Merry Christmas!

It is time for me to sign off from blogging for a few days, so that I can fully take in each and every moment of this magical time. I wish each of you a blessed Christmas filled with joy, love, and happiness.

I want to leave you with a story I received via email. I am not one who likes to read forwards, but this one brought tears to my eyes.

Enjoy!
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The "W" in Christmas Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending. Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas.
My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season for a six year old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's "Winter Pageant." I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation. All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.
So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform their song. Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial entertainment songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer. So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken aback by its bold title.
Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads. Those in the front row- center stage - held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song. As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas Love."
The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down - totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W". The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W". Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together.
A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities. For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear: "C H R I S T W A S LOVE" And, I believe, He still is. Amazed in His presence... .humbled by His love. Again, HAVE A BLESSED HOLIDAY SEASON AND A MERRY CHRISTMAS!

The Holiday Rush

The snow is falling

Big, cottony flakes glide down
Covering the ground

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Children are singing
And ringing their jingle bells

Their smiles shine so bright

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Cookies are baking
The air is so warm and sweet

Can't wait for a bite

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Only four days left
Christmas time is here again

The best time of year

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This morning while Joey was at school singing Christmas songs and making Gingerbread houses Tommy, Ben, and I had a little fun of our own. We put on some Christmas music and made chocolate chip cookies. Tommy kept saying that they were for Santa, but I think we all know that there is NO WAY there will be any of these cookies left by Christmas Eve.

My little baker.

It is so hard to wait for those doggone cookies!

After the cookies were done we had to sample a few and then rush off to watch Joey in his Christmas program. It was Joey's first Christmas program and he was uncharacteristically shy. Usually he is the loudest singer, the most animated, and the smiliest boy in the room. Maybe it was the pound of frosting, 1000 gumdrops, and 200 Twislers he ate while making his gingerbread house. Either way, it was fun to watch.

Look at the hands in the pockets. hehe

He DID like ringing the jingle bells.

The masterpiece.

Tommy is SOOO ready for school. We had to pry him out of the chair.

This weekend will be full of errands to run, presents to wrap (at the last minute again, I'm sure), and visits with friends. It will be fun, hectic, crazy, exciting, and too much. And it will all go by too fast.

Wordless Wednesday

You know your baby is teething when...

even the drawer knobs aren't safe.

Monday Mission- A Holiday List

The first thing I thought of when I heard the Monday Mission is to write a holiday list was this skit from Saturday Night Live.

A Holiday Wish .....Steve Martin

Steve Martin: If I had one wish that I could wish this holiday season, it would be for all the children of the world to join hands and sing together in the spirit of harmony and peace.

If I had two wishes that I could wish for this holiday season, the first would be for all the children of the world to join hands and sing in the spirit of harmony and peace.. and the second would be for $30 million a month to be given to me, tax-free in a Swiss bank account.

You know, if I had three wishes that I could make this holiday season, first, of course, would be for all the children to get together and sing.. the second would be for the $30 million every month to me.. and the third would be for all encompassing power over every living being thing in the entire universe.

And if I had four wishes that I could make this holiday season, first would be the crap about the kids.. second would be for the $30 million.. the third would be for all the power.. and the fourth would be to set aside one month each year for an extended 31-day orgasm, to be brought about slowly by Rosanna Arquette and that model Paulina somebody, I can't think of her name, of course my lovely wife could come, too. She's behind me 100% on this, I guarantee you. Wait a minute, maybe that sex thing should be the first wish! So, if I made that the first wish, because, you know, it could all go boom tomorrow, and then what have you got? No, no.. the kids singing would be great, that would be nice. No, no, who am I kidding! I mean, they're not gonna be able to get all those kids together! I mean, the logistics of the thing is impossible! It's more trouble than it's worth!

So, we reorganize: here we go. First, the sex - we go with that; second, the money. No! We go with the power second, then the money, and then the kids. Oh, wait, oh geez! I forgot about revenge against my enemies! Okay.. revenge against all my enemies, they should die like pigs in Hell! That would be the fourth wish! And of course, my fifth wish would be for all the children of the world to join hands and sing in the spirit of peace and harmony. Thank you, everybody.

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I love that one. Steve Martin is hilarious. I wish I could have gotten the video clip for that, but apparently YouTube doesn't have it anymore. :(

While I have visions of...

(my black boots are BEYOND worn and I must have new ones)

(this should be in brown)

(the sweater, not the girl)
(I'm pretty sure I'd wear a cami underneath, not that I have cleavage like that anyway)(I love these pajamas, although I'm positive I will never kneel like that while wearing them)

(I swear I ask for pajamas and slippers every Christmas)

dancing through my head, I thought I would make a list of miracles that I have been fortunate enough to witness since last Christmas. There are so many things I could wish for this Christmas and my list could go on and on, but I really do have everything I need. God has been working overtime for my family this year, and I am truly grateful.

1- Two years ago at Christmas my mom was diagnosed with end stage multiple myeloma. She was not expected to make it 4 months. Not only did she make it past 4 months but she is still here, doing amazingly well, and you would never guess she has cancer. Her cell counts are down to normal and she feels great. She is a true miracle.

2- I was completely shocked when I found out that I was not only pregnant again, but that I was having my third boy. Not only were we not trying to get pregnant, we were actively trying NOT to get pregnant. Each life is a miracle, and I can not imagine not having this little angel with me everyday. It is just another example of how God always knows far better than I what I need and want.

3- My sister, a single mom of three girls on very limited means, bought a house last month. Not only did she find a fabulous house in her price range, but she is 3 houses away from our parents, half a block from our brother, and 5 blocks away from us. Her girls only have to walk one block to get to school and back. It is truly a miracle that it all worked out at the perfect time, for the perfect amount of money, in the perfect location. After living halfway across the country for years she is now surrounded by family willing and able to lend a hand anytime she needs us. I am so happy for her.

4- My brother had been struggling with depression for the last few years, and after loosing his job he became so depressed he almost lost his life as well. This past spring he moved back home with my parents. While I was concerned how my mom would be able to take care of my dad and my brother it has turned out to be a miracle in disguise. When my mom is really struggling with my dad my brother is always there to lend a hand. He found a job, and is getting himself healthy again. It is a constant struggle, but he is doing so much better than this time last year. It is a miracle he is here with us today.

If you would like to participate in Monday Missions click on over to Painted Maypole and leave your link.

Party Time!

Last night we went to Todd's work Christmas party, and had a fabulous time. A whole night out with adults. I forgot how fun that can be.

It was a vast improvement on last year simply for the fact that I was 8 1/2 months pregnant last Christmas. I remember I was primping in our bathroom before the party and Joey came around the doorway, took one look at me and said, "You look like Santa, Mumma!"  Just what I wanted to hear. Here I thought my red blouse simply looked festive. Ah well.

This year when I came downstairs where the boys were eating Joey looked shocked when he saw me and said, "WHAT? Mumma you look beautiful! I love your beautiful blouse! I like your headband!"  It was very sweet, and yet a little disconcerting that he was so taken aback to see me look put together. Of course he did finish it off with, "You should wear that everyday!"  Typical male. Every woman should wear high heels, full make-up, and a skirt around the house while she cooks and cleans. Little caveman.

I managed to keep myself clean for all of 10 minutes until Tommy put his sticky food fingers on my blouse. He just couldn't keep his little hands off. He kept saying, "Mumma you so bootiful. I lub you." Heh, heh.

Can you see how sweaty I am in this picture? This was the last one taken in a series of 800. The boys are little camera hogs and kept trying to jump in between us. Towards the end there I was kicking them away. Todd's head was ready to blow, and my mom was laughing so hard she could barely keep the camera still. I especially love the toys spilling out of the toy box behind us. Very classy, no?

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Anglophile Football Fanatic gave me this awesome award. It is to go to bloggers that, in her words, spread Festivus for the rest of us. I am very excited about this one as it feeds into my snowman obsession.

I would like to pass this award on to Kellen at On the Upside for her festive new design. I love the red and green and it makes me feel cheery every time I visit. I also want to give it to Lotus at SarcasticMom for the picture she has of her son in the Santa hat. It is SO cute and funny you must go check it out.

Bells Are Ringing

A ringing we go

In the cold and in the snow

The boys love it so

We give of our time

To teach the boys how to love

And what Christmas means

Some have so little

We have, food, warmth, love, family

We are so lucky

Todd said this picture just looks like we were standing out in front of a store. Do you want to see the other pics we took while ringing the bells for The Salvation Army? Trust me this is was the best one, but here they are...

You can't even see little Tommy's face, and Joey was behind the pole.


This one looks like we had to sedate Joey. He was excited, but drugs were unnecessary. There are about 6 other pics like this one, but I think you get the idea.

I had been wanting to sign us up for ringing the bells for some time, and yesterday around noon Todd calls and says, "Oh, I forgot to tell you, but we have to ring the bells tonight at 5. Is that ok?" Men. I later found out that he had known for at least 2 weeks, and all of his office assistants kept reminding him to tell me, but oh well.

I was a little worried about how the boys would do in the cold, but we bundled them up so well that they were actually getting sweaty. In all honesty, we had a blast. All of the customers going in to the store were laughing at us because we were all jumping up and down, singing, dancing, and wishing everyone a "Merry Christmas!" Every time someone would put money in the bucket we would hoot and holler, "Wooohoooo!! Thank you! Merry Christmas!!! Happy Holidays! Yeah!!" It was pretty funny.

We had a great night. And to top it off all of the boys slept perfectly last night. They went to bed at 7:45 and I had to wake them up at 7:30 this morning so we could get to school on time. I had a perfect night's sleep. It was awesome. I hope it is a sign of a great weekend to come. We have a ton to pack in to one little weekend, and I'm hoping we don't burn out halfway through. I'm sure I will get many opportunities to practice being patient and calm. Let's all keep our fingers crossed, shall we?

Christmas Countdown

The boys have been asking me every 10 minutes how many days are left until Christmas. While I can understand their excitement, it gets a little old. You can imagine my relief and gratitude when Joey came home from school yesterday with a countdown to Christmas art project. It is a star with a tail made out of paper chains. You remove one chain every night before bed and when there are no more chains left it is Christmas. Genius! Why didn't I think of that? All of my brain cells must be leaking out through my breastmilk.
It is a fun and easy little project, and the boys love it. We will be making one for Tommy today so that I don't have to hear, "He got to pull the chain off last night!", "No, I didn't!", "It's my turn!", "Waaaa". You know how it goes.

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I love that the boys are so excited for Christmas, and are at an age that they remember Santa and all that comes along with Santa. Still, I struggle to find a balance for the boys between the commercial side of Christmas, and the real meaning of Christmas. Part of me feels that they are young and able to enjoy the Santa aspect of Christmas for such a short period of time, and I should let them go all out. Another part of me longs to have them feel the deep connection to Jesus early in their lives, if that is even possible.

We put up our Christmas tree, string the lights, get out my ever-growing collection of snowmen, hang the garland, put the wreath on the front door, and decorate the outside trees with red and white lights. We also put up our nativity set, wrap the baby Jesus in a soft little cloth (a faux blanket, of sorts) and tuck him away in a temporary crib until Christmas Eve. We talk about how Christmas is baby Jesus' birthday, and how Jesus came to show us how to love each other.

Still, it doesn't seem enough.

Then, the other day we were at the store and a gentleman who works there was asking the boys if they have been good.

"Cause you know who is watching, don't you?" the man asked.

"Santa!" the boys both shouted.

I smiled but I also cringed, just slightly, on the inside. I always bristle at the thought of a child being good simply to get presents from Santa. Maybe this would be the perfect opportunity to plant a gentle reminder of the One we should really want to impress. So I said, "But who is even more important than Santa, and who always watches us?"

Without hesitation Joey said, "God!"

My heart beamed and I let out a deep, satisfied sigh.

"That's right, honey!" I said with pride.

They had been listening.

Hump Day Hmm, An Award, And WW

Today's topic for Hump Day Hmm is pet peeves. It is sponsored by Julie at Using My Words, so head on over and take a look.

- I hate it when the toothpaste tube is squeezed in the middle. Drives me nuts. Can you say OCD?

- I get so mad when there are two cars right next to each other on the highway going exactly the same speed so that no one can pass.

- I think it is absolutely sick and wrong when media want to interview family members immediately after they just lost someone in a tragic accident, a natural disaster, or some other horrendous way. Have a little compassion, why don't ya? How do you THINK they feel? Leave them alone!

- I don't like it when athletes or actors thank God for their awards. I'm all for thanking God publicly, but I really don't think God cares who wins the Superbowl.

- It makes me really mad when people look at me with my three little boys and say, "You're crazy!", or "You poor thing!", or even, "Were you hoping for a girl?". How do you think that makes my precious boys feel? Why would I be crazy or need sympathy for having three wonderful, healthy, sweet, beautiful boys? Grrrrr!!!!

- It drives me nuts that every time I get in or out of my car in the winter I get a shock on the door handle. Is the air really THAT dry this time of year? Ouch!

- I hate the fact that when I get my hair done at the salon it looks fabulous, and then when I wash it and try to do the same thing it looks, well, not so fabulous. AH! This is why I need my hair long again. Throw it back in a ponytail, and go.

Ok. I think that is enough of that. I sound like a crazy, whiny person.

On a positive note, I got my first award. OHMommy from Classy Chaos gave me the I Less Than Three Your Blog Award.

Do you get it? It looks like a heart on it's side. So it is an, I Love Your Blog Award. Yeah! I'm so excited!
I am passing this award on to two other blogs ('cause it is less than three- I'm so tricky). I have a billion blogs that I like but I narrowed it down to Girlymom at The Red Door, and Heidi at Viking Conquest.
And last on the agenda today is Wordless Wednesday. Not so wordless anymore, but here is my pic, nonetheless.

Lunch time story with Daddy

Busy, busy, busy

I have been a busy little bee this past weekend. We did so much in such a short period of time that it left me feeling a little depressed. Too much rushing around, and not enough stopping to enjoy what makes this season so wonderful. So much happened, and I could tell you about it all, but it would take the better part of your day to read it.

I could tell you how on Friday night after dinner the boys were allowed to have a bit of their St. Nick candy, which was met with great bursts of energy and screams (literally) of delight. The hubby didn't help by starting a pillow fight with the boys, followed by tossing them in the air, and wrestling them on the ground. It all ended abruptly when Tommy stopped mid-run, spread his legs out wide, bent at the waist, and vomited pink chunks of fruit, noodles, and ground beef all over the living room floor. He immediately looked up and said, "Daddy, can you clean that up? Mumma, I bomit. Oh no, I bomited on my monster truck." 

My hubby and I automatically assumed our roles of "Mommy comforter" in which I clean up and comfort the child, and "Daddy cleaner" where he scoops, vacuums, and scrubs the floor. After two minutes all was well again.

I could also tell you about the hubby's folks graciously watching our boys on Saturday night so that Todd and I could run out and get some Christmas shopping done. It was a wonderful break only made slightly less wonderful by the fact that we could not find anything we wanted to get for the boys. We soothed our sore feet and pounding heads with a stop at our favorite restaurant. We ordered a beer for the hubby, and a mojito for me, followed by two fabulous soups, and two amazing entrees. It turned out to be a great evening despite the fact that we came home to a Tommy boy with an egg on his head from running into the wall, and Benny baby who has decided to stop sleeping through the night. Sigh.

I could tell you about how in church on Sunday the priest was talking to us about John the Baptist, and how he told the people that One would come and baptize us with fire. Every time the priest said fire he would yell it. "FIRE!!!!" It really got every one's attention, including that of my Tommy, who waited for the church to be silent to say in a very loud voice, "Momma, what is he talkin' 'bout?" Ah kids. Ya gotta love 'em. Luckily, the congregation seemed to think it was pretty funny.

I could also tell you that after church we went to a tree lot and picked out a beautiful Christmas tree. The boys were so excited to see the tree in the house that I was shocked when they went down for a nap that afternoon. After they woke up we all decorated the tree together. This was the first year I really let the boys help, and I surprised myself by not moving each ornament the boys placed on the tree to a "better" location. They did very well. Even little Benny did better than I thought he would. When we finally released him from his jail (the bouncer) and let him get close to the tree he sat on his bum and bounced up and down, up and down, screaming and smiling. It was pretty cute. It hasn't been nearly as difficult to keep him away from his first Christmas tree as I thought it would be. He is such a good baby.
Or, I could tell you about the hubby and I being so exhausted from all of the holiday fun that after we put the boys down to sleep on Sunday night we got into a huge fight about nothing. It was very strange for us, as we normally don't argue. We didn't talk for a whole day. Humph. Luckily, the fight ended and easily as it started.
I could tell you about all of that. I could. But, I'd rather pass on my favorite holiday recipe that a friend sent me a few years ago. I hope it helps you get into the holiday spirit, and brings you a bit of cheer. It always works for me. :)

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
4 large eggs
2 cups dried fruit
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup brown sugar
lemon juice
nuts
1 gallon whiskey

Sample the whiskey to check for quality. Take a large bowl. Check the whiskey again to be sure it is of the highest quality. Pour one level cup and drink. Repeat.

Turn on the electric mixer; beat 1 cup butter in a large, fluffy bowl. Add 1 teaspoon sugar and beat again. Make sure whiskey is still OK. Cry another tup. Turn off mixer.

Break 2 legs and add to the bowl and chuck in the cup of dried fruit. Mix on the turner. If the fried druit gets stuck in the beaterers, pry it loose with a screwscriver. Sample the whiskey to check for onsisticity. Next, sift 2 cups of salt. Or something. Who cares? Check the whiskey. Now sift the lemon juice and strain your nuts. Add one table. Spoon. Of sugar or something. Whatever you can find. Whiskey check. Again. To taste. Grease the oven. Turn the cake tin to 350 degrees. Don't forget to beat off the turner. Throw the bowl out of the window. Check the whiskey again. Go to bed. Who the hell wants cake anyway?

- I like to substitute the whiskey with rum. Enjoy!

The Perfect Mother

Oh why can't I be
The perfect version of me
Each day for my boys

My dear boys,

I'm trying. Really, I am. Each day I struggle to be the perfect mother to you. I try to be loving, understanding, kind, compassionate, patient, fun, happy, and present. Yet it seems that at the end of each day I look back and see I could have done better, done more.

If I were the perfect mother:

I would walk away to cool off when my temper flares, instead of hissing at you threw pursed lips.

I would see your temper tantrum for what it is instead of rolling my eyes and throwing my hands in the air.

I would hug your frustration away, instead of adding to it.

I would always maintain eye contact with you when you are telling me a story. I know how important and special that makes you feel.

I would realize that playing Hot Wheels with my boys should always trump doing the laundry. Before too long, the Hot Wheels will be put away, and my teenage boys will no longer want me in their circle of friends.

I would worry less about the mess, and realize that dusting and vacuumming can always be done later.

I would let you help with chores without worrying how much longer they take to get done. It is important for your self-esteem, and you are able to do more than I've realized.

You are growing too fast. Getting older by the second. Soon I will be missing your mess, your noise, your thunderous play. I must take advantage while I can. You are mine but a moment.

I'll keep striving, with God's help, to be the mother you deserve. I will pray to be loving, understanding, kind, compassionate, patient, fun, happy, present, and worthy of God's most precious gift. Never doubt my love for you. It is what pushes me to do better, and to be better for you.

I'm trying. Really, I am. Each day I struggle to be the perfect mother to you.

I love you,
Mumma

Thankful Boys

My boys certainly have thankful little hearts. I hear "thank you" all day long, whether it is thanking me for buying them new socks, thanking the nurse for their flu shots (I'm NOT lying), or thanking us for a glass of juice. They definitely know how to say "thank you".

They were especially thankful this morning because St. Nick brought them wonderful goodies. There were mini-trucks, tiny snow globes, candies, books, small stuffed animals, and candy canes. They are lucky boys, and I'm a lucky momma. I'm thankful for my thankful boys.

Ya gotta love the morning hairstyles.

Happy to be playing with their new trucks.

Ben wasn't too excited about the toys, but he sure did like to eat the paper.

Wordless Wednesday- Lake Michigan Part III

Winter in Wisconsin

Open When Alone...

The Monday Mission today, hosted by Painted Maypole, is to write a post in the style of a high school note. I feel this is a topic I have much knowledge about as I would usually write about 4 or 5 notes a day in high school. Granted, it has been a while, but I have a good memory. Approximately 95% of my notes were to my best friend, Sarah, so this one is for her.
Please picture the following delivered in a small folded triangle of notebook paper with the messy fringies still attached.
 Hey chica lady!

What up, fool? Not too much here. Just wiping noses, and wiping butts. The usual.

How are you? What's happening on the labor front? Four centimeters already. I'm impressed! You are almost halfway there! Weehoo!!! Keep it up chica! Think open thoughts. ;)

Guess what song I heard on the way to taking Joey to school today. Nope. Guess again. Nope. Guess again. JK. I heard Stronger by Kanye West. Ohhhh. Soooo good. Me likey. I was totally rockin' out. I probably looked like a complete spaz in my minivan jammin' to Kanye, but I don't care. I tell ya, some day I'm gonna embarrass the poo out of my boys with my car-dancing skills. hehe

Did I tell you Heidi stopped by over Thanksgiving with her new little babes? So cute! She looked so good, and she seemed so content and at ease. She seems very happy. It was good to see her again. It had been a long time. Oh, and I finally got to meet her hubby. V cute.

We had such a busy weekend. I cleaned the house, put up all the decorations inside, got Joey off to his first playdate, took the boys to Festival of the Trees, and when they napped I went out in the snow storm and put our Christmas lights on the trees outside. I know, good timing, right? Our neighbor came outside and looked at me like I was nuts. It was kinda funny. The wind was blowing so hard I thought it was gonna knock me off the ladder, for sure.

Where was Todd during all of this, you ask? Well, he was following my orders. We needed more lights, so like a good little soldier he ran out (in the blizzardy snowstorm) and got some more. By the time he came back I was so in a groove that I pretty much wouldn't let him touch anything. He was totally my bi-otch. hehe Don't tell him that though. jk I was pretty frozen by the time I was done. It was really cold and really windy outside. Brrrr. It was all worth it when the boys got up and kept jumping up and down saying, "Thank you so much for putting up our beautiful decorations, mumma! I so 'cited! I lub our decorations, mumma!" It was pretty cute. After that we watched a ton of Christmas movies this , and spent the rest of the weekend shoveling our tushies off. Like I said, busy weekend. It was nice.

Oh! I forgot to say. I finally got an appointment with Keisha at the salon. Soooo good. I soooo need to do something with my hair. I really don't like it short anymore. I have to grow it out. But I need a new style in the meantime. What do you think? Any suggestions?

How are you doing without any new episodes of The Office? It is driving me nuts! Settle the strike already!
Blah.

You should see the monster zit I have next to my nose. Freaking great! What am I, like, 14 years old again? Hello?? Sheesh. So embarrassing. Perfect timing too, cuz move it over a little bit, and I'm flipping Rudolph. It is SO not fair that I am using Clearasil and Oil of Olay wrinkly reducer at the same time. WTF??

Hey, I need to go shopping. I sooo have nothing to wear to Todd's Christmas party, and I don't want all his co-workers to think I'm Ms. Frumpy-pants stay-at-home mommy.

Ok. I'd better run. I'll write more later.
BFF
Kat

p.s. Did you see Matt Damon got sexiest man alive? About damn time, right? So good. Little hottie.
p.p.s Call me the MINUTE you go into labor!!!!

TGIF

Praise the Lord above
NaBloPoMo is over
In the nick of time

So sick of writing
About nothing important
Just blah, blah, blah, blah

I'm taking a break
Decorating for Christmas
Fun weekend ahead

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This weekend will be nothing but fun, decorating, baking, and playing in the snow brought in by the storm that is being predicted.

The boys have been asking since Thanksgiving when we will decorate for Christmas, and I told them they had to wait until December. So, tomorrow the decorations will be brought out, dusted off, and carefully placed. To be honest I am just as excited as they are. Not really looking forward to hauling Ben away from the Christmas tree every two seconds, but oh well. It is all in good fun.

Joey has his first playdate tomorrow. He has been asked many times by various classmates, and I finally said "yes". Am I the only playdate grinch? I don't remember ever having a "playdate" when I was little. We just played with our siblings or people in our neighborhood. Such a strange concept to me. It isn't that I think a playdate is a horrible idea, it just doesn't make too much sense in our family. The boys have each other to play with, and we have 12 boys (and 1 girl) on our street that the boys are always with. I am also working around Ben's nap in the morning and all of the boys' nap in the afternoon. Not only that, but when Joey goes to school Tommy misses him so much, and I dread telling him that Joey is going to play somewhere without him. Poor kid.

But really, I don't want Joey to miss out. I'm happy he has friends. He is a good boy, and he deserves to do fun things. He shouldn't have to be held back because he has younger brothers. Plus, I don't want the other mommies from school to think I am an anti-social grouch, though I may be sometimes.

So, off to the playdate Joey will go. I planned it for a Saturday so that I can stay home with Ben while he naps, and Todd can have some one-on-one time with Tommy, something they will both appreciate. The two of them will be going to "the man's mall", Fleet Farm, to pick out some more outdoor decorations. Tommy will be so excited. Really, it is a win-win situation for all.

I hope you all have a wonderful NaBloPoMo free weekend. I know I will.

You're Gonna Read It, And Like It!

I was tagged again. Hahaha!!! I know you are probably all very sick of reading the meme's I have written, but they are fun, so I'm doing another one. If you are up for some cruel and unusual punishment you can read my other meme's here, here, and here.

This tag is the "7 interesting things" meme and comes from GirlyMom at The Red Door. I find her fun and entertaining, so go check her out.

1- I still keep a written journal. You know, the kind you write in with an actual pen on actual paper? I have kept a journal since I was in third grade and will most likely continue to do so until I die.

2- I have two completely unreasonable fears. The first one is clowns. I don't like not being able to see some one's face. It really freaks me out. I suppose watching the movie "IT" didn't help either. When I worked at a bank a woman there worked as a clown on the side. One night she changed into her clown outfit before she left work and came in my office. I crawled under my desk and was very close to peeing my pants.
The second one is sharks. It may not sound like an unreasonable fear, but give me a minute. I am always afraid to swim in the ocean (not so unreasonable) and had a VERY frightening experience snorkeling on my honeymoon in Mexico. I'll save that story for another time. The unreasonable part comes when I tell you that when I swim laps at the YMCA I am constantly thinking about a shark attacking me and which way would be the fastest way out of the pool. ??? In a pool! With chlorine! Inside of a building! With other people swimming with me! Crazy, right? Yeah, I know. I'm a freak.

3- I married a man who is almost exactly like my Dad. So strange. Both are renaissance men, can fix anything, were very good football players, sing, are hunters, have quick tempers, are big jokers, hard-working, reliable, intelligent, quick-witted, are very out-going, can make friends anywhere, are the go-to-guy in any situation, are very compassionate, kind, and have big, delicate egos. My mom and I (who are very much alike as well) laugh about it all the time. Freud would love me.

4- I hate being cold. I am always cold. I am cold right now. My house is 70 degrees Fahrenheit and I am wearing a tee shirt, sweatshirt, jeans, socks, and slippers, and I am freezing. I hate being cold.

5- I have a tattoo and I am thinking of getting another one. My bro is a tattoo artist and does amazing work. It is a slippery slope, getting another tattoo. It becomes addicting, and I don't want to be the "Amazing Tattoo Lady" with them all over my body. Maybe I'll just stick with one. Hmmm.

6- I have super duper long toes. I mean long. I could probably learn to play piano with my toes. I used to be self-conscious about my toes, and would never wear sandals. Now I don't really care. At least I have toes, right? And, maybe that is why I have such good balance. ;)

7- I would love to be a doula or midwife someday. I am completely fascinated and amazed by the whole birth process. I think it would be amazing to watch a new little soul enter the world for a living.
So, there ya go. Some more facts about me. Are ya sick of me yet? I am.

Wordless Wednesday- More or Less

This is the official winner of our Christmas greeting card photo shoot. After many attempts, pulling off of antlers and hats, interruptions with trips to the potty, one poopy diaper, complaints of overheating, and general grumpiness, we managed to get a bunch of good pics. I think this is the best shot. Thank the Lord that is done.

Not A Moment To Rest

This afternoon I amazingly got all of the boys down for a nap at the same time and decided to take advantage with a run on the treadmill. I knew I had a limited amount of time so I cooled down as quickly as possible and jumped into the bath (yes, we are still waiting for our bathroom remodel to be fully functional- so a bath it is).

I was only in the bath a few minutes when the door swung wide open and Joey and Tommy tumbled in. I pulled my legs up to my chest, suddenly aware of my recent shyness around Joey.

Tommy: "Are you taking a bath, Mumma?"
Me: "Uh-huh. Could you go wait in your room and I'll be right out?"
Tommy: "Are you just having so much fun in there, Mumma?"
Me: "Um. No. I'm getting cold now. Could you close the door?"
Joey: "You have boobies, Mom."
Me: "Yes, I do."
Joey: "That's funny."
Me: "Why is that funny?"
Joey: "I don't know."
Tommy: "There is milk in yos boobies."
Joey: "Yeah, for Benny."
Me: "Right."
Joey: "I used to drink that milk when I was little."
Tommy: "Me too."
Me: "Yep."
Tommy: "Do you have a penis?"
Me: "No, boys have penises. Mummie is a girl, and I have a vagina."
Joey: "Can I see it?"
Me: "NO. That's private. We don't show people our penises or vaginas. Could you please go wait in your room now?"
Joey and Tommy: "Okay."
Joey: "You have a lot of water in there. Can I have that much water when I take a bath?"
Me: "Sure."
Joey: "Okay. Now don't splash, cuz Daddy gets mad."
Me: "Okay. You two can go now. I'm freezing."

The boys finally left, but for the remainder of the 2 minutes it took me to wash up I kept seeing little fingers poking under the door, followed by, "Are you done yet, Mumma?"

Who knew I would be so sorely missed after an absence of just 5 minutes? A little annoying, yes, but also a bit flattering.

Let The Singing Begin!

Now that Thanksgiving is over the Christmas season has officially begun, and my boys are already in the Christmas mood.

We were sitting in church this morning and during one of the prayers the priest was saying, "... and Lord in Your presence...", and Joey's face lit up and he turned to me and said, "Ah! Presents!".

On the way home the boys graced us with their beautiful rendition of Jingle Bells. Joey has most of the words down, but Tommy's version goes like this:

"Jingle bells, jingle bells
Honka, honka way
Oh muss fawn it is to ride
In a hutta hoata fee!"

Joey keeps trying to teach him the actual words, but I must say, I hope he doesn't learn them just yet. I really love his version.

The boys were so happy singing their Christmas songs, and I got to thinking about all the Christmas songs I love. It is such a wonderful warm feeling listening to Christmas music while baking cookies with the snow gliding through the air outside. I just love it.

Here are some of my favorite Christmas songs that always warm my heart.

12- I'll Be Home For Christmas sung by Bing Crosby- Such a sad and sweet song all at the same time. I can't help but think of the troops every time I hear this one.
11- The Christmas Shoes sung by NewSong- Much of the time I have to turn the radio when this song comes on simply because it is one of the most painful songs I've ever heard, and if I don't turn the station I'll end up driving off the road blinded by my tears. Still, it is precious and beautiful.
10- All I Want For Christmas Is You sung by Mariah Carey- Yes, she is a bit of a nutball but the lady can sing. It is a fun song and always makes me want to sing and dance along.
9- Last Christmas sung by WHAM- I know I am a lame-o! I don't know why I love this song so much, I just do.
8- Please Come Home For Christmas sung by Bon Jovi- So unexpected to hear this song from Bon Jovi, and that makes it even more fun.
7- No More Blue Christmases sung by Natalie Cole- Ahhh, this song. Gives me warm tinglies, and is definitely a tribute to my dear hubby.
6- White Christmas sung by Bing Crosby- Another classic by the great master of warmth and schmultz.
5- Miss You Most At Christmas sung by Mariah Carey- Again, she is good. If you are lonely and missing someone around the holidays, this song is for YOU! Or not, depending on whether you want to feel worse than you already do. In my case the answer is always, "yes". For some reason when I am sad, I listen to stuff that makes me even more sad. I'm crazy that way.
4- Grown-up Christmas List sung by Amy Grant- I love singing along with this one, but I never make it past the first verse because I get so choked up.
3- The Christmas Song sung by Nat King Cole- No one else should ever even ATTEMPT to sing this song because they will NEVER be as good as the KING! It really doesn't get much better than this.
2- What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? sung by Harry Connick Jr.- Such pure sentiment in this song. It is one of my all-time favorites.
1- Oh Holy Night sung by my Dad- I know I have mentioned this before here, but my Dad is an amazing singer. Hearing my Dad's beautiful tenor voice sing this every Christmas Eve in our huge church will forever be locked in my heart. Such a gift.

I originally started this list with my top 10 favorite Christmas songs, but I had so much trouble narrowing it down. So, what did I miss? What are your favorites? Did I completely miss the mark on some of these? I'm sure there are some very good ones I forgot to mention. Let me know, and I may have to revise my list to top 20 favorites.

Turkey Hangover

I planned on posting a Thanksgiving message yesterday wishing you all more blessings than you can count. But, I didn't.

Instead, I got up and ran a 10K race in snow and 29 degree weather. I am happy to say that I achieved my goal and did not come in last.


After that, I went home, jumped in the shower, and ran over to my sister-in-law's house to celebrate Thanksgiving and my mother-in-law's birthday. I ate a ton of food without guilt (thanks to the run), played with the kiddies, and watched my Packers trounce the Lions. Much fun was had.

Then we packed up the kiddies, drove them home, dealt with meltdowns (because of missed naps) for the two hours before bedtime, finally got the boys to bed, and then I marched over to the computer to write my post like a good little blogger. Unfortunately, the computer was running REALLY slowly, and then completely locked up. I was too tired from the run, the Tryptophan, and lack of sleep the night before, to attempt to fix said computer. Instead I crashed on the couch and tried to watch Grey's Anatomy without falling asleep.

So, now that I have had a few hours of sleep, hubby has temporarily fixed the computer, and the boys are semi-calm, I would love to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving with more blessings than you can count.

I still feel so full,

Someone roll me off the couch.

No time to relax.

Make room for more food,

Tomorrow another feast.

Thanksgiving at mom's.

Thankful for family,

My home, my friends, and my health.

I know I am blessed.

Wordless Wednesday

There is nothing better than a blankie fort with Daddy.

'Tis the season...

to go broke. Falalalala Lala Lala.

Our computer is breaking down. We can't turn it off because it takes about an hour and a half to get it going again. I blame it on all of our construction dust. I'm sure that if I opened up the PC a big pile of dust would fall out. Still, it is getting old, so it is probably time to buy another one anyway. Great timing too. Blahhhh. Stinking money. Or rather, stinking LACK of money.

I don't know if our dear old computer will make it to December, so if I don't post for a few weeks you'll know we completely crashed. So much for NaBloPoMo.

Change A Momma

Are you a fashion designer with a heart? Are you a compassionate hair stylist? Then we at Change A Momma need you. Just donate a few hours of your time and you could make a difference in the life of an ordinary, boring, mother.

Take our poster child, Kathryn, for example. Just look at her stained, old, worn-out, YMCA sweatshirt, and faded, too-big, running pants. No one could possibly be happy looking like that. Share your expertise in fashion and shine her up like new. And what about her dirty, unkempt hair? A dye job, a wash, and a style would work wonders.

We here at Change A Momma are asking for just a few hours a month to help us make the world a prettier place to be. Please help us in any way you can. These women are desperate, and they need you.


This post is for the Monday Mission hosted by Painted Maypole. Today's mission is to write a spiel on a charity, real or imaginary. Head on over and check out everyone else's charities too.

Seven Random Things Meme

I have been tagged for the "seven random things" meme by The Dragonfly. I have done this one here and another one like it here, but I like doing these things, so you are gonna have to suffer through another one. Besides, I know you are all just dying to know 7 more weird things about me. ;)
Here are the rules:
1 - Link to the person who tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
2 - Share seven random and/or weird things about yourself.
3 - Tag seven random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
4 - Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

**********************************
1) I change my hairstyle and color all the time. My hair has been black, brown, red, reddish brown, blond, dark brown, strawberry blond, dishwater blond, chestnut brown and any other color on the spectrum. My hair has also been super duper long, super duper short, and everywhere in between. I am most comfortable with long hair, but I get bored with myself and chop it all off. I think my natural color is dishwater blond/brown. Oh, and this is weird, but my hair has always been wavy and I wear it straight most of the time, but I've noticed that every time I have another child it gets curlier.

2) Becoming a mom has turned me into a coward. I used to love flying, and now every time I get on an airplane I white-knuckle the armrests hoping the plane won't take a nose-dive and leave my children motherless. I used to ski with reckless abandon, and now I take the easiest trails so I don't break a leg making it impossible for me to chase after my rugrats. I used to love the thought of going skydiving, and now I sweat just thinking about it. My life just seems infinitely more important now that I have these little creatures that depend on me. I hope I have not become an incredible bore to my hubby.

3) I am a worst case scenario person. Can you tell from the above? I am always thinking about how to save my babies from a fire, a robber, a tornado, a car crash, a fall off a jungle gym, or a trip down the stairs. I constantly worry something bad will happen to my children. It is kind of exhausting. My mom swears that it is because my sister died when she was 9 (it happened before I was born but I grew up hearing about her), and that I've always known even little kids are not immune to death. I don't know, maybe I'm just a worrier.
4) My nicknames are Kathy, Kat, Katie-bug, K, Schmoopee and Pooper. The last two are from Seinfeld. My hubby and I thought that was such a funny episode that we started using those nicknames, and they stuck. My family has always called me Kathy, but they are the only ones who still do. I introduce myself as Kathryn (since high school) to everyone I meet. Kat is used the most often.

5) Remember that old couple in When Harry Met Sally who tell their story of how they lived in the same town and never met until they were vacationing in another state? That is just like my hubby and I. We grew up in the same town a few miles apart, played at the same parks, went to the same high school (5 years apart), and attended the same churches. We met in a city 70 miles from our hometown when he was living in New York and I lived just outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. And both of our parents still live in the same houses we grew up in and we live within 2 miles of both of them.

6) I am already planning when we can have child #4. I know, I'm crazy. I just can't help it. I would have 6 kids if I could talk hubby into it. As it is, I am going to have some convincing to do to get him to agree to 4. I am from a family with 6 kids so 3 still seems so small to me.

7) I can throw a really good spiral. That's American football for all you Europeans out there. ;)

Okay, now I have to pass this on. I think I might just take the easy way out again seeing as how people seem to get stressed out when they get tagged. Anyone who wants to play along let me know in the comments and I'll put your link up so everyone can see you are a good sport. :)

Another One Bites The Dust

Don't you hate it when you plan a wonderful day, and the reality of it is anything but wonderful? It was supposed to be a day of snuggling, playing, reading, baking, watching movies, and having fun. Instead, it was a day of whining, nagging, fighting, naughty steps, too short naps, and general grumpiness.

At least I managed to salvage the last half hour of the day reading a couple of books and kissing the boys goodnight. Hopefully that is what the boys will remember when they dream tonight. Not the part where mommy is nagging them to pick up their toys for the umpteenth time, or yelling for almost stepping on Ben's head again, or breaking up another fight and sitting them on the naughty step.

I am all too happy to put this day behind me and start all over again tomorrow. Tomorrow I will try harder to be more patient, loving, kind, and fun. I will remind myself that I am the adult, and I set the tone for the day. I am in control. I am in control.
I am in control.
I am in...

A Hunting He Goes

Daddy's gone hunting

The boys are feeling weepy

Mumma has a plan

Bundle up the boys

To the movie store we go

Each can pick just one

Cookies are baking

The boys bundled in blankets

Happy boys once more

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

Todd is off hunting for a week so I am pulling every trick I have out of my hat to keep the boys happy. They always miss their Dad when he is gone, but for a week straight it gets rough. Todd keeps telling them that when they are a bit older they will go hunting with him. If I were them that wouldn't be any consolation. I'd be thinking, "Um, okay, I get to go with you but I have to shoot something?" Course, I lack the testosterone that is apparently essential for hunting.

Is it even possible that there will come a day when all the boys will be hunting with their Dad and I will have the whole house to myself? I can't even imagine. What would I do with such free time? I could take an hour long bath with no yelling, screaming, or frantic knocks on the door. I could sleep until 8, no wait, make that 9 in the morning! I could go to church and listen to the sermon. I could go to multiple stores without having to drag three kids in and out of car seats at each stop. I could even shop ALL DAY if I wanted to. I could have a meal and actually be able to eat the WHOLE THING without shelling out half of it to the boys. I could read a book, maybe even two! The possibilities are endless.

My husband promises it will happen, but we'll see. I will probably be working full time by then, so I'd better not get too carried away with this daydream. Not only that, but by the end of the week I'd be begging my boys to hurry up and get home. I'm sure all that free time would get boring after a while. Right?

In the meantime, I'd better go check those cookies.

Happy Birthday, Dad

Yesterday was my Dad's 76th birthday. I went to the store and stood for quite a while trying to pick out the perfect cards. One card would be from the boys and one from the hubby and I. As I looked my eyes fell on a card with a picture of a little girl sitting on her daddy's lap. I read it and I started to cry. It was so true to my Dad and I. It said that Daddy was the first man to ever place a whiskery kiss on her cheek. The first pal she ever had. The first man she ever loved. The first man ever to believe in her. I just sat there reading, and crying, wondering if Daddy could appreciate this card.

My Dad has always been a very sensitive person. Full of emotion. But these days it is hard to know what he will be feeling at any given moment. More so it is difficult to know what he will be able to understand.

Daddy has Alzheimer's. He has had it for at least the last seven years but has gotten much worse over the last two. Watching him slowly lose memory and ability has been enormously painful, to say the least. But even worse, seeing my Dad's personality slowly disappear. Words can not express the sorrow.

My Dad has always been a caretaker, a romantic, a joker, the life of the party. He could do anything. He could build anything. He was a sportsman. He played semi-professional football. He could sing like an angel. He had leads in numerous musicals. He was a fabulous dancer and every one watched my Dad in awe as he swept me across the floor to Frank Sinatra's "The Way You Look Tonight" when we danced the father/daughter dance at my wedding. He sang in the church choir and people would come to midnight mass every Christmas Eve to hear Dad sing "O Holy Night". He was a storyteller. A joker. He was a hard worker. The "go-to guy". You could always depend on Dad. He stood up for what he believed in. He ALWAYS took care of those who could not take care of themselves.

My favorite story is about my Dad when he was in third grade. Dad had heard that a group of fourth grade boys were following one of their classmates out of school and beating him up because he was Jewish. Dad (who is Catholic) told the Jewish boy that he would walk him home from now on, and when they left that day the fourth grade boys followed them. They told Dad to get lost because they wanted to "take care" of the Jewish boy. Dad stood directly in front of the boy and told the fourth graders, "If you want to get to him, you've got to get through me first!" He took them all on, and won. The fourth graders never bothered the boy again.

That's my Dad. It still is, really. I can still see him in there sometimes. Some days he is the Dad I know. Other days he is lost inside himself somewhere. The disease has eaten away at his personality making him vulnerable and unsure of himself. My Mom takes wonderful care of him (which is a miracle in itself as she is also fighting terminal cancer), but recently we have been wondering if it is getting to the point where he should be in an assisted living facility. More than once he has wandered off. Thankfully, he still knew enough to stop at a gas station and tell them he is lost.

So, for his birthday this year I was questioning what kind of card I could get him. What would he understand? I know he still understands some jokes, so a happy card might be a good idea. But when I saw this card I just had to get it. Maybe more for myself than for him. I walked out of the store with three cards. One from the boys, one from hubby and me, and one from just me.

Mom brought Dad over to my house yesterday before they were to go on their daily walk. I greeted them at the door and told Dad "Happy Birthday" right away. "It's my birthday? Oh, that's nice." Dad said. He happily came in. He was in a good mood. A birthday gift in itself. He sat down on the couch and played with the boys. Although he sometimes forgets who my Mom is, who I am, who my sibling are, he always seems to know the boys.

I brought in his presents (his favorite chocolate covered raisins and chocolate turtles) and his cards. He managed to open one of the envelopes, but got confused with the rest. My Mom opened them for him, and the boys happily opened his presents for him. I watched his face as my Mom read the cards to him, searching for a clue of understanding. He smiled and said how nice they were.

Then she got to my card. As she read it her eyes welled up with tears, as did mine. Dad listened and began to laugh at us, confused as to why we were crying. He didn't get it. And it was okay. Mom and I gave each other knowing looks and moved on.

We played with the boys and Ben showed Grandma and Grandpa how he can stand up by himself. We talked about the beautiful day outside. I showed them my new blinds.

I noticed Dad had been holding something in his hand the whole time. It was my card. He kept looking at it. Reading it again and again, trying to catch it's meaning. The other cards sat next to him. This one he held.

As my parents got up to go on their walk I noticed my card still in his hand. And I don't know, maybe I am telling myself this in some false hope, but I really think he got it. I think he felt the love in that card. I think it was another birthday gift, this time from God, and not just to Dad but to me as well.


(Dad passed away from Alzheimer's on June 29, 2009.  I miss him dearly.)

Wordless Wednesday

Just for Laughs

I have been kind of down today, and I'm having a hard time shaking the blues. So, to lift my mood, and hopefully some other people's, here is one of my favs.

Church Bulletins: Thank God for church ladies with typewriters. These sentences actually appeared in church bulletins or were announced in church services. A few are repeats but all are funny and so typical of amateur writing - watch out for the missing letters!!

The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.

The sermon this morning: "Jesus Walks on the Water." The sermon tonight: "Searching for Jesus."

Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 PM in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King.

Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Don't forget your husbands.

The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict.

Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say "Hell" to someone who doesn't care much about you.

Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.

Miss Charlene Mason sang "I will not pass this way again," giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.

For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.

Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.

Barbara remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more transfusions. She is also having trouble sleeping and requests tapes ofPastor Jack's sermons.

The Rector will preach his farewell message after which the choir will sing: "Break Forth Into Joy."

Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.

A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.

At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What Is Hell?" Come early and listen to our choir practice.

Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.

Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.

Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.

The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility.

Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.

The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They maybe seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.

This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.

Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 AM. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done.

The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.

Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.

The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.

Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.

The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday: "I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours".