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!
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
The Holiday Rush
The snow is falling
Cookies are baking
The air is so warm and sweet
Big, cottony flakes glide down
Covering the ground
Covering the ground
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Children are singing
And ringing their jingle bells
And ringing their jingle bells
Their smiles shine so bright
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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
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.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Saturday, December 15, 2007
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.
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.
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'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.
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.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Bells Are Ringing
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...
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?
Thursday, December 13, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
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.
- 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
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
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!
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!
Friday, December 7, 2007
The Perfect Mother
Oh why can't I be
The perfect version of me
Each day for my boys
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
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
Thursday, December 6, 2007
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Monday, December 3, 2007
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!!!!
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!!!!
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Words To Live By
Be grateful for each new day.
A new day that you have never lived before.
Twenty-four new, fresh, unexplored hours to use usefully and profitably.
We can squander, neglect, or use them.
Life will be richer or poorer by the way we use today.
Finish every day and be done with it.
You have done what you could;
some blunders and absurdities crept in;
forget them as soon as you can.
Tomorrow is a new day.
You shall begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be
encumbered with your old nonsense.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
A new day that you have never lived before.
Twenty-four new, fresh, unexplored hours to use usefully and profitably.
We can squander, neglect, or use them.
Life will be richer or poorer by the way we use today.
Finish every day and be done with it.
You have done what you could;
some blunders and absurdities crept in;
forget them as soon as you can.
Tomorrow is a new day.
You shall begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be
encumbered with your old nonsense.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson