Happy Halloween everyone! As I mentioned in my post yesterday, our town does things a bit differently. We Trick or Treat the night before in order to allow Halloween night to put on the best parade ever.
Last night I discovered that I have a Trick-or-Treat die hard among my offspring. We planned our route so that we circled back around by our house so that if anyone was tired or needed to use the bathroom we could stop. On our first loop back my eldest, the hippie, dropped out. I couldn't believe he was the first to admit defeat. After a quick bathroom break for Darth Vader and mom and a drink for the Fairy Princess we headed back out. The Fairy Princess held in there a while longer before declaring she had enough candy and climbing into the wagon. Darth Vader on the other hand was determined to hit every house in the neighborhood. At one point Darth Vader said he thought his candy was falling out of his bag. I just laughed and swapped it for an empty one. Heaven forbid I suggest that he had enough and called it quits.
Now to deal with all the candy. Its a challenge to keep them from diving head first. Never mind that I'm on a diet and this temptation is driving me crazy. My WW leader had a great idea the other day when I told her I was stressing out about the halloween candy...after all I probably eat more of the kids candy then they do. She suggested chopping it up and using it in cookies and freezing them for the holidays. What a great idea! However, I'm a little domestically challenged, especially in the kitchen. Anyone have any good cookie recipes????
Okay, I need to finish recovering from all that walking before I head back out tonight. I"ll be walking a few miles down Main Street tonight in the parade! (as long as the weather cooperates!!)
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Trick of Treat....
Smell my feet. Give me something good to eat!
The town I live in does Halloween a bit diferently. Many many years ago (I'd have to look it up to see exactly how long but I'm going with 30+ yrs ago) one of the local fire departments decided to host a Halloween Parade. The Halloween Parade has grown into such a big thing that it is said to be the 2nd largest Halloween Parade in the world. The Halloween Parade is held on Halloween night....hundreds will turn out to march down Main Street bedecked in their costume finery. Since it falls on a Saturday this year that will increase the attendance of participants as well as on-lookers.
I 'm sure many of you are thinking, "what about trick or treating?!". Well, our town has changed it to the night before! So my friends, tonight we will be terrorizing the neighborhood with a Hippie, Darth Vader, and a Fairy Princess in tow. My kids left for school dressed in their costumes giddie as can be. As soon as they get home they will begin to beg to go out and collect their treats. I'll be the bad mommy who says "no, not until you have something decent to eat!" to avoid eating the candy overload. I give that as my excuse anyway, its really because I think Trick or Treating is much more fun at night.
Tomorrow night you will be able to catch my 2 boys and I marching down Main Street with their Cub Scout pack dressed in Civil War regalia. Our pack has won trophies the past few years and we are hoping to keep the tradition alive!! I hope we can impress those judges!
However you celebrate Halloween I hope it is safe and fun for all. Indulge in your favorite treat....just don't get caught stealing it out of your kids bags!
The town I live in does Halloween a bit diferently. Many many years ago (I'd have to look it up to see exactly how long but I'm going with 30+ yrs ago) one of the local fire departments decided to host a Halloween Parade. The Halloween Parade has grown into such a big thing that it is said to be the 2nd largest Halloween Parade in the world. The Halloween Parade is held on Halloween night....hundreds will turn out to march down Main Street bedecked in their costume finery. Since it falls on a Saturday this year that will increase the attendance of participants as well as on-lookers.
I 'm sure many of you are thinking, "what about trick or treating?!". Well, our town has changed it to the night before! So my friends, tonight we will be terrorizing the neighborhood with a Hippie, Darth Vader, and a Fairy Princess in tow. My kids left for school dressed in their costumes giddie as can be. As soon as they get home they will begin to beg to go out and collect their treats. I'll be the bad mommy who says "no, not until you have something decent to eat!" to avoid eating the candy overload. I give that as my excuse anyway, its really because I think Trick or Treating is much more fun at night.
Tomorrow night you will be able to catch my 2 boys and I marching down Main Street with their Cub Scout pack dressed in Civil War regalia. Our pack has won trophies the past few years and we are hoping to keep the tradition alive!! I hope we can impress those judges!
However you celebrate Halloween I hope it is safe and fun for all. Indulge in your favorite treat....just don't get caught stealing it out of your kids bags!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
I want to be a weather man
I decided I want to be a weather man. Apparently that is the only job in the world where you can be wrong on a daily basis and still have a job. As long as you have a brilliant smile and come across as charming to the viewing audience you can keep predicting crap. As a nurse if I was wrong or had an error in judgement as often as the weather men do I would have lost my license a long time ago. As a mom, sure I'm going to get it wrong once in a while. But if I continue to get it wrong over and over it is eventually going to bite me in the a$$ so I try to figure out how to get it right the next time around.
So what brings about my wish to change professions? The rain of course. The last thing I heard on the 11pm news last night was that the rain was going to stop between 5 and 6 am and the skies were going to clear up from there. It is now 11:30am and it is still pouring out.
I hate the rain. And it seems to me that every time I have to go grocery shopping or face starvation its raining. I hate grocery shopping (thus putting it off until there is nothing left in the house). Now put the 2 together and I'm downright miserable.
Apparently mother nature is in cahoots with my dog as well. See, he hates the rain too so whenever its raining he doesn't want to take the time to stop and do his business. But since I know he has to go I continue to walk him around or stand in his favorite spot. Apparently he thinks I just love to stand in the rain and get drenched.
My older son keeps asking if its the rainy season since we've seen a lot of rain lately. My younger son wants to know if he'll ever get to play baseball again. His games and practices have been cancelled for over 2 weeks straight now....actually I think its about 3 weeks.
I've been soaking wet since 8 am. I was thinking of going and taking a hot shower to warm up (and I could really use a shower!) but really I'm just tired of being wet! So I think I'll put that off until later.
There better be a rainbow at the end of all of this rain!
So what brings about my wish to change professions? The rain of course. The last thing I heard on the 11pm news last night was that the rain was going to stop between 5 and 6 am and the skies were going to clear up from there. It is now 11:30am and it is still pouring out.
I hate the rain. And it seems to me that every time I have to go grocery shopping or face starvation its raining. I hate grocery shopping (thus putting it off until there is nothing left in the house). Now put the 2 together and I'm downright miserable.
Apparently mother nature is in cahoots with my dog as well. See, he hates the rain too so whenever its raining he doesn't want to take the time to stop and do his business. But since I know he has to go I continue to walk him around or stand in his favorite spot. Apparently he thinks I just love to stand in the rain and get drenched.
My older son keeps asking if its the rainy season since we've seen a lot of rain lately. My younger son wants to know if he'll ever get to play baseball again. His games and practices have been cancelled for over 2 weeks straight now....actually I think its about 3 weeks.
I've been soaking wet since 8 am. I was thinking of going and taking a hot shower to warm up (and I could really use a shower!) but really I'm just tired of being wet! So I think I'll put that off until later.
There better be a rainbow at the end of all of this rain!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Terrific Tuesday
Time for Terrific Tuesday again! Seriously, where does the time go?? I can't believe another week has gone by.
So, this weeks weigh in brought me 0.8 pounds closer to my goal. I'm down 14.2 pounds total, that is something to be happy about!
I've noticed week by week the loss is getting smaller....I think I might have to face facts and admit I have to start adding a little exercise into the routine. Grrr....I DETEST exercising. Seriously, I'd rather cut off an arm than to go to a gym. When I started on this weight loss regime I told myself that I didn't have to worry about exercising until the dieting alone started to not work. I feel it coming...its right around the corner. Sigh.
Do you know how much money I've wasted on gym memberships over the years? I SWEAR that I"m ready to go for it. I SWEAR if I'm paying for it that will be a motivation to make me go. Everyone else SWEARS that if you just keep pushing yourself you'll come to like it and it will be an automatic part of your routine. Well I SWEAR its all hogwash! (okay, if you know me you know I don't use words like hogwash and there would be more of an explitive in there but I'm trying to keep this blog clean!). I've joined and dropped out of more gyms than I care to tell you about. The happiest day of my life was when Lucille Roberts closed and I didn't have to feel bad about not going anymore and I could finally get out of that contract!!
For Christmas I begged for Wii Fit...thought that if it felt like a game it would be more fun and I'd be more likely to use it. I knew it probably wouldn't be as effective as a gym but I was subscribing to the philosophy of move more sit less. Any time NOT spent on the couch or shoving food in my face is better than nothing as far as I'm concerned with the exercise plans. But that didn't hold my attention long either. Do you know I actually turned it on yesterday and the @#$%!%^&* video game YELLED AT ME BECAUSE IT HADN"T SEEN ME IN 47 DAYS!!!!!! Really, its a freaking video game and its programmed to instill the guilt. Then when it weighed me it yelled at me again stating it was concerned I was losing weight to quickly. Seriously, if I wanted that kind of abuse I'd just go to the gym!
So, this weeks weigh in brought me 0.8 pounds closer to my goal. I'm down 14.2 pounds total, that is something to be happy about!
I've noticed week by week the loss is getting smaller....I think I might have to face facts and admit I have to start adding a little exercise into the routine. Grrr....I DETEST exercising. Seriously, I'd rather cut off an arm than to go to a gym. When I started on this weight loss regime I told myself that I didn't have to worry about exercising until the dieting alone started to not work. I feel it coming...its right around the corner. Sigh.
Do you know how much money I've wasted on gym memberships over the years? I SWEAR that I"m ready to go for it. I SWEAR if I'm paying for it that will be a motivation to make me go. Everyone else SWEARS that if you just keep pushing yourself you'll come to like it and it will be an automatic part of your routine. Well I SWEAR its all hogwash! (okay, if you know me you know I don't use words like hogwash and there would be more of an explitive in there but I'm trying to keep this blog clean!). I've joined and dropped out of more gyms than I care to tell you about. The happiest day of my life was when Lucille Roberts closed and I didn't have to feel bad about not going anymore and I could finally get out of that contract!!
For Christmas I begged for Wii Fit...thought that if it felt like a game it would be more fun and I'd be more likely to use it. I knew it probably wouldn't be as effective as a gym but I was subscribing to the philosophy of move more sit less. Any time NOT spent on the couch or shoving food in my face is better than nothing as far as I'm concerned with the exercise plans. But that didn't hold my attention long either. Do you know I actually turned it on yesterday and the @#$%!%^&* video game YELLED AT ME BECAUSE IT HADN"T SEEN ME IN 47 DAYS!!!!!! Really, its a freaking video game and its programmed to instill the guilt. Then when it weighed me it yelled at me again stating it was concerned I was losing weight to quickly. Seriously, if I wanted that kind of abuse I'd just go to the gym!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Sunday Night
Sunday night is an odd night for me. Sunday is the eve of Monday. Monday starts the school week. This brings excitement and dread at the same time. After a busy weekend I look forward to them going off to school so I can find a few quiet minutes to myself and get caught up on some errands and chores. It also means back to the piles of homework, projects and running every night to activities. But its the projects I hate the most.
My son recently brought home a Milestones Chart project. They need to make a chart of milestones that happened during every year of their lives and put accompanying pictures with it. At first I thought this was a cute idea. I quickly realized this was more of a project for me than for him. I thought homework was supposed to be for the kids...not for the parents!!
He was looking forward to working on his project and he kept asking me for help. We finally sat down this weekend and started looking through scrapbooks to come up with some good ideas for his chart. We made it through his first 2 years. I used to be good about documenting things and getting my pictures into the scrapbooks. But then the kids kept coming! And so while I kept taking pictures they weren't getting organized! They are in piles and boxes all over the house. Do you really think I stopped to write down every little thing that happened? I was juggling poopy diapers and functioning on sleepless nights. I felt lucky that I remembered to feed and bathe them every day.
So what I would really like to put on his milestones chart is: MOM SURVIVED HAVING 3 CHILDREN IN 3 YEARS AND IS STILL HERE TO TELL ABOUT IT!! And leave it at that. Think that will get me an A? Oh yeah, its his project. He should get the A.
My son recently brought home a Milestones Chart project. They need to make a chart of milestones that happened during every year of their lives and put accompanying pictures with it. At first I thought this was a cute idea. I quickly realized this was more of a project for me than for him. I thought homework was supposed to be for the kids...not for the parents!!
He was looking forward to working on his project and he kept asking me for help. We finally sat down this weekend and started looking through scrapbooks to come up with some good ideas for his chart. We made it through his first 2 years. I used to be good about documenting things and getting my pictures into the scrapbooks. But then the kids kept coming! And so while I kept taking pictures they weren't getting organized! They are in piles and boxes all over the house. Do you really think I stopped to write down every little thing that happened? I was juggling poopy diapers and functioning on sleepless nights. I felt lucky that I remembered to feed and bathe them every day.
So what I would really like to put on his milestones chart is: MOM SURVIVED HAVING 3 CHILDREN IN 3 YEARS AND IS STILL HERE TO TELL ABOUT IT!! And leave it at that. Think that will get me an A? Oh yeah, its his project. He should get the A.
Gratitude Challenge Day 8
I'm up to Day 8 already....its been over a week now that I've been counting my blessings. Today's challenge is to send thank you notes to 5 people in your life. Today is Sunday and there is no mail pickup today but that gave me today to think of who I wanted to send notes to and get them in the mail tomorrow.
I used to send cards to people all the time. I would go to the card store and pick up a few blank cards or friendship cards and then just drop them in the mail for no reason at all other than to say hi or I miss you or here's a hug. Now, I don't even get birthday cards in the mail. I know, I know, that is mean...I should be better about that. Really I mean well, its just usually a week, or two or a month before I even realize that I missed your birthday. (please forgive me)
So this is a great way to remind myself to take the time to express my gratitude to those in my life. Everyone is here for a reason and serves a different role. Some listen to me whine, some assure me I'm not a bad mommy, some tell me I'm crazy for volunteering for yet another thing, some invite me out for a fun night. But many are here to pick me up on a bad day and help me through a rough time(and I'll be calling on some of them again very soon!). I may have been too distracted to say thank you or perhaps I feel they didn't realize how much their help really meant to me. So, I will take the time to jot a note to these people and thank them for being in my life.
I used to send cards to people all the time. I would go to the card store and pick up a few blank cards or friendship cards and then just drop them in the mail for no reason at all other than to say hi or I miss you or here's a hug. Now, I don't even get birthday cards in the mail. I know, I know, that is mean...I should be better about that. Really I mean well, its just usually a week, or two or a month before I even realize that I missed your birthday. (please forgive me)
So this is a great way to remind myself to take the time to express my gratitude to those in my life. Everyone is here for a reason and serves a different role. Some listen to me whine, some assure me I'm not a bad mommy, some tell me I'm crazy for volunteering for yet another thing, some invite me out for a fun night. But many are here to pick me up on a bad day and help me through a rough time(and I'll be calling on some of them again very soon!). I may have been too distracted to say thank you or perhaps I feel they didn't realize how much their help really meant to me. So, I will take the time to jot a note to these people and thank them for being in my life.
Thank You...One Lovely Blog Award
I'd like to thank "Deal"lightfully Frugal at
http://dealightfullyfrugal.blogspot.com/2009/10/lots-of-bloggy-love-more-awards.html for nominating me for this award!
The rules are:
*Accept the award
*Post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.
*Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered.
Its hard to pick the recipients. I enjoy all of the blogs I follow and all for different reasons.
Life As I know It
Mommy Lite
Travel. Write. Drink Plenty...
Jenna in the Ditch
Guessing all the Way
Getting All my Ducks in a Row
Living Just Like Grandma
Life as a CEO
Theta Mom
Savvy Moxie
The Daily Dose
The Love Shack
Mama's Losin It
Frugal Mom Knows Best
Memories and Mischief
http://dealightfullyfrugal.blogspot.com/2009/10/lots-of-bloggy-love-more-awards.html for nominating me for this award!
The rules are:
*Accept the award
*Post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.
*Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered.
Its hard to pick the recipients. I enjoy all of the blogs I follow and all for different reasons.
Life As I know It
Mommy Lite
Travel. Write. Drink Plenty...
Jenna in the Ditch
Guessing all the Way
Getting All my Ducks in a Row
Living Just Like Grandma
Life as a CEO
Theta Mom
Savvy Moxie
The Daily Dose
The Love Shack
Mama's Losin It
Frugal Mom Knows Best
Memories and Mischief
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Gratitude Challenge Day 7
Today's challenge is to take a picture of something you are grateful for.
This picture was taken yesterday on my Weekly Walk with my hubby. I'm grateful for our weekly walks because it gives us a little time to be together without the kids or other distractions. It gives us a sense of solitude because we don't come across many (if any) people along our walks and when we do a quick nod and polite hello is all we need to give. I'm grateful to live in an area where we have plenty of town, county and state parks to choose from to enjoy the outdoors and our alone time.
I have always found water calming...it is both peaceful and powerful at the same time. What you can't see in this picture is the quick current carrying along the fall leaves.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Weekly Walk
Last week we missed our weekly walk because we had a Nor' Easter going on. I was happy to see the sun peaking out this morning and asked my husband if we were going for our weekly walk. He was happy to go and I told him to surprise me with our destination. He picked a local park that does not lack for trails. The dog was giddie with excitement when he realized he was going to get in the car and go someplace. 
Sebastian enjoying his adventure.
Either somebody was bored when marking trails or trying to play mind tricks on the passersby
I love to hear the crunch of the leaves beneath my feet in the fall.
Unfortunately there has been a lot of rain lately and so the crunch wasn't as distinct.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Gratitude Challenge Day 5
Today's challenge: Write a list of all the blessings you currently have. Okay, sounds simple enough. Something we should all do on a regular basis really. Seriously, think about it....when was the last time you actually stopped to think about the blessings in your life? I know its been a while since I've really stopped to take stock. Coming up with the list should be the easy part and I hope it goes on forever once I begin to write it. The HARD part is remembering all of these wonderful blessings each and every day, especially when we are facing a challenge in our lives.
My blessings (may I always remember them!):
I am blessed to have 3 beautiful, healthy, and intelligent children.
I am blessed to have a husband who loves me and is a wonderful father to our children.
I am blessed to have a roof over my head, food on my table, and clothes on my back.
I am blessed to be in the position to stay home and raise my children.
I am blessed to have parents who will babysit my children, even for an occasional overnight!
I am blessed that I have a large extended family.
I am blessed that my children are growing up with grandparents that spoil them.
I am blessed to live in a country in which I have choices in life.
I am blessed to have enough money to pay for my bills.
I am blessed to have a car in my driveway to get me to the places I need and want to go.
I am blessed to be able to provide extra curricular activies for my children.
I am blessed we can afford to take family vacations.
I am blessed that I can lay around on the couch and be lazy for the day and no one will expect me to account for my day.
I am blessed that I have an education and a world of opportunites to explore.
I am blessed to have a furball of a dog who dishes out unconditional love.
I am blessed to have friends who let me vent and give me a helping hand when I truely need it.
I am blessed to have doctors to care for me and insurance to help me pay for that care.
I am blessed to have a yard for my children to play in and parks nearby for a change of scenery.
I'm sure I can go on and on if I try but will end my list here. I need to remember each and every day is a blessing and try to embrace it as such...even when life is getting in the way of life!
My blessings (may I always remember them!):
I am blessed to have 3 beautiful, healthy, and intelligent children.
I am blessed to have a husband who loves me and is a wonderful father to our children.
I am blessed to have a roof over my head, food on my table, and clothes on my back.
I am blessed to be in the position to stay home and raise my children.
I am blessed to have parents who will babysit my children, even for an occasional overnight!
I am blessed that I have a large extended family.
I am blessed that my children are growing up with grandparents that spoil them.
I am blessed to live in a country in which I have choices in life.
I am blessed to have enough money to pay for my bills.
I am blessed to have a car in my driveway to get me to the places I need and want to go.
I am blessed to be able to provide extra curricular activies for my children.
I am blessed we can afford to take family vacations.
I am blessed that I can lay around on the couch and be lazy for the day and no one will expect me to account for my day.
I am blessed that I have an education and a world of opportunites to explore.
I am blessed to have a furball of a dog who dishes out unconditional love.
I am blessed to have friends who let me vent and give me a helping hand when I truely need it.
I am blessed to have doctors to care for me and insurance to help me pay for that care.
I am blessed to have a yard for my children to play in and parks nearby for a change of scenery.
I'm sure I can go on and on if I try but will end my list here. I need to remember each and every day is a blessing and try to embrace it as such...even when life is getting in the way of life!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Gratitude Challenge Day 4
Today's challenge: Give thanks for something negative in your life. Hmm, okay. Like this is the easiest thing to come up with. I've been mulling this over and I'm not coming up with much. I'm staring at the screen with my fingers on the keyboard...still not coming to me. I guess I need to think of something negative that has somehow turned into a positive. I have to be honest....I have a REALLY hard time seeing the positive come from the negative. Once I get on a negative streak its hard for me to break from it.
After pondering this a bit longer I've finally come up with what I need to give thanks for. However, it is not something I'm ready to share. I'm sure you understand. I guess there really is always a slim sliver of positive to find even in every gray moment. Its choosing to be grateful, even for the tiniest things and overcoming the negative. That is the real lesson in this challenge.
After pondering this a bit longer I've finally come up with what I need to give thanks for. However, it is not something I'm ready to share. I'm sure you understand. I guess there really is always a slim sliver of positive to find even in every gray moment. Its choosing to be grateful, even for the tiniest things and overcoming the negative. That is the real lesson in this challenge.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Gratitute Challenge Day 3
Today's challenge is to write about something you feel grateful for today. I have to say I thought that it would be a bit of a challenge for me to pick something today. I received some bad news this afternoon and I've been upset over it. I'd really just rather wallow and cry than to focus on what I'm grateful for. But that completely defeats the challenge. The challenge is to embrace the brighter side of life.
I know I will soon be facing yet another challenge in my life and rather than wallow I'm going to be grateful for the fact that I have some great family and friends that will help me through. I'm grateful for my children who always try to cheer me up when I'm down, like this afternoon when they saw I was upset. I'm grateful they always have hugs and kisses ready and pictures they have drawn for me to make me smile. I'm grateful for the little furball of a dog that might not understand what is happening but will curl up next to me and give me his unconditional love. I'm grateful that I have a husband that will pick up the slack and make it all work.
It really is about finding the silver lining in the cloud and if you look hard enough it is there. There is always something to be grateful for, you just need to be willing to see it.
I know I will soon be facing yet another challenge in my life and rather than wallow I'm going to be grateful for the fact that I have some great family and friends that will help me through. I'm grateful for my children who always try to cheer me up when I'm down, like this afternoon when they saw I was upset. I'm grateful they always have hugs and kisses ready and pictures they have drawn for me to make me smile. I'm grateful for the little furball of a dog that might not understand what is happening but will curl up next to me and give me his unconditional love. I'm grateful that I have a husband that will pick up the slack and make it all work.
It really is about finding the silver lining in the cloud and if you look hard enough it is there. There is always something to be grateful for, you just need to be willing to see it.
Terrific Tuesday
Time for Terrific Tuesday again! I weighed in and am down 0.8 pounds. While not a significant loss (and my lowest so far) its still a loss and I'm down 13.4 pounds total. To me, that still counts as pretty terrific!
The more I think about it its pretty amazing. I struggled staying on track this week. We always let the kids choose a place they'd like to go out to dinner for their birthday. My son chose Olive Garden the other day. Now, there is not a thing on that menu that is WW friendly. And rather than worry about it or try to pick the least fattening thing on the menu, I went with it. I ate the salad, and a breadstick, I ordered the dinner I wanted and I EVEN HAD DESSERT!!!! So, coming away without a gain this week after that is pretty terrific!
The more I think about it its pretty amazing. I struggled staying on track this week. We always let the kids choose a place they'd like to go out to dinner for their birthday. My son chose Olive Garden the other day. Now, there is not a thing on that menu that is WW friendly. And rather than worry about it or try to pick the least fattening thing on the menu, I went with it. I ate the salad, and a breadstick, I ordered the dinner I wanted and I EVEN HAD DESSERT!!!! So, coming away without a gain this week after that is pretty terrific!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Gratitute Challenge
Yesterday my friend ChrissyMacCeo issued the Gratitude Challenge. I accepted the challenge and each day will be finding something to be grateful for. Today's challenge is to use the alphabet to list the things you are thankful for. Hmmm....sounds easy AND challenging all at the same time! Let's see how I do...
A Another tomorrow
A Another tomorrowB Books and Beach (books on the beach is a bonus!)
C Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate
D Daughter
E Enough money to pay the bills
F Flowers
G Girlfriends and Giggles
H Hubby
I Internet (it helps me keep connected!) and Ice Cream
J Jobs we love
K Kisses from my kids
L Laughter
M Mommy Time
N Naps
O Ocean Breezes
P Playtime
Q Quiet Time
R Relaxation
S Sons and Sebastian
T Time Out (for mom of course!)
U Un-ending love from my kiddies
V Vacation
W Waterfalls
X X-tra cheese on my pizzas
Y Youth
Z ZZZZZ's (not that I get enough of them!)
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Anniversary Wishes
Today my parents celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary! Amazing!
I'm so thankful that they are still together and that they are still young and vibrant and enjoy spending so much quality time with my children. My kids adore them and their lives are more complete because of the experiences they have had with my parents.
Give a squeeze to your spouse or significant other....I wish you all such longevity in your relationships!
I'm so thankful that they are still together and that they are still young and vibrant and enjoy spending so much quality time with my children. My kids adore them and their lives are more complete because of the experiences they have had with my parents.
Give a squeeze to your spouse or significant other....I wish you all such longevity in your relationships!
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Birthday Wishes
Another year has slipped by. {sigh} How has this happened? I just don't understand. Didn't I just bring him home from the hospital? Wasn't I just changing diapers and nursing in the middle of the night? My baby boy has turned into my Big Boy. Today is his 9th birthday!
I was so excited when I found out I was pregnant! This was our first baby. This would be the first grandchild for my parents and the 9th for my inlaws. We decided not to find out the sex of the baby, we wanted the surprise. However, only a few weeks into my pregnancy a feeling came over me that told me he was a boy. I was CERTAIN I was having a boy. I only had one dream of the sex and it showed me a boy. I was thrilled at the prospect of a boy for my first! Any other children I would have would always have a big brother to help protect them.
His due date was October 5th. I did all the things a first time pregnant person is supposed to do, I read all the books, subscribed to magazines, attended birthing classes, and toured the hospital. As the time grew closer I packed my bag so it was ready to go.
Our friends were getting married on October 6th. I really wanted to attend however I really hoped I wouldn't be able to because I was hoping to have a newborn. I responded to a the wedding with a "pregnancy clause". We would be there with the understanding they couldn't be mad at me if I didn't make it because I was in labor or had just had the baby. They understood and were more than happy to accomodate this clause. I made it to the wedding.
A few days later I went to the doctor for my appointment and asked him when this baby was coming. He assured me I was closed up tight and nowhere near dilating but that things could change. A few days later I was still pregnant and went in for yet another appointment. When I told him I was done being pregnant and he needed to do something about getting this baby out and he told me no because my body just wasn't ready I burst into tears. I left the office hysterically sobbing. On my way out the staff thought something was seriously wrong and all I could do was sob to them "I'm still pregnant and he won't get this baby out of me!"
Finally a few days later on October 16 the doctore agreed it was time to induce labor. He sent me over to the hospital and I was both thrilled and nervous. I was about to become a mom!!!! Ten hours later on October 12 at 12:57am I welcomed a healthy baby boy of 8 pounds 8 ounces and 21" long. My sweet baby boy made it into the world.
Flash forward 9 years later. He is almost eye to eye with me, another few inches will do it. His foot is as big as mine. And I can't believe I have a kid who is 9. There have been challenging times as a mother but every second has been worth it. There is no better "job" in the world and none that can pay in such high rewards such as the hugs and kisses, the joy and pride, and the homemade gifts.
I'm still trying to convince my husband that I deserve a present on my kid's birthdays. After all I'm the one who did all the hard work to bring him into this world. But today will be about him and we will celebrate and enjoy every second of this day, the first day of being 9.
I was so excited when I found out I was pregnant! This was our first baby. This would be the first grandchild for my parents and the 9th for my inlaws. We decided not to find out the sex of the baby, we wanted the surprise. However, only a few weeks into my pregnancy a feeling came over me that told me he was a boy. I was CERTAIN I was having a boy. I only had one dream of the sex and it showed me a boy. I was thrilled at the prospect of a boy for my first! Any other children I would have would always have a big brother to help protect them.
His due date was October 5th. I did all the things a first time pregnant person is supposed to do, I read all the books, subscribed to magazines, attended birthing classes, and toured the hospital. As the time grew closer I packed my bag so it was ready to go.
Our friends were getting married on October 6th. I really wanted to attend however I really hoped I wouldn't be able to because I was hoping to have a newborn. I responded to a the wedding with a "pregnancy clause". We would be there with the understanding they couldn't be mad at me if I didn't make it because I was in labor or had just had the baby. They understood and were more than happy to accomodate this clause. I made it to the wedding.
A few days later I went to the doctor for my appointment and asked him when this baby was coming. He assured me I was closed up tight and nowhere near dilating but that things could change. A few days later I was still pregnant and went in for yet another appointment. When I told him I was done being pregnant and he needed to do something about getting this baby out and he told me no because my body just wasn't ready I burst into tears. I left the office hysterically sobbing. On my way out the staff thought something was seriously wrong and all I could do was sob to them "I'm still pregnant and he won't get this baby out of me!"
Finally a few days later on October 16 the doctore agreed it was time to induce labor. He sent me over to the hospital and I was both thrilled and nervous. I was about to become a mom!!!! Ten hours later on October 12 at 12:57am I welcomed a healthy baby boy of 8 pounds 8 ounces and 21" long. My sweet baby boy made it into the world.
Flash forward 9 years later. He is almost eye to eye with me, another few inches will do it. His foot is as big as mine. And I can't believe I have a kid who is 9. There have been challenging times as a mother but every second has been worth it. There is no better "job" in the world and none that can pay in such high rewards such as the hugs and kisses, the joy and pride, and the homemade gifts.
I'm still trying to convince my husband that I deserve a present on my kid's birthdays. After all I'm the one who did all the hard work to bring him into this world. But today will be about him and we will celebrate and enjoy every second of this day, the first day of being 9.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Weekly Walk
Well our weekly walk was rained out. But that just allowed me time to tackle some of the cleaning that needed to be done before the birthday party tomorrow. As I was scrubbing the kitchen counters (and getting extremely aggravated at how nobody seems to know how to clean up after themselves) I started to laugh at myself that I was cleaning the house for a bunch of 8 and 9 year old boys. I'm POSITIVE that I will have to clean again tomorrow night. However, if I posted before pics, I'm also positive somebody on here would have felt compelled to call the board of health. In case I haven't yet made this confession....I'm not much of a housekeeper.
On to the family room...more aggravation. I'm truly tired of picking up the same things day after day after day. I'm also tired of talking to the wall when I repeat the same requests and ultimatums day in and day out when it comes to putting things away and cleaning up after themselves. I'm sure I'm not the only one here that talks to herself and the wall.
So my day started out in a little bit of a foul mood. But after I finished my cleaning I curled up on the couch and finished my book. Then I started a new one. I even got a few chapters into it before I had to go pick up the boys from school! A little more sweetness was that soccer practice was cancelled (I was certain we'd still have it since its just misting right now and it was cancelled last night). And just a few minutes ago my oldest asked me when the last time the dog was walked and took him out without being asked! (miracles CAN happen!) My, a day can certainly shape up after all!
On to the family room...more aggravation. I'm truly tired of picking up the same things day after day after day. I'm also tired of talking to the wall when I repeat the same requests and ultimatums day in and day out when it comes to putting things away and cleaning up after themselves. I'm sure I'm not the only one here that talks to herself and the wall.
So my day started out in a little bit of a foul mood. But after I finished my cleaning I curled up on the couch and finished my book. Then I started a new one. I even got a few chapters into it before I had to go pick up the boys from school! A little more sweetness was that soccer practice was cancelled (I was certain we'd still have it since its just misting right now and it was cancelled last night). And just a few minutes ago my oldest asked me when the last time the dog was walked and took him out without being asked! (miracles CAN happen!) My, a day can certainly shape up after all!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Today is a very dreary day outside. Its rainy and gross. That means the dog won't want to go out for his walks, the kids are going to get antsy and I'll just want to curl up on the couch with a hot beverage and my book all day. Tomorrow is supposed to be even worse weather...apparently we are expecting a Nor' Easter. The only really good thing I see out of that is I won't have to sit at soccer practice tonight or tomorrow and the baseball game should be cancelled for tomorrow night. (Normally I don't mind sitting at my kids sports. I actually enjoy it most of the time. But my one son who plays baseball has games scheduled Friday, Saturday AND Sunday.)
Today didn't get off to such a bad start though. My hubby has been off this week with some vacation time. Today I actually slept in until 9am!!!! I think I probably could have even slept a little later if he hadn't woken me to tell me he was leaving to take the kids to school and go running. I'm a night owl by nature and despise the mornings so I try and take advantage of not setting my alarm when he is home. Today really payed off!
So now for the next part of my day. I'll be heading to the grocery store and then to my parent's house to make some dinner for them. My mom had surgery this past Friday and is non-weight bearing for 8 weeks!!! I can't even imagine not being able to get around for that long. She has crutches but it is extremely difficult to move around well and it gets tiring very quickly. So she has been spending a lot of time lying in bed reading and watching TV. My dad is trying to take care of the household responsibilities but he really isn't very domestic. So, I'm trying to help out a little and call her every day and told her I'd cook once in a while. I'm trying to pick meals that they will get left overs from to help them out even more. (my dad is VERY appreciative of this!)
Those of you who know me are probably laughing and thinking "what in the world is she making them...she doesn't cook!" Which is true. I'm really not much of a cook. Which is ironic because my mom is a pretty good cook, I just never took much interest in it. I think it has something to do with what a picky eater I've always been. Today's meal is going to be super simple....a pot roast in the crock pot with some potatoes and veggies.
Since I'm not a great cook, I'm quickly running out of ideas!!! Do any of you have any simple recipes for me? Or can you suggest a great blog that has some quick and easy recipes? If so, PLEASE SHARE!!! I'd really like to be able to cook at least once a week for them for the next few weeks.
Today didn't get off to such a bad start though. My hubby has been off this week with some vacation time. Today I actually slept in until 9am!!!! I think I probably could have even slept a little later if he hadn't woken me to tell me he was leaving to take the kids to school and go running. I'm a night owl by nature and despise the mornings so I try and take advantage of not setting my alarm when he is home. Today really payed off!
So now for the next part of my day. I'll be heading to the grocery store and then to my parent's house to make some dinner for them. My mom had surgery this past Friday and is non-weight bearing for 8 weeks!!! I can't even imagine not being able to get around for that long. She has crutches but it is extremely difficult to move around well and it gets tiring very quickly. So she has been spending a lot of time lying in bed reading and watching TV. My dad is trying to take care of the household responsibilities but he really isn't very domestic. So, I'm trying to help out a little and call her every day and told her I'd cook once in a while. I'm trying to pick meals that they will get left overs from to help them out even more. (my dad is VERY appreciative of this!)
Those of you who know me are probably laughing and thinking "what in the world is she making them...she doesn't cook!" Which is true. I'm really not much of a cook. Which is ironic because my mom is a pretty good cook, I just never took much interest in it. I think it has something to do with what a picky eater I've always been. Today's meal is going to be super simple....a pot roast in the crock pot with some potatoes and veggies.
Since I'm not a great cook, I'm quickly running out of ideas!!! Do any of you have any simple recipes for me? Or can you suggest a great blog that has some quick and easy recipes? If so, PLEASE SHARE!!! I'd really like to be able to cook at least once a week for them for the next few weeks.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Thanks!
Thank you so much to Felicia over at http://livingjustlikegrandmahousewife.blogspot.com for nominating me for my first blog award! I'd also like to say thank you to all of my new followers. I hope to keep posting things you enjoy!The Best Blog Award rules are:1. To accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his/her blog link.2. Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you have recently discovered and think are great! Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.
My nominations:
Life as a CEO
All the Weigh
After the Baby Wakes
Jenna in the Ditch
Savvy Moxie
Memories and Mischief
Guessing All the Way
All the Weigh
Mama's Losing It
Frugal Mom Knows Best
Dealightfully Frugal
The Love Shack
All My Ducks in a Row
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Terrific Tuesday
It's time for Terrific Tuesday again! Now, let me tell you, I was afraid today wasn't going to be so terrific at the scale. I went out Friday night and let myself enjoy the munchies and drinks and I had a hard time staying on track over the weekend. I really thought I'd have to come up with another reason to call today Terrific Tuesday. BUT, I picked my WW buddy up, got to our meeting center and stepped on that scale anyway. I always figure its best to know what you are facing. Well...I was pleasantly SURPRISED to find myself down another 1.6 pounds! That is 12.6 total...I'm well on my way (weigh...lol) to making my goal. WOOHOO and yippie ai aye!
At today's meeting our leader was talking about taking care of ourselves. She was trying to get us to figure out how much time it really took to take care of ourselves with our dieting and exercise. She made us realize that once it becomes routine it really doesn't take much time out of our week at all. She made us also look at how much time we spend doing for others...whether its our kids, husband, or any other way we give of our time. Her point was that even if we take the time to do for ourselves we still have time to give to others. We need to put ourselves, especially our health first! Leave the guilt behind. Its easier to give to others if you have taken care of your own needs first.
That made me think of my friend Chrissy Mac over at www.lifeasaceo.blogspot.com whose topic last night was taking some me time. She realized that she sometimes has trouble doing that for herself and finds herself craving a few minutes of her own each day so she was asking her followers to post what they do.
Now, I do give a lot to others. Not only here in my own household but also outside of it. I raise my family and I volunteer a lot. However, I always try to find a little me time. I think it is ESSENTIAL to recharge my batteries, it makes me a better mom, wife and person. I try to find at least 15 minutes in my day to read a book, play a game on the computer, scrapbook, something that is just a little time to zone out from all of the responsibilities in my life. Every few months I try to take a time out for a few hours and do something completely indulgent like go and get a massage or a facial. I always return from that feeling refreshed and re-energized. A night out with friends usually does the same thing for me.
So...how do you take a time out for some me time? And what makes today a Terrific Tuesday for you?
At today's meeting our leader was talking about taking care of ourselves. She was trying to get us to figure out how much time it really took to take care of ourselves with our dieting and exercise. She made us realize that once it becomes routine it really doesn't take much time out of our week at all. She made us also look at how much time we spend doing for others...whether its our kids, husband, or any other way we give of our time. Her point was that even if we take the time to do for ourselves we still have time to give to others. We need to put ourselves, especially our health first! Leave the guilt behind. Its easier to give to others if you have taken care of your own needs first.
That made me think of my friend Chrissy Mac over at www.lifeasaceo.blogspot.com whose topic last night was taking some me time. She realized that she sometimes has trouble doing that for herself and finds herself craving a few minutes of her own each day so she was asking her followers to post what they do.
Now, I do give a lot to others. Not only here in my own household but also outside of it. I raise my family and I volunteer a lot. However, I always try to find a little me time. I think it is ESSENTIAL to recharge my batteries, it makes me a better mom, wife and person. I try to find at least 15 minutes in my day to read a book, play a game on the computer, scrapbook, something that is just a little time to zone out from all of the responsibilities in my life. Every few months I try to take a time out for a few hours and do something completely indulgent like go and get a massage or a facial. I always return from that feeling refreshed and re-energized. A night out with friends usually does the same thing for me.
So...how do you take a time out for some me time? And what makes today a Terrific Tuesday for you?
Monday, October 12, 2009
Fall Fun
I love fall. I love the crisp air and the colorful leaves that come with the change of the season. I love the fun it offers such as hayrides, apple picking, pumpkin carving and Halloween. October has long been my favorite month of the year, even long before I brought my first born into the world during this beautiful month.
Today the kids had off from school and the hubby has a few days off of work so I quickly suggested a trip to our favorite orchard for some apple and pumpkin picking. I was beginning to fear we'd never partake in one of my favorite fall activities due to work and sports schedules!
My husband hates pumpkin picking with me. He knows I go for the biggest pumpkin in the patch. He frequently asks my parents why they never let me have a bigger pumpkin as a kid because he is now stuck paying for it! Since my kids have caught on to my love of huge pumpkins hubby made a rule that they have to be able to lift and carry their own pumpkin. Well in the past few years that has helped keep the price tag down when we plunk our finds onto the scale. However, he hasn't taken into account that the kids are getting bigger and thus stronger. My big boy picked out a huge pumpkin that weighed in at 21 pounds!
After our orange gourds were in our wagon we moved into the apple trees. I tend to go a little crazy picking more apples than we can ever eat or cook with. I tried very hard to behave this year and let the kids do most of the picking while I snapped pictures. I'm sure we still have more than we will ever be able to consume! While picking our apples we couldn't help but have a taste
test to ensure we'd enjoy the fruits of our labor. My daughter exclaimed "mmmm...this is REALLY JUICY and delicious!"When we were done in the orchard we went out to lunch and while waiting for our food to be served we brainstormed what we could make with our apples. Pie, pancakes, crisp, cake, carmel apples, and many more made it to our list. As soon as we got home we whipped together a cake and enjoyed it tonight after dinner. MMMMMMMMMMMM.....it was yummy! (now I'm scouring the internet for a lower calorie version of apple pie!)
Saturday, October 10, 2009
A Visit to the Psychic
I belong to a wonderful mom's group that plans fun activities for our children. Once a month we try to plan a mom's night out. Depending on what is going on I try to get out to them once in a while. Last night was one of those nights. We planned to meet at one of our member's homes, we all brought some good eats and drinks and we had a psychic there to give a reading to everyone.
As I'm sitting at the table munching away (and with each bite aware of the zillion points I was consuming!) and chatting, other mom's were coming back to the conversation and sharing what the psychic had told them. Many were convinced she was right on. It seems we have a very fertile group because almost all of them were told to expect another child in their lives.
Well it was finally my turn. I admit, I'm intrigued a litttle by it all but I'm really a skeptic. I try not to reveal too much because I really believe they are just trying to read your cues and what you say to turn it into your reading. So, sure enough...I was told I was going to have another baby. Hmmm, interesting...newsflash people...I CAN'T have another baby! And AFTER I made a negative comment about having another baby she then said "I knew you wouldn't be happy to hear that news." Big strike.
Her other predictions for me:
1. My husband and I will live long happy lives
2. There are 2 people in my life who are experiencing illness, 1 man who is older and a family member, 1 young female who is a friend.
3. We are experiencing financial difficulties but that will soon change.
4. In April or May my husbands job was to change. When I said "uh oh" she said it was a good thing and he'd be moving up but he is going to have to travel.
5. My husband is going to be making a large investment soon.
6. She sees me returning to school for a certification. Apparently it will take 6 weeks, it will occur in January and the hospital will pay for it.
7. She sees me working at the hospital 3 days a week. When I appeared unhappy about that she said, no its part time and you will be making a lot of money so you will do it.
8. When I told her I'm currently not working she said but I see you work a lot. She appeared very confused by that and said she sees that I work a lot. (Perhaps that has something to do with the 3 kids I'm raising and the overextension of my volunteerism when it comes to those kids?)
9. She sees 3 trips occurring next year. The first is over a big ocean, but not to the tropics, further than that. The second is with the kids and it will be successful. The third a spontaneous trip by my husband.
She concluded by giving me her card and telling me she could give me a more complete reading if I came to see her.
My fellow mom's (who kept insisting on how right she was) insisted my reading wasn't more accurate because I'm such a cynic. While I admit to being a cynic at times, that just says to me that if the psychic was really able to read me she would have been able to see beyond that and make me a believer. I can tell you what is wrong with each and every prediction I just listed above.
I may not have left there with much confidence in what the psychic had to say but at least I enjoyed the company and had a fun night with the ladies!
As I'm sitting at the table munching away (and with each bite aware of the zillion points I was consuming!) and chatting, other mom's were coming back to the conversation and sharing what the psychic had told them. Many were convinced she was right on. It seems we have a very fertile group because almost all of them were told to expect another child in their lives.
Well it was finally my turn. I admit, I'm intrigued a litttle by it all but I'm really a skeptic. I try not to reveal too much because I really believe they are just trying to read your cues and what you say to turn it into your reading. So, sure enough...I was told I was going to have another baby. Hmmm, interesting...newsflash people...I CAN'T have another baby! And AFTER I made a negative comment about having another baby she then said "I knew you wouldn't be happy to hear that news." Big strike.
Her other predictions for me:
1. My husband and I will live long happy lives
2. There are 2 people in my life who are experiencing illness, 1 man who is older and a family member, 1 young female who is a friend.
3. We are experiencing financial difficulties but that will soon change.
4. In April or May my husbands job was to change. When I said "uh oh" she said it was a good thing and he'd be moving up but he is going to have to travel.
5. My husband is going to be making a large investment soon.
6. She sees me returning to school for a certification. Apparently it will take 6 weeks, it will occur in January and the hospital will pay for it.
7. She sees me working at the hospital 3 days a week. When I appeared unhappy about that she said, no its part time and you will be making a lot of money so you will do it.
8. When I told her I'm currently not working she said but I see you work a lot. She appeared very confused by that and said she sees that I work a lot. (Perhaps that has something to do with the 3 kids I'm raising and the overextension of my volunteerism when it comes to those kids?)
9. She sees 3 trips occurring next year. The first is over a big ocean, but not to the tropics, further than that. The second is with the kids and it will be successful. The third a spontaneous trip by my husband.
She concluded by giving me her card and telling me she could give me a more complete reading if I came to see her.
My fellow mom's (who kept insisting on how right she was) insisted my reading wasn't more accurate because I'm such a cynic. While I admit to being a cynic at times, that just says to me that if the psychic was really able to read me she would have been able to see beyond that and make me a believer. I can tell you what is wrong with each and every prediction I just listed above.
I may not have left there with much confidence in what the psychic had to say but at least I enjoyed the company and had a fun night with the ladies!
Friday, October 9, 2009
Weekly Walk
My husband and I don't get a lot of "face time" together. I'm sure many of you who are parents can relate to this. He comes in from work just as the kids are coming home from school. From there the mayhem begins....juggling homework, darting out the door for our multiple activites, trying to get dinner on the table...coming back from the multiple activities, shower/bath time and then wrestling the kids into bed. By the time that is over we are beat ourselves.
Hubby works every other weekend and his set day off during the week is Friday. This year with all 3 kids in school (my youngest is in half day kindergarten this year) he began looking forward to us having a few hours to ourselves on Friday mornings. He figured we could go out to breakfast, complete a chore together and just have a chance to chat without the disruption of 3 kids.
A few weeks ago he made the suggestion that we begin taking weekly walks together. It is something we can take the dog with us and a chance to talk while getting a little exercise in. He suggested we look for different trails to try out each week. I figured...why not...it could be fun (and I might be able to earn an extra point or 2 to eat while following WW!).
Last week our destination was to a local state park that had beautiful fall foliage, a cranberry bog that was almost ready to harvest and an old settlement rich with history. Today our walk was through a township recreation center that used to be working cranberry bogs. While dodging puddles and laughing with my hubby as we were trying to creatively cross a rather large one, it dawned on me that this would make a great weekly post. Of course, it would be much more interesting if I had pictures to share. So next week, I vow I will try to remember to bring my camera along and snap a few pictures.
Hubby works every other weekend and his set day off during the week is Friday. This year with all 3 kids in school (my youngest is in half day kindergarten this year) he began looking forward to us having a few hours to ourselves on Friday mornings. He figured we could go out to breakfast, complete a chore together and just have a chance to chat without the disruption of 3 kids.
A few weeks ago he made the suggestion that we begin taking weekly walks together. It is something we can take the dog with us and a chance to talk while getting a little exercise in. He suggested we look for different trails to try out each week. I figured...why not...it could be fun (and I might be able to earn an extra point or 2 to eat while following WW!).
Last week our destination was to a local state park that had beautiful fall foliage, a cranberry bog that was almost ready to harvest and an old settlement rich with history. Today our walk was through a township recreation center that used to be working cranberry bogs. While dodging puddles and laughing with my hubby as we were trying to creatively cross a rather large one, it dawned on me that this would make a great weekly post. Of course, it would be much more interesting if I had pictures to share. So next week, I vow I will try to remember to bring my camera along and snap a few pictures.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Meet Sebastian
I'd like to introduce you all to Sebastian. He is a bichon/poodle mix and we adopted him from a pet rescue in August. He is somewhere between 1 1/2 years and 2 years old.
When I adopted him they couldn't tell me much about him. But the one thing that drew me to him was his sweet dispostion. Well, I quickly learned a lot about him. The first thing I noticed was he was so eager to accept our love and to give it back. I think this is true for a lot of rescue pups. They are so thankful you adopted them and gave them a home!
After we settled in with the dog, I decided I was determined to have SOMEONE in this house listen and obey. I don't know about you folks, but I feel like I spend the majority of the time talking to the wall...the kids tune me out, and the hubby, well he must tune me out too. So I decided Sebastian is the perfect candidate for obedience! I did a little research and found a trainer.
Well, it turns out Sebastian is very much like my kids when it comes to school. The kids are perfect little angels all day for their teachers and I often ask what happens between the back door of the school and the front door of my house. It seems somewhere in that 1/2 mile walk the wings got shed and the halo got broken. Sebastian seems to be following in their footsteps!
In our obedience class he comes across as perfectly obedient. He sits or lies nicely next to me while our teacher is instructing the class. He is cooperative when it is time to practice what was just demonstrated for us. Then its time to go home and do our homework....
This past week the dog apparently didn't want to do his homework. Every time I tried to practice with him he'd be resistant. I'd push forward anyway (this is the whole point of obedience training!) and then afterwards he'd go hide from me and sulk. When I try to get him to go into the down position he looks at me blankly and then eventually throws himself down and gives me his belly to scratch. Grrr....my plan for someone to listen to me is not working!
Yesterday I called the trainer in the afternoon to give him the heads up that we had a frustrating week. Before class started he came over and talked to me and assigned an assistant to sit with me through class and lend a hand if I needed it. Well, guess who was perfectly cooperative and obedient for the teacher????
All that aside though, I am glad we brought a dog into the family. The kids have been showing responsiblity in caring for him and have given and received a lot of affection from Sebastian in return.
If any of you are thinking of bringing a pet into the home I highly encourage you to start by checking out your local pet shelters and rescues. If they don't have the pet you desire check websites like Pet Finder to help expand your search. Your new pet will be grateful you gave him a home and in return you will receive a lot of joy from your new friend.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
A good week for the Middle Child
I have 3 kids. I always swear that my one son came out of me a middle child even before I officially made him a middle child. He is shy in making friends and at home is the neediest in terms of needing affection and attention from my husband and I. He always feels like he is getting jipped out of something...even if I have painstakingly made sure that each piece of dessert is the EXACT same size, they each got the same time from me while reading a bed time story or whatever the case may be.
Of my 3, he did have a tougher start in life. He aspirated during child birth and develped aspiration pneumonia and was hooked up to all sorts of machines and IV's for his first 8 days of life. He didn't have me holding him, nursing him and nurturing him. I've often wondered if this has contributed to his personality.
But on to the good week part. His school chooses Super Citizens each month, one child from each class. In a class of 24 and only 10 months of school, obviously not every kid will be chosen. He came home dancing that he was the FIRST ONE chosen in his class. Today he will get to have lunch with the principal and choose a book as a gift.
His other success was on the baseball field last night. This is his first time playing on a baseball team and we are only a few weeks into the season. At the end of each game the coach chooses a player that he feels showed team spirit and played a good game and presents that child with a game ball. John came home dancing again that he was given the game ball.
I hope this week is a confidence booster for him. As a mom the one thing I want my children to learn is that they are each unique and special and have wonderful things to offer the world. I want them to develop a good sense of self and have a high self esteem...something too many struggle with. I hope they can go through life without too many bumps in the road along the way and know I'm here to cheer them on every step of the way. And most importantly, I'm proud of them each and every day just for being them...not only when they have successes to celebrate.
Of my 3, he did have a tougher start in life. He aspirated during child birth and develped aspiration pneumonia and was hooked up to all sorts of machines and IV's for his first 8 days of life. He didn't have me holding him, nursing him and nurturing him. I've often wondered if this has contributed to his personality.
But on to the good week part. His school chooses Super Citizens each month, one child from each class. In a class of 24 and only 10 months of school, obviously not every kid will be chosen. He came home dancing that he was the FIRST ONE chosen in his class. Today he will get to have lunch with the principal and choose a book as a gift.
His other success was on the baseball field last night. This is his first time playing on a baseball team and we are only a few weeks into the season. At the end of each game the coach chooses a player that he feels showed team spirit and played a good game and presents that child with a game ball. John came home dancing again that he was given the game ball.
I hope this week is a confidence booster for him. As a mom the one thing I want my children to learn is that they are each unique and special and have wonderful things to offer the world. I want them to develop a good sense of self and have a high self esteem...something too many struggle with. I hope they can go through life without too many bumps in the road along the way and know I'm here to cheer them on every step of the way. And most importantly, I'm proud of them each and every day just for being them...not only when they have successes to celebrate.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Terrific Tuesday
I didn't always think Tuesday's were going to be terrific. When the kids started back to school this year and all of their activities began again I started dubbing it Terrible Tuesday. Tuesday's are my busiest day of the week.
However, I've begun to view Tuesday's a bit differently these days. You see, this year I'm not working. I was feeling a bit torn over that and definately feeling guilty but, I finally decided to go with it. I decided this is the year I'll whip the house into shape, get myself in shape and life kicked into a higher gear. I began making my list of projects and goals and quickly realized I bit off more than I can chew. So I thought perhaps I should narrow it down and just start with one thing at a time.
One goal I've managed somewhat successfully so far is getting myself into shape. I decided to venture back to WW and finally do something about these extra pounds. I rallied up some friends and we set a little side bet to help keep the motivation strong. I now look forward to Tuesday's because that is the day I step on the scale and measure my success for the week. Terrific Tuesday has brought me another 2.4 lb. loss this week! I'm down 11 pounds in just 4 weeks. Woohoo!
Once I feel in control of this goal and positive step in my life perhaps I'll feel a little more motivated to take something else off of my long list and tackle that. For now, I'm enjoying the success of one goal and reminding myself that life is about pacing...baby steps will get you to the finish line. Perhaps you'll get there a little slower than if you sprint, but it will be more manageable (and hopefully more enjoyable) along the way.
I challenge you to pick a small goal/challenge and summon up some motivation to go for it.
However, I've begun to view Tuesday's a bit differently these days. You see, this year I'm not working. I was feeling a bit torn over that and definately feeling guilty but, I finally decided to go with it. I decided this is the year I'll whip the house into shape, get myself in shape and life kicked into a higher gear. I began making my list of projects and goals and quickly realized I bit off more than I can chew. So I thought perhaps I should narrow it down and just start with one thing at a time.
One goal I've managed somewhat successfully so far is getting myself into shape. I decided to venture back to WW and finally do something about these extra pounds. I rallied up some friends and we set a little side bet to help keep the motivation strong. I now look forward to Tuesday's because that is the day I step on the scale and measure my success for the week. Terrific Tuesday has brought me another 2.4 lb. loss this week! I'm down 11 pounds in just 4 weeks. Woohoo!
Once I feel in control of this goal and positive step in my life perhaps I'll feel a little more motivated to take something else off of my long list and tackle that. For now, I'm enjoying the success of one goal and reminding myself that life is about pacing...baby steps will get you to the finish line. Perhaps you'll get there a little slower than if you sprint, but it will be more manageable (and hopefully more enjoyable) along the way.
I challenge you to pick a small goal/challenge and summon up some motivation to go for it.
Monday, October 5, 2009
A thought on TV
My 3 munchkins got tucked in for the evening and I decided to curl up on the couch and relax in front of the TV. As the show I was watching started referring to masturbation and an orange penis I looked at the clock. It was only shortly after 8:30pm.
Now, my kids are little so they are usually in bed by 8 or shortly thereafter. However, many of my friends have kids that are still up and I know it won't be long before mine are awake past 8. It made me think about all the shows I enjoy watching and I realized there isn't one thing I'd find suitable for my children to watch.
When did 8pm stop being the family TV hour and shows about pregnancies as a result from a one night stand and orange penis' become acceptable viewing? Call me old fashioned if you will but I long for shows like the Cosby Show. That was a show I watched with my entire family and we'd joke how we thought they snuck in to view our mishaps and put them on TV. Or my dad would get an idea from Cliff and Claire and swear he was going to try it (like the time they put price tags on all of Theo's belongings and he was expected to buy them back).
I also love watching old reruns of Leave It to Beaver...a good wholesome FAMILY show. Media people...please....bring back some good viewing that I can enjoy with my entire family! People, am I alone in this??
Now, my kids are little so they are usually in bed by 8 or shortly thereafter. However, many of my friends have kids that are still up and I know it won't be long before mine are awake past 8. It made me think about all the shows I enjoy watching and I realized there isn't one thing I'd find suitable for my children to watch.
When did 8pm stop being the family TV hour and shows about pregnancies as a result from a one night stand and orange penis' become acceptable viewing? Call me old fashioned if you will but I long for shows like the Cosby Show. That was a show I watched with my entire family and we'd joke how we thought they snuck in to view our mishaps and put them on TV. Or my dad would get an idea from Cliff and Claire and swear he was going to try it (like the time they put price tags on all of Theo's belongings and he was expected to buy them back).
I also love watching old reruns of Leave It to Beaver...a good wholesome FAMILY show. Media people...please....bring back some good viewing that I can enjoy with my entire family! People, am I alone in this??
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