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.

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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

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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".

Monday Mission- Post as a Script

The scene opens with a family of 5 sitting on the floor in a child's room. The mother holds a squirming 9 month old on one knee, and a cranky 2 year old on the other. The father holds an overly excited 4 year old.


Mother: (said in a sing-song manner for effect) "Good prayers, boys. Hop in bed now."
Everyone starts to get up. The baby heads over to the books. The 2 yr old starts to play with toys.
4 yr old: "But you didn't ask what I want to pray for!"
Father: "We just said all our prayers, it is bedtime now."
4 yr old: "Ask what I want to pray for!"
The mother and father exchange knowing looks and say in unison, "Who would you like to pray for, Joe?"
4 yr old: The parents mouth the words as the boy says, "I want to pray for a green tractor with lellow nug nuts (yellow lug nuts) and lellow wheels."
Mother: "Okay, do you want to pray for a person too?"
4 yr old: "Um, Santa!"
2 yr old: Now playing with toys, "I wanna pray for my lamby. And Daddy."
Mother: "That's very nice. Now hop in bed, please."
2 yr old: "I have to go pee-pee!"
Father: "You just went pee-pee. In bed!"
4 yr old: "I need water!"
Mother: "No more water!"
2 yr old and 4 yr old together: "I need water, I'm so thirsty!"
Mother and Father: "No more water!"
Father: "In bed!"
The boys slowly start to drag themselves over to the bunk beds. The 9 month old is now crawling out the bedroom door to the top of the stairs. The mother runs to get the baby.
2 yr old: "Daddy, can you throw me in like a sausage?"
4 yr old: "Oh! Throw me in like a sausage too!"
The Father picks the boys up one at a time and chucks them into their beds.
2 yr old: "NO!!!! I wanted to get in BY. MY. SELF!"
The 2 yr old starts to cry and crawls out of bed again.
Father: "You said you wanted to be thrown in like a sausage!"
2 yr old: "I don't want to!"
Father: "Alright, get in bed."
2 yr old: "Can you throw me in like a sausage?"
Mother: "Thomas, that is enough now."
2 yr old: still crying, crawls slowly into the bed. "I don't want to go to bed!"
Mother: "I know."
The mother, holding the 9 month old, climbs up the ladder to kiss the 4 yr old while the father tries to tuck the 2 yr old in.
Mother: "Good night, God bless you, I love you."
4 yr old: "Mom, I'm gonna dream about a green tractor with lellow nug nuts and lellow wheels."
Mother: "I know. Go to sleep now."
The mother and father trade places. The mother sets the 9 month old on the floor and tries to retuck the 2 yr old in the blankets.
Mother: "Good night, Tommy. God bless you, I love you."
The mother leans in to the 2 yr old to give him a kiss.
2 yr old: "NO! I don't want a kiss!"
Mother: "Okay."
The mother turns, runs after the 9 months old who is again at the top of the stairs. The father gives the 4 yr old a kiss and goes to turn off the light.
Father: "No talking now. Right to sleep! Goodnight!"
Mother: "Goodnight boys!"
4 yr old: "Goodnight!"
2 yr old: Starting to scream and cry, "Momma didn't give me a kiss!"
The mother goes back in the room, kisses the boy, and leaves.
4 yr old: "I want to kiss Benny!"
The mother brings the 9 month old to his brother and lifts him up so the 4 yr old can plant a kiss on the top of his head.
2 yr old: "I want to kiss Benny, too!"
The mother ducks down to the bottom bunk bed and lets the 2 yr old kiss his brother.
Father: "Quiet now. No more!"
The father closes the door and the parents and 9 month old stand outside of it listening.
4 yr old: "I love you, dad!"
Father: "I love you too, now go to sleep!"
4 yr old: "I love you, mom!"
Mother: "I love you too, go to sleep!"
2 yr old: "I love you, mumma!"
Mother: "I love you, too, now quiet!"
2 yr old: "I love you, dad!"
Father: "I love you, too. Quiet!"
Mother: "Quiet now, boys!"
The mother and father look at each other and roll their eyes. After there is silence for a few beats the father heads down the stairs and the mother proceeds to the baby's room.
Lights fade out.

Flipping Palm

I hate to say it, but my "Queen Of NaBloPoMo" application will have to be swiftly denied. I was unable to write a post yesterday due to technical difficulties. Well, that is not entirely true. I wrote three posts, but could not successfully get them on my blog. Blahhh.

It is a long and boring story. Let's just say that what was supposed to be a nice, long, relaxing weekend in front of the fire at the family cabin was slightly less relaxing when I found out that the hubby's Palm would let me write a post, but not actually POST the post. There was much gritting of teeth, shaking of fists, and muffled yells (the kids were in bed) on my part. There was also much apologizing, sheepish looks, and groveling on the hubby's part, although it really wasn't his fault.

So, after letting it bother me FAR more than it should I admitted defeat to the Palm (SOB), and went to bed.
On a positive note I did get to see the first snow of the season, which always makes me feel like a kid.

Crazy Days

Today is Friday,
Can I Finally Relax?
Of course not, I'm mom.

Yesterday was crazy. After I wrote my post the boys and I went outside and raked leaves for two hours. The whole yard. Blahhh. I really didn't intend to do that, but I (unfortunately) am one of those people who can not stop in the middle of a job. Must get done. Must rake whole yard. Why? I don't know.

After that it was back inside to make the boys their lunch. Then hubby came home for lunch and I went for a run. When I came back hubby had to get back to work, so I put the boys down for their nap, and jumped in the shower. That's right, I took a shower!!!! No, our bathroom is not done yet (over 6 weeks now) but our shower is almost done, so I used it. So what if it doesn't have a door yet, right?

So, when did I eat, you ask? Good question! I grabbed a Kashi bar for breakfast and had a banana before I ran. Not smart. I usually am very cautious to make sure I eat well when I am working out (and still breastfeeding) because if I don't, I get sick.

Guess what happened next. I got sick. I actually got a migraine. Blahhhh. So dumb. And pretty much my fault too. I just tried to do too much on too little food. I should know better by now.

But wait! I'm not done! While the boys slept I tried to get rid of my migraine by eating some food, taking some Excedrin, and relaxing. I got about a half an hour to myself and the boys woke up. So what did I do? I cut their hair. Duh. I'm so dumb. It was especially difficult this time because my right hand was numb from the migraine. But, the boys were SUPER good sitting still for their haircuts and they actually turned out better than they usually do. Maybe I should always cut their hair when I have a migraine. ??
Here they are:




Excuse the silly expressions. Must work on making "natural" smiles. Silly boys, but I lub 'em.

Milestones

Ben is 9 months old already. I can hardly keep up with all the milestones he has been reaching. Here are just a few of the things my little Benny Bear can do now that he wasn't doing just last month:

- He can wave. So cute. I just love it. He even knows when to use it. Daddy comes in the door and immediately he starts frantically waving.

- He can clap. He loves clapping for his brothers.

- He can go from lying down to sitting up by himself. An extremely useful tool, unless he does it accidentally when he is sleeping, and then wakes himself up, confused as to where he is.

- He can pull himself up to a standing position using me as the ladder.

- He can now crawl over to the boys, sit himself up, and proceed to play cars with them. This thrills him to no end. You can tell he feels like such a big boy.

- He drinks out of a sippy cup, and ends each sip with an "Ahhhhhh". Such a funny little poopsie.

- And my personal fav, he gives kissies. So cute too because he seems to think that kisses are super funny and laughs every time he gives a kiss making them even sweeter. So precious.

My little baby bear is growing up too fast. They all are, really. Now I know why that cliche is so popular.

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

I'm off to give the boys haircuts. I would appreciate it if you could all keep your fingers crossed for me. It is only my second or third time doing this, and I really have to struggle to make sure they don't end up looking like Alfalfa

or Porky Pig.

Wordless Wednesday

Yet another pic of Lake Michigan. These surfers were out on a day when it did not get over 48 degrees Fahrenheit. The city I live in is known to be one of the best for fresh water surfing in the world. I told you, I'm obsessed with Lake Michigan.

Saved By the Mum

The Flying Mum has tagged me for the 4 Things meme, and it couldn't have come at a better time. I was having a difficult time deciding what to post today and I had it narrowed down between the strange orange color of Benny's poo, or how I looked like a slobbering Saint Bernard with snot flying out of my nose during my run today. So, my dear readers (all 5 of you), I would run on over (ok, click on over) to The Flying Mum right now and give her your thanks.

4 Jobs I've Had
1- I was a Utility Clerk (fancy name for a bagger of groceries and a straightener of shelves) at a grocery store.
2- I was a Cashier at a large Midwest chain hardware store.
3- I was the lead female role in a very small independent movie when I was in my mid-twenties. It was hardly seen by anyone, but I did get paid for it, so I am counting it as a real job as it makes me seem cooler than I actually am. And all you dirties out there, it wasn't THAT kind of movie! Paris Hilton I am not.
4- I was in the banking industry for about 8 years. I started out as a Customer Service Rep. (teller), and made my way to the loan department where I became a loan processor, loan officer, and underwriter. After that I was the manager and supervisor of my branch. This was a very strange job for me because A) I hate math and numbers, B) banking does not interest me in the least, and C) I have Dyslexia, and no one ever knew it. Suckers!

4 Movies I Would Watch Over and Over
This is difficult for me to say because I am a BIG fan of movies. Big fan!
1- Love Actually. Soooo good. I have to watch it at least 3 or 4 times every Christmas season.
2- Swingers. The fact that they made that movie on what most movies productions spend on food service makes it even better.
3- Splendor in the Grass. Such an awesome classic that not many people have seen. Natalie Wood and Warren Beatty (I believe it was his first movie). Hello???
4- Lord of the Rings- any of them. I know, I am such a weird girl sometimes. Nerdy, might be the right word.

4 TV Shows I Like
1- The Office. This is the ONE show that I CAN NOT miss each week. Me loves it. The writers are amazing, the characters are hilarious, and the acting is fab. Me likey long time.
2- Grey's Anatomy. Used to not like it because the first show I saw was really sleazy. However, I am a sucker for medical shows and gave it another shot. It is entertaining, and I get my medical fix, so for now I give it a thumbs up.
I'm going back in time for the next two.
3- Friends is the ultimate show. I grew up with those Friends. When the last show aired I bawled like a baby. Worse actually.
4- ER. Ohhhh. Best medical show ever. I really miss the days with Dr. Greene and Dr. Carter. I still watch the show faithfully, but it is starting to loose its luster. Hopefully they will make another comeback. I mean, the show has been on the air for a million years, you're bound to have some dud seasons.
4 Places I've Gone on Vacation
1- London
2- Paris
3- Cancun, Mexico
4- Wales
Loved 'em all!
4 Foods I Love
Man, where do I begin?
1- Steak and Shrimp Fajitas. Mmmmm.
2- Salmon Steak with Soy Glaze at my favorite local restaurant. Yum in my tum!
3- White Chocolate Chip and Macadamia Nut Cookies. My own personal recipe, thank you.
4- Broasted Chicken. I don't know what it is about me and broasted chicken lately, but I think about it all the time. Very strange.
4 Web Sites I Visit Daily
Honestly, I don't go to too many websites on a daily basis. I guess I'll just do the 4 websites that I go to more than others. ??
1- Weather.com
2-People.com
3- Babycenter.com Actually, I don't even go there anymore since they changed it all around. Made me mad. I can't find anything anymore. Grrr.
4- Um. Um. I honestly can't think of any more. My blog, I guess?
4 Places I'd Rather Be
1- On a warm, sunny, tropical beach somewhere. It doesn't really matter where, I'm not picky.
2- A tiny little bistro in Paris.
3- Watching a fabulous production at the Barbican Theatre in London.
4- Asleep in my bed.

4 Bloggers I'm Tagging
Ok, I know just about everyone has done this, so once again, I am taking the easy way out. The first 4 people to comment can consider themselves tagged. Don't let that keep you from commenting, you don't HAVE to do it if ya don't want to. :)

Monday Mission

Painted Maypole has taken over the hosting role of Monday Missions and today's challenge is to post in the form of a news article.


Future of Daylight Savings Time Unclear

Local and national government offices have been flooded with thousands of emails, phone calls, and letters from angry parents fed up with Daylight Savings Time. Parents want to see an end to the time change and site over-tired, cranky, crabby, unmanageable children as the reason. Officials are asking why the parents don't just put the children to bed a bit later so that they get up later and are not so cranky. One parent said in response, "Yeah, I've tried that. I'm not an idiot. I put my kids to bed a half an hour later than normal, and that same night one got up to go pee-pee, one decided to start up his night-time feedings again, and the third woke up because of the other two. Plus, they all still got up at the same time and were even more tired than usual because of the postponed bedtime." Another parent added, "It is intolerable cruelty to enforce Daylight Savings Time on a Sunday when parents have to take whining, exhausted children to church and sit through an hour of public meltdowns after waking up at 4:30 A.M.." I think one parent summed it up best when he said, "Daylight Savings Time is a smoldering pile of crap."

Officials will meet early next week to discuss Daylight Savings Time and attempt to reach a decision on if it is a benefit to anyone anymore. Clearly, the fate of Daylight Savings Time is up in the air.

Mysterious Vomit

Last night Tommy and Joey were being way too rowdy right before dinner so I separated them. Tommy was to sit on the big, cushy chair and Joey was to sit on the big, cushy couch and no one was to bother mummy for at least 2 minutes so that I could feed Ben, finish dinner, and start the third load of laundry.

All of a sudden I heard crying and Joey was saying, "What's wrong Tommy? Are you just so sick? Did you throw up? Is that so gross?" HUH?? I ran into the living room and sure enough, there was vomit all over Tommy and all over the chair. "I bomit mumma!" Tommy told me. "I see that. Are you okay?" I asked him. "Uh-huh."

Great. Here comes the flu. Now Joe will be puking, and then Ben will be puking. It will be a virtual puke fest.

I cleaned up the mess, changed Tommy, finished feeding Ben, gave the boys their dinner, and changed Ben's diaper, all the while waiting for the next vomit episode. I wasn't even sure if I should give Tommy any dinner so soon after "the bomit", but he insisted he was hungry. The boys ate their dinner, and nothing. The boys played together, and nothing. I followed Tommy around with a puke bucket despite his insisting on being better. Every time he paused or became still for a moment, I lunged with the bucket. Still nothing.

Now it is the next day and I am still waiting, afraid to even think it was a fluke. Like maybe the minute I admit it was a fluke all the boys will start puking at once. "Ha HA! We fooled you! We really ARE sick!"
For now, I guess I'll just keep hoping it was some rare kind of spontaneous vomit.

And yes, I did just write a whole post about vomit. And, you're welcome.

The Sun Shines

Today is a gorgeous fall day. The air is fresh and cool and the sun filters through the trees in long golden ribbons. With every gust of wind, red, brown, orange, and yellow leaves rain down from the trees in luminous sheets of vibrant colors, and make the day all the more magical. My sun room looks too comfy to ignore and as I wait for my next load of laundry to dry and my boys to wake from their naps, I set out a huge cushy blanket on the floor and curl up in the warm pools of light. I think I must have been a cat in a former life as this spot fits me perfectly. I can almost feel myself purr.

Just as I am about to drift into a soft, amber sleep I hear little feet and whispers at the top of the stairs. For a moment they stop, confused. I am spotted. I can tell by their hesitation that they are not sure whether to disturb the sleeping cat, so I open my arms as an invitation to share my sunny spot.

The footsteps quicken and all at once, I go from being a cat warm in her sunny spot, to a mumma cat with her kittens, warmed in her heart.

Quality Time

With Joey in preschool three times a week and Ben still taking morning naps I finally have the privilege of spending some real quality time with Tommy. I have always felt a bit of guilt over the fact that each child I have after Joe will never really know the one on one time that he was able to enjoy. With Tommy being the middle child I feel he probably gets the least amount of time with me. Joey had me all to himself for two years. Ben gets a ton of "me time" simply for the fact that Joey and Tommy play together so nicely much of the time. But Tommy? He seems to have missed out.

The past couple of weeks have been great for us. Joey goes to school and when we get back home I put Ben down for his nap. Tommy waits patiently in his room, looking at books, while I rock Ben to sleep. Can you believe it? A two year old who waits quietly in his room for mommy to put baby to sleep? Sheesh. Trust me, I know how lucky I am.

After about 5-10 minutes Ben is asleep and it is all about Tommy. We make cookies together. We read books. Whatever Tommy wants to do, we'll do. Today we did something really special. We raked leaves together. Tommy loves to be outside, and he loves to help, so the combination of being outside with mumma helping rake leaves was so exciting.

I suppose every parent who has more than one child struggles with this. The delicate balancing act of making sure each child knows that they are loved and cherished. I have always put an awful amount of pressure on myself to make everything "equal" with our boys. I know in reality I can't possibly make sure that fairness and equality will always prevail in our house. But I can try.

I love you, my precious little golden bear.

Halloween Fun

These are the last Halloween photos I will post this year. I promise. Here we are about to set out on our trick-or-treating adventure. With the boys and me are two of my nieces who made the night even more fun. We walked for over 2 hours and no one complained (except for the hubby) at all. Even my 2 year old little Tommy kept up the whole time and didn't need to be carried. Needless to say, Halloween was a huge hit at our house. The weather was perfect, we couldn't have asked for a more perfect night.

So, what is my costume you ask? Well, I'm "lady with purple hair and boa" of course. You never heard of her? Hmmm. Well, I didn't feel like being hoochie Little Bo-peep, a slutty nurse, or a boob-a-licious french maid (I do enough cleaning already) so I settled for "lady with purple hair and boa". So creative, I know.

I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that the boys went to bed really easily. I listened to them on the baby monitor whispering about their candy and all the Halloween decorations. It was precious. This morning everyone woke up late which was fine by me. Now I am just waiting for the day-after-Halloween crash. The, "I'm so tired from being up past my bedtime, and my legs hurt, and I want to eat all of my candy now, and I want to go trick-or-treating again tomorrow" crash. So far, they are doing fab. The great "Halloween candy trade-off" is going on right now, and they are both being very civil about it.

What is up with me and all the """? Stop it already. I guess I didn't get enough sleep. What else is new, right?

Well, I'd better get back to the monkeys. Hope everyone had a great Halloween. Good luck to all on NaBloPoMo. I know I'll need it. :)