Crowley, Party of 6!!

5 Question Friday!

2010-10-08T07:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday, Y'all!! Don't forget, if you decide to participate, copy and paste the questions to your own blog, and then link up to My Little Life!

1. What do you listen to while driving?

Hmm, this all depends on how long I'll be in the car, or where I'm going. For example, if I am headed to my son's baseball game, then we listen to the Black Eyed Peas. If I'm going on a long drive, say to Florida, then I load up the CD player with either some Kenny Chesney or music from the 70's. If it's the morning, then I listen to the Bob & Sheri talk show. They are hysterical, so I'd rather listen to them then music.

2. What is your least favorite thing about Fall?

Fall is my favorite time of year! What's not to love? If I HAD to pick something, it would be waking up in the morning to chilly weather. Don't get me wrong, I love the cooler temps {especially after a hot southern summer}, but I would prefer to ease into the chilly-ness. Like after I've already put on my sweats!

3. What does your dream house look like, inside and out?

This is an easy one for me!! I've actually already drawn my "dream home" on notebook paper. One day, I will build it. It's a 2 story home. The master bedroom is on the main floor, along with a small living room, a dining room, a huge family room with a stacked stone fireplace, an equally large eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry and laundry room. Upstairs, there is 4 additional bedrooms and a playroom. Of course, by the time I actually get to build this house, my kids probably won't live at home anymore and a house this big would not be necessary. I'm building it anyway. Oh, and there will be bathrooms. And a maid!

4. Would you ever own a minivan?

Once upon a time, I said "NO WAY!" I wanted to be the cool mom who drove anything but a minivan. They were horribly ugly things when I was younger. They have come a long way since then. Now, I'm on my 3rd one. There is no way around having one when you have 4 kids. The room inside is great. I've looked at other vehicles that all of us can fit in, and have come to the conclusion that if we want leg room, we should have at least one minivan. Besides, each of my 4 kids can get a corner so there is no "S/he is touching me!" or "S/he is on my side!" A win/win all around.

5. Do you wash new clothes before wearing them?

Most of the time I do. However, if I buy something and really want to wear it the next day and have already done the laundry, then I suck it up and wear it. Except underwear. That always gets washed first. No exceptions. I've seen an episode of House where kids were dropping like flies from some illness and it turned out that it was the dye in the new, unwashed clothes the kids were wearing. I know, it's only a TV show, but I wonder if that could happen?

the other day

2010-10-07T13:16:00.000-04:00

Aislinn asked if I would make her a cake for her birthday. She picked out Red Velvet with white frosting. Good choice. I think red is my new favorite color! Just look at all that delicious red-ness!! There may or may not have been some licking of the spoon. Ya know, just to make sure it was coming out right.

It was yummy!

After much cake was eaten, we moved to the other room so she could open up gifts.

Aeropostale sweatshirt from Aidan

a pillow with "french" scenes all over it from Maeve

a new digital camera from mom and dad

the latest Sister's Grimm book that she has been looking for (but couldn't find), from Declan

A web cam from her Nana and Papa. They chat every day now.

She LOVED everything she got. And with that, we have one very happy 13 year old girl!

Gift Exchange

2010-10-04T14:37:00.000-04:00

Recently I signed up for a Fall Favorites gift exchange. The hostess with the mostess was Amanda over at Every Crafty Endeavor. Well, this past week I received my package of fall goodies! Everything is amazing!!

I'm loving the fall candles! Apple hand sanitizer, oh my heavens does it smell GOOD! Inside the little green container is my new favorite candy. It is Pumpkin Spice Hershey kisses!

And how adorable is this little figurine? And a Starbucks gift card! I'm in heaven!!

These fabric pumpkins she made. I'm not handy with a needle and thread, but I certainly can appreciate one who is! I love them, and the garland surrounding them.

And finally in the box was this journal. I love the bows on the binder. So cute. I'm already filling this up with Christmas ideas for friends and family!!

I just want to send out a huge thank you to Amanda for hosting such fun, and especially to Jocelyn over at Inside BruCrew Life for sending me such awesome fall goodies!!

The day I became a mom

2010-10-04T14:12:00.000-04:00

Thirteen years ago I became a mom for the first time. Joe and I had tried for about 2 years to get pregnant. We spent a year on fertility meds before the doctor told us that I had "unexplained infertility". After then being off the meds for a year, and still no baby, we decided to move to Boston. I was fortunate to get a job pretty quickly and moved in January 1997. Joe was still in Florida getting the house ready to put on the market, as well as trying to find a job up north. Well, wouldn't you know it, I ended up pregnant! After being apart for the first half of the pregnancy, I moved back to Florida so that I could stay home with our baby and be close to the grandparents. After spending most of the pregnancy as "high risk", because my doctor told me that the baby HAD Spina Bifida, we welcomed a sweet, squalling, little baby girl into our world. And perfectly healthy at that. So, at 7:01pm tonight, our little baby girl will be officially 13 years old!!

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY AISLINN!!

WE LOVE YOU!!

Little of this, little of that

2010-10-03T23:08:00.000-04:00

Have you ever put up a post and then for the next few days felt like you should post again, but don't? Then, more days go by and you realize that it's harder to post when so much time has gone by? That's me. I guess I don't want to mislead anyone into thinking that my life might be anything other than ordinary. Then more days go by and I look back in my planner and see all that we've done around here. That's when I am pleasantly surprised to see that my life is kind of interesting. Or at the very least, busy! I love to read other people's blogs. I can spend many hours on the computer doing just that. I look at my blog list and get impatient when the ones I read daily aren't updated. I know, I know, pathetic, huh?

Anyhow, these past few weeks have been quite busy. We've celebrated a birthday!! My son, Declan, turned 8 years old last week!! {Happy Birthday baby boy! I love you very, very much!}

For his birthday, instead of having a party, Joe and I took him to the Humane Society and let him pick out his own cat. It was a tough choice, but in the end, he picked out a really cute kitten.

He's a spunky little kitten, who loves to talk. A lot. And play. Usually in the middle of the night. I have been woken up by getting bitten in the face more times than I can count. Unfortunately, we had to leave his brother at the shelter. We already have a cat and dog at home. However, I had to promise Declan that should either of our other pets die, we would go back for him! Anyhow, this little guy has had several different names so far. He came to us known as Dos (maybe because his brother, Uno, had one eye?), then he was Coal, then Eclipse, and now Shadow. Personality disorder anyone?

Joe was out of town last week. I don't sleep well when he is gone. Of course, my kids enjoy it when I let them take turns sleeping with me. Then, I sleep even worse because they spend so much time kicking me! Anyhow, while he was gone, my mom and dad decided to take a short trip up for a visit! My kids had no idea they were coming and were so excited to see them! I wish they lived closer to us. The last time we lived near them was when Aislinn was 2 years old. Tomorrow she will be 13. YIKES!! My parents only stayed a couple of days and then they were off. I promised the kids I would take them to Stevie B's for dinner. It's an all you can eat pizza buffet. The kids LOVE it. Joe hates it. I eat too much when I am there.

I just realized in these pictures, they are all eating dessert! It's no wonder why they like this place. As soon as Maeve spilled her nearly full glass of root beer all down the front of her white shirt and pants, it was time to go home.

We've also been getting lots and lots of visitors to our hummingbird feeder. We've had as many as 10 at a time! I thought these guys were territorial. They do fight, but when the urge to eat is strong, they manage to share. However, when they are all around, it sounds like we are at the airport!! I could only get a picture with 3 of them.

I'm going to stop here for the night. Tomorrow I will show you what I received in my Fall Gift Exchange!! I'm positively giddy!

TGIF!!

2010-10-01T10:40:00.001-04:00

Guess what time it is?? That's right, it's 5?F! Seriously, I envy people who post things every day. I just feel like my daily life is not that interesting and don't want to bore you to death. However, I love my 5 questions!

1. Did you have a pen pal when you were little (or now)? Where were/are they from?

I did! Actually, I had 2. One of my mother's aunts was a teacher (as well as a nun) in California. She hooked me up with one of her students, a girl, there. Her name was Christina Hernandez. I can't believe I remember her name! I was in grade school when we were pen pals. I wonder what ever happened to her? Hmmm.... Moving on, I was pen pals with another girl also. She lived in France. Unfortunately, I cannot remember her name at all. I was in grade school when we were pen pals, too! My daughter, Aislinn, has several pen pals right now. One is in France, another in Poland and a third in Australia. It's great because they send each other things specific to where they live.

2. If you could do a different job for one day, what would it be?

An actress. Staring in something with Josh Duhamel. Hmm? Oh, sorry. I was daydreaming for a minute there. Whew!

3. Do you remember your biggest fear from when you were little?

I would have to say driving over a bridge over water. I totally hate that. Even today. It doesn't matter if it's super tall or just a low bridge. There is a very long bridge near where I used to live in Florida that went over a lake famous for alligators. I would hit 80 going over that. The thought of having the bridge collapse and being in the water with those man-eaters just totally terrified me.

4. What do you think is a waste of time? Why?

Probably complaining over things you can't change. Seriously though, we all do it. And I agree that it is normal. Sometimes it's just to vent frustrations, but if you can't do anything about the situation, then it is just a waste of time.

5. What is the oldest item you have in your closet?

Other than dust? I can't think of any specific clothing item. I rarely buy any new clothes, so what's in my closet has been there for years. And years. I think Joe has shirts from when he was in high school. (He grew up in a family of pack rats!) I think there might even be a pocket watch of his grandfathers in there somewhere.

I will be back later today to post on some things that have happened in the past 2 weeks. I know, you can hardly contain the joy! In the meantime, have a great day!!

5 Question Friday and more...

2010-09-17T21:59:00.001-04:00

Today feels like a big post day for me. I've got the much loved (by me anyway) 5 Question Friday as well as some other stuff. So let's get to it, shall we?

1. What is the first nightmare you remember?

Oh my. The first nightmare I can remember was when I lived in Boston as a little girl. Little, as in under 6 years old. I would swear that I woke up one night to find my mother washing dishes in the kitchen. In the hall area by the front door sat a big, black trash bag. Inside that trash bag was an old woman, with her head sticking out of the top!! Yes, I have an active imagination. Anyhow, I am standing there looking at the woman who reaches out of the bag, and scratches one of her long finger nails down my leg! My mom tosses a look over her shoulder at me saying something. I'm not sure what. This image is so real and vivid, that even after over 30 years I can recall it instantly. One day, a while back, I finally told my mom about it. She told me that for Christmas one year, she and my dad bought me this doll that they thought was really pretty. It was placed in the area by the door facing the hallway so I would see it as soon as I started towards the living room. However, upon seeing this doll, I was terrified and wouldn't come out until it was gone. She ended up having to throw the doll out.  I can only imagine that it terrified me so much that over the years I had nightmares about that thing!! Apparently I had issues even as a kid!!

2. Even if you're not a sports fan, what's your favorite sport to play/watch?

As a kid, I played soccer for years and LOVED it. As a matter of fact, last year I even played for the women's adult league here in Columbus!  I tried baseball as a kid and sucked so bad that my parents let me quit. I was horrible. My oldest son plays baseball and while I can't watch it on TV, because I find it so incredibly boring, I really enjoy watching him play. I've learned so much over the past 4 years. I love watching kids play sports. I'm not trying to live through him or anything, I just love to watch him play.

3. If you could pull off one piece of trendy fashion, what would you want it to be (jeggings, hats, thigh high boots, etc.)?

Oh, this question is so easy!! If I could pull it off, I would wear skinny jeans! As a matter of fact, even if I didn't wear them, I just want to be able to fit in them. And breathe at the same time.   Maybe some day I will get a thigh in comfortably, but not in the immediate future. Great. Now I'm depressed.

4. Did you make good grades in school?

Hmmm. In what subject? Some classes were better than others. One year, though, I was mad at the world and my grades certainly reflected that. I just didn't care. My family had moved from Massachusetts to Florida right before I was set to graduate 8th grade. I was with those kids for 7 years and now was moving to start a new school 2 months before graduation and be with kids I didn't know at all. And I was about to turn 13. Well, I was going to show my parents what I thought of that bright move on their part. Yeah, I didn't quite think things through, did I? Anyhow, my freshman year in high school was not very successful. Things got better after that year. I may or may not still have a little hostility left over from that year. I'm a work in progress.

5. What magazines do you subscribe to?

None. Last year, my MIL got me a subscription to Star magazine, which ended last month. I think the postal workers really enjoyed reading it as well, because I had to wait over a week after it was on the stands before mine showed up. And it had been clearly well handled by then.   I used to have several scrapbooking magazine subscriptions as well. I miss those.

So that's my edition of 5 Question Friday. As always, feel free to copy the questions with your answers and link up to My Little Life.

What else? Well, these past few weeks have been crazy as usual. Sunday school has started. I'm determined to leave on time this year and not get any speeding tickets. Fall baseball has also started. Aidan has never played in the fall, so this is new to us. Apparently, it's much more relaxed. There is no score kept, no pitch count, and it's just fun. Frankly, it's been hard to get used to! Progress reports came out last week at school. I am happy to report that my little geniuses are doing great!! Mostly. I've also been looking for a job. I've taken a substitute teacher workshop and been fingerprinted, so as of now, I am on the sub list for the schools in our county. I've applied for a couple other jobs as well. Hopefully I will hear something soon. I also spent one day this week at several car dealerships. So not fun. We still only have one car. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day. I need to pick up this month's Angel Food (which, by the way, is pretty good), buy 2 birthday gifts, go to 2 birthday parties, go to church, and Maeve is having a friend come over. Sunday I plan to close the pool. And rest.

That's all for now. Have a great night!!

6 Word Saturday

2010-09-11T10:16:00.004-04:00

Today I'm going to try something new. It's called 6 Word Saturday. If you want to play along, don't forget to link up to Show My Face. I'm going to keep it simple and come up with something that probably most of us are feeling today.

Remembering 911 and those that died.

5QF

2010-09-10T21:14:00.000-04:00

I can't believe how quickly this past week has gone by. While I have been busy, I am going to stick with a simple post of 5 Question Friday. Feel free to copy the questions and link up at My Little Life.

1. Do you feel guilty spending money on yourself?

Actually, I do. I'd much rather spend any extra money on my kids.   However, if I have been looking for something for the house for a really long time (like that table I just bought) then I get it. But only, if I can find it at a really good price (like that table I just bought).

2. How well do you know your neighbors?

Well...I know who they are. I've got neighbors on one side that have 4 kids like we do, but they are never home. Ever. I see the dad at restaurants and the mom driving down the road, but never at their house. The neighbors on the other side of us have 2 kids, and I see the mom more often. She works with Joe, also.   They should carpool so I can keep the car during the day! I think times are just different now. People just don't hang around and have block parties anymore, which is really a shame. I remember when we moved here 4 years ago. I was the new one in the neighborhood and yet I was the one to go to my neighbors houses to introduce myself. They probably thought I was a weird one. Maybe they are right!

3. What age are you looking forward to being?

I just turned 40 this past June and can finally admit that out loud without hyperventilating! I can't imagine an age I look forward to being. However, I look forward to the day my kids are 18 and living on their own! Ha!   No, Seriously.

4. Do you get excited when the mail comes? Why?

I used to look forward to getting the mail. Especially when I was little and it was around my birthday. I loved getting cards and packages.   Now that I am older, all I ever get are bills, so I put off going to the mailbox as often as I can. My kids LOVE getting the mail everyday and even have their own designated mail days.

5. What is your earliest childhood memory?

I'm not sure how old I was, but because of where I lived, I know I was younger than 7. As a matter of fact, I think I was younger than 5. I vividly remember standing in my side yard, which is actually no bigger than a small patch of grass, when an older man was walking down the street. He was tall, wearing a suit and had gray hair. He all of a sudden, stopped walking and fell straight back onto the sidewalk. I remember seeing blood seeping from his head and on the walk. Our parents (I lived in a 3 family house. My cousins lived on the 1st floor, we lived on the 3rd) all came out to see what was going on and told us to go into the house. Some memory, huh?

Have a great night everyone!

Welcome September!

2010-09-02T14:19:00.001-04:00

I love it when I get to turn the calendar to September. That means that fall is right around the corner! With fall comes several birthdays in our home, which is quickly followed by all the holidays. Before I know it, it will be February! It's been so hot here this summer and I am really looking forward to the cooler temps, pumpkin scented candles and sweet potato casserole. Yum-O!

Yesterday, I was hoping to post about a trip some friends and I took to a local thrift shop on Tuesday. However, on Wednesday my husband works from home and takes over the computer for the day. I suppose I could have done it last night, but let's just be honest here. I was lazy. Anyhow, there is a thrift shop in town that I think is fairly new and I've been wanting to visit it for a little while. I tried to find it one day, but got completely turned around. However, this time, the plans were made and we were going. There would be no one stopping us! Michelle and I started out Tuesday morning at....

Panera for something to eat, while we waited for Kellie to join us. After talking for over an hour, we hit the road. Michelle goes to Gina's Junk fairly often, but Kellie and I have never been. How cute is this place!!

And how cute is this little guy hanging over the doorway? I imagine you could make this pretty easily.

The woman who owns it, Gina, is super nice. We saw lots of things we could have taken home, if we had space at home for it. Such as this door. All you need is a new screen and some sanding. I'm surprised Michelle didn't buy it.

And what about this window? I saw on Tatertots & Jello, that someone had made a really cute coat rack with one similar.

Kellie ended up getting a really pretty pantry. Isn't it gorgeous! It has a couple of shelves inside and tons of room to fit a child who is acting up, perhaps. Just saying.

In the end, Michelle's van looked like this.

The yellow table and some of the shutters underneath it are mine. I've been wanting a table for my front porch for the longest time now. This one is cute, with a little drawer and it was only $20!! Score!! I'll leave you with a final photo of Kellie and the ginormous aloe plant! She couldn't get over how large this was.

Have a great day everyone! I'm off to meet the school bus. :)

Milestones

2010-08-30T20:41:00.002-04:00

Today we had a new milestone at our house. Can you guess what it was?

Today we let Maeve ride the bus for the first time!! Declan was with her. His first ride was just a week ago, but unfortunately, I forgot my camera!! Not today.

Maeve jumped off the bus and was grinning from ear to ear. They both LOVED it. I am going to let them ride the bus, coming home from school, from now on. We only live a few miles away, so I will still drive them in the mornings. I just wish the bus dropped them off closer to our house in case I am running late meeting them at their stop. It might only be a half mile away, but you can't see it from our house. Maybe I will give the bus driver a ~~bribe~~ gift! One can hope.

Have a nice night everyone!!

My vanishing act

2010-08-29T22:26:00.002-04:00

This is the time of year where I usually do my vanishing act. At least where blogging is concerned. However, this year I am going to try and stick around. You are thrilled, I can tell.

So let's see what's been going on, shall we? (I'm just going to pretend that we are having a real live conversation here.)   Oooh, guess what!! I've started is an Etsy shop!! It's called Ladybugs and Fireflies. I've got a link of the side of my blog. I'm going to make some cute things for the home and sell them there. Or at least I hope to. My favorite so far, is the Advent Calendar. Probably because I love Christmas. Anyhow, I've only put a few things on there to see what kind of response I get. Hopefully I can sell some things and make enough to help with Christmas. We shall see. My friend, Michelle, has an Etsy shop as well. She is uber talented and has a ton of things listed. Her shop is called 24 Olive Street. If you are in the market for anything made with fabric, I urge you to visit her shop. You won't be sorry!

What else? Well, school has been in session for 3 weeks already! How time flies. The older kids are doing good with school. Each of them have friends in class from last year. The younger two, well that's a different story.   Maeve is liking Kindergarten, except for that little ~~brat~~ girl in her class who is telling the other girls not to play with her! This is not making momma happy and I'm ready to go to the school and have some words with said child. It's not going to be pretty. Declan has class with many of his friends this year. He loves that! Of course, he also loves talking, which is why his desk has already been moved away from the other kids.  I've also been asked to call his teacher at home last weekend. Apparently my son thought it would be a good idea to climb up on the urinal (YUCK!!) and check out some kind of bug that was climbing up the wall. In his mind, it was not a big deal, he just wanted a better look. The teacher was afraid he might fall in. (I think I just threw up in my mouth a little bit.)    Also, there has been some playing on the playground which may or may not involve kids who are falling into broken glass and pieces of cement, resulting in lots of blood and stitches. Not my son, just kids chasing him. So naturally, it's his fault. And he might be playing a made up game called "Tap Out" where boys try to knock each other down, then stand over them screaming "Tap Out!". Again, while this play time involved 4 boys, the only one to get caught was....Declan! And finally, another child came to school, so shaken he could not breathe, saying he was afraid of using the bathroom in case Declan was in there?! Personally, if my child was that upset, I wouldn't just drop him off and leave, I would be in the office finding out what was going on. But, who am I to judge another parent.  At any rate, he never even saw my son in the bathroom at all, so we are not sure where this came from. And I was in the office for that as well. *sigh* It's going to be a long year for him, I'm afraid.

I am also teaching Maeve how to read.   I have this totally awesome book called "Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons". I love it and recommend it to everyone! I even brought it in Declan's class last year to teach some of the kids in his class. Anyhow, Maeve is up to lesson 15 and is doing great!

What else? Oh yes. Baseball has started up again. Lord help me! Fall ball is much more relaxed then when you play in the spring. At least that's what I was told. However, we have practices twice a week, which will stop when the games start. They are also twice, possibly three times a week. Thankfully it's a short season. A little side note here: I would like to shout out a HUGE congratulations to Columbus' Northern Little League. Their team went all the way to the World Series playoffs!! They did fantastic and should be very proud of themselves!

I've also gotten a few emails asking me how I plan on getting debt free. First off, let me just say that it's not happening overnight. There are little changes that we are making, which will hopefully make a big difference when added up. One thing we decided to try this month was buying food from Angel Food ministries. We have never done this before and thought we'd give it a try.   I'm not a name brand snob, so it wasn't going to bother me to try something new. Some things I do like my name brands though. Anyhow, we checked it out and found that you don't need to provide anything showing a need. It's open to everyone! How awesome is that? Anyhow, we only bought one package to try. On pick up day, we were surprised to see how much food was really there for only $29!!

We've already eaten most of the food, and I'm happy to report that it's really good! I know that sounds like I expected it to be spoiled or something, but as I said, we have never done this and didn't know what to expect. Next month, we are getting a couple of packages. On their website is a menu for the following month, so you can decide if it's what you want. Also, you can order as many packages as you like.

Have a great night everyone!! I hope to be back soon!

It's 5 Question Friday!

2010-08-20T12:29:00.003-04:00

1. Do you have any nicknames and if so how did it come about?

I'd have to say that I do not have any nicknames. Sure, my husband calls me the usual things like "honey" and whatnot, but other than that nothing comes to mind. When I was a kid, though, I was very thin and called everything from stick to twig and string bean. I'm also quite certain that, behind my back, my kids have probably called me something other than mom!

2. What is your birth order amongst your siblings?

My parents only had my brother and me. I am the oldest. I've often wanted a sister, especially when I was a young girl. I like to pretend that my parents had me, and seeing that rainbows sprouted from my arse, decided to have another golden child. They quickly realize, after my brother was born, that one cannot hit the lottery twice and immediately stopped having any more kids.

3. In a movie of your life, who would play your significant other?

Oh my. There are so many actors that I really like. I am always after my husband to shave his head, so maybe Bruce Willis. However, because Joe is anything but a daredevil, I can't see that working. If I were to play me in the movies, then I would want John Duhamel to play Joe. That man is HOT!!

4. What is currently your favorite song?

Sorry, I was lost in thought after that last question! Ahem. Anyhow, currently my favorite song is probably California Gurls by Katy Perry and Snoop Dog. Each summer has a song for that year and this year, that was it.

5. Are you saving your money for anything right now? Big or small purchase?

If you've read my last post, you already know the answer to this. I'm not really saving for any big purchases. I am trying not to spend money on anything that I don't absolutely need. This way I can pay off any debt. Once that is done, and we only owe on the house, then I want to buy land someplace so I can build the home of my dreams.

That's all of my answers this week. Feel free to copy and paste them to your blog and fill in your own answers! Let me know if you do. I'd love to read them. Then, head over to My Little Life and link up!!

Debt free living. It's a struggle.

2010-08-19T13:51:00.002-04:00

Living debt free is my goal. Although, when you first start out trying to become debt free, it's hard. As a matter of fact, it downright sucks. Especially when you have four kids and one is a preteen! They don't understand why we won't go out to dinner like we used to, or buy new things whenever we want to. Before you start to worry (hello, mom!) we are not broke. My husband makes a nice living for us. I'm just tired of looking around the house and wondering where his paycheck goes. Can I get an AMEN! And it's not like we blow money left and right. For example, my television is years old. Our goal is to only owe on our house. In our effort to live debt free, we've cut out certain things like having a cell phone (I heard you gasp!) and even a second car. Both of which we got rid of last year. It's not easy having only one car, but certainly doable if you are willing to make the sacrifice. Much to the horror of my kids, they will find out this afternoon when they get home from school, that I've cancelled cable! No, I'm not trying to be cruel to them, they have other things to keep them entertained. I just don't want them turning into zombies every afternoon. I've been reading other blogs where families only spend $50 per person, per month, on groceries! I'm not there yet. Not even close. I can't seem to get out of the store without spending way more than that. However, that's the kind of habit I'm trying to break. I'm trying to make a menu for the week and only buy the food that's needed. I also painted the side of my pantry door so I can write down my menu plans, which will hopefully keep me from forgetting what the menu was in the first place! Are you living debt free? Do you have any suggestions or hints for me? I'd love to hear them. Not debt free, but want to be, then join me on this journey!

Back to School

2010-08-15T23:32:00.002-04:00

Well, last week school started around these parts. Against my wishes, all 4 of my kiddos started back. I was really, really hoping to home school the 2 oldest this year. However, it didn't work out. It was a good thing that I requested teachers for them in the event that they went back to school. They each got the teachers we wanted. Maeve didn't want to go back to school, unless she could return to preschool and have her old teacher and friends with her. Sweet, huh? Once she realized that all the kids were moving on, she was better about it. She has a super nice teacher this year.

Unfortunately, she was sick on the 2nd and 3rd day of school. Poor baby woke with a high fever and spent the next few days in my bed with me. Hopefully I won't come down with whatever she had! In the end, she was able to return to class on Friday and much to her dismay, come home with a bunch of make up work to be completed and returned tomorrow!! In typical Maeve fashion, she met a little girl in class named Olivia. She asked her if she was a pig! Oh my. I hope the girl watches the cartoon with the pig bearing her name and doesn't think Maeve is just a brat! This is going to be a fun year. I can tell. Declan has a teacher this year who is practically a saint! (I say that now, at least) He has not had the best school experience these last two years. And that is putting it mildly. This year, we are determined to make it better.

Seriously, how sweet does she look? I hope she is ready for him!! Aidan started grade six this year over at the Intermediate school he was in last year. He has a fantastic teacher also. However, he has already had one small project due! So much for easing into things. I know he's wishing he was home schooled also. I couldn't get any pictures of him and his teacher, but did manage to get him to stand still with his younger siblings.

Can't you just feel the love? Last but not least is Aislinn. She started over at the middle school. She did get the team she wanted, but has come home complaining that none of her friends are in any of her classes, the teachers give too much work, blah, blah, blah. She certainly wishes she was home schooled! Her school starts at 8am, but she has to be on the bus at 6:50! Insane.

Hopefully this will be a good year for her, too!

5 Question Friday

2010-08-07T21:26:00.001-04:00

I gotta tell you, I just love 5 question Friday!

1. Are you a neat sleeper or a messy sleeper?

I am a neat sleeper. I cannot stand it when the covers are messy and feel all wrinkly on my legs. I know, anal. I can't help it. There are worse things in life to worry about though.

2. Fill in the blank. I wish I was more ________________.

Boy, there are so many things that come to mind here! Maybe: nicer to my kids, health conscious, or financially stable. This is a good question!

3. What is something that you wish you had been warned about?

Ooo!! Maybe how much money I would be spending on scrapbooking and other craft supplies. My husband would have probably put his foot down immediately!! Although I can't say that it would have stopped me.

4. What was the best thing you ever found at a garage sale/flea market?

I must admit here that I've never been to a flea market! And as for garage sales, well, I've HAD them, I just don't go to them. I sound like a snob right? My mom found a Longeberger basket for 25 cents though. I don't have that kind of luck.

5. If you could have any meal brought to you right now, what would it be?

Since I've already eaten and am not the least bit hungry, I'd have to say ice cream! Who can say no to ice cream? Besides, it's around 100 degrees every single day here, so ice cream always hits the spot!

Happy Birthday, Maeve!!

2010-08-04T22:56:00.002-04:00

Today my littlest peanut turned 5. FIVE! How in the world did that happen? I swear, I just brought her home from the hospital. Time sure does go by quickly. Pretty soon, she will be wanting to wear makeup and drop me off a block before her destination so her friends won't see her in the company of her mother. In the meantime, I am going to enjoy every minute of her.

We went to the movies today and saw Shrek Ever After. Really cute movie. Certainly worth the dollar it cost. Then we came home and had cake and presents!

She picked it out herself. Lately, she is all about Strawberry Shortcake. She likes playing with all of the dolls. Plus, they smell good!!

She got all new bedding, including this adorable little owl pillow, from her grandparents. It's already on her bed!

I'm so glad you had a nice day. I love you, baby!

5QF

2010-07-30T15:06:00.001-04:00

Has it really been a week already? I guess it's that time again.

1. Did you have a favorite blanket or toy as a kid? If so, do you still have it?

I probably have to check with my parents on this one. I remember one Christmas where I got a pair of roller skates and was the happiest kid on the planet. I used to go roller skating every weekend. Yes, I spent 10 years of my childhood trapped in the 80's. On a side note, my neice still has a receiving blanket she got as a baby! She spent 2 weeks here recently and brought it with her. She sleeps with it every night. She's 12. This poor blanket has holes in it and is as thin as it gets. I hope she never gets rid of it!!

2. Do you dream in color?

I think I dream in black and white. At least when I wake up and can remember my dreams, it never crosses my mind that "Wow! Those colors were so vivid!" or anything.

3. How tall are you? Do you wish you were shorter or taller?

I am 5"4". Sometimes I wish I was a little bit taller. Maybe by 2 or 3 inches. I don't wear heels at all, so I am stuck at my height. My kids are starting to creep up to my height, so one of these days I might just rethink the heel wearing situation!!

4. If you could have anyone's (celeb or other) voice as the guide on your GPS, who would it be?

Sean Connery. I love his accent. However, we have a Tom Tom and I recently found out that I can download Homer Simpson's voice!! Can you just imagine taking a wrong turn? "D'oh!"

5. Do you return your shopping cart to the corral or leave it wherever in the parking lot?

I always return it to the corral. I know, live on the wild side, right? I would just feel terrible if I caused damage to someone's car because I was lazy. I even return it in the pouring rain.

Fall gift exchange!!

2010-07-29T16:35:00.005-04:00

I am so going to do this! I am already thinking about what to give. Fall is probably my favorite time of year. The air is nice and cool. I start putting using my fall decorations and putting a fire in the fireplace. I absolutely LOVE fall!! Won't you join in?

Fun in the Sun

2010-07-27T23:28:00.001-04:00

Lately it has been so hot. Not just the usual Georgia heat either. We've had heat advisories and everything. It is so uncomfortable. We have a pool in our backyard, although as a general rule, I don't go in it. Something about not wanting to scar my kids by seeing me in a bathing suit and all that. Anyhow, this past week, I have been in the pool. Every. Single. Day. My kids love it when I am swimming with them. All I hear is "Look at me!" or "Watch me!" You'd think that I didn't spend any time with them at all the way they all clamor for attention. My youngest doesn't know how to swim yet and will only go in the pool with her Safety Seal AND an inner tube. Well, the other day, she got very brave and decided to do without the inner tube. She's having a great time splashing around, especially now that she realizes she can touch the bottom! We have a sport pool, so it's only 4 feet at it's deepest, which is in the middle. Either side is only 3 feet. At first I didn't like it, but now I think it's great! So much better than having a deep end. You really can't do anything there. This way, we can play volleyball and all sorts of things. Anyhow, Maeve is feeling pretty good about going right in the pool. Me? I'm a nervous wreck! I follow her all over the place now. I think I liked it better when she was much more cautious. I did get a few pictures of all the kids having some pool fun. I did manage to get in some pictures as well! I won't show you those. You're welcome.

Please ignore the open skimmer. My children like to look inside and see if anything is dead in there. I'm not sure why this is fascinating to them, I think it's strange. Anyhow, today we went to the movies. On Tuesdays at 10am, you can go to the movies for $1. The drinks and popcorn are also $1, so it's a pretty cheap way to spend the morning. They were showing Alvin & the Chipmunks. I had never seen it before and it was kinda cute. Next week is the Squealquel. **On a side note** Parents: just because the movies are cheap, does not mean you should let your kids talk through the whole thing! Or kick the chair in front of them, or pull hair, or throw popcorn! Some parents really should not be allowed to reproduce at all. Hopefully tomorrow will be better, I am thinking of taking the kids to see Shrek Happily Ever After. Maybe. We might just spend the whole day in the pool instead. Summer is going by way to fast around here. Can you believe that school starts in just 2 weeks!!

5 Question Friday

2010-07-24T10:34:00.001-04:00

I know I'm a day late, but I'm linking up anyways!

1. What were your school colors?

In high school, my colors were blue and silver (Go Silverhawks!)
I never finished college, so no colors to report there. Someday I WILL go back, much to the shock of my kids.

2. What's the best compliment you ever received?

The best compliment any mom could receive, other than "Did you lose weight?" would be that I have some really great kids. That's always nice to hear. Even though they all have minds of their own, I like to take some credit for how they are doing.

3. Do you buy cheap or expensive toilet paper?

Cheap toilet paper?!? No way. Not for me. I don't want to feel sandpaper on my tush. I love soft T.P. My bum deserves no less!

4. Have you ever had a surprise party thrown for you? Or have you had one for someone else?

I've had a surprise baby shower thrown for me. We lived in Mississippi at the time and my family lives in Florida and Massachusetts. My mom couldn't make it, but surprised me at Diana's house with a phone call! It was a pajama shower, so everyone was nice and comfy. It was so sweet and a lot of fun!!

On the flip side, I've never planned a surprise party for anyone. I think it would be really cool!

5. What is one material possession that you "can't live without"?

This is an easy one! Since I don't have a phone or a car, and I'm doing just fine that way thankyouverymuch, I would have to say my washing machine. I am no Pollyanna and have NO DESIRE to start slapping my clothes against any rocks to get them cleaned. Either that, or my microwave, but I think I could do without that also.

Painting Declan's room

2010-07-23T22:03:00.000-04:00

For several weeks I've been promising Declan that his room would be the next one to get painted. Well, I finally got around to doing it! Choosing paint colors are not easy when you let a 7 year old help decide. I didn't want to paint the room in all one color, either. I wanted something different. I wanted 3 different colors. Declan picked out several that he liked. In the end Joe and I decided to go with the blue and red that he wanted, but chose something else for the third color. He picked out a dark brown, whereas we went with a lighter shade. After getting all the prep work out of the way, which was a HUGE pain thanks to all the damage that had been done, we were ready to paint! Since Declan wanted to help, I let him use the roller.

The easy part was painting the two main colors.

The hardest part was coming up with this.

Declan LOVES this, so it was all worth it in the end. Of course, now Maeve wants her room painted. Pink.

Girls Day Out

2010-07-19T09:25:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, I took my daugher, Aislinn, out for the day. Just the two of us. We had a nice time. A few weeks ago, when Joe took the rest of the gang to Florida, Aislinn stayed behind with me. My plan was to get a bunch of house cleaning and yardwork done. Especially since I was going to be without a car. My parents ended up coming up for a vist that week, so they helped me in the yard. My mom likes to do yardwork. She loves to plant flowers, etc. Me, I didn't get that gene. I kill plants. See. It's sad, really.

I don't do it on purpose. As a matter of fact, I think I kill them with kindness. And overwatering. At least that's my story. Anyhow, Aislinn did a lot of yardwork, too. I'm sure she was wishing she went to Florida after all. Anyhow, I decided to do something nice for her. So, Saturday I took her to get her first pedicure and manicure!! Her toes look so cute!!

I love the polka dots. The polish is hot pink. It almost makes me wish I were a 12 year old girl. After the salon, we went over to the movie theater and saw Eclipse!!

Hmm? Oh, sorry. I was looking at the picture and lost my train of thought. Ahem. She hadn't seen it yet. Me? I've seen it twice. I think it's the best one, so far. Once the movie was done, we went shopping. I had a gift certificate for Macy's that I got for my birthday last month. I turned 40. (Hey, I can say that without hyperventilating now!!) Anyhow, they happened to be having a one-day sale and I scored 2 outfits for $80 off! Gotta love a sale :) On our way home, we stopped at a Chinese restaurant and got take-out for dinner. Cause who wants to cook after a day like this, that's what I'd like to know?

how I spent my weekend

2010-07-19T09:04:00.000-04:00

Since I was feeling much better, on Friday night I decided to go to the local scrapbook shop and get crafty. I used to go to the scrapbook shop all the time, but then gave it up for a while so that I could work on other craft projects. But, I've missed hanging out with the ladies there, so even though I didn't work on scrapbook pages, I brought my other projects to work on. At the end of the school year last year, I made altered clipboards for a few of the kids' teachers. Well, I bought 5 more to make! I really love how they turned out. I ended up using chalkboard paint of about 2/3 of it, and then paper and embellishments for the rest. Love them!!

After I was done making my clipboards, I went to work on 2 small burlap wreaths. I made a large one a few months ago for the outside of my house for St. Patrick's Day. Anyhow, I bought a couple of these wreaths a while back to put in my foyer, but for the most part, all the supplies have just been staring me in the face. Finally I got to work. I bought the fabric to match my foyer, which I painted a really pretty brown last fall. These are pretty simple to make. First, I cut the black burlap into 2" strips and hot glued them onto the foam wreath. Try not to burn your fingers! (I left quite a bit of skin and glue on the store's tables!) Then I used my cricket to cut a 2" and 3" circle to be used as a template. I cut about 25 of each size circle in the 3 different fabrics. Glue the smaller circle to the inside of the larger circle, then glue a button in the center. Hot glue it to the wreath! That's all there is to it. If you don't want to use hot glue to stick the fabric circles together, you can use brads. Finally, I added large ribbon so I could hang it up in my foyer. What do you think? I love them!!

I also started an etsy shop the other day. Sort of. I have my name, Ladybugs and Fireflies, but haven't put anything in it yet. I wanted to secure my shop name first. Who knows, maybe something like these things will show up one day? I'm still on the fence.

M. I. A.

2010-07-15T16:19:00.001-04:00

That's been me. Actually, I've been in my bed sick with strep throat. Again. I've spent the past 20+ years not getting strep, only to have it now for the second time in 6 weeks!! What the heck is going on? When I was about 15, I used to get it all the time. I couldn't even walk by someone who was sick without catching it. So, with promises of living a strep-free life, I went and had my tonsils out. Lately, though, those promises seem to have been forgotten. I did get a shot and a boatload of pills, so here's to keeping the fingers crossed that with the help of God and 2 policemen, I won't get it again. I'll be back to posting when I am feeling better. Until then, have a great day!!

Make your own Memo board / Cork board

2010-07-07T23:09:00.005-04:00

A while back, I made Aislinn a padded headboard for her bed. When the wood was cut down, I was left with another piece and knew that I wanted to make something else with it for her room. So, I decided to make her a memo board. It is super easy to make. First I gathered up everything I needed, which was fabric (leftover from covering a small side table), stuffing, ribbon, buttons, cork, scissors, glue gun and my heavy duty staple gun (I love that thing!).

I placed the cork down and then cut the stuffing to fit in the open spot. If you are going to make this, do not stick the cork down yet!! You still need room to put the fabric and stuffing down first. Once that was done, I lay the fabric on top of the stuffing to see how much I would need. Be sure to leave yourself some extra on all sides to wrap around for a tight fit. Then I cut it. I know it's all wrinkled, but since I ~~am lazy~~, hate to iron, I left it alone You can iron it if you are really anal about wrinkles, but it's going to get pulled tight, so they won't show up anyway.

Next, put a little of the fabric, so the pattern you want is upside down, on the wood and lie the stuffing on top. Then staple all around the edge of the stuffing to keep it in place. There should be some fabric that is stapled down, also.

Once that is down, wrap the fabric over the stuffing and staple it on the back of the wood to your hearts content. Or until ~~you run out of staples,~~ ~~your dad takes the staple gun away from you,~~ it's secure.

(See, no wrinkles!!)

Then take your ribbon and place it in any design you want. When you cut the ribbon, be sure to cut it a little bigger so it can wrap around the board. Staple it through the fabric and into the wood where it crosses over each other.

Then stick the cork down. I bought mine at Wal-Mart super cheap. All 4 pieces came in a pack for probably $2.50. It comes with some adhesive tape, which we used, but I also added some extra adhesive as well. Then I raided my stash of buttons and hot glued them down where all the ribbon cross each other to hide the staples!

That's all there is to it! I bought some small picture hanging hooks, nailed them to the back of the wood and hung this baby on the wall. So far, so good. She has it loaded down with postcards from her pen pal in Australia and other stuff. And best of all, Aislinn loves it!

A visit from the cousins

2010-07-03T22:31:00.005-04:00

For the past 2 weeks, my niece and nephew have been staying with us. My niece, Oceon, is 12 and my nephew, Shamus, is 10. For the most part all the kids gets along. However, I think that 2 weeks is just a tad too long to spend together. Oceon and Aislinn are the same age, so that's great. Maeve is only 4, so she gets on Aislinn's nerves. Oceon doesn't have a little sister who annoys her to no end, so according to Maeve, she is much more fun to be around. The girls mostly got along well. Until 2 days ago, when Aislinn kicked Oceon out of her room, and Oceon was telling Aislinn she was never coming back. Oh my God, the drama! Shamus is one year younger than Aidan, and a little over 2 years older than Declan. Three boys is NOT a good number. Especially when the youngest wants to do everything the cousin does. Mostly because they don't see each other except for once or twice a year. However, the cousin wants to hang out with my oldest son and do everything he does. It's hard being the littlest and left out of everything. Especially when the littlest is being told by idolized cousin that his "real parents didn't want him, and left him with us." WTH?!? Nice. For the record, my son is not adopted. And even if he was, that's not a nice thing to say to a child. Did my oldest son stick up for his younger brother? Why no, he didn't. We are having issues with that right now.

Anyhow, things were not always like this. Last Saturday we took all the kids to the Montgomery Zoo.

It's so hard to get 6 kids to look at the camera at the same time, but I think it came out pretty good. The zoo was great! Except for the white tigers. One of them was walking around with a small duck in it's mouth. I thought it was dead at first, but was sadly mistaken. When the tiger put him down and proceeded to give the duck a bath, it didn't move at all. Then the tiger got up and walked away. The duck seized the moment and started to run away, only to have the tiger turn and pounce on it! There might have been some screaming from the people, OK me, watching. At that point, I ran away. I didn't want to see any more. My food is born already packaged in the grocery store, thankyouverymuch. However, when the kids finally caught up to me at the exit, I got to hear all the gory details of how the tiger held his paw on the duck's head while it ripped out all the feathers and then as the tiger got up again, the poor duck was on it's back. Twitching. I will never understand why that was interesting to watch, but Aislinn took a VIDEO of the whole thing! My skin is still crawling.

Anyhow, onto happier thoughts. We had a nice time with the kids going to the movies, going out to lunch, playing family kickball, swimming, swimming and more swimming. And making s'mores!! Even though they are on the grill and not over a campfire, they still tasted good.

That's it for tonight! See you tomorrow.

Hmm,

2010-07-03T21:40:00.001-04:00

what else? Oh yeah! On the way to Sunday school I got my first speeding ticket! It was 8:30 on a Sunday morning and there was absolutely no one on the road except for me (and apparently, the police man). We were running a little bit late. When I was ~~flying~~ driving down the road, I look in my rear view and see some jerk right on my tail! Silly me, I pull to the other lane to let said jerk pass. Well, upon looking back in the mirror, I noticed that the car was still on my tail. I was about to change lanes again, when I saw the blue lights. It figures. I probably could have gotten out of it, but ~~was cutting him off mid-lecture~~ didn't want to set a bad example for my kids. As a matter of fact, I do see the irony here. The point is, I wanted my kids to see that if you do something wrong, you pay the consequences. Thankfully, the nice cop only wrote me up for going 10 over the limit so nothing will show on my license. I think the Sunday school books that were on my son's lap helped, too. I'm leaving them in the car from now on!!

don't mind me

2010-07-03T21:30:00.000-04:00

In May, my daughter's drum lessons came to an end. She enjoyed learning how to play and in the last few sessions was getting really good. She was having a great time with her drum solos!! She is looking forward to continuing in the fall with the same instructor. A boy that lived down the street has his own full drum set and told her that she could practice whenever she wanted, but his drum set was all in boxes! Now, they've moved. I've looked into getting her a set, but in addition to being a lot of money, I'm afraid of her losing interest and then being stuck with them. Her birthday is in October, so we'll see.

Slinking in the back

2010-07-03T21:24:00.001-04:00

I'm just going to pretend that I've been blogging all along and haven't been gone for several months - AGAIN! So, where were we? Well, since I last decided to drop by, we've been busy with baseball season, drum lessons, Sunday school, regular school, the first half of summer, and much more. Let's take one at a time though, right? Baseball lasted for what seemed like an eternity. Probably because after the regular season, Aidan was drafted into the All Stars! He was so excited to go. During the regular season he played very well, and was one of the 2 main pitchers. Each season he plays a couple new positions. I used to think that it's got to be hard to change like that, but the coaches have faith in him, so I just sit back and watch. At least most of the time. However, this season, when he threw a pitch in the first inning, the kid who was up to bat hit a line drive RIGHT INTO AIDAN'S JAW!! Yeah. I was on the field in under 3 seconds. He didn't cry at all, even though he was in some serious pain. His jaw was all swollen, and while his mouth was full of blood, he didn't lose any teeth. The coach on the other team was really nice and kept coming over to check on Aidan. He ended up finishing out the inning as pitcher, and was so mad after getting hit, that he struck out every batter after that! Once the inning was over and all his teammates were in the dugout, he was like a hero! All the boys wanted to touch his jaw. And though I did go into the dugout with my camera, he was in no mood for a photo. So I left him alone. We ended up leaving the game after the 2nd inning to go to the hospital for Xrays. Thankfully, nothing was broken or out of place at all, just badly bruised.

Give A Day, Get A Day!!

2010-02-19T22:45:00.002-05:00

Today, my family participated in the Disney Give A Day, Get A Day program. Originally we were supposed to drive to Florida and volunteer there tomorrow with my parents, niece and nephew. Fortunately, we were able to keep checking the Disney site and found something in our area that we could all do. Except Maeve. She's too young. Finding something that the other kids could do was not easy. Most opportunities wanted you to be at least 16. However, we got lucky and found something for today that we could all do! It was indoors, only for 2 hours AND we didn't have to drive to another state! We went to a community center where clothing, etc. is donated. Out job was to sort through bags of clothes, discard anything that we wouldn't let our kids or mother be caught dead in, or was stained beyond repair, and hang up the rest. We also had to pair up shoes. Nothing too difficult. This is the building we spent our morning in. It's also a transitional house for women who are needing a place to stay for no more than 2 years.

Aidan and Aislinn sorting clothes.

Don't you love the look on Aidan's face? I think they were a little grossed out by the condition of some of the clothes. Who could blame them? I mean, really. People WASH your clothes before donating them! If you wouldn't wear it, what makes you think someone else wants to? Poor Aislinn picked up a piece of clothes that had slime on it! GROSS! And donating your used underwear? YUK. I try to only donate clothes that either don't fit, or are not my taste any longer. And underwear, it just gets tossed. Maybe that makes me a snob. Whatever. On the other hand, some of the things that come in - holy moly! Brand new $50 jeans with the tags still on them, Nine West boots with nary a scuff mark? Hello!! I might just go back on Monday, when the store is open to the public and grab those babies. Everything is only 50 cents, too.

The 2 hours passed in what seemed like the blink of an eye. Now, we just print out our vouchers for Disney and that's it! Easy Peasy.

Popcorn Balls

2010-02-19T22:15:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was the Valentine's parties at the kids' schools. I had already made several batches of pretzels and Hershey Hugs, but with the unforseen snow day on Friday followed by "Winter Break" on Monday and Tuesday, the snacks seemed to have vanished. Hmmm....

I did make a couple more batches, but this time also made a pan of popcorn balls. I got the recipe from Michelle who assured me that it was easy to make. After all, I didn't feel like spending all my free time in the kitchen. I used pink marshmallows just to make sure the finished product was nice and pink. I popped 2 bags of popcorn and let it cool for a bit before doing anything else. Once cooled, I take out all the kernels. (Aislinn can't eat them because of her braces) I then mixed the melted butter, pink marshmallows and strawberry jello mix; poured it over the popcorn and stir it all up. Doesn't it look good?

Then I sprayed an ice cream scoop generously with Pam.

I was able to get a total of 29 scoops of popcorn balls! Not only that, but it was a hit with the kids!! I'll be making these again. Once the scoops were firmed up, I put them into cupcake liners. A quick pop into clear bags tied with ribbon and they were ready for the party. Delicious and Adorable!!

Finished Dollar Store Tray

2010-02-16T13:41:00.000-05:00

I was going to wait until later to post, but I am positively giddy about this tray!! I gave it a top coat of Mod Podge last night and this morning ran by Hobby Lobby to pick up some lace and other things I came across that I just had to have. So, with lace in hand, I got out my glue gun hoped for the best. I was not disappointed at all!!

I bought a yard of this lace. In the end, I had maybe about 2 - 3 inches left over.

Ignore the bottom of the tray. I know it's a mess from all the Mod Podge and paper. Anyhow, after the lace was glued on, I cleaned up the bottom and got out the Gorilla Glue. I spray painted the little legs last night and they were all dry and ready to go. Actually, the legs are drawer pulls for $1.47 for a pack of 4.

Apply a little bit of pressure and they are good to go!! All done. I am absolutely thrilled with how this turned out. And how inexpensive is this? I'm in love!

Mod Podge Monday!!

2010-02-15T23:23:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited! I've never used Mod Podge before and was a little nervous. But then I started reading other blogs and seeing the really cool things they were making with this stuff (like this) and figured why not give it a shot. Well today I invited Michelle over to work on some of these trays. And yes, I actually DO have other friends besides her, but it's so much fun when you have a friend who likes the same things you do and who lives around the corner! (btw Michelle, thanks for showing me how to use this link thing!!) So, we grabbed our Mod Podge

and trays and got down to business. Before too long, mine was looking like this.

I love it!! I also have 4 small round drawer pulls that are in my garage all spray painted white. Tomorrow, when they are dry, I will glue them to the bottom of the tray and cover it with a sealer so we can use it for food. How cool is that?! I'm also going to put some lace around the bottom edge so that it looks like a dust ruffle. Actually, I just want and excuse to get out the glue gun.

I also made some clipboards for my kids. A while ago I won 2 of them from another blogger far more talented than I (whose name escapes me - I'm so sorry!). Anyhow, today I finally got to work and made 2 more. They are all done except for the initials. I need my Cricut for that, and it's too late and too noisy to get it out. But as of right now, I like them a lot. What do you think?

And with that, I am a happy girl.

The Big Snowstorm of Twenty-Ten!!

2010-02-12T21:00:00.011-05:00

It seems funny even typing out the title to this post. I live in southern Georgia. We aren't supposed to get snow. If we are lucky, we get it once a year. Well, today was apparently that day. Joe's job decided to let everyone go home early today due to the "Treacherous Driving Conditions". Are they serious?? This was the road on the way to his office. Looks like wet roads to me. However, we were happy to have him home early.

Since we very rarely get any of the pretty white stuff, as soon as it starts, we throw on the coats, pile out the door and into the yard. As you can see, there is nothing even sticking on the ground. The kids don't care, they love it anyways!

Maeve likes catching snowflakes on her tongue. So do the boys.

After a little while, the snow started sticking and the snowball fights began! Aidan got Declan right in the back!

Maeve and Declan have a rare moment where they actually get along. Declan is trying to give Maeve instructions on how to build a snowman.

I feel like I have done laundry all day long, while the kids come in and out of the house changing out of wet clothes and putting on dry ones. Aislinn was outside for a little bit today, but since she had a girlfriend come over, they mostly stayed inside watching TV and playing the Wii.

These are some of my favorite pictures:

Valentine's Treats!

2010-02-11T22:51:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow was supposed to be all the Valentine's parties at school. So, in keeping with my whole "Waiting Until the Last Minute to get Everything Done" schedule, I spent part of my day in the kitchen. I made these Hershey Hugs with pretzels and M&M treats for party snacks. My husband wanted to take some to work, so I made extra for him, too. I know, I'm such a good wife, it's almost nauseating. Anyhow, the snacks are super easy to make and they are practically bite-sized so there is hardly any wasted. They are so good. Start with some square shaped pretzels and add a Hug. The regular kisses won't work. Something about chocolate and white chocolate cooking differently. Pop them into the oven at around 250 degrees for a few minutes until the Hug starts to get all shiny and softened, but not too melted. These are fresh from the oven.

Take them out and put on a couple of M&M's! Mine are all pinks and reds for Valentine's Day. (This is such a great snack any time of year because the M&M's change color for the holidays.) After the M&M's are on, just slide the whole cookie sheet in the fridge to harden. I leave mine in overnight and the next morning, Voila!! Instant party hit.

The problem now? School was just cancelled for tomorrow due to the possibility of snow. Not only that, but the kids have their winter break on Monday and Tuesday. Do you think these are still going to be here by Wednesday? Not a chance.

Drums, Baseball, Drama - Oh, my!!

2010-02-11T22:26:00.005-05:00

What am I getting myself into? Drums lessons with Aislinn have officially started. They are only once a week so that's not too bad. It's the at-home practices I'm worried about. I better stock up on Tylenol while I can. She wanted a female instructor and I must say that the girl teaching her is super nice. And tall. Instead of going to a music store who offers private lessons that cost an arm and a leg, we went through the local college. We called the Conservatory at Columbus State, who matches you up with students willing to give lessons to make some extra money. They also let us use any of the instruments at the college which is great. By the end of the first practice Aislinn was reading the music like she'd been doing it for months. (It just looked like a bunch of doodles to me.) This week, she started Aislinn out on the snare drum. Next week, she's going to be on the entire drum kit. Cymbals and all. I think I'll get the Tylenol tomorrow.

Last week, Aidan had his baseball tryouts. He's been playing for several seasons and loves it. He plans on playing for the Atlanta Braves. Anyhow, they have a draft each year so all the kids have to come and try out. The coaches are funny to watch. They carry around their clipboards and make notes on all the kids. During the games you will see them checking out other games and making notes on which kids to look for at tryouts, etc. I swear, if you look close enough, you might see money change hands! I thought little league was supposed to be about boys playing ball and having fun. Not in the south. It's serious business. The head of the league in our area called last night and asked us if we were willing to put Aidan up to A-ball, instead of B-ball. I guess some of the A-ball coaches have been watching him and want him moved up now instead of waiting until next year. I told him no, but thanks. I'd rather he get another year of experience first. Not sure how it went over, but at least he respected our decision. Now we are waiting to find out who the coach is and the practice schedule. Two days a week for practice and another day, possibly two a week, for games. The season seems to never end. I just hope it doesn't interfere with the school play he signed up for! He has his first read on March 1st. If he makes the cast, he will practice at least 2 times a week until May. I'm getting tired just thinking of all the running around I'm going to have to do. I think it's time to buy another car.

It's Amore!!

2010-02-11T21:39:00.007-05:00

While I was over at Michelle's house last week making our burlap wreaths, I saw that she had made some of the cutest frames. She is pretty creative and I love everything she comes up with, because you know, I have no creative talent at all. I just wait for her to make something and copy it. Anyhow, when we got together yesterday, I brought over all my supplies to make my own. I have to say it was very easy to make these. You just start with this stuff...

And in no time at all, you end up with these:

On the X and O frames, I used small, clear marbles that were flat on one side. The glue is strong enough to hold regular marbles, but I just had visions of them all falling off and making such a huge racket during the night and scaring me half to death, that I opted for the flat sided ones instead. I will warn you that if you've never used this glue, it smells very strong.

I also made this heart one. I accidentally made the heart a little too close to the bottom of the frame. Nothing a little ribbon tied in a bow at the top couldn't fix once I got home.

I think this might have looked much better with smaller marbles, but I couldn't find any in the same shade of red, and I really wanted this color. Overall I like how they all turned out. Plus, when my kids saw them, they asked if I could do a frame for their rooms with their initials! I can't wait to get started!

The Dance

2010-02-11T21:11:00.007-05:00

Last Friday night was the Denim & Diamonds dance over at the middle school where my two oldest kids go. Personally, I think it's a good idea for the kids to have small dances like this to go to, rather than their first dance being something more formal, like a Homecoming. At least now they can see what it's like and have a little experience with dances. The dress was casual (denim) or you could dress up if you wanted. Some kid even showed up in a limo. Serously. Anyhow, my kids opted for the denim. Can't say as I blame them. After all, it is February. Some of these kids, though, Lord have mercy, they were dressed up. Not to mention, a few of the girls had apparently raided their mom's make-up drawer. And applied it themselves. Yikes!

Aislinn wore this really cute white jacket with rhinestone studs on it. She has real diamond earrings, but was afraid to wear them in case they got lost. Smart girl!

Here is Aidan chilling out on the bleachers. He is such a people watcher!

A girl in his class asked him to the dance. While he said no to her, he still wanted to go and hang out with his friends. It turns out, he went and the girl did not go after all. I felt so bad when I found that out. Still, there was about 150 kids there and it looked like they had a good time. (I stayed to chaperone.) Besides, I wanted to see who the girl was that asked Aidan! They had a DJ that played songs for line dancing. Of course, when the Electric Slide came on, none of the kids knew what it was. So some of the adults, *cough cough*, went out on the floor and did it. Yes, as a matter of fact, we did all look cool. Except to Aislinn. She proceeded to come up to me while I was back at my post on the bleachers, and tell me her friends kept commenting to her that "Oh My God! Aislinn, your mom is dancing!" I think she might have been embarrassed. Mission accomplished!! hehe

What I like about Winter

2010-02-08T09:31:00.003-05:00

I was going through some old posts and noticed one that was about my favorite summertime things. So, I thought I'd post about what I like about winter. I love drinking hot chocolate; snuggling under a warm blanket; lighting a fire; the smell of the air when it's crisp and cool; wearing thick socks; when the leaves have turned and are falling (I know that's more of a fall thing, but I love it anyways); cardinals; the smell of someone else's fireplace going; eating hot foods that you just don't make in the summertime because the kitchen gets too hot; putting up holiday decorations; and Christmas vacation. I'm sure there's more, but I'll end it there.

Later on, I will post about this past weekend and the school dance!

Day 2

2010-02-04T11:33:00.001-05:00

So what else has been new over the past few months? Well, I got a job. I've been a stay at home mom for over 12 years. The thought of starting back to work just about gave me hives. But, we all have our crosses to bear, so I applied to a few places and waited. Because, you know, there is such a demand for those who haven't worked on a computer since WordStar was popular. Anyhow, as luck would have it, I got a call, interviewed and while there, was actually offered the job! According to my daughter, since I was hired on the spot, the must have been desperate. Yeah, thanks a lot. Anyway, I set out to purchase something that didn't have an elastic waistband, or involve shoelaces. And pantyhose! Dear God, what was I getting myself into? I managed to find a few items and bring them home, rather proud of myself. However, upon trying on said purchases, I returned them to the store. Except the shoes. You can never have enough. And I'm sorry to say, I kept the hose as well. Next on my shopping list was a car. We sold one of our cars over the summer and have yet to replace it. During this time, Joe and I were talking about the job and how the 2 youngest would have to go to an after school program. My kids have never been in a daycare at all. Declan was happy to finally have some kids his own age to play with. Maeve was not happy. I don't blame her at all. She's only 4 and wanted me to keep picking her up after school. Then she started waking up with nightmares. Every night. For a week. When the light dawned as to why, we realized that this was not going to work. We didn't want her to feel this kind of stress. I know that there are parents who don't have a choice and need to provide childcare so they can work. I get that. But I wasn't one of them. It was just not worth it. Once we told Maeve that I was going to stay home and life as we knew it was staying the same, the nightmares stopped. She is a happy girl once more. Now if I can find a job from home, I'm there! And I won't need another car either.

Also,we were going to Drama classes a few times each week, and Declan broke his pinkie finger while riding his bike. Thankfully he didn't hit his head, because he didn't wear his helmet. I'm hoping he learned his lesson. It's been no fun sitting out of gym class for a month while his finger heals. Poor baby.

I've been doing a few craft projects. The latest one is a burlap wreath. I really like how it turned out. I got together with Michelle the other day and put this one together. Whatcha think? I can't wait to put it up!

Also, this week, my daughter got braces! She is thrilled with them. Actually, I think she was just looking forward to getting blue rubber bands. The shirt she has on is from the orthodontist. (Um, HELLO! I'm the one who paid him. Where's MY shirt???) Anyhow, it says "Custom Grill Work" on it. Love it! She's decided it makes a pretty cool nightshirt.

We were told that as the day wore on, her teeth would start to become a little sore. Well, when I got home in the afternoon, I found her lying on her bed with an ice pack on her teeth! (Personally, I think the Drama classes may have added to this) Two days later, and she is good to go. The bonus is that she is bringing her tooth brush to school for after lunch! Gotta love that.

What else? Last week I signed up at a local gym for a 6 week session. Today, I went with Michelle to take the Kickboxing class. Oh. My. Goodness. I am sore. I want to cry. My legs are hurting something awful. I'm making myself feel better by eating cookies. Tomorrow I am taking a weights class, so if I make it out alive, I will let you know how it went.

Ooh! Before I forget, tomorrow night is the Denim & Diamonds dance at my kids' middle school!! My 2 oldest kids are going. *Sqeal* You're darn right I'm going. I need to take pictures!

Have a nice night!!

After quite a hiatus

2010-02-03T12:56:00.008-05:00

I am back!! Please, hold your applause. Just like everyone else, things have been hectic over the past few months. But, after receiving threats from family and friends, I've decided to give this blog thing another chance. Wish me luck.

Usually September through February is a blur. But, I will try to catch you up.

In September, Declan turned 7. I am always surprised by each birthday and the fact that he's never broken a bone. Next year, I can't say that, ahem. More later. In October, Aislinn turned 12! I am being reminded, on a nearly daily basis, that she's almost a teen. As if I could ever erase the memory of her body trying to gnaw and claw it's way out of my girlie goodies. We also took a family vacation, with Joe's mom, to Hilton Head, SC. We had a lot of fun kayaking, playing mini golf, going to the beach and lots of other stuff, too. Hilton Head is a beautiful place and I highly recommend it to anyone. We are looking forward to going back one day. This November, we stayed in town for Thanksgiving. My parents as well as my niece and nephew came up to stay for a week. I love it when the kids come up with my folks. They are the only cousins my kids have and we don't get to see them nearly enough. They are also about the same ages as my kids. This time I don't think there was any fighting!! On black Friday, the girls, except Maeve, got up and out early this year to start the Christmas shopping. It's become a family tradition, and my niece, Oceon, was upset when she almost missed it. Christmas was fun. Joe's mom came to visit and see the kids all open presents. I think they pretty much got what they were hoping for, so it was a success. January rolled around and brought us Joe's birthday. Since it is so close to Christmas, we usually don't do gifts, but instead he chooses any special food to be made. From scratch. Did I ever mention that I am NOT Betty Crocker? I give it my best shot anyhow. This time the desert was an incredible chocolate torte. It was so good! Betty Crocker - Eat your heart out!!

Also during the past few months, I've been busy around the house. I've painted my foyer, which is now my FAVORITE room in the whole house! The paint is Gentle Fawn by Glidden.

I love the color. My foyer used to be a very light, almost cream color. Same as the living room. In fact, my house is painted in all pastel colors. I feel like I'm trapped in a nursery! I want to paint the fireplace wall this same brown color. *sigh* It's love.

I've also FINALLY hung up some valances that have been in my closet for over 3 years. I'm hoping it will get me moving on painting the living room. I love these curtains. My favorite part, they aren't hung with a rod, but cup hooks!!

What else? Oh yeah. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, my parents and I made my daughter a headboard. It was so easy. All you need is plywood, fabric, some kind of padding (I used a twin sized egg crate that fits on a mattress) and a heavy duty staple gun. Viola!! I love it. As a matter of fact, I think I might have gone looking for anything else in the house to staple. I'm not sure. Just sayin'.

I'll be back later on to show you some more things. I don't want to overwhelm you all at once! Have a great day.

1st day of School!!

2009-08-07T11:51:00.007-04:00

All set and ready to go!!

Each year, on the first day of school, I spring from my bed and cheerfully sing (at the top of my lungs) "It's the most Wonderful Time of the Year". Yesterday was a bit different for me. My baby girl, who just turned 4 on the 4th mind you, was starting preschool. In the past, with my other children, I had sent them to a half day preschool when they were 2 and 3 years old. But with Maeve, I have never put her anywhere. No mothers morning out, no day care, no half day thing at all. She has been with me. 24/7. And now she was leaving me. I know it's my job as their mom to make sure they are kind, caring and smart kids, and I think I've done a pretty good job at making sure they all are. I know that Maeve is ready for this. She was walking down the hall announcing to everyone that she was there to go to preschool and showing her new lunchbox to anyone who would give her the time of day. She walked into her new classroom without a care in the world, waved to the other kids, and claimed her place at the computer with the teacher. She didn't cling to my leg, cry or beg me not to leave her. Did I do a bad job in raising her this far so that she WANTS to leave me? Isn't she supposed to cry and ask to stay home for another year? Maeve is ready for this. I am not.

Maeve and her teacher.

Declan has been looking forward to going back to school. While he might not admit that out loud, I can tell. He wants to play with kids his own age. He likes learning new things. He certainly didn't want to be home with me any longer than he had to. Getting up early is another story. Here he is with his new teacher.

Aidan and Aislinn were looking forward to school, too. They started a brand new middle school this year! Aidan was excited because at least 7 kids from his class last year and in his class this year. Aislinn has no girls in her class from last year, so she was a little more nervous about the whole thing. There is a couple boys in her class that she knows, but they are boys and, to her, are a waste of time and air! Ha!! Anyhow, as I was pulling up to the school, she made a comment about not wanting to go. So I asked them if they wanted me to park and walk them in. Well, my goodness. Aidan screamed "NO!!" as if someone were trying to snatch him from the park! Humph. Anyhow, Aislinn just said no and got out of the car. Neither of them looked back. How did they get to be so big so fast?

Happy Birthday, Maeve!!

2009-08-04T22:40:00.005-04:00

confidential to Maeve:
Wow! Where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday I was heading to the hospital to have you. You have grown so quickly, it almost makes me sad. I love watching you each day grow into the little girl I love so much. In just 2 days you will be starting preschool. *Yikes!* It's one thing to have the other kids go to school, but you are my youngest, my baby. You have already asked me several times if I would go to school with you, just to make sure it's fun. Not only that, but you tell me at least once a week that you are never moving away from me. I hope you don't. I love you more, my sweet girl. Please, don't grow up too fast.

Today we went to Wild Animal Safari for my daughter's birthday. It's one of the few drive through, feed-the-wild-animals- right-from-your-car, kind of places. She loves it there. All the kids do. Even Aidan, although he sits in the middle of the back seat so he doesn't get slobbered on! He doesn't like to get dirty! Yes, I am counting my blessings. After that, we went to lunch at B. Merrill's. Of course, we came home to have cake and watch Maeve open her gifts. She's really into Littlest Pet Shop right now and was pleased as punch to get a whole mess of them! After getting all the kids showered, we went to our "Meet the Teacher" at school. God knows we needed to shower first! Can you imagine the teacher's first impression of you, and you smelling like buffalo? YUCK! Anyhow, we had a busy day today, but managed to squeeze it all in. I did take bunches of pictures, which I will try and post tomorrow. I also got some of the cute little puppy our neighbors just got. For some reason he likes it at our house! How long do you think it will be before he moves in with us?

1 year, 100 posts later.....

2009-07-18T06:21:00.011-04:00

and I'm still here! This is my 100th post. Can you believe it?! Of course, I just went back to the beginning and noticed that it took me a just over a year (July 11th) to get here. It's funny to go back and read all the things my kids have said or done since then. That's why I love to scrapbook. Cause I tend to forget things and it's great to have something to fall back on.

Anyhow, since my last post we have been busy, as usual. Yesterday and today we have been cleaning out the garage so I can bring in more stuff from the house! Our neighborhood is having a garage sale next weekend and we are participating. We have several years worth of crap, um, I mean, stuff, that has accumulated. My kids are even helping out! Of course, I had to tell them that Santa can't bring anything new because he can't even see the floor of their rooms due to all the toys they already have. Whatever. It's working. See what it looks like in there:

Do you see anything that you are just dying to have? That's not even half of it! Anything that does not sell is not even coming back into the house. I mean it. Really, I do. This garage sale could not have come at a better time either. My kids start back to school on the 6th and I plan to clean, paint, etc. to fill my time. Now I will have even less to clean. Aaaaah! Feels so good.

Friday, Joe took off from work. We went over to the Montgomery Zoo in Alabama. It's only about an hour and a half away, so not too bad. Aislinn has never been. They all enjoyed it. Aidan acts like the flamingos. That boy is talented I tell ya!

Maeve's favorite is the jackalope.

At least I was able to get 3 of them to sit next to each other!

Finally a picture of me and Joe that I like. It's only of our heads! No stomach at all!! Woo Hoo!!

We left just as it was getting unbearable outside with the heat. On our way home, we stopped at Red Robin and had an early dinner. I love that place. Awesome salads!

What else? Oh yeah! Declan went to Swamp camp over at CSU. He liked it, except for the fact that it lasted all day. (Just wail until school starts buddy!) He would start the day at home by asking if he could stay home! Who's kid is this that does not want to go to camp? By the time I picked him up, he was glad he went. I stayed with him for a few hours on a Wednesday and took some pictures. I can't wait to scrap these. Here he is with his snake made from newspaper. It almost makes me wish I got to go!!

We also went out to the Outback one night. I love that place!! I could eat just the cheesy fries if given the chance. And no one was watching me!! How good do they look?? Don't answer that, I already know!

Then, of course, Declan was stung by a hornet. He was playing at another boys' house down the street when it happened. Naturally, when he came home to show me, I got my camera! Then an onion to get the stinger out. Boy, have I got MY priorities straight! Don't judge me!

I think I'll end here. After all, it's 1am. I probably should get some sleep!!
Have a great night. :)

Which one are You?

2009-07-14T11:29:00.001-04:00

CAPRICORN The Go-Getter (Dec 22 - Jan 19)
Patient and wise. Practical and rigid.. Ambitious. Tends to be Good-looking. Humorous and funny. Can be a bit shy and reserved. Often pessimistic. Capricorns tend to act before they think and can be Unfriendly at times.. Hold grudges. Like competition. Get what they want.
AQUARIUS - The Sweetheart (Jan 20 - Feb 18)
Optimistic and honest. Sweet personality... Very independent. Inventive and intelligent. Friendly and loyal. Can seem unemotional. Can be a bit rebellious. Very stubborn, but original and unique. Attractive on the inside and out. Eccentric personality.
PISCES - The Dreamer (Feb 19 - Mar 20)
Generous, kind, and thoughtful. Very creative and imaginative. May become secretive and vague. Sensitive.. Don't like details. Dreamy and unrealistic. Sympathetic and loving. Kind. Unselfish. Good kisser. Beautiful.
ARIES - The Daredevil (Mar 21 - April 19)
Energetic. Adventurous and spontaneous... Confident and enthusiastic. Fun. Loves a challenge. EXTREMELY impatient. Sometimes selfish. Short fuse. (Easily angered.) Lively, passionate, and sharp wit Outgoing. Lose interest quickly - easily bored. Egotistical. Courageous and assertive. Tends to be physical and athletic.
TAURUS - The Enduring One (April 20 - May 20)
Charming but aggressive. Can come off as boring, but they are not. Hard workers. Warm-hearted. Strong, has endurance. Solid beings that are stable and secure in their ways.. Not looking for shortcuts. Take pride in their beauty. Patient and reliable. Make great friends and give good advice. Loving and kind. Loves hard -- passionate. Expresses themselves emotionally. Prone to ferocious temper-tantrums. Determined.. Indulges themselves often. Very generous.
GEMINI - The Chatterbox (May 21 - June 20)
Smart and witty. Outgoing, very chatty. Lively, energetic. Adaptable but needs to express them selves. Argumentative and outspoken.. Like change... Versatile. Busy, sometimes nervous and tense. Gossips. May seem superficial or inconsistent. Beautiful physically and mentally.
CANCER - The Protector (June 21 - July 22)
Moody, emotional. May be shy. Very loving and caring. Pretty/handsome Excellent partners for life. Protective. Inventive and imaginative. Cautious. Touchy-feely kind of person. Needs love from others. Easily hurt, but sympathetic.
LEO - The Boss (July 23 - Aug 22)
Very organized. Need order in their lives - like being in control. Like boundaries. Tend to take over everything. Bossy. Like to help Others. Social and outgoing. Extroverted. Generous, warm-hearted. Sensitive. Creative energy. Full of themselves. Loving. Doing the right thing is important to Leos . Attractive.. 13 years of bad luck if you do not forward.
VIRGO - The Perfectionist (Aug 23 - Sept 22)
Dominant In relationships. Conservative.. Always wants the last word.. Argumentative. Worries. Very smart. Dislikes noise and chaos. Eager. Hardworking. Loyal. Beautiful. Easy to talk to. Hard to please. Harsh. Practical and very fussy. Often shy. Pessimistic..
LIBRA - The Harmonizer (Sept 23 - Oct 22)
Nice to everyone they meet. Can't make up their mind. Have own unique appeal. Creative, energetic, and very social. Hates to be alone. Peaceful, generous. Very loving and beautiful. Flirtatious. Give in too easily. Procrastinators. Very gullible. .
SCORPIO - The Intense One (Oct 23 - Nov 21)
Very energetic. Intelligent. Can be jealous and/or possessive.. Hardworking. Great kisser. Can become obsessive or secretive. Holds grudges. Attractive. Determined. Loves being in long Relationships. Talkative. Romantic. Can be self-centered at times. Passionate and Emotional..
SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One (Nov 22 - Dec 21)
Good-natured optimist. Doesn't want to grow up ( Peter Pan Syndrome ). Indulges self. Boastful. Likes luxuries and gambling. Social and outgoing.. Doesn't like responsibilities. Often fantasizes. Impatient. Fun to be around. Having lots of friends. Flirtatious. Doesn't like rules. Sometimes hypocritical. Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. Doesn't like being doubted. Beautiful inside and out.

Random things I like about Summer

2009-07-10T14:47:00.003-04:00

Early this morning, while I lie awake in bed, I was listening to the birds chirping right outside my window. It's such a nice sound to wake up to, and for a brief moment, made me glad to be living in the country. Then my mind started wandering to what else I liked. More specifically, about summertime. This list is not in any particular order. I enjoy sleeping in; swimming with the family; eating ice cream *guilt free* every day; getting pedicures and wearing flip flops; watching the birds in the feeders; summer camp; the smell of freshly cut grass; having the sun stay out a little bit longer; driving down the road with the windows down; letting the kids stay up late; iced coffee, and food that's been cooked on the grill. I'm sure there is more. I know that there's a lot I like about the fall/winter also. I'll post about that in about 6 months! What do you like about summer?

6 months

2009-07-09T16:13:00.002-04:00

Oh my goodness!! There is only 6 months to go until the Disney marathon! What did I get myself into?? Can it be undone? No, I don't want to back out. I really need to get moving.

Happy 4th of July!!

2009-07-09T15:51:00.007-04:00

Yes, I know it's technically the 9th. I like to be fashionably late. This year for the 4th, I drove down to Florida to pick up my two oldest kids who were staying at their grandparents' houses. I made great time driving there. I mean, there was NO ONE on the roads! It was great and I actually enjoy driving by myself. I can have the radio up as loud as I want, sing without anyone telling me to stop, etc.
Anyhow, I picked up my son, visited with my MIL for an hour, then got back in the car for the hour and half ride to my parents house. They live at the beach, so we get a great view of the fireworks over the ocean. Instead of going up to the roof like in prior years, we went to the beach instead. It was amazing!! I found a fireworks setting on my camera (thanks, mom!) and got about 100 pictures. Some were good, some were not. Here's me and my kids. It's starting to get dark and the wind was blowing.

My parents. I am sure they are thrilled to have their house back to themselves. Pretty soon they will be heading up to Cape Cod for a month. I wish I was going, too!!

Some fireworks. They were going off all over the place. It was hard to know where to look!

After everything ended, we had a nice downpour! Fortunately, we made it back to the condo right before the rain started. Naturally, I stayed up too late talking, and was really tired in church Sunday morning. Luckily, I managed to stay awake the entire drive home, which this time was LOADED with traffic. Figures.

bad blogger

2009-07-09T15:14:00.008-04:00

You know, I have such good intentions of keeping this thing up to date. But then the date goes by, followed by more, and then it's overwhelming because soooo much has happened! Alas, I shall strive to do better.

Since my last post, I went to a scrappin retreat with my bud, Michelle (I can't figure out how to have you click on her name and be led directly to her blog (!) but it's on my side bar.). I brought a bunch of stuff to work on and I am thrilled beyond words to say that I completed all of it!! I think I only managed to get about 20 layouts done, plus journaling on others, as well as a few cards. 20 may be a lot to some people, and it is, but the last retreat I went to, I did 59 pages!!
I only took a picture of one layout, but it is one of my favorites. I really LOVE the paper. We picked it up at Archivers, on the way to Helen and I think I used every scrap I had! **Must. Get. More.**

Made some cards, too!

These cards were made using a scallop flower punch that CM just came out with. I am getting me one of those. Speaking of really cool punches... Michelle got me the Apron punch from Fiskars for my birthday! (Squeal!) I have been trying to find it everywhere with no luck. She saw it in Archiver's and got it for me! Thanks, Michelle. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!! :)

Anyhow, Helen is such a cute little town! I can't believe that all the years I lived so close and never made the trip. I will definitely be going back with the hubs and kiddos.

That's a horse drawn carriage in front of us! How sweet is it!

Such a sweet little town. We went to dinner at an outdoor cafe and were able to see people falling off, um, I mean tubing down the river!

Here we are at the crop. It's about 2am and we are the only people still awake! What's wrong with everyone? They must not have small children at home and therefore not need to make the most of their time. Either that, or they didn't have the brownies with the 2 inch thick frosting that made my filings curl up and fall out, to keep them up like I did! (they were good though)

The crop was fun. I was able to catch up with a few ladies that I haven't cropped with in several years. I'm looking forward the next one that's put together.

Happy Birthday (to ME!!)

2009-06-25T23:21:00.005-04:00

Today I am 39. Next year I start counting backwards. I remember when I was a wee lass I told a friend of mine that I wanted to be dead before I turned 40, because, ya know, I did NOT want to get old! Of course, I also wanted to have all my teeth pulled out so I didn't have to deal with any root canals, bridges, etc. I've given up on those thoughts. 40 isn't looking so bad after all. But next year I'm still counting backwards. :)

All in all I had a pretty nice day. I slept in for starters!! Since it is so blasted HOT outside, we opted to go to dinner instead of lunch. I was really in the mood for Thai food. The kids have never had it, so we left early and figured if they sat still and let Joe and I eat, we would happily pull into Burger King for them when we were done. Much to my surprise, they tried everything! Maeve really didn't like anything except the bread, but Declan ate all the satay chicken, tried a spring roll and the curry chicken. And since Maeve filled up on bread and bites of the other food, I didn't even need to go to BK! We did run into Petland so they could play with some puppies though. I love that you can take them into a little area to play with them. An 8 week old Beagle is just precious I tell ya! Maeve wanted to see the rats and mice. (what's wrong with my girl?) Declan was all about the dogs.

Tonight, I am packing up my scrapbook stuff. In the morning I am headed to Helen, GA with my friend, Michelle. We are meeting up with some of the women I used to scrapbook with before I moved to the country. I haven't seen them in almost 3 years! I can't wait to go. I will be back on Sunday night with, I hope, lots of completed pages. ((Thanks, Joe!!!)) Until then...

Fun in the Sun

2009-06-22T23:06:00.005-04:00

Lately, it has been so hot outside. I know I live in the south and warm temps are to be expected, but this is ridiculous!! I went out to the store tonight and when I was coming home, at 9pm, it was 86 degrees outside! It's been almost too hot to go in the pool. The temp in the water has to be about 90 degrees. I'll admit that it's nice to walk in the pool and not have to suck in my breath when I feel the water. We are trying to teach Maeve how to swim this year. Not anything creative, we just want her to be able to get to the side if she ever falls or is pushed in. She's not having any of it. She just wants us to hold her! What fun is that?? Declan, on the other hand, is loving the pool. Can't you tell?

Happy Birthday, Mom!! (and more)

2009-06-22T22:25:00.005-04:00

Today is my mother's birthday! She's 29, again. She lives in Florida and I live in Georgia, so we don't get to see each other very often. However, my oldest son is with her now. He and my dad picked up birthday cupcakes and a gift certificate to a spa!! (Um, don't forget MY birthday is Thursday! ha!) Anyhow, I hope you had a great day, mom. I love you!!

Last week my youngest son had VBS. All of 25 kids registered, but on the first night, 77 kids showed up!! What?? Don't parents realize that volunteers need to be set up for these things, not to mention activities and food need to be purchased. How can you not sign your child up and expect that everything will be taken care of when you just drop them off! I'm not sure why this kind of thing surprises me anymore, but it does. Personally, I would have sent the kids home. I know that's probably mean, and certainly not the kids' fault, but unless these rude parents feel a bit of pain, nothing will change. (These are probably the same parents who do not RSVP to a birthday party, but that's another post all together, so don't get me started!) At any rate, the church is used to this behavior and was ready for it. Back to my son, at first he didn't want to go, but being the good mom that I am, I made him. Actually, I knew he would have a great time if he gave it a chance, and he did. How could you not have fun when you get to make s'mores!!

From then on, he was all set to go. Each night they had dinner for the kids, so you know I was happy! On the last night, they had dinner for the families as well. And my son had a salad!! If you know my kids and their aversion to anything green, then you'd know that this is a huge step!! Made his momma proud. :)

Yesterday was Father's Day! So on Saturday, Maeve woke up at 7am. Joe was already up, so the 2 of them sat in the kitchen and played with Play-Do. Somehow, they got on the subject of bunnies. While they both agreed that they liked bunnies, Maeve decided that she liked chocolate bunnies better. (who doesn't?) When she then told Joe that Sunday was Easter, he told her that it was, in fact, Father's Day. Then she lets out a huge gasp and says that she has to call Papa!! So there my husband sits, playing with Maeve at 7am, and she wants to call her grandfather on Father's day! What about dear old dad?? Poor guy! That's OK Joe, we love you (and you, too Papa!)

New look

2009-06-14T20:39:00.004-04:00

See anything different? I was getting tired of the last blog look. So, I took a peek around the web and found this one. I really like it! I decided to change my blog name, too. We'll see how long this one lasts. I also found some cute little buttons to put on my sidebar. Love it *so* much better now. Don't you?

Today while the littlest offspring and I were home alone, we decided to give having a picnic another shot. We tried yesterday, but because it rained the night before, the grass was still a bit damp. Our yard doesn't drain very well. :( Anyhow, today we brought out a blanket and spread it out on the driveway to start our picnic. I did manage to get one picture of Maeve before she sprinted inside the house. Apparently she saw a fly. A FLY!! My goodness, what is with my kids and bugs? We sit down to eat and naturally, it shows up to see what all the smells were about. Well, I don't even think she took a bite of food before she was up and running toward the house like her pants were on fire! Like the good mom that I am, I stayed right where I was until I was done eating before I went inside to see what she was doing. At least she was sitting nicely at the table. Maybe we'll try again tomorrow.

Ben Stein's last column

2009-06-13T08:36:00.002-04:00

For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called 'Monday Night At Morton's.' (Morton's is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.) Now, Ben is terminating the column to move on to other things in his life. Reading his final column is worth a few minutes of your time.

Ben Stein's Last Column...
How Can Someone Who Lives in Insane Luxury Be a Star in Today's World?

As I begin to write this, I 'slug' it, as we writers say, which means I put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is 'eonline FINAL,' and it gives me a shiver to write it. I have been doing this column for so long that I cannot even recall when I started. I loved writing this column so much for so long I came to believe it would never end.

It worked well for a long time, but gradually, my changing as a person and the world's change have overtaken it On a small scale, Morton's, while better than ever, no longer attracts as many stars as it used to. It still brings in the rich people in droves and definitely some stars. I saw Samuel L. Jackson there a few days ago, and we had a nice visit, and right before that, I saw and had a splendid talk with Warren Beatty in an elevator, in which we agreed that Splendor in the Grass was a super movie. But Morton's is not the star galaxy it once was, though it probably will be again.

Beyond that, a bigger change has happened..? I no longer think Hollywood stars are terribly important. They are uniformly pleasant, friendly people, and they treat me better than I deserve to be treated. But a man or woman who makes a huge wage for memorizing lines and reciting them in front of a camera is no longer my idea of a shining star we should all look up to.

How can a man or woman who makes an eight-figure wage and lives in insane luxury really be a star in today's world, if by a 'star' we mean someone bright and powerful and attractive as a role model? Real stars are not riding around in the backs of limousines or in Porsches or getting trained in yoga or Pilates and eating only raw fruit while they have Vietnamese girls do their nails..

They can be interesting, nice people, but they are not heroes to me any longer. A real star is the soldier of the 4th Infantry Division who poked his head into a hole on a farm near Tikrit, Iraq . He could have been met by a bomb or a hail of AK-47 bullets. Instead, he faced an abject Saddam Hussein and the gratitude of all of the decent people of the world.

A real star is the U.S. soldier who was sent to disarm a bomb next to a road north of Baghdad . He approached it, and the bomb went off and killed him..

A real star, the kind who haunts my memory night and day, is the U.S. soldier in Baghdad who saw a little girl playing with a piece of unexploded ordnance on a street near where he was guarding a station. He pushed her aside and threw himself on it just as it exploded. He left a family desolate in California and a little girl alive in Baghdad .

The stars who deserve media attention are not the ones who have lavish weddings on TV but the ones who patrol the streets of Mosul even after two of their buddies were murdered and their bodies battered and stripped for the sin of trying to protect Iraqis from terrorists.

We put couples with incomes of $100 million a year on the covers of our magazines. The noncoms and officers who barely scrape by on military pay but stand on guard in Afghanistan and Iraq and on ships and in submarines and near the Arctic Circle are anonymous as they live and die.

I am no longer comfortable being a part of the system that has such poor values, and I do not want to perpetuate those values by pretending that who is eating at Morton's is a big subject.

There are plenty of other stars in the American firmament... the policemen and women who go off on patrol in South Central and have no idea if they will return alive; the orderlies and paramedics who bring in people who have been in terrible accidents and prepare them for surgery; the teachers and nurses who throw their whole spirits into caring for autistic children; the kind men and women who work in hospices and in cancer wards.

Think of each and every fireman who was running up the stairs at the World Trade Center as the towers began to collapse. Now you have my idea of a real hero.

I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that matters This is my highest and best use as a human. I can put it another way. Years ago, I realized I could never be as great an actor as Olivier or as good a comic as Steve Martin or Martin Mull or Fred Willard--or as good an economist as Samuelson or Friedman or as good a writer as Fitzgerald. Or even remotely close to any of them.

But, I could be a devoted father to my son, husband to my wife and, above all, a good son to the parents who had done so much for me. This came to be my main task in life. I did it moderately well with my son, pretty well with my wife and well indeed with my parents (with my sister's help). I cared for and paid attention to them in their declining years. I stayed with my father as he got sick, went into extremis and then into a coma and then entered immortality with my sister and me reading him the Psalms.

This was the only point at which my life touched the lives of the soldiers in Iraq or the firefighters in New York . I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that matters and that it is my duty, in return for the lavish life God has devolved upon me, to help others He has placed in my path. This is my highest and best use as a human

Faith is not believing that God can. It is knowing that God will.

By Ben Stein

Altered Tins

2009-06-03T19:12:00.003-04:00

I did these tins at a NSD crop. I think they came out kinda cute. The one that holds the CD's is for my daughter. She picked out the paper and ribbon. She loves it. It's supposed to have a flower in the center of the ribbon, but it fell off. The other one is what I have my cuttlebug folders in.

In a couple of weeks I am going to Helen, GA for a scrapbook weekend with my friend, Michelle. I cannot wait!! I need to go through all my stuff and figure out what I'm going to work on. Hopefully I will come back with lots of stuff to show.

A Fair Trade

2009-05-28T21:18:00.002-04:00

Is summer vacation over yet? My kids are bored. Do they even see the big whole in the backyard filled with water? It's called a swimming pool. Do they even see the trampoline or swing set? Nope, not interested. They'd rather watch TV all day long!! What's the matter with kids these days? (OMG - my mother's voice just came out of my mouth!!) We used to stay out all day long, and even when it was dark out, we came inside to change into dark clothes to play flashlight tag. Of course, we also walked to school, barefoot, in the snow, uphill, both ways.

My 10 year old taught himself a new trade today! He can, with a mere paperclip, pick a lock. Now that's a trade you can take to the bank. As a matter of fact, if he did, he could pick the safe, and maybe we would have a few extra dollars laying around to do some really fun stuff! Hmmm... Anyhow, he was so proud of himself. Kinda brings a tear to my eye.

Speaking of extra money, I saw online that there is still an unclaimed powerball ticket, for over a quarter of a million dollars. What are they waiting for? The article went on to say that more money brings more headaches, and that the winners have such a hard time, yada, yada, yada. Listen, if more money gives you a headache, feel free to send it my way! I won't have any problems at all. Apparently whoever said money doesn't buy happiness, doesn't know where to shop. Or where I live.

So much to say, so little time...

2009-05-27T05:16:00.018-04:00

So here I sit at just past 5am. I have been up for over an hour with a migraine. What can I do? I think I'll update my neglected blog! So much to say. Where to begin? First of all, I want to tell my son Happy Belated Birthday! I know that I told you when it was your actual birthday, but I didn't post it. So sorry dude. (May the fourth be with you!! *he he* I crack myself up!!) Aidan turned 10 on the 4th. He is so glad that summer is here. The last few weeks of school were hectic. He did take part in the 4th grade spelling bee and WON!! See him with his trophy! So proud of him!!

Next, naturally, is baseball. While the team didn't exactly have a winning season, they all had a great time. All but 1 child had never played B-Ball before. Most moved up from C-Ball this year. Anyhow, they tried him out in several positions. He's never played catcher before. I must admit, I didn't care for it. I kept thinking someone would hit him in the head with the bat!! Baseball is over, at least until fall.

At bat...

Joe and I also took a much needed mini vacation!! We went to Chattanooga, TN for a long weekend. Since we have 4 kids, we never go anywhere. It's not that our families aren't willing to watch our kids, they just aren't able to. They all live in another state! So, with our 15 year anniversary approaching, we roped my folks into coming up for the weekend to babysit. The kids LOVED not being with us! Grandparents are just so much more fun. Anyhow, Joe didn't tell me where we were staying, I had to try and figure it out. Each week I asked a "yes" or "no" question. Finally after several months, I made the comment to him that of all the places I hoped we weren't going, I hoped it was not Chattanooga. Little did I know. It's not that I don't like it there, but we'd been there several years ago when my MIL came to babysit our 3 (at the time I was pregnant) kids. I just figured we would go someplace else. So, now my husband is in therapy! He's vowed never to plan anything else for us. However, we had a great time and he picked out the most beautiful place! See....

Our room and sitting area...

I ran around the hotel taking pictures of other rooms, too! The entire place was just gorgeous! Each room was a different color.

And just look what they left in a bowl in the hallways! Freshly baked chocolate chip cookies!! Naturally, I took a bunch home for the kids. Although I wish I knew that there were cameras in the hallway! They probably think I'm a huge pig and won't let me back!!

Anyhow, if you are looking for a nice romantic weekend away, Stone Fort Inn is definitely the place to go.

I think I'll stop here for tonight, or rather this morning! I promise to be back soon. Have a great day!!!

2009-05-11T13:47:00.001-04:00

I saw this photo on someone's blog and just LOVE it!! This is a typical day in my world. Or at least it should be!!

I need a little pick-me-up

2009-05-04T15:05:00.003-04:00

Much better. As you were.

enough already!!

2009-04-24T14:05:00.000-04:00

Dear Body Fat,

Please consider this letter as your official eviction notice. I don't feel this living arrangement we have is working out. Please pack your bags and vacate the premises immediately. If you put up any kind of fight, drastic measures will be taken. I think the skinny lady next door has a vacancy!!

Thanks for the memories,
ME

So sore today!

2009-04-21T21:01:00.002-04:00

And it's my own fault. I didn't go to the gym in over a week and I pushed myself yesterday. I took 2 classes, one of which is a spin class. So, my butt is sore! I only have just over 3 weeks to go until my husband and I go away for a few days, and while I don't plan on having a free-for-all at any buffet style restaurants, I want to lose what I can. Tomorrow I'm going back to use weights. Should be fun.

On another note, my 9 year old son is reading the Twilight series. My daughter read it and so did I, so I really didn't think it was much of a big deal. Well, he is reading the last book and has been asking me questions about sex!! I really did not want to be having this conversation with the boys. I had hoped that I would talk to the girls and Joe would talk to the boys, but it's not working out according to that plan. When I told him that you got pregnant by having sex, he quickly did the math and asked me about my own 4 pregnancies. Um, yeah I really wanted to have this conversation. You know, when I explained all this to Aislinn, she was MORTIFIED and wanted to forget we ever talked at all. Not Aidan. He wants to know How everything works and WHY in the world anyone would ever do such a thing in the first place!! Needless to say, he has taken an oath NEVER to have sex or fall in love at all. Gotta love little boys!! Have a nice night, I need a drink.

Happy Thursday!

2009-04-16T21:15:00.002-04:00

Today has been a bad day. I'm still miserable from allergies. I don't think they have ever been this bad for me. I swear, I only have to walk outside, and everything in my head just closes up and I can't breathe! It's horrible. I have even been thinking of getting one of those things where you squirt warm water mixed with some saline up one side of your nose and everything drains out the other side. The thought alone gives me the creeps, but I'm desperate!! I've also decided not to diet or exercise today. Actually I haven't been to the gym in a week. (mainly because I haven't felt good) Then, when I had to run an errand today, I got the mail which had a letter to me and my husband, from the IRS. It was *NOT* good news. Apparently I made an error in my 2007 taxes and out of the goodness of their hearts, they decided to let me know that they are giving me a couple of weeks to give them back a chunk of their money. The same time all of Maeve's hospital, ambulance, oxygen, etc. bills are due. Someone shoot me. But not before I have some ice cream.

It's all Facebook's fault!

2009-04-06T15:58:00.004-04:00

Wow, I can't believe I let so much time go since my last post. What can I say? I have discovered Facebook! I'm probably the last person in the free world to sign up. I've come across so many people from high school that actually remember who I am! Anyhow, I am back.

Since St Patty's Day, we have been super busy with baseball. I swear, in this end of the country, when baseball starts, everything else stops. We have practice two days a week and games at least once, sometime twice a week. Each practice is for 2 hours! You would think that the coaches were expecting scouts to show up. I mean, c'mon! It's LITTLE LEAGUE! Also, my MIL was here for a short visit. While she was here, I had to go to Atlanta for acupuncture, went to a Twilight party, and was visiting a friend from Birmingham. I think she was a little put off that I was out so much while she was here. What can I say? Timing is everything! Actually, I enjoy it when she comes to visit. It gives me and Joe a little break.

Now, my kids are on spring break and my niece and nephew are here from Florida for the week. Yesterday I took most of the kids to the movies to see Pink Panther 2. The movie was a riot. I just love Steve Martin. Today, I took all 6 kids to Stevie B's for lunch and then to Monkey Joe's to burn off some energy. It has been raining for what seems like a month!! I am so sick of it already. I can't get out to get the grass cut and the weeds are rapidly taking over the lawn!

Not sure what the rest of the week holds. I'm hoping for sunshine. For now, we are watching Twilight - again!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

2009-03-17T09:28:00.001-04:00

Snow!! In Georgia??

2009-03-13T15:05:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it's been almost 2 weeks since it snowed and I am just NOW getting around to posting pictures!! Like I said before, things have been hectic. You'll have to bear with me. Anyhow, I live in southern Georgia, where it only snows one day a year. Literally. Last year, it snowed in March for a whole hour!! It was a big deal. The kids went outside to play, but nothing stuck at all. This year, it started snowing in the morning. My kids, knowing it could stop at any moment, got bundled up and went outside to play. Well, at 5:00 in the afternoon, it was STILL snowing!! It was so great! All the kids in the neighborhood were outside playing. I even had my husband take a quick photo of me outside! See~

Then my kids and I, as well as the boy next door, decided to build a snowman. I think he came out kind of cute! What do ya think?

I can't tell you how many times my kids came in to change into dry clothes. I have never done so much laundry in a single day!! For about 5 minutes, I wished we had snowsuits. The feeling passed. I don't think I could live where it snowed more than this. It's too cold. One day a year is just right.

Oh, where to begin...

2009-03-13T14:04:00.003-04:00

It seems like so much has happened lately that I don't even know where to start! Last week I promised to take Maeve to Monkey Joe's so she could run around and play. Well, in the morning, she was complaining that her chest hurt, that she was sick. She seemed to be having a little difficulty breathing so I called the doctor. They told me to bring her in and they would fit her in sometime that day. Well, we get there and upon seeing how she was breathing, they pull every nurse and doctor away from patients to look at Maeve! They hook her up to a machine and see that she is not even close to breathing the way she should. Maeve is panicking and crying she wants to go home. Could you blame her? There was a bunch of nurses, the doctor and 2 firemen there, all waiting for an ambulance to take her to the hospital!! We get there and she is put in the pediatric ICU, where we are told that she will probably be for up to a week. Um, hello?! What the heck happened? Maeve doesn't even have a runny nose and here we are in the ICU! She was totally cracking me up in the ambulance though. Poor thing was so exhausted from trying to breathe that she was falling asleep. The EMT guy kept trying to talk to her and lifting her eyelids, which was not going over well. She was telling him "I am NOT waking up!" I wish I had my camera. BTW, I have to just vent for a second and tell everyone that if an ambulance is behind you, with the sirens blaring and the lights flashing, GET OUT OF THE WAY!!! I cannot even tell you how many people were oblivious to us. Anyhow, it turns out that Maeve only had to spend one night in the hospital because she rebounded so quickly! It turns out she had the beginning of an infection in her lungs and adenoids. We are home now with a breathing machine and she is MUCH better!! I also want to say that I have some really nice friends. My husband was called several times to see if he needed help with anything and just to check on us in general. (I was in the hospital with my baby the whole time, naturally!)

Maeve at a peaceful moment!!

Win a handmade item from me!!

2009-02-27T15:17:00.001-05:00

I "won" a gift by leaving one of the first 5 comments on http://jacilynndashwood.blogspot.com/ so now I'll see who my first 5 are. The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you!

This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:
1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2- What I create will be just for you.
3- It'll be done sometime this year (I'll have it to you in a couple of weeks after I get mine).
4- You have no clue what it's going to be.
5-The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must re post this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog! (then come here and post, I WILL check your blog *wink*) The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did win a homemade gift by me! Oh, and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it! So....who will be the first 5 people?????

The first 5 people to leave a comment email me your address.mom2monkies@mchsi.com

Happy Birthday, Oceon!!!!

2009-02-27T10:14:00.003-05:00

Boy did I drop the ball here. I would have sworn that today was the 26th. I even told my kids this morning that it was their cousin, Oceon's, 11th birthday today. Well, it was yesterday. My bad. I am sorry sweetie. So, happy belated birthday Oceon! We miss you so much and love you more than you know. I hope you had a great day!! Your present is on it's way!!!

Unlimited Energy

2009-02-27T10:01:00.002-05:00

Joe has started working from home on Wednesdays, so in order to keep Maeve from bothering him, I took her to Monkey Joe's. It's going to be our "Wednesday thing" for a while. At one point I had to use the restroom, so I took Maeve in with me. Well, the toilet paper was not attached to the wall, and when I tried to place the roll back, it fell on the floor. Maeve picked up the paper end and gave a hard yank. At that point, the roll rolled right out under the door into the walk area! She kept pulling on the paper and it kept unraveling! She just thought it was the funniest thing, and it pretty much was! After 2 hours of running around, jumping and sliding, I practically had to drag her out of there! Any other child would be tired, hot or wanting lunch. Not Maeve. I think she only went to the bubbler once the whole time. She's already asking me if it's next Wednesday yet!! When we left, we went to Hobby Lobby before heading home. It has been a long time since I've been there and really love that place. I picked up a few tins that I want to alter. I've never done one, so I'm hoping it turns out alright.

Fat Tuesday!!

2009-02-24T17:42:00.005-05:00

I was talking to a friend earlier and she mentioned that it was Fat Tuesday. Since we never go out drinking, I totally forgot, but for lack of a creative title, I'm using it for this post!!

Don't forget, tomorrow is the beginning of Lent. Are you giving something up, or are you adding something to each day to make it better? My kids aren't happy because I make them do one or the other. I don't think it's to start to learn the lesson of sacrifice. However, if they don't come up with something on their own, I pick something for them.

Today, Aidan stayed home from school. He took his "mental health" day. We went out to lunch with Joe and Jason's Deli. I love their chicken salad with the almonds and pineapple in it. Sooooo good!! We also did some shopping and he got a new Bakugan toy. I'm not sure what the fascination is with those little things. I suppose it could be worse, so in the spirit of choosing my battles, I'm letting that one go.

I forgot to mention yesterday that over the weekend I saw a show on HBO called "Taking Chance" with Kevin Bacon. If you have the opportunity, I recommend watching it. It is really an incredible story of one marine escorting a deceased marine home. At the end, it shows real video footage of the deceased Marine, Chance Phelps, as a boy. Like I said, it is so good, but very sad.

On a happy note, I saw this on another blog (can't remember who's!) and thought it was so cute! So, I'm passing it on.

So much is happening

2009-02-23T20:31:00.004-05:00

I've been meaning to update my blog for a few days now, but just can never seem to find the time. I know most of you can relate! I signed up to run the Disney 1/2 marathon!!! Yes, I know it's not until next January, but when I tried to register for the one this year, it was full, so I decided to register for the 2010 one early. I am really super-excited about it. I have a year {almost} to get in shape and when the weather warms up a little bit, I plan on running either in the mornings, or at night. Plus, I'm still going to the gym, even though my husband told me he considers that "nothing". Um, WHAT? I don't see YOU in there!! :) ha!

I'm still on my diet, although it's not progressing as well as I'd hoped. It's those darn girl scout cookies! I need to get them out of the house. Otherwise, I'm eating exactly what I should be eating and God knows I'm sweatin' it at the gym 5X a week.

My son is signed up for baseball, which means that we now have no life. He has practice on Monday and Wednesday evenings, as well as Saturday mornings, for 2 hours, until the games start. It's a never ending thing here in the south. I swear, people take children's sports WAAAY to seriously. I mean it's supposed to be FUN for them, right? Hopefully I will be able to sit on the sidelines with my mouth shut this year. Hey, there's always a first!

I also went and saw Twilight again. My daughter and I went on Saturday night and got there about 6:30 for the 7pm show. We get our popcorn (yes, not on the diet plan) and get our seats, only to learn that the movie doesn't start until 7:20. Well, add 20 minutes of previews, and we had been sitting there waiting for an hour for the movie to start!! So worth it though. I could just sit in the theater and watch it over and over again. Of course, I'm still not done with the book! I'm debating on getting a Twilight t-shirt, but I think that might be a bit over the top. Jury is still out on that one.

Meanwhile, my youngest son has a small Webkinz stuffed animal that had a hole in it. He's been wanting it sewn up forever. Well, I finally broke out the needle and thread and got to work. Since I make it a habit not to sew, my husband ran for the camera! Can you imagine such a thing? Now he has actual proof that I do know what to do with the sewing kit his mom left at our house!! I'm afraid these people I live with are going to expect such things from me in the future...and I'm afraid!!

Oh, had to take my daughter to sell cookies outside PetSmart this weekend also. And, my poor pup had another seizure, only this time it was in front of all the kids. See, what did I tell ya? It's been busy at my abode. Have a great night. Gotta run, HOUSE is on.

How did THAT get in there?

2009-02-17T20:51:00.006-05:00

Last night I sat my youngest daughter down to read a story before bed, when she leaned her head back. I caught a flash of something pink inside her nose! What the heck?? I asked her what she put in there and she said "a round thing". None of my other kids ever stuck things in there nose! Where in the world did she get this from, and why didn't she tell me that it was stuck up there? I guess she never had any intention of telling me at all because it was apparently up there all day! I tried and tried to get her to blow her nose so it could come out, but that did not work. I am not even going to get into the details, but I got it out. It was a small rubber band. I debated taking a picture, but thought better about it. It was nasty from her crying anyway. Besides, if I want you to ever come back and read what's going on in my life again, I didn't want to frighten you!!

My oldest daughter has read all the Twilight books. She has been after me to take her to the movies. Of course, when I was all set, it was gone from the theater! However, this past weekend it showed up at the dollar theater!! Now, when my friend asked me to go, she said it was a dollar theater, but I just figured it was cheaper than the regular one. I was genuinely shocked to find out that it was actually a dollar! From now on, if I don't need to see a movie right away, I'm waiting. I mean, when I take 3 of my kids to see something, after admission and popcorn, I've spent over $50. And I'm not kidding. This was far better. By the way, I took her to see Twilight, and I have to say I am totally addicted!! I can't wait to read the books. That mean vampire, James, as well as Edward, can chew on my neck any time they want!! Woo Hoo!

I also went to the gym today. I needed to go after polishing off a box of Girl Scout cookies earlier. Thin mints are great, aren't they? At least they are no longer in the house so I can't have anymore. Except for the frozen ones. Hmmmm....gotta run. Have a great night!!

In a funk

2009-02-15T19:50:00.003-05:00

I really love to scrapbook, but lately I've been in a creative funk. I just can't seem to get going. I have an awesome room that's just mine, so space isn't an issue. I'm hoping that it passes soon and I can get some layouts and cards done. In the meantime, check out this blog for some great candy!!

http://moralia.wordpress.com/ (fabulous stuff!)

Have a nice day!!

Happy Valentine's!!

2009-02-14T15:21:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!

this and that

2009-02-05T13:23:00.003-05:00

My dog, Molly, is now having seizures. It's a scary thing to watch. We are not sure what is causing them. She is a beagle and only 3 years old. Some breeds are more prone to having them than others. Unfortunately, she is one of those breeds. The vet said that unless I can get her in to see them within 2 hours of it happening, they won't be able to tell what caused it. The other night, she had her seizure after 9pm, so I couldn't bring her in. I was told that we could give her medication, but it causes some horrible side effects and will leave her pretty much doped up everyday. No thanks. Otherwise, we just have to make sure she doesn't hurt herself while we suffer through watching her have one. Nice, huh? I never considered myself a dog person. I have had dogs before, but I much prefer cats. That was, until I found Molly. She is MY dog.

On to more pleasant news. I've lost 10 pounds!! And I've gone down a size in jeans. Yea me!! I took yesterday "off" from the gym and I have to say, I missed it. How sick is that? I don't want Maeve to get sick of going everyday, so I'm not going on Wednesdays. I'll make up for it on Saturday. Today I took a kickboxing class and I seriously thought I was going to be sick. We had a new teacher testing for the summer launch, so we had new moves. All I can say is that I had better lose my weight before the summer, because today was HARD!

I need your opinion on something. My daughter Aislinn is a very good student. I'm not just saying it because I am her mother either! Her teacher, the last 2 days, has left her in charge of the classroom while she is out. She has asked her to write down the names of the kids who are talking on the board. (Aislinn loved this, by the way, but she does not abuse the "power" and only does what is asked of her.) However, yesterday, one of the other girls got in her face about it and took her name off the board. Later on in the day, when a few of the girls were in the wrong classroom, the girl told on ONLY Aislinn. I emailed the teacher asking her to not have Aislinn monitor the class because of this. She's not getting beat up or anything, but I don't want her to be picked on either. If it continues, she will be left out of things and the kids will not like her. I know, I've been there. Anyhow, what do you think?

Have a nice day!!

Blog Candy Alert!!!

2009-02-02T19:04:00.002-05:00

The following blogs are offering some great candy! Go check them out and maybe you'll be lucky enough to win!!

http://grammashouseofcards.blogspot.com/
http://meholder.blogspot.com/
http://stephmuchadoaboutnothing.blogspot.com/
http://sparklecards.blogspot.com/
http://keepsakesbymelissa.blogspot.com/2009/01/valentines-blog-candy-and-more.html

Happy February!!

2009-02-01T20:51:00.003-05:00

I am so excited - I finished our taxes last night!! Yippee!! I think this is the first time ever I've been done and had them filed in January. Of course, if I had to owe, I would have waited until April. We should be getting our refund in less than 2 weeks!! Thank God we don't live in California, or we'd get an IOU. Can you imagine?? I hope the people who are getting an IOU are not in dire need of that money, and that they get it pretty quickly.

I took 3 of my kids to the movies today. We saw Mall Cop. It was pretty cute. My kids enjoyed it and there were some really funny scenes. I imagine that there are some security guards who won't find it funny. I had popcorn while we were there and now I feel sick to my stomach. Not to mention, when we came home from the theater, my husband had a bunch of chocolate chip cookies cooling on the stove! So, my diet is in the tank today. Serves me right. Tomorrow I will hit the gym early. Anyhow, Pink Panther is coming out next weekend and I cannot wait to see it. I just love Steve Martin. I need to work on staying away from the popcorn though.

Anyone watch the Superbowl tonight? I usually watch it, but this year I only turned on the TV to see the halftime show. Bruce Springsteen is still as cute as evah! I remember years ago my mother and I saw him in Orlando. We sat behind the stage, in some great seats. Not only were we pretty close to the stage, but we had a great view. Even when he wasn't turned around singing to those of us in the back!!
Ooo-la-la!

So, if you saw the game, what was your favorite commercial?

10 posts in a month!

2009-01-31T14:38:00.003-05:00

That's a record for me! I know there are so many of you that can keep up with your blogs every day, but I'm thrilled to get this far. I have good intentions, but then when I get on my computer, I am usually reading everyone else's posts and then forget what I wanted to blog about in the first place. Tomorrow is the Superbowl. I have no plans to watch it at all. I think I am going to take my kids to the movies instead. That is, if they can stay out of trouble! Declan was outside earlier today and next thing you know, the neighbor's 7 year old boy came over crying telling my husband that Declan was beating him up. It turns out that he hit Declan first, and in the face! Naturally, he didn't mention THAT little bit of information to us. Declan said that yes, he hit him, but that he hit him back and we could see the cut on his face to back up his story. Then the little boy comes back over, to tell on Declan some more. Being a mother, I go outside and chew the kid out for hitting Declan first! I suppose I could stay out of it and let them work it out, but he hit Declan in the face with some sort of metal stick and cut him right under his eye. He's actually pretty lucky I didn't let Declan back outside to continue beating him up!! After all, I've always told my kids that while they were not allowed to fight, if someone else starts one with them, they better make sure they finish it.

Gym etiquette

2009-01-27T15:30:00.002-05:00

This post is for those who have no idea how to behave while at the gym. Now, most of us will find these things a no-brainer, however, there are always those few who need a little help in the etiquette department. Let me help you.

1. When in the bathroom, STAY OFF THE CELL PHONE!! I cannot stress this enough. It is disgusting. Some people don't have a strong sense of balance, so while you are turning around trying to flush with one foot, suppose it falls in the toilet? Also, the person whom you are speaking to does not want to hear you tinkle, or *worse*! And trust me, they can hear you!

(I went to the gym today and upon entering a stall, I was able to hear 1/2 a conversation. I was really tempted to start making all sorts of noises just to freak the person next to me out, but I was afraid I would start laughing so hard and fail to make my point.)

2. Speaking of bathrooms, if you insist on squatting over the seat, be kind and clean up after yourself!! Just use a toilet cover and sit down for crying out loud! It saves the rest of us the trouble of either cleaning up after your sprinkled tinkle or squatting over it. Besides, when you need to go in a hurry, this is so inconvenient. GROSS!!

3. When there is a whole row of unused treadmills, except one, stay off the one right next to the one in use!! No crowding! And no one wants to have a conversation with you while you casually walk trying not to break a sweat, or God forbid, listen to your cell phone conversation!! I realize that sometimes the television is showing a program that you want to see, like The View and you don't want to sit in front of the one playing CNN. I've been there. And if the gym is crowded, go ahead and run next to me, er next to the one in use. :)

4. NO grunting while lifting weights. No one really cares that you can curl your body weight or bench press the weight of a school bus. If you need to grunt, go rent a movie and watch it in the privacy of your own room. No one will tell.

5. When you are done using a machine, please wipe it down! I cannot stress enough how gross it is to want to use a machine that has sweat running down the back of it. Maybe you like that, I don't. So bring a towel with you, or if you forgot one, grab some paper towels out of the bathroom and carry them with you.

I think I'll end here. My skin is starting to crawl.
Have a nice day everyone!!
Carol

Aahhh, peace and quiet

2009-01-24T21:08:00.003-05:00

I'm practically all alone tonight! My son Aidan, is staying at a friend's house, Maeve is in bed asleep, and Joe took the other kids, including Aislinn's friend who is spending the night, to the Cottonmouth's hockey game. It's not very often that I can sit at home in the quiet and just relax. And I'm enjoying it!

Recently (Jan. 5th), I joined a gym. I have been going pretty regularly and have lost a total of 7 pounds so far! Today I went and took a power class. It uses barbells and free weights and is a great all-over workout. Then, for some unknown crazy reason, I stayed and took the kickboxing class. Not sure what I was thinking. Each are an hour long. I am going to be so sore tomorrow! But, my husband booked a mini vacation for JUST US in May, for our anniversary, so I need to get moving! He's not telling me where we are going and I'm alright with that. I love surprises. Anyhow, I have just under 16 weeks to get it in gear. So, back to the gym tomorrow.

Oh yeah, my new Dyson arrived the other day. It's amazing how much dust and animal hair that sucker picks up. I showed my kids, and they were all amazed! I think from now on when I tell them to get off the floor and sit on the couch, they will listen to me!!

Have a nice night, everyone!!
Carol

History in the making

2009-01-20T12:57:00.004-05:00

Today, as I'm sure everyone knows, is the Inauguration of Barak Obama. It's pretty incredible if you think about how far this country has come. A mere 60 years ago, he wouldn't have even been served a meal in a restaurant. It's just amazing. There has been such energy and excitement surrounding all of this, and I have to say it's contagious! I just hope he can fix the mess this country is in. He has a long, tough road ahead of him and I wish him lots of luck. Was that the crowd signing "Kiss Him Goodbye" as George Bush left?? Oh my.

When I dropped my kids off at school today, Declan's teacher told me that they would be watching everything on TV. I can't imagine a bunch of 5 and 6 year olds sitting still to watch all the goings-on, and they certainly aren't going to understand the historic significance either. I hope the teachers have a back-up plan!!

This sucks!

2009-01-15T09:11:00.003-05:00

I just found out that my husband bought me a gift. No, it's not jewelry, scrapbooking supplies or anything fun. This gift sucks. It's not that I am not grateful because I am. It's a Dyson vacuum cleaner!! And it's purple!! (I am doing my happy dance!) I pulled out our current vacuum the other day only to find out that it's lost all of it's suction. It's driving me crazy because now I see dirt everywhere. I swear, we go through vacuum cleaners more than anyone else I know! Anyhow, he ordered it online and I have been patiently stalking the UPS man for my delivery. Yes, we could've gotten a cheaper one, but we have animals and kids, and need something that picks up the hair, the crumbs that the kids leave in a trail, won't lose suction and that I will not need to replace in the next year or two. I can't wait to get it so I can take a picture! I can already see the layout in my head. What can I say, it's the little things that bring so much joy!! Have a nice day!!

Life happens

2009-01-15T08:56:00.002-05:00

Another week gone by without a post! What can I say, life happens. This past week has been a busy one, as usual. My kids have gotten their report cards, which were all very good. We've had girl scout meetings (cookies anyone?:)), boy scout meetings, and I had my stamp club on Sunday. We made the cutest little boxes!! My daughter Aislinn had her All-City concert with her chorus group. There are only 5 kids from her school that made the cut, but the concert had kids from almost every school in the area perform at the River Center. They did such a great job!! I'll try and post photos later. I've also been going to the gym in the mornings. I'm on a mission to lose weight BEFORE our anniversary in May. Still not sure if we are doing anything or not. Maybe I should book something, that might give me the push to keep going.

I hurt all over.

2009-01-08T11:09:00.002-05:00

This year I made a resolution to finally lose some weight. I thought about going to boot camp, but instead I joined Gold's Gym. Well, I started 3 days ago and planned to go this morning and take the kick boxing class. Unfortunately, when I woke up, it hurt to move! I took a Spin class yesterday and now it hurts to sit down!! The day before, I took a power class and a step class for an hour each. It's no wonder I'm sore. Nothing like jumping into the deep end, right? I've also started a diet and keep a daily log of the food I eat. So far, so good. I'm really hope I can stick to this. My 15 year anniversary is coming up in May, and I want to take a long weekend with my hubby and go away someplace. My goal is to be the same size I was when I got married. *Keeping my fingers crossed*

An award~

2009-01-08T10:43:00.005-05:00

~for me!! Thanks Michelle, that was so sweet of you! I suppose I need to be more diligent about keeping up to date with it now! LOL!! So, what I have to do is answer a few questions with only 1 word. Here goes...

1. Where is your cell phone? non-existent (that's right, I don't have one!!)

2. Where is your significant other? working

3. Your hair color? brown

4. Your mother? friend

5. Your father? retired

6. Your favorite thing? books

7. Your dream last night? nothing

8. Your dream/goal? home (I've designed my dream home, now I just want to build it!)

9. The room you're in? chilly

10. Your hobby? reading

11. Your fear? flying

12. Where do you want to be in six years? thin

13. Where were you last night? home

14. What you're not? working

15. One of your wish list items? furniture

16. Where you grew up? Florida

17. The last thing you did? ate

18. What are you wearing? earrings

19. Your TV? on

20. Your pet? asleep

21. Your computer? laptop

22. Your mood? relaxed

23. Missing someone? yes

24. Your car? dented

25. Something you're not wearing? shoes

26. Favorite store? Target

27. Your Summer? hot

28. Love someone? yes

29. Your favorite color? purple

30. When is the last time you laughed? today

31. Last time you cried? today (from laughing so hard!)

So there we go. Now I need to pass it along. Since Michelle and Elizabeth already have the award, I can't give it to them, so I'm passing it on to Adrianne over at My Wandering Soul. Have a great day!!

Boot Camp!

2009-01-03T20:00:00.002-05:00

This morning I got up at 6am and drove into town to go to Boot Camp. Once a month, they have a freebie class for you to try out. I've joined this boot camp before and the owner is a former drill Sergeant. Today was a PT day for those that have been going for the last month. The new camp starts Monday. Anyhow, I ran a timed mile and then had to see how many push ups and crunches I could do in a minute. I thought I was going to throw up. I haven't worked out in 6 months! We also did lunges and upper body work, then went on another run, this one over a mile. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into. I wish it wasn't so expensive because I always feel really good when we are done for the day. Not to mention, I lose a bunch of weight, the RIGHT way!

Nature's speedbumps

2009-01-03T19:54:00.002-05:00

This is what I've heard squirrels called. Gross, I know. Personally I try and avoid hitting anything that runs in front of my car. I was out today with my girls when one ran right towards me. I think I missed it. I looked in my rear-view mirror to make sure, because I was screaming and couldn't tell if I hit it or not, and it seemed to just vanish! Must have been a mom with tons of little baby squirrels running around after her shouting out their every demand and thus driving her to desperate measures to escape. Can't you just relate?

Happy 2009!!

2008-12-31T21:42:00.001-05:00

I want to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year!!

Momma's Boys

2008-12-30T22:29:00.002-05:00

Does anyone besides me and my mother watch this show? It's like a train wreck that you just can't tear your eyes away from, even though you know what's about to happen. I am usually not into reality TV shows, but this one is great!! 32 women start off in one huge mansion. Each of them are trying to win the affections of not only 3 men, but their MOM'S!! The moms live in this house with them. It's only been on for 3 weeks now, but it has fast become a favorite of mine. The only problem is that it's on Monday nights, the same time as my beloved Prison Break. And now another favorite show of mine, House, is also moving to Mondays. Thank heaven for TiVo.

Next time, a little warning please!

2008-12-30T22:12:00.003-05:00

So today I get up early (OK, 7am. It's early to me!) and go to the dermatologist's office to have some moles looked at. I try to go at least once every year, especially since I have had a lot of sun burns over the years. Living in Florida does that to you. Anyhow, it is decided that I need to have 3 removed. Mostly because they irritate me, not because they look dangerous. Well 2 of them are large and need to have a little numbing shot first. Normally the shots don't hurt at all (and I am a HUGE baby, so when I say it does not hurt, it really doesn't), but this time they burned. I'm told it happens when the moles are big. The shots work and I'm blissfully pain free while she removes them. Then comes the 3rd one. It's so tiny that she didn't think it needed to be numb. So when she steps away, the assistant comes up to me and burns it off! OMG!!! "Oops" she says. She thought the PA numbed me up first! I'm glad my kids weren't with me, because I said a few things that no minor child needs to hear their mother say. *sigh* At least I don't have to go back for another 6 months.

Aah, the sweet stuff!

2008-12-29T16:28:00.003-05:00

Why, I'm talking about Blog Candy of course!! I thought I'd add a small list of those gals that are uber-creative, who are also giving away stuff on their blogs. One can never have too much candy!!

Melissa at Creating from the Heart has candy until 12/31.
Kara at Kara's Kitchen Creations has candy until 12/29.
Jude at Crafts Internation has birthday candy until 1/12.
Linanna at Linanna Designs has blog candy.
Karen at Crafty Goings Ons has candy until 1/1.
Maria at Imagine, Create, Inspire has candy until 12/29.
Sally at Bootiful Stamps has candy every week.

Can I have a Hamster?

2008-12-28T19:38:00.002-05:00

Years ago I told my husband that I wanted to try and become a surrogate. Even though it's been a few years, it has always been in the back of my mind. It's something that I haven't taken lightly. Well, recently I have been in contact with a company in California, who has already accepted the first part of my application! Nothing has been decided and even if I pass all the tests, I might find that it's not for me. We'll see. Anyhow, tonight at dinner, I was telling Declan about what I wanted to do. He had all the expected questions and I told him what I thought a 6 year old needed to understand. Our conversation went something like:

Me: "I've been thinking of trying to be a surrogate."

Declan: "What's a surrogate?"

"Well, I would grow a baby in my tummy for someone else."

"Why can't they grow their own?"

"Well, sometimes a mommy's tummy doesn't work right. Mine does, so I can give them something that they really want. A baby."

"I think you should you give them Maeve."

"Um, no. I would grow their own baby for them. When the baby is born, they take it home with them and take care of him or her."

"Can I have a hamster?"

"I think you are missing the point here. And NO! You cannot have a hamster!"

It's Gonna be a New Year!

2008-12-26T23:11:00.001-05:00

And now, we rest.

2008-12-26T22:08:00.005-05:00

I'm sorry that it's been a very long time since I've posted anything. Everything has been so crazy this past week. My daughter had her girl scout ceremony/cookie swap last Monday. Oh My Goodness! We left with 6 dozen cookies that were out of this world. My new favorite is a red velvet cookie that is almost like a moon pie with cream cheese filling. So good!! My parents came into town Monday night to spend the holidays with us. I love when my parents come to visit. They live in another state and I miss seeing them every weekend, like I used to when Aislinn and Aidan were small. We went to Mass on Christmas Eve like we do every year. This year, we decided to try a new church. Still Catholic, just a different one. We got there an hour early, because in the past if we didn't, we ended up standing the entire time. Well, I guess not too many people go to this church, because it was not nearly as crowded as we expected. However, it is a small church, and really beautiful, and I think I will go back. Christmas morning was a lot of fun. I woke up at 5am and couldn't go back to sleep! I still get very excited even though I'm beyond my childhood years. I heard the boys talking about 6 and since they have been told NOT to come out of their room until 6:30, I wanted to check on them anyhow. As I get to their bedroom door, I notice that the bells I hang on their doorknob (so I can hear them if they get up) were gone!! Apparently my 6 year old very quietly took them off, hid them under his bed, and went out to investigate while we were sleeping! He even confessed to me that he does this every year. WHAT!!?! So much for trying to capture that "first look" when they come into the living room!! Oh well. This year, we didn't video record them. It gets too crazy. Well, within an hour, my kids tore through everything. (And I've got plenty of pictures to scrapbook.) My son Declan got a new bike, (which he thought was Aidan's - so much for peeking!) Aidan got a Ripstick, Aislinn got her Nintendo DS and Maeve got her tent and a new, pink calculator. Not sure what my 3 year old needs that for, but it's what she asked for and Santa did not disappoint. Me, I got something that *sparkles*!! MY OWN diamond earrings, courtesy of my mom and dad!! I love them! Now I don't have to borrow Aislinn's. I do have a few returns, but I didn't feel like going out and dealing with that. My parents left at noon today and Maeve cried. All she wanted was for her Nana and Papa to stay, it was so sad. So today was spent playing board games, putting together puzzles, playing new Wii games and watching movies. I hope you all had a very good Christmas! I'll add pictures later.

I may not be Martha Stewart

2008-12-15T20:46:00.004-05:00

but I can make cookies. I spent most of yesterday baking eggnog cookies for my cookie swap tomorrow night. I can't wait. I made probably close to 10 dozen. I gave 2 dozen to my neighbor, who happens to be very nice to my 6 year old son. She gave him several snowmen decorations yesterday and tonight gave him a huge ceramic Santa cookie jar! She is very sweet and my son loves to visit her. I have saved 4 dozen for my swap and the rest, well, they are staying here at the house.

Last night Joe and I took the kids to see Santa at the Ludy house. Visit their website (http://www.ludychristmas.com/). Their house is amazing. Anyhow, Maeve took a little nap on the way over, but when I tapped her on the shoulder and said that Santa was here, my God that child couldn't get out of her carseat fast enough! Her eyes just flew open and she was ready to go see him. This girl was in no way afraid of him at all. She walked right over and gave him a hug and her list of toys! When it was time to give another child a turn, she was not happy. She was under the impression that she was getting her presents last night. Oops.

Then, I had to practically drag my oldest 2 up to see Santa and sit on his lap. I think Aislinn was afraid someone she knew was going to drive by and see her. The things we moms make our kids do just for a photo!! Of course, once up there, Aidan couldn't get a word in to let him know what HE wanted for Christmas!!

Tonight, I had Aislinn help me make rum balls. My God, they are sooo good and very easy to make! No cooking involved. We made chocolate and vanilla. Tomorrow I have to seperate some for the swap. The rest are MINE!!

Gotta run, Prison Break is on!!

On the 1st day of Christmas.....

2008-12-13T12:15:00.005-05:00

my cat decided to knock our tree over.

Joe and I hadn't even fallen asleep yet, when just after midnight we heard a crash. Joe made the comment that he hoped the tree didn't catch on fire, since the fire in our fireplace hadn't gone out yet. My only thought was that the cat had better be dead. As it turns out, 2 sets of lights and several ornaments were broken beyond repair. Great. So, after we stood the tree back up, we took the rest of the ornaments off in case the tree fell again and the cat was tossed into the garage for the rest of the night. This morning I had to take the tree apart in order to put it back up the right way. Not how I wanted to start off my Saturday. In a minute, I'm off to start holiday baking. Cookies...mmmmmmm! Have a nice day!

catch a buzz

2008-12-11T21:40:00.004-05:00

Well for the past 2 days it has rained. And rained. I am about 2 inches away from having my pool flood! When I left to take my kids to school this morning, there were wires across the road, leaves everywhere and tree limbs down. The power was out at my kids' school, so they told ghost stories! The kids love it.

After going home to shower, I decided that I really needed to get out and buy those last few things for the holiday parties, teacher gifts, etc. Well, when I walked outside, I was taken aback. I've seen buzzards before, but these were HUGE! After making sure that Maeve was secure in her carseat so as to not get carried away by one of these, I ran back inside to get my camera (naturally!).

While I was taking a picture of these guys, several more were flying in circles over my head. Yes, I know that I am big enough to feed them for quite a while, but geez, I'm not dead yet! I'm glad I didn't leave the dog outside.

Scrapbooker's Poem

2008-12-11T21:37:00.005-05:00

Now I'm not going to name names, but I know of several gals that should read this!!

Twas the night before Christmas, I'm glued to the tree.
I'm wondering what Santa brought just for me.

Could it be cardstock or chipboard or lace?
Or a Cricut, I said, with a smile on my face.

And that's when I heard him, "Hi Santa, " I said
"You know....good little girls should be in their beds."

"I know I should Santa, and now I've been caught.
But I was just so excited to see what you brought."

"Well, let's take a look in this room where you work.
He shook his head quickly, And left with a jerk.

I heard him exclaim as he put it in gear.
"You've got enough crap, I'll see you next year!"

Happy Wednesday!!

2008-12-10T22:43:00.003-05:00

Happy hump day everyone! Today was a perfect day to take a nap. You know the kind, when it's raining and dreary outside. So, after Maeve and I took the rest of the tribe to school, we went back home and curled up on the sofa to spend the next 45 minutes drifting off. It was nice to just stay home and not leave the house until it was time to pick everyone up. I know Maeve loved it. We spent our time napping, playing games and doing puzzles. It was perfect. Of course, now it's 11 pm and I can't sleep.