I roll.

There are plenty of other things I did in my 20's that I can look back on and smile about. Memories that I can actually remember because I was sober. Like Ray and I taking a 45 minute walk to the 7-11 every Saturday night after dark to buy a candy bar, chatting and holding hands the whole way there and back. Like renting the movie Trains, Planes and Automobiles and laughing so hard when John Candy is driving the wrong way on the express way. To this day, that movie has remained our all time favorite comedy movie for both of us. Like drinking bottles of pop all night and returning the glass bottles for a refund. Like taking weekend trips to Galena just because. Like adopting our four kitties (2 from the Humane Society and 2 strays) proving that love knows no bounds. Like ordering hot dogs and a big basket of hot french fries from Wally's. Like buying a water ski boat and spending lazy, summer afternoons at the lake. Like never missing an episode of Friends or The Wonder Years.

I think it's because I am not too hard to please (although Ray might disagree on occasion, just maybe) that little things like candy bars from a convenience store and watching a favorite tv show make me happy. I don't need fancy clothes or expensive jewelry or a vacation to Australia (ok, that last one I might need) to feel content.

When it comes down to it, whether I am 21, 31 or 41, my needs haven't changed much. I am a simple girl, who doesn't need or want for much. I have a roof over my head, food on the table, two precious children gifted to me and the love and devotion of the most wonderful man. What more could I want or need?

Just give me a bottle of pop, a big basket of Wally fries and a rerun of Friends (preferrably the one where Ross wears leather pants on a date for the first time but then he starts sweating so bad from the pants that he has to secretely call Joey from his date's bathroom for help and Joey tells him to use baby powder so Ross does but it becomes a sweaty, powdery mess and Ross cries to Joey "it's not working man!") and I'm good to go.

Seriously. It doesn't take much to make me happy.

Crossing The Finish Line

2009-09-30T17:18:00.006-05:00

I'm almost finished with my "100 Things About Me List." And it only took me 3 months.

Slow and steady wins the race.

Except when blogging. Because blogging isn't a race, so who am I kidding?

But it sounded so much better than say "lazy and procrastinating wins the race."

DRUM ROLL PLEASE......... "100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (91-100):

91. I am a natural redhead (but not as red as when I was younger-ish.)

92. I have freckles (but not as many as when I was younger-ish.)

93. I don't tan. I can burn really good but I don't tan. It's the Irish in me.

94. I am 5' 8" tall.

95. You couldn't drag my weight out of me even if you bribed me with 2 lbs. of white chocolate macadamia nut cookies.

96. Well maybe you could.

97. But I would just lie to you anyway, so what's the point?

98. Except that I would have scammed you for 2 lbs. of white chocolate macadamia nut cookies.

99. And I LOVE white chocolate macadamia nut cookies.

100. So, do you want to know how much I weigh? Show me the cookies and you've got yourself a deal!

You're Never Too Old (At Least That's What Gets Me Through Day)

2009-09-22T09:34:00.019-05:00

I babysat for three of my sister Jenn's children Saturday night. Her Nicholas is two and half years older than Beb and her Natalie is just nine weeks younger than Al. Her youngest, Thomas the Tank Engine, is 9 months old with a toothless grin that would melt even the coldest heart. He's so stinkin' cute!

Let's just say my ovaries hurt now.

And hurting ovaries at age 41, kind of painful......just sayin'.

"100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (81-90):

81. I never thought much about having children when Ray and I were first married. I was only 25 at the time and thought we had plenty of time for baby making. But time flies when you're having fun.

82. Nine years later, at age 34, I became a mother with the birth of our son Benjamin.

83. In cat years, that's really old.

84. Two years later, our daughter was born.

85. For those of you doing the math, I was 36 when Alexandria was born.

86. Our boy. Our girl. We were complete.

87. Until I was staring down the backside of 39. Can you say 'tick tock'?

88. So, after much discussion (and by discussion, I mean me relentlessly asking Ray if we could have another baby and him responding that we are too old - tell me something I don't know Cowboy), we finally realized that we didn't want to have any regrets if we didn't at least try for a few months. I prayed to God that if we were meant to have another baby, I would embrace that. If He had different plans for us, I would accept and embrace that also.

89. Two months after my 40th birthday, I became pregnant. Seeing those two little lines was so exciting! It was such a happy moment for our family.

90. In my 11th week of pregnancy, I had a miscarriage. The excitement and happiness of earlier weeks was replaced with the kind of pain and heartache that I thought would never end. But with God as the calm in our storm, the pain eventually did ease. And although we never got to hold our baby, look into his or her beautiful eyes or hear that beautiful cry, we are comforted by the knowledge that someday we will. Before becoming pregnant, I prayed to God that I would embrace another baby - and I did. I also prayed to God that I would accept His decision if He had other plans - and I have. For now.

But as we know, God has a sense of humor and can throw you a curve ball even if you didn't know you were up to bat! At age 41, I don't know if God will bless us with another baby. Sometimes, I pray that He does and other times I know I am CRAZY for even praying for such chaos that a newborn baby is sure to create. Hello? Poo poo diapers, bottles, spit-up, bath time, teething, drooling......

But on the other hand, poo poo diapers, bottles, spit-up, bath time, teething, drooling......

$aving Dollar$

2009-09-17T11:25:00.007-05:00

After dropping Beb off at school this morning, Al asked if we could see if there were any garage sales today. I told her yes, letting her believe she came up with this grand idea. Little did she know, I was already planning on hunting for garage sales before we even left the house. This way, she thinks Mommy agreed to do something super fun today, when all along I couldn't wait to find that perfect treasure.

Score one for Pajama Mama.

So later today, when I ask her to do the laundry, wash the dishes and scrub the toilets, I will have some ammunition to work with.

"But hon, Mommy took you to garages sales today and bought you a Beanie Baby, a Halloween coloring book, a plastic Hello Kitty watch and 2 Mardi Gras bead necklaces.....remember?"

Guilt. It's a beautiful thing.

Not that I would make my sweet 5 year old daughter do laundry or wash dishes because I bought her exactly seventy cents worth of fun at a garage sale.

But she loves to scrub toilets. And what else is she going to do when I'm watching "The View?"

"100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (61-80):

61. I love garage sales.

62. That bares repeating.

63. I. Love. Garage. Sales.

64. It's in my blood. When I was growing up, my Mom was the Queen of Garage Sales (a title that I'm pretty sure trumps the Miss America title.)

65. My Mom's garage sale smackdowns are legendary in the south suburbs.

66. She tells tales of stuffing a paper grocery sack until it was overflowing with summer clothes for my younger sister and paying just $1 for the ENTIRE bag of contents. Can you even imagine?

67. And don't get me started on all of the Barbie furniture and accessories that she managed to scope out for just pennies.

68. When it came to saving money, she was a woman with a mission.

69. She also was the Coupon Queen. Much like Queen of Garage Sales, she earned this title because of her knack of clipping coupons and buying $500 worth of groceries for like seventeen dollars and twenty-four cents. I kid you not.

70. She even taught classes at a local college about all the ways to save money from clipping coupons and published a smart monthly newsletter called "$aving Dollar$."

71. To this day, I sometimes still dream about the piles of Banquet dinner cartons and Campbell's soup labels, which were all saved for the valuable UPC codes to send in for rebates.

72. My Mom became an honest-to-goodness celebrity when she was invited to appear on the television show "AM Chicago," to share her adventures in money saving.

73. And as we all know, AM Chicago is now know as a little show called "The Oprah Winfrey Show."

74. I know.

75. So now I have no choice but to seek out those garage sale "gotta have it" deals.

76. I mean who can pass up a twenty-five cents coffee mug with "Foxy Mama" painted on it?

77. Not me. And I don't even drink coffee.

78. Even the clearance racks at K-Mart never know what hit 'em. I show no mercy on Halloween candy. Even if it is January.

79. What? Chocolate has a long shelf life.

80. And thanks to my Mom, I now know that a family of 6 can survive on $1.94 a week, if need be.

First Love

2009-09-15T22:30:00.019-05:00

The 11th season of Big Brother ended tonight. I am heartbroken. It ended all too soon. What will I do every Tuesday night at 8:00 and every Thursday and Sunday nights at 7:00? Why Big Brother? Why did it have to end? Was there someone else? I gave you everything Big Brother. We were together a long time and shared a lot over the years. I will truly miss our special time together.

Until next week when the new season of Survivor begins.

Anyhoo, with much anticipation, I give you more stuff about me.

"100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (51-60):

51. I have a serious problem. It's hard to admit but today I come clean.

52. My name is Valerie and I am a reality tv addict. Oh, the shame.

53. It all started about 9 years BK (before kids) when hubby and I were able to watch tv shows that didn't involve a yellow sponge named Bob or a backpack toting explorer.

54. Little did I know, back in 2000, I was about to begin a roller coaster relationship with a little showed called "Big Brother."

55. Strangers living in a house for 3 months, with no connection to the outside world, voting to evict houseguests out every week? And we can watch their every move?

56. What is this madness you speak of CBS?

57. What would be the harm in watching one episode? After 5 minutes, I was hooked. How could I not be? I tuned in every episode to see Jamie single handily bring back the lip gloss revolution, to see one legged Eddie hobble across the backyard screaming "Don't be a hater!" and to see Chicken George being, well, Chicken George. Big Brother and I were a match made in heaven.

58. As I watched throughout the next several seasons, I often wondered how I would do if I were rooming in the Big Brother house with the likes of Dr. Wil, Mike Boogy, Cowboy, Janel and Evil Dick.

59. I'm pretty I would be crying within the first hour. People can be so cruel in the Big Brother house.

60. Well, that AND seeing the pool in the backyard and remembering that I would probably be required to wear a swimsuit on national television at some point. This would send me running back into the house crying, begging Big Brother for only fully clothed HOH and VETO competitions. This would not go over well with the other guests because they're young and they don't have stretch marks. Then they all gang up on me because I am the old lady in the house who is cramping their style. Then the unspeakable happens. I am the first one evicted from the Big Brother house. Oh, the horror.

Makes me want to apply for next season.

Gotta love that reality tv drama.

41-50....I'm too tired to come up with a more creative title.

2009-09-10T10:18:00.005-05:00

"100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (41-50):

41. I am tired.

42. Very tired.

43. Beb was sick with a cold and cough combo (say that 10 times fast) last week and missed school on Friday. He then passed the torch to Al, who generously passed the torch to my hubby Ray and me.

44. Kids are generous like that.

45. Since I am not feeling my usually perky self, I plan on napping most of the day with Al while Beb is doing his thing at school.

46. So today will be pretty much like every other day.

47. Oh, it's a joke.

48. I don't take a nap every other day.

49. I nap EVERY day.

50. What? Like you don't. OK. You probably don't but don't act like you don't want to. Honesty, that's all I'm asking from you.

So, I'm off to rest.

And when you are out saving the world or whatever it is you are doing today, think of me napping all "snuggley" with Al.

Sweet dreams, y'all.

Yes, I am suddenly from Texas. That's how tired I am.

Chasing the Crown

2009-09-03T09:57:00.011-05:00

Yes, one week has passed since my last post. Yes, I need to get more motivated at posting every day (or least every other day!) And yes, I bring you more exciting and useless facts about me.

"100 Things About Me" (31-40):

31. I entered my first pageant when I was a senior in high school.

32. According to "Toddlers and Tiaras," I was a late bloomer. Basically over the hill at age 18.

33. My first attempt at a pageant title was in the '80's at the Miss Illinois T.E.E.N. Pageant.

34. T.E.E.N. was an acronym for Teens Encouraging Excellence Nationally.

35. If by "excellence", they meant a 2.9 grade point average and star of the badminton team, then I was sure to win!

36. Sadly, that is so not what they meant by excellence (sadly, I was also not the star of the badminton team so much as a second string player but in my mind I WAS the star.)

37. I guess being in the honor society, president of student council, captain of the cheerleading squad and working weekends to help save the world was more what they had in mind.

38. Who knew?

39. The judges, that's who.

40. Needless to say, my name was not called out as a Top 15 finalist.

And on that downer down memory lane, I bid you all a great day!

Time Flies During Summer Vacation

2009-08-27T12:37:00.024-05:00

Is summer vacation over? Has it actually been over 2 months since I last posted? Was I 10 lbs. thinner when I started this blog? Did I forget to brush my teeth today?? (By the way, I already know the answer to these questions and, sadly, the answer is a resounding YES across the board.)

However, I am back, ready to pick up where I left off over 2 (ahem) months ago and continue my "100 Things About Me" list. Read on for more fascinating, yet useless facts about me that you never wanted to know.

"100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (21-30):

21. I am a SAHM. That's the cool hip way of writing "stay at home mom." Yeah, I know lingo. Word to your mother.

22. Being a stay at home mom is kind of like being a doctor but instead of the letters MD after my name, my name is followed by the letters SAHM and instead of wearing a white jacket and stethescope, my uniform is usually pajama pants and a stained t-shirt but whatever.

23. I am now officially the mom of a second grader. Although I love him with all of my heart and more than words can express, the first day of school couldn't come soon enough.

24. I am also now the mom of a kindergartner. As I did for my son, I will homeschool our daughter for her first year of education. Beb received straight A's in first grade, so I guess I didn't screw up too much teaching him how to read and how to do basic math. Let's just hope the same holds true with Al, what with me being two years older and two year's worth of my brain cells dead.

25. In addition to my titles of SAHM and homeschool teacher, I am also co-owner of a masonry restoration business. And by co-owner, I mean that I do none of the work and my husband does all of the work. Our business does have my name in the title so, in my mind, that makes me co-owner. My husband may or may not agree.

26. Before I was CEO of our masonry restoration business, I worked at a variety of jobs over the years. For some unknown reason, I have been hired for every job that I have applied for. That is no surprise to those who know me, what with my undeniable wit and sparkling personality. That, or I really know how to do a good "snow job." Regardless, I have had more jobs than I can count on both hands (and both feet for that matter.)

27. I am really good at getting hired for jobs. Sticking with any of them, not so much.

28. Some of my career choices that, in hindsight, were probably best left to those with experience and skills included: dental assistant (3 different dental offices, you think I would have learned after the first one but no); working in the food industry (pizza place and candy store - enough said); working for a magazine editor (the editor was never in the office and all I did was watch tv...come to think of it, I wonder if they are hiring again); construction worker (yes, I said construction worker); cleaning houses (my husband just laughs at that one and if you saw our house at this moment you would understand); and working in the health industry as a home health aid (and believe it or not, I actually went to "home health aid school" or whatever it was they called it.)

29. I was also a pageant director for 14 years.

30. Before becoming a pageant director, I was a pageant contestant.

And with that exciting cliffhanger, I am off to clean my house.

Stop laughing.

No Excuses

2009-06-14T16:39:00.018-05:00

I have no excuse as to why it has taken me over a week to post. I could give you a million reasons why I didn't have time this past week to continue my "100 Things About Me" list. For instance, a birthday party AND graduation party on the same day. Shopping for gift for said birthday party and shopping for new clothes for said graduation party (let's just say I'm not the same size as last summer and not in a good way.) Then, of course, there's always the house cleaning, doing the dishes and the never-ending laundry, all of which I try to avoid (if possible) but my family insists on eating every day and having clean underwear on a regular basis. Whatever. There was also the mowing of over 1 acre of grass that hasn't seen a tractor in two weeks. I survived the ordeal with help from Ben (Bebby) but that's two hours I'll never get back and I have the sunburn to prove it. A woman's work is never done.

And now, after much anticipation from my many readers (all of approximately none so far), I give you "100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (11-20):

11. It starts with the letter "i" and it's not Idaho, Indiana or Iowa.

12. Abraham Lincoln was from our state.

13. My children play with Lincoln logs (that was random but read on, my friends.)

14. My dad, husband and I built our house. It's a log house. See how I did that?

15. Ten years older and two children later, I couldn't build another house if you paid me.

16. Well, maybe. If the price was right.

17. Plus, I have easy access to cheap labor, what with a 7 and 5 year old at my disposal.

18. Oh, I'm kidding.

19. I would make them work for free.

20. Forty-eight hours of back labor with my first and gaining 63 lbs. with my second, they so owe me.

100 Things About Me

2009-06-05T21:50:00.009-05:00

I've done my homework and I have learned, that if you have your own blog you MUST write a post entitled: "100 THINGS ABOUT ME." It's like the law or something. If you don't comply, the blog police will come knocking at your blog door. Since I'm new around here, I don't want to start off on the wrong foot with the law, so here's my list.

I'll start off with just 10 today and tomorrow I'll add to the list.

I hope you can stand the suspense.

"100 THINGS ABOUT ME" (first 10):

1. I have 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

2. Yes, we are the Brady Bunch.

3. I am second to the youngest.

4. My parents' names are Don and Donna.

5. It's true.

6. I was married at 25.

7. I had my first baby at 34, nine years into our marriage.

8. Spontaneous, I'm not. Remember?

9. I have lived in only one state.

10. It's in the midwest.

Stay tuned tomorrow for more! Are you sitting on the edge of your seat yet? I hope you can get some sleep tonight, what with all this excitement.

Pajama Mama Is Born

2009-06-04T15:54:00.013-05:00

You might be wondering, why the name "pajama mama?" Then again, like me, you might be wondering what's on t.v. tonight. Anyway, I became pajama mama (in my mind) back in 2002 after our first baby was born (who is now a newly promoted second-grader!) Like most new moms, I didn't have it in me to take a shower every day or even brush my hair. Since it was February and cold outside, we mostly stayed indoors at home. I saw no good reason to change out of my pajamas. Except for a visit from the occasional Fed-Ex delivery man, I really had no motivation to look glamorous. Don't get me wrong, some days I actually did brush my teeth. I do have some hygiene pride you know. But in those early mommy days, my pajamas became my new best friend. They provided the comfort I needed when the baby wouldn't stop crying and the house was a disaster and I was too exhausted to even breathe. When baby number two came along in 2004 (who will be starting kindergarten in the fall), I also had an active toddler on my hands and didn't have the luxury of staying inside all day. So, I managed to work my way up to dressing in "real" clothes most days and venturing out of the house.

Old habits die hard, though. There are still some days that I just don't feel like changing out of the comfort of my pj's. I have driven my son to school in them, taken the kids to the park in them and, on occasion, have pumped gas wearing my jammies (talk about stylin' at the pump.) I have yet to go grocery shopping wearing pajamas but have seriously considered it on more than one occasion. I can imagine my mom's jaw dropping when she reads that! She reminds me that she used to do her grocery shopping in a dress and heels, with all 6 kids in tow! Mom, you are my hero!

So most days, I am usually out of my pajamas after breakfast. Other days, well let's just say, my hair and teeth might not see a brush.

Just sayin'....

My Blog

2009-06-03T10:23:00.003-05:00

I finally decided to join the world of blogging. I've been thinking about it for a while now. My sister even said to me last month, "I thought you started that thing last year." Spontaneous I'm not. Anyway, for about a year now, I have been reading blog after blog of other moms who have taken the proverbial "blog jump," sharing the details of their daily lives. The good, the bad and the ugly. I've laughed. I've cried. I've been speechless, excited and confused. I've sat on the edge of my chair, unable to pull myself away from my computer until I find out if today is the day that a fellow mommy blogger's toddler will finally do poo poo on the big boy potty. Oh, and the pride you feel when that big day comes! It's as if her little guy is your own little one. It's a day to rejoice! Because as a mommy myself, I know the excitement that is being felt in that home. It's those kind of little moments that make all of the hard work of being a mom SO WORTH IT and it's fun to be there to share in that excitement. Yes, we moms find joy in the simplest of things.

The mommy blogging world, although huge in numbers, feels like a family. I have quickly come to know several blogging moms, none of whom I have actually met in "real life." However, I feel a special kinship with each of them. They help remind me that I am not alone in doing this mommy thing. I have come to realize that there are some pretty awesome and supportive women out there in cyber world who, just like me, are just trying to get through the ups and downs of each day. And even though I log on every day to catch up with my favorite "blogging friends," looking for a good laugh, secretly I'm hoping to be inspired. Let's just say, I'm never disappointed.

So, welcome to my new blog. I am so glad you found me! I can't promise that I will be all that inspiring but I will be honest and I promise to keep it real.

And to my dear hubby, thank you for surprising me with a new computer and high speed internet! Yes, we had dial-up until last week. I know. Honey, it was so sweet of you to help me start my blogging journey with all sorts of new bling! Even though when I first told you I was thinking about starting a blog, you said "what's a blog?" I know.