Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Holes in the Head

December is almost over.  Can you hear the sigh of relief in my voice? 

It started with Jayce's 11th birthday.















Followed by Jarrett's Oscar winning performance at the preschool Christmas program


















He nailed the opening poem alone.  He was made to perform!



Next came the joint birthday party we had for both Jayce and Josie.  Who's bright idea was it to have 2 kids in the month of December? 



After Jarrett's debut into acting, next up was the church's Christmas program with all 4 kids in it.  Well, there were some other random kids in it too but who was watching them?



Jayce was less than thrilled.  He's really hoping when he hits puberty, his beard won't be so dark.


Finally, Christmas arrived!!  To my kids, it took FOREVER to get here.  To us, it happened over night.



Just one picture.  For now. 

Last, but certainly not least we have Josie's official birthday tomorrow.  She will be 7.  Going on 16. 

Her daddy took her to the mall today.  He got her a special present.  Can you guess what it is?


Here's a hint:  She now has holes in her head!!

There's word on the street that she didn't even flinch when she got her ears pierced.  Funny how when she has a hang nail at night, the whole house hears about it.  But, punch holes in her ear lobes and she loves it. 
Typical girl! 

Happy Birthday to my sweet, beautiful baby girl! 






Thursday, December 24, 2009

Merry Christmas!

I had a revelation today:  the only time one gets to really enjoy Christmas, is AFTER Christmas!

I had my shopping done early. Even grocery shopping.  Had things wrapped. 
But, here it is the 24th and I'm still rushing to get everything done!  Wishing I could just sit and light a candle and relax. 

I am looking forward to tomorrow.  I hope the kids have a great time.

I had planned on taking a picture of the kids in front of the tree but..didn't happen. 


Just invision 4 beautiful children, dressed up in the bestest church clothes.  Sitting with their arms around each other and smiling perfectly into the camera.  Got that vision in your head?

Great.  Now go 2 houses down.  That's where we are.

Merry Christmas Bloggy Friends!!  I love each and every one of you and wish you only the bestest for the New Year! 

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Calling All Dishwashers

Yesterday, I went to make a phone call and could not find the phone! 
It's a cordless phone (does anyone use one of the old-fashioned corded phones anymore?) where the base is on the wall.  I went to the base and pushed "find handset" button and listened for the beeps. 
Which sounded like they were coming from the living room.

"No, wait!  The kitchen."

"No, that's not right.  It's the living room."

"But it's coming form the kitchen!" 

"I'm losing my mind!"

"Where is that darn thing?"

Finally, I stop in front of the dishwasher.

"It can't be!"

Oh, but it is.

There in the top rack of the dishwasher is our phone.

I stand there for a minute and think "Am I SO tired that I put the phone in the dishwasher?"  and really start to rethink my sanity.

Then I hear laughter. 

I turn around and there is my sweet, innocent, adorable, half crazy son, Jeven, laughing hysterically!

"You find it!!  You went 'round and 'round, Mama!  I put the phone there! Yep!" 

I don't know what I was more relieved about;  the fact that I didn't put the phone in there in an insane moment or that I found it before I ran the dishwasher!!  

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Is It Just Me...

...or is that the worst possible color for playdough? 




Thursday, December 17, 2009

Scrambled

In a word, that's us. 

These last two weeks have been scrambled.  With a side of hashbrowns.  And orange juice.  (Now I'm hungry)

We've had birthday parties, Christmas concerts, basketball practices, Christmas parties and it just keeps going and going. 

I am desperately trying to keep sane just a few more days.  Then, things slow down and I can (fingers crossed) enjoy some holiday time at home with the kids. 

We've barely done school this week but we're ahead of schedule so we have a litte breathing room.  I plan on being WAY ahead next year so we can take maybe the whole month of December off?  Without the panicy, guilty feeling I'm dealing with now.

I have some pictures to post of Jayce's birthday, Jarrett's concert (in which he nailed the opening "Welcome" poem.  In front of hundreds of people.  By himself.) and some other random pictures. 
I will try to put them up soon.

A friend at church called me the other night and said she wasn't going to come to that night's women's meeting because "things are just so crazy!  I have so much to do".  I told her I understood.  But, then I went through what my schedule included.  Her response "Oh.  I guess everyone's busy this time of year?"

Gee. You think?  Did you think Christmas only happened in your family?  What's the deal? 

I know it's hectic and crazy this time of year.  It's so easy to get caught up in all that "has to be done".  But, truthfully, nothing "HAS" to get done.  Enjoy your family/friends.  Give thanks.  Be joyful. 

Jeven recently announced that he wanted a "green straw" for Christmas.  Christmas is simple to a child.  They are easy to please.  When we put up our tree and it was all cock-eyed and the lights weren't working, the kids exclaimed "It's the prettiest tree ever!"

I am trying to take their cue and let Christmas be simple and find joy in the cock-eyed things. 
(Please don't let some pervert google cocke-eyed and find my blog.  Please.)

Thursday, December 10, 2009

My Sweeties

Sometimes, my kids surprise me.  In the good kind of surprise way.

We probably eat fast food a little less than the average family. As a treat.  After all, we are a family of six.  Even the dollar menu at McDonalds adds up really fast. 

Today I ended up doing errands during lunch time.  I figured I had 2 choices:  1)make the kids (and myself) starve until we got home or 2) stop and get something to eat.  And eat.  In. The. Restaurant. 

I hope I don't have to explain why eating inside a fast food joint, with only myself and my 4 children should bring on the ominous music.  The potential for sirens and people running out of the building is very great. 

I do the "evil eye stare" and the "YOU WILL BE GOOD OR ELSE" chat before we go in. 
I sit them down at a table ( that only took 2 minutes to pick out), go order the food, get the drinks, get the food.  While my kids sat at the table with Jayce. 

We sat and ate.  The kids were pretty good really.  Kinda obnoxious, I thought, but weren't overly annoying. 

As we sat there eating, an older couple walked across the room and said "You have such a sweet family!". 
I said "Thank you!"

Josie said "I like your necklace!"

Jarrett said "I like it too!  Merry Christmas!" 

Jayce said "Thanks."

Jeven said "ROAAAAARRRRRRR!!!"  while showing off his muscles and grinding his teeth. 

Yup.  Those are my sweeties.

Monday, December 7, 2009

A HO and a Hum

HO:  Our computer decided to become infected with a gazillion different viruses and is taking sick leave.

Hum: My parents, with wireless internet, live 3 blocks away.

HO:  It is very difficult to do online schooling with the kids without actually being able to get online.
 
Hum:  See previous Hum.

HO:  It is very difficult to get in the Christmas spirit when we can't even manage to pay our bills.  Where is the money going to come from?

Hum:  Christmas is about way more than cash.

HO:  The medical procedure I was scheduled to have this month was going to cost over $10,000.  Insurance pays 80%, which is awesome, but it still leaves us with a bigger bill than we can handle.

Hum:  It wasn't a life saving procedure.

HO:  The same day I found out we couldn't afford to have this thing done (although not life saving it would have made things MUCH better around here)I was very uspet.  My kids were very concerned because I was crying so hard.

Hum:  When I calmed down and went to the mail box, I received a very pretty necklace and earring set from a dear friend.  That also happens to be my cousin.  My kids were then concerned because I was crying again. They were afraid the men in the white coats were on their way to pick me up.  Then, they would have to make their own dinner.
**********************************************************************************

This is a very busy week for us.  With the computer out, we will have to do school at my parents this week.  That's fun.  Packing up all the books plus toys for the little kids.  Hopefully, we'll be able to hook up the spare we have and it will actually work. 

Jayce's 11th birthday is Wednesday! 
Thursday is Jarrett's preschool Christmas concert.  He has a speaking part! 
Friday I have a party to go to while my husband stays home with Jayce and his friends. 
Saturday we have another birthday party.
Sunday.  Sunday?  I think there's something there too. I should probably check that out. 

Eventually, we need to get a tree.  We like to wait until after Jayce's birthday but it seems things just start going haywire and before you know it, it's the 23rd and we still have no tree.  Maybe THATS what we're doing on Sunday!

I hope you're having a hummer of a day! 

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Stupid Comcast

Like to see that googled!

Currently, we have Dish Network for our t.v. programming.  Pay too much but still the cheapest we've ever found.  In fact, we called not that long ago and threatened to cancel and they lowered our bill even more.

We have Qwest for our phone and internet.  It's a "bundle".  Let me tell you, all the hype about "bundles" is overrated. 
We are under contract until Feb. with Qwest.  At that time, we will probably change phone/internet companies.

Today, my husband got off work early.  As happy as I was to see him, he makes it rather difficult to get any schooling done when he's home.  If it's his normal day off, I've planned accordingly.  But a surprise day off, I'm all flustered.

Being the astute husband he is, noticing my "not so thrilled" look on my face, he decided to take Jayce out to a friends house and work on manly things.  Something about a engine. 

With it being nap time, I saw a snooze on the couch for myself.  Since my student that I normally teach at this time of day would be gone-Jayce.

Kids are all snuggled in bed.  I'm sitting on the couch, eating my PBJ and thinking "when I get done with this gourmet lunch, I will lay down for a bit" .

Ding Dong.  Knock knock. 

It's a Comcast salesman.  A young kid.  (ha. probably like 25)

ANY time the doorbell rings in my house, whether you were in a coma or sitting in the bathroom, EVERYONE runs to see who it is.  So, of course, all the monsters children run to the door.  When they were suppose to be sleeping.  All of them with no pants on.  (they sleep half naked.  so what?)
Last thing I wanted was for this guy to see my half dressed kids. I tell them to go back to bed.

Now, this guy was honestly trying to make a living.  I respect that. 
But, right off the bat, he wasn't selling me.  He lost points one by one.

  • Ringing the doorbell.  A sure negative right there.
  • Asking me "Are your parents home".  I kid you not
  • Asking me "Do you mind if I come inside so I can use your table?"
  • Asking me "Can I have your phone number so I can call you and check back with you?"
  • Asking me "What time will your husband be home?"
And lastly:
  • Asking me for my neighbors "names so I can check with them and see if they're  interested in my awesome deal?" 
I hate people that come to my door and interrupt my life to sell me something. 


I guess I should be flattered he thought I was too young to be home alone! 
And, it wasn't a ploy to win me over, he was dead serious!!  Really, I don't think he was bright enough to try a ploy in the first place.

Monday, November 30, 2009

I Did It!

This is a big day for me.  I made it a whole month of posting every day.  AND it's my 200th post!!

Stop laughing. 

I know some of you either a) don't blog so don't understand the magnitude of such trivial things
or b) you blog every day already and passed the number 200 about 5 trillion posts ago.

I love blogging.  I like putting my thoughts on "paper".  I like looking back on the weird adorable things my kids have done. 

Awhile ago, I posted about all the grief blogging can cause.  But, I don't think I'm stopping.  I will probably back off a bit.  Maybe not. 

Someone said it's about finding a balance.  I thought I had a pretty good balance until I actually used a timer and saw the "real" time I was spending on blogging, reading blogs and other internet "social networking". 

It was disgusting!  It's really opened my eyes to why maybe, perhaps, things weren't getting done around here. 

But stopping all together isn't realistic for me. 

So, I'm off to find balance. 

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Sometimes the Stars Align Just Right

At times, it seems life just kicks you when you're down.
Other times, it seems things go just right.

We bought a 46" LCD/HDTV Feb. of 2008.  It wasn't a hasty purchase.  It was something we researched for months before spending over $1000 on it.  Plus, the extra extended warranty. 

In May of that same year (when the t.v. was 3 months old) we had to have it fixed.  It was covered under the manufacturers warranty. 

Since then, we've had the stupid thing fixed over 6 times.  All through the extended warranty.  It has gotten to the point that our children now know the t.v. repair man by his first name. 
"Hi Dave!!  Look what I can do!" 

Thank God we purchased the extra warranty.  But, it still was ridiculous to keep fixing the thing.  We have now exceeded the cost of the purchase price. 

Everyone would tell us "Just ask for a new t.v."  and we did.  But, every time we'd ask, they'd just send "Dave" out to fix it.  These repairs came to about $800.   Each. 

Part of the problem was when I'd call the warranty company, the representative did not speak English as a first language.  It was easier to just go along with what they were saying than try to argue.  And, we figured at some point they'd give up and replace it. 

Well, this last week, the t.v. went out.  Again. 
I had enough!  I was determined to get it replaced, not repaired. 
I called the warranty company, planning on asking for an English speaking supervisor immediately. 

The representative answered.  It was a woman.  With a Texas accent.  I decided, my luck,asking for a supervisor would get me some non-English speaking dude.

I very politely told her my problem.  When I was done "Ida" says:  "Darlin'!  I cannot believe they've done this to ya!  Ya hold on now while I go talk to my supervisor.  M'Kay?"

After about 3 minutes she comes back on and tells me that a replacement has been approved! 
What they do is look up the specs. for our current t.v. and offer us a similar set or a check. 
Someone will be calling us in 3-5 days.  Oh, and they'll send a prepaid shipping box for our dumb defective set. 

The whole phone call took about 20 min.  After months and months of dealing with this issue. 

Some people will say I should have gotten firmer with the warranty company in the first place.  Believe me, I tired.  But in the end, I got the desired results by being nice.  And, good old Ida. 


By the way, I wrote down Ida's direct number so I can call her next time.  She is my new best friend.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Don't Ask Too Many Questions

One of these days, I'm going to count how many questions I get asked.  I would probably lose count by noon.

Some questions you would expect:  "Can I have breakfast?"  "Can I have chips for breakfast?"  "Can you tell Josie to stop looking at me?"  "What does gynecological exam mean?"
You know, the mundane questions you normally get from your children.

Then, there's the questions that you really wish they wouldn't ask:  "Are you going potty?"  "Why does your tummy look like that?"  "Why is that man so short?"  "Why does that woman look like a man?"

Then. Then there's the ones that drive me nuts: "Do you know this song?"  "Who was that on the phone?"  "Who is that present for?"  "Why are we buying that kind of cheese?"
These questions bother me more because I don't want to have to explain why I'm singing along to the radio.  I just want to sing!  I don't want to tell them who was on the phone.  The present is for someone they don't even know.  We are buying this kind of cheese because I want to. 

When you become a parent, you do give up things.  The privilege to do something without answering a million questions is one of them.   There have been times I've wanted to say "I'm going to fart now.  I just thought I would tell you all before hand so there will be no questions about it." 

But, I think the irony would be lost on them.

Friday, November 27, 2009

I Am Getting Too Old For This!

I got up at 3a.m. to go shopping. 

Just typing that sentence makes me seem a little crazy!

By 7a.m. we had hit 4 stores and were ready to go home.

The lines were long but I think the longest wait we had was about 30 min.  Not too bad really.
On a normal day at Walmart, I think that's about average. 

What I did notice that was different this year was everyone seemed happy.
We did not encounter one grumpy person.  All the cashiers were friendly and helpful (and they should be, considering how much money was spent in their fine establishment today).  Our fellow line people were friendly and were eager to exchange Black Friday stories.  I even heard one lady offer to hold a complete stranger' place in line since they had to go to the restroom.

Getting in the Christmas spirit can sometimes be hard for me.   Money, unfortunately, plays too big of a role in Christmas.  Especially when you have 4 kids that have wish lists.  Fortunately, my kids do keep them pretty simple and are easy to please. 

With the Christmas season upon us, I find my mood going up and then down.  Worried about the financial aspect of it but then happy about all that we do have and knowing that the important part is being together.  And, it's the birthday of my Saviour!  How can that not make me happy? 

Tonight, I am finding it hard to keep my eyes open.  I normally stay up late at night, reading or watching t.v.
I think I may beat the kids to bed tonight.

I will close with a funny:   I bought the little boys new socks today (50% off!).  When they tried them on, they both exclaimed that they made them run sooo fast! 
Jeven even said "These new socks make me dizzy!!" 

Hmmmm....I wonder if the new socks made him draw all over himself as well? 

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Thanksgiving 2009

It was a great day.  Exhausting but great. 

Had 2 dinners so I'm more stuffed than the turkey. 

Tomorrow, I am getting up at 3 a.m. to hit the sales.   It's  fun to go with my SIL.
Normally, my husband has the day off so I stay gone pretty much all day.  But, since there were no "special requests" for days off, he has to work.  I am a little bummed that my day will be cut short but since I don't have money... in the 4 hours that I will have, I will get enough done.

I cannot even believe that I am Christmas shopping already!  Seems it gets here earlier and earlier every year. 
As a kid, Christmas couldn't get here fast enough.  As an adult, it's the opposite problem!

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!
I know I have many, many things on my thankful list. 

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

What I'm Thankful For

There's the obvious:









 














And the not so obvious:

I have a mortgage I get to pay every month.

I have groceries I get to buy every week.

I have kids that drive me insane.

I have a husband that cares enough about me to voice his opinion.

I have a body that wakes up every morning.

I have a car that constantly needs gas.


It's so easy to be thankful for the "main things" in life.  But, to be thankful for the stuff that maybe we think we'd rather not have?  That's difficult. 

But, you see, if we didn't have those things, if they were replaced with other things, maybe they'd be worse.

I don't even want to imagine the worst case scenario.

I had a friend from high school recently contact me.  After 16 yrs.  Through facebook.
He looked through my profile, my pictures.

He said "It's obvious you are happy.  And no one deserves it more than you!"

You know what, D.?  You're right!
I do deserve my life.

I wouldn't trade it for anything.   



Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Grief

My husband gives me alot of it.  About blogging. 

He thinks I'm putting waayy too much information on the world wide web.  For perfect strangers to see.  And judge.  Which I'm sure happens, the judging.  But, it doesn't bother me. 

He doesn't understand the need to write things down.  To have others give supporting comments.  Or to cry with you and even laugh with you.

He doesn't understand how fun it is to read other's stories.  And to comment, cry and laugh with them. 

I want to respect my husband's wishes though. 

I've posted every day this month and will continue until the end of November. 

After that, I think I will back off a tad. 

Maybe a little more one -on- one attention will do us both some good. 
After all, with the Holidays approaching, spending more time off the computer and more time with the family is not a bad thing.  In no way is my husband a controlling, insensitive guy.  I think it honestly boils down to feeling left out. 

But, I'm curious--what does your husband think of the whole blogging thing? 

Monday, November 23, 2009

Uh-Oh!

I am running out of things to post. 

My thoughts just aren't that interesting. 

My kids are interesting but yet, it's hard to put it all on paper. 

I find myself looking through old pictures.

Here's a mix of some "Uh-Oh!" moments.



















Jarrett.  About age 2.



Josie stuck in the exersaucer.  Probably about age 2.                                                                                    


Also Josie.



Josie.  Again.  She was a handful, okay!?


Jeven.  Like the look on his face?  "MOM!!Put down the
camera and help Dad!  He's gonna rip my leg clear off!! MOM!!" 

Turns out, I have many, many pictures of "Uh-Oh!"s. 

I am glad that I took the time to take pictures.  I am glad that we can look back and laugh.  Now.  Then, not so funny.  But, now?  Funny.





Sunday, November 22, 2009

Family Fun

Dude.  How early does this store open? 

My husband found this in a local sporting goods store ad.  We both thought it was pretty funny.  Because we all know how much time we, as a family, practice punching and kicking.  With this kit, we could get all our necessary supplies all in one kit.  For one low price. 

How awesome! 



Saturday, November 21, 2009

More Realistic

Sometimes, my kids do things that make me go "Hmmmm?"
Sometimes, they are so naughty that I can't figure out what is going on in their pea brains.
Sometimes, it is so sweet and thoughtful that I can't figure out what I did right. 
Sometimes,it's both.

As was the case this morning. 

My husband got up this morning (he is off today.  In 6 more weeks, he'll get another Saturday off!) and made breakfast. 

*For those of you that know my husband in any way, I will calmly wait while you pick yourself up off the floor*

We were all sitting at the table, enjoying a family breakfast of eggs, sausage and toast. 
Jeven says "May I have some  more sausage, please?"

Judd and I look at each other.
"What was THAT?!"  Politeness?  Niceness?  At the kitchen table?  How can this be?  Did our constant drilling and correcting finally make a difference?  What DO we do?

Before we can answer our awesomely polite young man, we hear:

"BBBBUUUUURRRPPPP!"

"So, you gonna pass me the sausage or what?"

I have to be honest, we actually sighed a little with relief.  We were now back on familiar ground. 

*Judd wanted me to make sure I let everyone know that the breakfast was delicious*

*I would like to let everyone know that although he made breakfast, I still had to clean up the kitchen.  Even with a new dishwasher, it still is not my favorite thing to do.  Seemed a little unfair that when I cook, I clean up.  Shouldn't it be the same rule when he cleans?  Yes, I think so too*

Friday, November 20, 2009

Working Out, They Do

A couple days ago, I posted THIS.

These clothes have been on craigslist for so long, I forgot about them

I got a phone call at 8:30 this morning, asking if I still had them.  I said I did.  She asked if I could email her pictures.  Of. Every. Item. 

We're talking over 30 pieces of clothing. 

So, I spent the day laying out the clothes and taking pictures (I did have pictures in the original ad but just as a group) and I emailed her.  Thinking I wouldn't hear from her again.

I was wrong.  She said she'd take them. 

AWESOME!! 

We met across town at Toysrus.  She paid me the $30.  We walked into Toysrus and purchased Josie's main Christmas gift, a bike, for $36. 

Basically, I'm looking at it as we paid $6 for a brand new bike! 

Things always have a way of working out, they do.  Says Yoda. 

Thursday, November 19, 2009

The Married Store

Mawwiage. Mawwiage is what bwings us togethew today. 

Just had to get that out of my system. 

Ok, so I am thinking this is probably normal.  If it is not, please don't tell me otherwise.  Let me stay safe in my cocoon of "normalcy".

Jeven likes to kiss me.  And I mean K.I.S.S. me. 
"I want a big kiss Mom!"  Then he'll proceed to put his arms around my neck, put his puckered lips on mine and move all around.  I am thankful there's no tongue.

Tonight, we were snuggling on the couch and he gives me a "big kiss".  Then says, "Now, we're married."

I say:  "Well, no.  I'm already married!"
Jeven:  "WHAT!!" 
Me:  "Yep.  I got married a long time ago".
Jeven:  "To who?  The lady at church?"
Me:  "WHAT!!"
Jeven:  "Who you married to?"
Me:  "Daddy silly!"
Jeven:  "Did you drive to the married store or something?"
Me:  "Something like that."
Jeven:  "You suppose to marry me!"  (said with pouty face)
Me:  "Oh, I'm sorry but I still love you very much.  Someday you'll get big and marry a very special girl."
Jeven: "NOT JOSIE!!"

So, Jeven kisses his mother inappropriately and wants to marry her.  But, at least he doesn't want to marry his sister.  That's something, right? 

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Needy Family

This posting every day is hard.  My life is just too....regular. 
"Stuff" happens every day but it's hard to write about.

"Today, I yelled too much at my kids.  They ran around naked some.  They fought some.  They ate too much and slept too little.  

The phone rang but I couldn't hear what was being said because of previously stated nakedness and fighting.

I cooked.  I cleaned.  I laughed.  I didn't cry today, though.  Tomorrow is another day."

You can see why posting every day can be a challenge. 

I will leave with this:

Throughout the year, I sell things on Craigslist.  For two reasons-to get rid of stuff and to make a little extra cash.

During the holidays, I really try to get things on every day or at least every week.

I put some of the kids' clothes on this week.  Several days went by and I got no responses. 
Except for this:  "Would you consider donating these clothes to a needy family?"

HELLOOOOO!!!!!  I am selling my stuff on Craiglsist!  I AM the needy family!!!!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

What is a Boy?

Judd's grandma gave me this little plaque when Jayce was born.  It used to hang in her boys' room. 

What is a Boy?

Between the innocence of babyhood and the dignity of manhood we find a delightful creature called a boy.  Boys come in assorted sizes, weights, and colors, but all boys have the same creed:  To enjoy every second of every minute of every hour of every day and to protest with noise (their only weapon) when their last minute is finished and the adult males pack them off to bed at night.

Boys are found everywhere- on top of, underneath, inside of, climbing on, swinging from, running around, or jumping to.  Mothers love them, little girls hate them, older sisters and brothers tolerate them, adults ignore them, and Heaven protects them.  A boy is Truth with dirt on its face, Beauty with a cut on its finger, Wisdom with bubble gum in its hair, and the Hope of the future with a frog in its pocket. 

When you are busy, a boy is an inconsiderate, bothersome, intruding jangle of noise.  When you want him to make a good impression, his brain turns to jelly or else he becomes a savage, sadistic, jungle creature bent on destroying the world and himself in it.

A boy is a composite-he has the appetite of a horse, the digestion of a sword swallower, the energy of a pocket-size atomic bomb, the curiosity of a cat, the lungs of a dictator, the imagination of a Paul Bunyan, the shyness of a violet, the audacity of a steel trap, the enthusiasm of a fire cracker, and when he makes something he has five thumbs on each hand.

He likes ice cream, knives, saws, Christmas, comic books, the boy across the street, woods, water (in its natural habitat), large animals, Dad, trains, Saturday mornings, and fire engines.  He is not much for Sunday School, company, schools. books without pictures, music lessons, neckties, barbers, girls, overcoats, adults, or bedtime.

Nobody else is so early to rise, or so late to supper.  Nobody else gets so much fun out of trees, dogs, and breezes.  Nobody else can cram into one pocket a rusty knife, a half-eaten apple, 3 feet of string, an empty Bull Durham sack, 2 gum drops, 6 cents, a sling shot, a chunk of unknown substance, and a genuine super-sonic code ring with a secret compartment.

A boy is a magical creature-you can lock him out of your work shop, but you can't lock him out of your heart.  You can get him out of your study, but you can't get him out of your mind.  Might as well give up-he is your captor, your jailer, your boss, and your master--a freckle-faced, pint-sized, cat-chasing bundle of noise.  But when you*put him to bed at night, with only the shattered pieces of your hopes and dreams, he can mend them like new with three magic words-" I Love You!"


* I took the liberty of changing this last part.  Originally it contained something about Dad coming home and being greeted by his son.*

This made me smile.  And look at my sons a little differently.  

Monday, November 16, 2009

Referral

When Jayce was about a year old, I did in-home daycare.  I had 3 extra little boys, 5 days a week.  It was a  nice extra income and gave Jayce someone to play with.

Throughout the years, I've backed off doing the "official daycare" thing but still babysit.  For family and friends. 

To me, the biggest compliment is being asked to care for someone else's child.  Do I always feel like it?  Of course not.  (And I'm not shy about saying "No!".  After all, I figure why would you want someone to watch your child if they don't really want to?)

Tonight, I got a call from a gal asking me to be a "sub" for her regular daycare provider.  Turns out, her friend, my cousin, gave her my number. 

I was so pleasantly surprised! 

Of course, she may never call again.  The background noise ("JEVEN!!  Take the pencil out of your sandwich!") may have turned her off. 
I know it did me.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Oldie

 I am feeling under the weather tonight but am really trying to post every day this month.
I was reading through some of my older posts and found this one.  It still makes me laugh. 


**********************************************************************************
Only my child

..would accidentally dial 911. While I am in. The. Bathroom.

Yes, I am serious.

I let my little kids play with my cell phone sometimes, it keeps them happy in the grocery store or busy for a minute while I get something done. Like going to the bathroom. But, I ALWAYS make sure it is key locked.
Yesterday, I was in the bathroom (have a mentioned I was in the bathroom?) and I could hear a little rough housing going on out in the living room but, heck, that's usual. Especially if (everyone now:) I'm in the bathroom. Well, Josie soon comes in and she's crying and has the cell phone up to her ear. She says "The lady wants to talk to you"
I say: Hello?
Lady: This is the 911 operator. It seems like your baby has called 911 and I need to make sure there is no emergency.
Me: Um. Who is this??
Lady: see previous statement made by Lady.
Me: I am so sorry! I don't know how that happened, it is key locked.
Lady: Ok. Maybe don't let the baby play with the phone.

I get off with her and I double check to make sure my phone was key locked and it WAS!!
I went online and found that even if a cell phone (at least mine) is key locked, all you have to do is hold down the dial button for at least 3 seconds and viola! You're talking to the 911 operator. While you're in the bathroom!

Saturday, November 14, 2009

What a Trip

When did I get so old?  When did a day out of town, for a friend's babyshower, make me so darned tired?

Maybe it was the fact I drove 2 1/2 hours north, attended the shower, and drove 2 1/2 hours back home.  With my 6 yr. old daughter.  That girl wears me out!! 

The seriously tripping part is that the baby shower was for my oldest friend in the world.  We have known each other since we were Josie's age.  Younger actually.  We met in kindergarten. 
She was my roommate in college.  She was a bridesmaid at my wedding. 

The years have brought many changes.  In distance.  In life style.  In many circumstances.

But I was such fun to see her today, all pregnant and beautiful. 

I regret we didn't get any pictures today.  Hopefully, when that little baby girl arrives, I will make another
5 hr. round trip to hold her.  And get a picture with her and her marvelous mommy! 

I love you Laura!  I know you'll make a great mommy! 

Friday, November 13, 2009

Let Me Introduce...

...the newest member of our family.

She's black, cream and tan.

She's fairly noisy.

But she doesn't seem to leak.

She works hard.

She's loaded.  Every day.

She was FREE!!

We have yet to pick out a name for her.  Waiting for her true personality to come thru.

She's beautiful to me.

She certainly completes our family.












Thursday, November 12, 2009

Sleeping Like a Sock?

This is what I found today, when I went to check and see if the little boys were actually, indeed sleeping:















*Please.  No rude comments on how filthy his pillow is.  It is an old pillow of his biggest brother's.
I've washed it hundreds of times, I've put cases over it and it always ends up naked and nasty. 

*Please. No rude comments such as "that's what she said" on the naked and nasty part above.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Examples

Just thought I'd share a few pictures of some things that might seem weird to most people.  But, are perfectly normal here. 





















A picture drawn by my 4 yr. old.  What exactly am I supposed to say? 





What?  You don't serve your food on the floor?                                                                                            


 What do you do with your gum when you're done with it?


And last, but certainly not least: 



Marshmallows.  On the front porch.  For the kitty. 









Monday, November 9, 2009

Guess How Much















$3.86!! 

Some friends of mine have taken up "couponing".  And although I've always used coupons when I could, I never went through the trouble of going online and printing them up.  Or asking all the relatives in this area to save them for me. Or collecting all the currents ads.
But, apparently, doing all this results in free food!! 
And who doesn't like that? 

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Open Wound

Why do we, as women, hurt so easily?  By hurt, I mean our feelings.

I think I do pretty well not taking things so personally.  Most of the time. We all know that "sometimes" we get overly emotional and cranky and witchy. 

I used to not be so "tough".  I used to come home from any social event and ponder what so-and-so meant by some harmless comment.  Or worry that I said the wrong thing to someone. 

I think having kids has made me say what I mean and mean what I say. 
I can usually be tactful and express myself so there's no wondering what I mean or what someone meant by what they said. 

Except when it comes to those that are the closest to me.

Family and super-close friends have the power to hurt me like nobody else. 

And it seems that once a wound is inflicted on me, it just gets salt poured on it, over and over again.
It may develop a scab and start to heal, but then the wound gets bumped and hurts all over again.

Currently I'm hurting. Again. 
And it's because I opened myself up, even though I knew what the result would be. I still put myself out there. 

I'm not sure whom I most angry with--the one who caused the pain. Or myself.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

My Girl

Had a fun day. Went to lunch, out of town, with my daughter,mother, grandmother, aunt and cousin and her son and hubby.
And the boys stayed home with Papa and Nana and had their own fun.

It was a nice get away. But, I'm pooped.


I don't like pictures with me in them. But, this one, I like.






It was a good day.

Friday, November 6, 2009

All I Want For Christmas. Or Soon After

My hubby and I don't unusually buy gifts for each other at Christmas.  We can barely afford all the children! 

One of the few many pluses of having 4 children is we tend to get a rather large income tax refund every year.  It  just so happens that my husband's yearly bonus comes at the same time. 
So, for a few weeks a year, we're rich!

That's when we buy our "Christmas/Valentine's Day/Birthday/Anniversary" presents.

My husband usually knows exactly what he wants and plans accordingly all  year. 
When the time comes, I can't ever think of anything "big".  I usually take my portion and spend it little by little. Here and there.

But, I now know what I want!  And I figure if I record here, I'll remember!!

I want one of these:














"We" have an Xbox 360 and a PS3 but I don't use those much.  Most of the games I like to play are hard to find because...well, I'm told they're lame.

However; there's lots of lame games available for this! And I want something that's MINE.

On one hand, you could say that if I can't remember in a few months that I want one of these, then I probably don't want it that much.  On the other hand... I want a new toy darnit!! 

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Nothin' Like It

My hubby and I had a date tonight.  Nothing special, spent a whole $10.  But, it was needed and fun.

As we were driving through town on this rainy, dark night, we had to cross traffic at one point. We couldn't tell if there was a median in the road or not.

Which reminded me of the time he drove his little Datsun truck into the median.  Way back when we were first dating.

That got us reminiscing about all those years ago.

The conversation went like this:

Me: Remember how on our second date, that truck over heated?
Him:  Nooooo
Me:  Well it did and you had to come into my house and get water.  And I thought it was all a ploy to come into the house.  But, you really did just get water. 
Him:  Oh yeah!
Me:  And that one time, when I threw your nude air fresheners out the window!
Him:  Yes.  I miss those things.

The conversation goes on for quite awhile.  Both of us coming up with old memories of when we first started dating.

Then it was silent.  Both of us lost in fond memories of first love.  How young we were.  How we had no idea what life had in store for us.

At least I thought we were both lost in those memories.

At last he speaks.
"Yeah.  There's nothing like..." wait for it....wait for it...."your first car".

To say that killed the mood would be an understatement!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

A New Do and Double Identity

Jarrett received a new haircut today:


I don't know if you can see it in this picture but it's not pretty,trust me.  Apparently, there was some fuzz in his hair and "someone" (I'm not naming names but it rhymes with Posie) decided scissors was the best way to remove it.  And Jarrett let her.  Urg.


This was one way of solving the problem:


But now, we don't know if it's Wall-E or Spiderman!??

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

A Call

I actually had jobs before I was a mom.  Shocking, I know.

Once I got pregnant with Jayce, we then decided that I would stay home with the baby.  At least for awhile.  And the rest they say, is history.

But, way back in the day, I worked retail.  I even went to college. 

For a few Christmas seasons, I worked seasonal jobs.  When we only had one kid and my husband's schedule was a little more predictable.

Then we had more kids and hubby got a different job.

But, for the last few Christmas seasons, I've put in applications anywhere and everywhere.  The extra money would be nice but it would be a headache trying to fit everything into an already hectic life. 
We figured if it was meant for me to work, I'd get an offer.

I've never even received a phone call.  Nothing. Nada. Zip.
I figured I just can't compete with young people who don't have huge gaps in their resumes.

The other night, I once again filled out apps., online.

The next day, I got a call!  Woo-hoo!!

The lady asked me if I could type at least 25 w.p.m with 80% accuracy.
Yes! ( Thank you blogging!)
Could I run a multi-lined phone?
Yes!
Would I be able to give good customer service?
Yes! (I'm really getting my hopes up at this point)
Could I work 12 a.m. to 7 a.m.?
Ummm.... NO!  (which is why I wrote I wanted to work evenings on my app!)

Oh well.  At least I got a call.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Four or Fork?

While at the local grocery store the other day, with all 4 of my children, pushing one of those stupid fun carts that look like a fire truck, we passed a "free sample" table. 

The sample was of some sort of chicken marinara dish. The young man running the table was kind enough to give all of the kids a sample.  They loved it!  The young (he was probably 22, for crying out loud!  I'm talking like a true old person now!) gave us a coupon for the actual dish which made the item FREE!

Fabulous! 

I go to the freezer section, pick out the dish, read the label that said:  Four tender chicken breasts in old world marinara sauce.

Fabulous!  The kids can have it for lunch!

Get home, heat up the  dish.  Peel off the plastic to find ONE itsy, bitsy, pathetic chicken breast.  With about a gallon of the old world marinara sauce.

What the....??

I dig the wrapper out of the garbage and re-read it:  Fork tender chicken breasts in about a gallon of old world marinara sauce. 

Turns out, I don't know how to read after all! 

Because all the kids liked the dish so much, there was no way I could only give it to one.  So, I split that fork tender chicken breast into 4 itsy, bitsy, pathetic pieces.

Then made PB&J to go with it!!

Sunday, November 1, 2009

The Daily Grind

My husband shot a deer earlier this week, "just" a doe ( a deer.  a female deer) but we are happy to have meat in the freezer. 

My mother in law, who just happens to be a meat cutter at the local grocery store, came over and help us cut it up! 

We have several packages of deer steak and 15lbs of burger in the freezer!!  To me, that's like money in the bank.

Hunting used to be a hobby of my husband's that was annoying and truth be told, stupid.  But now, with 4 kids and 3 of them being boys, I now encourage him to go hunting and bring home the meat. 

The deer hung in our garage for a few days, drying out and such.  When my dad came over today, he asked my hubby "Where did you get the deer?" (meaning, where did he shoot it) and Jarrett says: " In the garage Papa!  Duh!"

If it were only that easy!

Friday, October 30, 2009

Thrown Under the Bus

With small kids, it's always interesting how one will tattle tale on the others.  Or be quick to place blame on an innocent bystander.  Usually, I can decipher who really is the villain and punish accordingly.

Tonight, after all the kids were in bed ( and even though they are in bed, it doesn't mean they can't hear what's going on out in the living room or kitchen.  and it doesn't keep them from giving their own opinion on things) I had a minor mishap in the kitchen. 

A crude innocent curse word came out of my mouth, rather loudly.

From the bedroom I hear:
Jeven:  I didn't do it!! It was Jarrett!

Jarrett:  No it wasn't!  It was Josie!

Josie:  What?!!

Gives new meaning to "sibling rivalry".

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Just Keep Laughing

That's the only way to stay sane in my house.

Me:  Could we please have one day with no fighting? 

Jayce:  Probably not.

Me:  Well, someone is going to have to be the bigger person and decide not to fight.

Josie:  I would rather Jayce did that.

Good grief, I love these kids.  I have hardly any hairs on my head, the ones I do have are gray but I love 'em anyways.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Sucky or Super Sunday

My bloggy friend  Green Eyed Momster does a post like this every Wednesday.
Instead of doing a whole post about all the sucky things going on right now, I decided to do this post.  I may make it a weekly thing, I may not.  We'll see how I feel next Sunday I guess!

  • Sucky:  My husband is sick.  We all know how much fun THAT is.
  • Super:  It doesn't seem to be Piggly like
  • Sucky:  Our t.v. is STILL in the shop.  It's going on week 4.  
  • Sucky:  I'd like to say we've been bonding as a family with no t.v. but turns out, we do very poorly without it.  If just for the fact that late at night, I can't go out in the living room and watch DWTS.  
  • Super:  We are getting a dishwasher.  A FREE dishwasher!! 
  • Super:  That deserves another super:  A FREE dishwasher!!
  • Sucky:  I am going to have to have a procedure done.  In the hospital.  If  you want more details, email me.  But, I'm not going into it here. 
  • Sucky:  For some strange reason, I am unable to comment on most of the blogs I read.  If you have not had any comments from me, it's not because I haven't tried!!  
  • Super:  I had a "conference" done with the online school this past week and found out we are ahead of schedule.  Attendance wise and academic wise as well.  I gave myself a huge pat on the back.
  • Sucky:  I am feeling very low right now.  I could go on and on with sucky things but I'm going to stop now.  
  • Super:  I am going to try and have a super attitude this week.  I am hoping it will help with my sucky attitude. 

Hope you all have a super week as well!

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Pumpkin Patch

Why didn't anyone tell me there's a new editing system that makes posting pictures so much easier?!  I found it by accident and I think I have it figured out!  Yeah me!

So, finally here's the pictures of our day at the pumpkin patch.  Jarrett's preschool class took a field trip and since I home school his siblings, I took them along as well. 

We visited a local orchard/farm.  First stop, the apple trees.  Where each child was allowed to pick one apple off the tree and eat it!  So yummy!

Then, each child was allowed to pick one pumpkin.  Jarrett, Josie and Jayce picked theirs and I got pictures of them with their pumpkins.  Jeven picked one then decided to leave it at the farm.  Not sure why but he was firm on leaving his pumpkin there.  I think he was just too lazy to carry it, actually.


Jarrett with his manageable pumpkin




Josie with hers.



Jayce of course had to find a big one.
You can also see Jeven, with his
pumpkin in the bag.

Next, we went up to the farm stand.  Where they SELL fresh produce.  My kids thought it was a buffet.  I quickly explained that this food was not free and you had to pay for it.  Jeven shove another handful of raspberries in his mouth and said "Ok, mommy". 

It was a fun, fall day.  I am hoping we can go back with Daddy soon.  They usually have wagon rides and the kids like to see the horse. 



Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Stupid Blogger

I haven't posted in some time. I tried to upload some pictures of the pumpkin patch but my "add picture" icon won't work. And, I've also noticed I can't comment on anyone's blog either. Stupid blogger.

So. We went to the pumpkin patch.
Without pictures, it just seems too boring.

Hopefully, I can try back later and it will work. Who knows!

I also took all 4 kids to see the Toy Story double feature. It cost me $42.50 in admission. I bought snacks at Wally World the day before, spent about $15. So, it was an expensive day. BUT!! We had the entire theater to ourselves!! Me and my 4, my friend and her 2 boys. One man came in with his little girl about half way through the first movie (why would you pay that much to only see part of a movie??) but that was it!! To me, with my personal space issues, it was totally worth it.

I didn't have to worry about the kids talking and disturbing others.

They could change seats as often as they liked.

During the break between the movies, they ran up and down the aisles, something I would NEVER let them do in a full theater.

In other news, I found a somewhat solution to the fighting I talked about in the last post--chores. Lots and lots of chores.
If they are busy working for me, they have no time for fighting! And, they unite in their hatred of chores so really, I'm giving them bonding time. And getting a cleaner house for it. "Win win" I say!

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Referee

That seems to be my current occupation.

I have a younger brother. I can remember, being at home, alone with him, while our parents were at work. And hating him. Not just being annoyed or aggravated but hating him.

I remember how my mom would say "just ignore him" or "you're older, you should know better". I vowed that when I had kids, I would never say those things. I would always try to be fair and just.

Famous last words!

My kids have been fighting constantly. Over every. little. thing.

It's driving me bonkers!

I do try to be fair. I know how annoying Josie can be. I know she pushes Jayce's buttons on purpose. I know that Jeven loves to destroy Jarrett's art projects and Josie's Barbie house. I know Jarrett keeps Jayce awake at night signing. I know these things but for pete's sake does it mean world war 3 must break out?! Every day?

We punish. What we think is appropriately. We make them apologize. We separate them. We threatened for the fighters to have to sit together with their arms around each other. But, I don't want to force "love". I want them to love each other because they do, not as a punishment.

I know with 4 kids, a small house, and different temperments that fighting will happen. I think the thing that frustrates me the most is the viciousness and meanness behind it all.
And, when confronted, they never, ever, ever take responsibility for their part. It's always the other child's fault.

"Jayce made me kick him!"

"Josie asked for it!"

"He hit me first!"

I just don't know what to do.

Anyone?

For the record, I do not hate my brother. Not at all. I can remember falling to my knees and weeping when he boarded that plane for basic training. I cried at his wedding. I cried when his babies were born. I love him and miss him. (his family lives out of state). I would give anything to have those years back, when we did nothing but fight. We could have had so much fun.

I hate to think of my kids regretting their times spent fighting. But how do I explain that to small children?

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Baby Lizards and Ear Aches

We have both here at the Boring Home.

I am the lucky one with the ear aches. Turns out, grown ups can get ear infections! Double ones in fact. Blah. Wouldn't recommend it.
Turns out, it hurts like a sonofa!

Out of my 4 children, we've had a total of 3 ear infections. Josie has had two and Jeven one.
Now, I can understand why babies cry all night when they get one! I got no sleep last night and anxiously awaited the local urgent care clinic to open. My mommy took me. And, no I didn't get a lollipop. Bummer. Bought myself some gummy bears at the pharmacy though!

Meanwhile, we've all been having fun watching our bearded dragon eggs hatch! It took about 8 hours average for one to hatch entirely. We've been watching the eggs regularly. We'd go out, check, and there would be nothing. Then 20 min. later, a head would be out. But then, it would take awhile for it to totally emerge.


They are so cute, no?


We even had one egg that had two babies! Twins!

Here is a picture of the twins, with my husband's working man's thumb for size reference.


So, we now have 13 baby bearded dragons. Anyone need Christmas gifts? We can put a bow on them!!

Friday, October 2, 2009

Irony

I took a picture of Josie doing her handwriting lesson today:



Notice the name of the book?



Originally, she started throwing a fit because she didn't want to do handwriting. Then, when I told her it was illegal to cry while doing handwriting because it's "Handwriting Without Tears", she cried harder. She told me "no one will ever know if I cry!".
So, I took a picture. To send to the proper authorities.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Award!

Wow!! Thanks Green Eyed Momster! I love these things!! I love reading them and filling them out myself.



The rules of this award are as follows:
~Answer the questions below using only one word (it's harder than it seems!)
~Thank the blogger who gave it to you (See above)
~Pass it on to 6 of your favorite bloggers (See below)

So, on with the questions:



1. Where is your cell phone? Purse
2. Your hair? Laughable
3. Your mother? Friend
4. Your father? Supportive
5. Your favorite food? Potatoes
6. Your dream last night? Scary
7. Your favorite drink? Soda
8. Your dream/goal? Godly
9. What room are you in? Bedroom
10. Your hobby? Stitchery
11. Your fear? Death
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Together
13. Where were you last night? Church
14. Something you aren't? Skinny!
15. Muffins? Orange
16. Wish list item? Money
17. Where did you grow up? Oregon
18. Last thing you did? Cooked
19. What are you wearing? Jeans
20. Your TV? On
21. Your pets? Scaly
22. Your friends? Priceless
23. Your life? Wonderful
24. Your mood? Satisfied
25. Missing someone? Brother
26. Vehicle? Caravan
27. Something you're not wearing? Socks
28. Your favorite store? Ross
29. Your favorite color? Red
30. When was the last time you laughed? Minutes
31. Last time you cried? Wednesday
32. Your best friend? Husband
33. One place that I go over and over? Walmart ) :
34. One person who emails me regularly? Jennifer
35. Favorite place to eat? Roadhouse

As far as for the others I'd like to pass to:

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

My Score: F-

Update:
Thanks to those of you that left uplifting and supportive comments. Long and short of it: I was having a crappy day! Shortly after I posted this, I told the kids to put the school books away, put in a movie, play with your Barbies, do whatever you want to be happy! After all, that's one of the things I was looking forward to with home schooling--me being in control of how my kids spend the day.
As far as the other things, I didn't win the lottery or lose those pounds but.... life is good....





Right now, if I was to be graded in life, that's what my score would be.

The kids have been fighting constantly. With each other and with me as well.
Homeschooling was going great up until the last couple days. I am finding myself resenting the time that it takes. It's hard not to think about what I could be doing if my children were at public school for 6 hours of the day. Yes, I still feel like we made the right decision but when your 5th grader is in tears because he needs help with his History but you're too busy with the 1st grader and toddlers, who are screaming and hitting each other AGAIN, it's hard not be frustrated.

I hate how I look. I hate that my hair is so thin. And my face is so fat. And the rest of me too. I hate that I can't diet for a week and have it all melt off, I hate that it has to be so hard! I think back to when I was in high school and thought my body was horrible. Now? Now, I would trade in a heart beat.

I am tired of never having any money. It's a constant battle of picking and choosing which bills to pay, how much can we get by with as far as grocery money.
My husband works extremely hard and hates his job. I wish I could be more supportive and encourage him to go ahead and quit and find something else. But these days, we're lucky he has a job to hate.

All these things are making me feel like a failure. And,the troubling part is, that I could do things, small things to change. But I don't do them! And I'm not sure why.

I can't end this post on such a negative.
So, some positive:

  • with all his struggles, Jayce scored a 91% on his Unit History Assessment!
  • Josie got baptized on Sunday!
  • Jarrett's preschool teacher told me she loves having him in her class! I suspect she says that to all the parents, but right now, I'll take it.
Well, that's it for now. I'm off to see if I can score extra credit and bring my F- up to at least a C.

Friday, September 25, 2009

He's a Frugal Shopper, What Can I Say?

There was a commotion in our house tonight. Not unlike any other night.
This one was between Jarrett and Jeven. And it took place at the garbage can.
Jeven was attempting to throw something in the trash and Jarrett was not impressed with his brother's housekeeping skills.

"NO!! Jeven, that's mine!!"

"Jarrett, I throw it away."

"NO! It's mine! It's my paper!"

"I throw it away!"

"NOOOOOOOOO!!"

This last statement said so loud and high pitched that I think only our neighbor's dog truly heard it.
I decided it was time to interfere. (I'd like to say that I'm such an awesome parent that I let my kids handle their own disputes. It teaches them confrontation skills and listening techniques and so on but truly? I just didn't want to get my lazy bum off the couch!)

"What's going on? Jeven? What do you have? Let me see"

I unfold...drum roll please....

Pizza Hut coupons. A whole page.

Coupons. That is what had my 4 year old son in such a tizzy. And I say tizzy because I think it fits well here.

When asked why he was holding these coupons so dear, he said he likes to look at the pictures of pizza. And next time we go to the pizza place, he has money to buy the pizza. And sure enough, he opened his hand and he did have money! Two whole quarters!

I love being these kids' mom! Makes getting off the couch totally worth it.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Where Are My Followers?

Has anyone had their followers disappear?

I worked hard for my measly amount of followers and now they are gone!

They don't show up on my dashboard or on my blog page.

Come back,come back wherever you are!!

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Leapin' Lizards!!

Awhile ago I posted about some of the other animals in our home.
We are still awaiting the hatching of the dragons. Meanwhile, my husband not being the patient kind, purchased a baby dragon. And I will deny this if asked but she's a cutie! Delta is her name.






Jayce made a cool discovery the other night, holding one of the geckos. Can you see it?
Clue: it makes me smile!

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

My Third's First

Today was Jarrett's very first day of preschool! Even though it's MY third time having a first day of preschool (only one more to go!) it is still exciting.
And in typical Stayathomer kid fashion, Jarrett waved goodbye and was off to play with playdough and make new friends.
I have been lucky in that my kids are not shy. They are not afraid of new situations. Those parents that have to peel their child off so they can leave? Yeah, so not me.
(Or more annoying? Those parents that make a huge deal about leaving so that their kids WILL cry. Quit trying to make yourself feel better by making your kid cry.)

Anyways, Jarrett will be at the school for a couple hours Tues. and Thurs. And I will miss him but he will be having a blast.

When I came to pick him up today, I asked if he had fun and he said: "I want to sit in the shade."

I told him we'd get in the truck and turn on the a/c so he could get cooled off.

He started to cry and the teacher explained that when recess was over, he wanted to sit under the slide, in the shade. But, it was time to go in. He was not happy.

He cried all the way home about wanting to sit in the shade.

Josie, having just been to this same preschool 2 years ago, was able to ask him questions and distract him. She asked about certain toys and certain rules. Before we made it home, Jarrett was happy and can't wait to go back on Thurs.

I suggested maybe he sit in the shade BEFORE recess was over.


Outside the school.



There he goes!! Wait for mom!!


"Leave so I can play with this grape smelling playdough!"