'Tis the Season....

You can tell it's a busy, busy time of year! Not too many people are blogging - myself included!  Life has been moving pretty quickly these past few weeks, and I am looking forward to things slowing down ever so slightly, when I get to at least be done with work....

... AS OF TODAY!  HOORAY!

So, yes, I am done with work for the year. The next time I will be sitting here at this desk is on January 3, 2012 baby!  Ah... that feels nice.

The kids still have school two days next week!  I am going to take FULL advantage of those days and get my shopping done and gifts wrapped!!!!  Then, starting Wednesday, we are home together for the rest of the year. Scott still has to work next week until at least Thursday.... then, he too will be off with us until Jan. 3.  :-)  I love that time off together. You think you are going to have so much time... and it always goes so super fast.

We have a ton of plans already for our time off.  Dinners out with friends.  A huge cuzins night bar crawl.... ugly Christmas sweater style!  A visit from my brother and family from Maryland.  And visits to my Dad's in Plainwell. Whew!!! Good stuff.

As I wrap up my work week here, I have much to do the rest of the week!  Tomorrow I have appointments all day - Luke is going to school because it's his Christmas Party! Ally has her Christmas Concert in the afternoon and tomorrow evening. I go to both performances because I am THAT Mom.  ;-)  I am having a girls dinner out Friday. And then, this weekend is the big firetruck birthday party for a very special four year old!  One of my besties will be coming into town Saturday to stay the weekend and help us prepare for the big day.

The list is endless - the things I still need to do and get for the party. I think the ONLY thing I have as of now are the party hats and the cupcake toppers!  Better bust a move!

I am really looking forward to Ally's concert tomorrow. There are no words for how it moved me last year.  It was absolutely adorable. Seriously, one of the most amazing sights to see is a school of 300 plus kids all sing a song together for the finale, singing the praises of the real reason for the season.  If that doesn't bring a tear of pure joy to your eye, you better check your pulse.  It is awesome.

I know I talk a lot about how much I love our school... but I don't tend to overstate things.  I truly feel it. I truly do love the school Ally attends. We are blessed to have the means to send her there.  I truly feel thankful beyond words.

I do have a bunch of fun pictures and updates! Since I last blogged, we got our tree and decorated it... had brunch with Santa where my kids actually sat with Santa. This was a HUGE moment.... for Ally because she's almost nine and has never approached Santa... and for Luke, because, well... he's Luke and he doesn't approach anyone!!!!!!!

Ally and I also went to see one of her besties in a performance of the Nutcracker... had a great time and I have some adorable pictures from that!  Was so much fun to watch all those little girls support her in her performance...... girlfriends are the cornerstone of life at any age.

So.... I will soon post these amazing pics and give more updates.... right now, I must wrap up my last work day.... and get on the party planning!!!!!!!!

PLEASE VOTE!!!!

Queen's school has entered the Pepsi Refresh Video contest in hopes of winning $50,000 for technology for our school. Videos win by getting the most votes, and you can vote each day until December 31st, BOTH by texting 110730 to Pepsi (73774) AND by going to the website below. That's right. You can vote TWICE each day. If we get all of our friends and families to vote, maybe we can get SMART boards for every classroom!


Queen's Pepsi Refresh Contest Site

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE vote daily!!!!!!! Thank you!!!!!

The Good Things...

This weekend was a bummer.  Couldn't really do anything at all.  Mostly felt drugged, or sore, or out of it.  So, I slept almost all day Saturday... and Sunday, I couldn't take it anymore and tried to accomplish those things I could do from a seated position!

So.. I did all our Christmas cards. I may have also done the laundry and picked up and got the kids ready for school... and... and... cuz that's just what I do. So, it's quite possible that today I am paying for it. That, and the fact that I am at work. I hurt today and feel generally not quite right.  Yuck!

But even all that said... I look back on the weekend and the things that stick out are these:

• Scott bringing up a little table from the basement so he and Luke could eat dinner in my bedroom with me.
• Luke acting so gentle every time he was near me.. never jumping on the bed or climbing on me and giving me the "whisper hug..."
• Ally's friend Kennedy making me a get-well card
• Luke asking "Mommy when will you feel better?"  My response, "Soon buddy!"  Him saying, "Will a hug make you better?"  (you bet it will!)
• Ally making me a get-well coaster at the lock in Friday night
• Luke always wanting to be the one to bring me things.. water and food.... he was such a little helper.
• Luke bonding with Scott this weekend and becoming a "Daddy's boy!"
• My hubby setting his alarm to go off all night when I needed medication so I was never in pain
• Ally climbing in bed with me any chance she had so I didn't have to be alone.
• My hubby generally doing everything and being superdad and superhubby all weekend long!

It really is always nice to be pampered.. in theory... those of us that like to "do"... find it kind of annoying.  :))

Luke really was as cute as can be.  He is generally a "mama's boy" through and through, and Scott found it kinda nice that he had no choice but to bond with him this weekend.  They played and did all sorts of things together... and Luke didn't seem to care that I wasn't the one doing everything for him.  It was good, in a way.....

Ally wasn't around so much. She had a birthday party/sleepover on Friday... then, gymnastics Saturday morning... and they went out to lunch afterwards and brought me some food home.  We all laid low on Saturday... and Sunday, Ally went to the Green and White meet with Nana and Grace.  She got home in time to go to bed... after leaving within an hour of waking up. The girl has a busy social calendar. :-)

We also had some family heartbreak this weekend, as my Uncle Ed passed away on Sunday afternoon.  He was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer about 14 months ago... and though, he fought the good fight for a long time, the cancer eventually took the best of him... and he passed yesterday at around 2 pm.  He was only 67 and his kids are my age and younger. He has three grandchildren that will miss him terribly... not to mention my grandma, his only sister... who will mourn his loss, as she did the loss of their mother last year and her hubby far too many years ago.  Please pray for my grandma at this time... while she is one of the strongest women I know, she also has suffered a great deal of loss in her life.

So... my mom and step-dad are on their way to Michigan... and with this turn of events... brings my mom visiting for the rest of the month as she has decided to stay through Christmas! So... I am selfishly excited about this. She will be home for Ally's Christmas program... and Ally's gymnastic's show.... not to mention, be around for some babysitting...  :-)  The kids are really excited to have her around for a while... and I'm hoping Luke can spend some time there with her and my grandma... cuz Luke and my grandma seem to have a cute little bond.  :-)

It's Monday folks..... it can only get better from here!  Let's have a great week blog friends!

Post Surgery Fog....

So, I had some surgery yesterday.  I realize I have never actually had surgery in my life.   A planned surgery that is.  I had an emergency appendectomy a while back... but with that, you are sick as hell in the ER and then, they are knocking out out. You don't know what's going on.  You don't have the time to sit and agonize over it.

I did this time.

I went into my OBGYN for the normal thing.... I actually go more often because I have had abnormal paps.... and last January, had my first LEEP procedure done to remove some of my cervix that had some pretty bad abnormal cells.

So... almost two years later, the cells are back.  And, just as bad.  I cannot help but work myself up over this.  Add to it... the fact that my periods have been out of control and having all sorts of other issues.  I went though extensive testing to rule out the fact that maybe the abnormal cells had moved into my uterus, or that there was something worse.  I had an ultrasound and a biopsy of my endometrial lining.  All good under that hood.

But, still I had the crazy periods, so we decided I would have an endometrial ablation.... at the same time we removed more cervix... which meant, bigger surgery for me.  But the good drugs after!  ;-)

So, this is my second cervix removal... and while I went through my total anxiety attack... a part of me just wanted them to take everything out.  Luckily, my doc can talk me off a ledge like no one else can... and he assured me this was the best next step and that he was as aggressive as he could be in there.

Still... you hear the words "precancerous"... "stage 0 cancer"... "in five years this will turn into cancer" ... and you freak out just a bit!

I really toyed with whether or not I would go into this detail on my blog.  Then, I heard from a friend very recently... that a good friend of hers and someone I have met in the past... was just diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer at the age of 31.  She was NOT good about getting her paps.

Do you get your paps yearly?  I assumed everyone did. I am discovering more and more people do not.

It is a simple, albeit, uncomfortable procedure that could save your life people. This is not an option.

Go do it now.

Caught early, the survival rate is 97%...... caught late.... 17%. Those are some pretty drastic odds there.

Did I mention you should do it now?

Besides... they catch things even earlier now... like they did with me... and they get it out before it can even turn into something else. I am all for total removal of what could go bad.  Just get it out!

Knowledge is power. Take control of your body.  Take care of yourself.  Go get a freakin'  pap people!!

Today, I am feeling much better than yesterday.  I was in and out all day. I have the best nurse in the world in my hubby who has waited on me non stop. He brings me my drugs and won't let the pain come before he's popping a pill into my mouth. He feeds me. Waters me. Loves me.  He and Luke brought a little table in my room so we could have dinner together.  We make the best of mommy being laid up.

I will continue to take it easy for the rest of the weekend and should be good to go back to work on Monday.....

Pepsi Refresh Project!!!

My daugther's school, Queen of the Miraculous Medal has entered the Pepsi Refresh Project!  They were chosen as finalists and can win $50,000!!!!

They intend to used this money to purchase smart board for their classrooms!

I need you, my blog friends, to help us out by VOTING DAILY!

You can vote by texting the number 110730 to Pepsi at 73744.  You can do this every day.  How easy is that???

You can also go to the website:
 http://www.refresheverything.com/smartboardsforqueens

But, please, please, please!  Vote as often as you can and as often as you can remember!!!!!!

Snow Day...

Holy crap!  My kids are little tornadoes today!  We are home because it's a snow day.  I am lucky enough to be able to work from home today... and while I attempt to work, they are like crazed monkeys... making the BIGGEST mess ever!!!!!  So far, they have made me breakfast.  Okay, I could not say no to this. It was adorable. They wanted to make me breakfast and serve it to me during my "birthday week"  I have brain washed them!  :))))

So.... they blew up the kitchen doing that.... their attempt to clean up was less than stellar.

Then, while I work, they too play "office"... which somehow requires cutting lots of paper and leaving remnants of this paper everywhere... leaving crayons all over... and making office phones.  Then, they decide to get really creative and make a whole bunch of stuff with paper and plastic knives.  Flags, telescopes, airplanes... you name it. This requires more paper cutting, coloring and you guessed it... MESS!

Now.... they are playing train. I really love listening to them when they play nicely.  They do have their moments though.  These "moments" usually occur when Luke doesn't do EXACTLY what Ally says. She is just a little bossy... and he is growing a backbone.  He stands up to her.  She is not a fan of this.  To this, I say... "Atta boy!"  ;-)

I don't intervene... unless it gets ugly... and they usually work through it, in time.  Oh... here it goes.... Luke isn't "unlocking the train" correctly.  He is telling her he can do it his way. Again, I say "Atta boy!"

I was the big sister... I guess I still am.  ;-) I bossed my brother.  Man... I owe him an apology!  Seeing it now.... I can see how awful it was.... and I am sitting here, routing for the little guy!

They have reached a compromise. Atta girl!  :-))))

I am pretty sure the house will be completely trashed by the end of the day.

Unfortunately, we have to go out. I have to do my pre-surgery bloodwork today. The kids are not going to like this.  Ally is already worked up.  I am hoping the iPod, my phone and some books will keep them happy for the few minutes it will take. Fingers crossed.  Stupid bloodwork.

Since I have to go out... I might as well do some things I need to do before I go down for the count for the weekend... so maybe we will get Luke's hair cut.  His quarterly hair cut.  :-)))  Maybe we will do this. It is birthday week.  Do I really want to torture myself?  ;-)

Okay... back to work.... it got quiet down the hall.  Uh oh.............

Today I am Thankful for my Friends...

30 days.  30 things to be thankful for. I love November.  I love that I started this last year on Facebook and a bunch of people joined. I love that those same people remembered and started in on their thanks before even I did this month.  I just love reading what everyone is thankful for.

Because we really do have so much to be thankful for..... really.... we do. I know I do.  I know most of my friends and family do. Sure, we have our struggles, challenges, moments of despair... but for the most part.... our lives are so very good.  I know mine is.

I am thankful for all the friends I have in my life.  The friends that I have had in the past, who have influenced me and supported me. They may have only been in my life for a brief time, but they were and are important in my personal history.  I am thankful for the friends that I have had forever, who stand by my side through just about everything... who know me inside and out and who I can call on for any need I might have and I know they will be there, no matter how long it's been since we've last spoken or saw one another.  I am so very thankful for these friends.

I am thankful for the many new friends I have made recently through work, school and other groups.  Some of these people are going to be in that "life-long" friend category, I can just tell. They are the ones I have so much fun with... the ones who's kids are friends with my kids... and who we go on vacation with. The friends that both my hubby and I like to hang with... our family friends.  The best kind.

Last night, we went to dinner at the Country Club for a special event (Cash Bash) with two other couple-friends and all our kids. A table for 13.  The adults sat on one side... the kids on the other.  I watched the older girls take care of Luke and Luke just sit as happy as can be with them. Ally and one of her besties just giggled all night.  And us adults, just enjoyed the evening... laughing with them, at them, and at one another.  It was one of those nights that fill you with joy and make you smile.

At the table on either side of us... more friends of our kids... and parents we have gotten to know. At one point, all the kids were sitting on the floor in between all the tables, coloring on giant books that the Club provided. Who says Country Clubs are stuffy and full of older people?  Last night, that place was FULL to the brim with families and kids running around... parents sharing wine... and a lot of smiles and fun.  I love it. I am thankful for these friends.

People are so important to me. I am a people person. I get my energy from being around others. I am the true definition of an extrovert.  My friends, and my relationships, mean more to me than just about anything.  I am heartbroken when a relationship fails or dies. I am thrilled when a new one starts up. I love people.  :-)

What a month it has been.  Last year, I remember still thinking of what I was thankful for each day for months... maybe I never stopped.  They say if you do something for ten days in a row,  it becomes a habit. I can't think of a better habit to have than to count your blessings each and every day... even when you are struggling to find one... as I was yesterday...

But I got through my down day... as I always do.... and as usual, I was lifted by my friends and my interactions with people last night. Funk over. I am so very blessed to know these people.

And, if you are reading this.... you are most likely one of the important people in my life too... whether you know it or not. I am thankful for YOU!!!!!!

Blessings and love my blog friends...... so long November......

Today I am Thankful I Have Something to Look Forward to...

Ugh.  Today kinda sucks.  I'm a bit down and in a mood.  It happens.  Even the most positive of us have our bad days.  I am fighting a cold.  Not happy about it. Trying to power through. The weather doesn't help anything at all.

Ally has been moody lately.  And, when I'm under the weather like this, I can't cope as well. She senses this and pounces.  Today I am struggling.

I love my birthday... I really do! I'm one of "those people" that celebrates all week.... refers to it as "my birthday week" all week long and generally drives everyone around me crazy.  Not supposed to be fighting a cold on your birthday week! Suckage.

Tonite we are going out to dinner with some friends. Three couples and all our kids.  I love this.  It should be a good time and I am hoping it pulls me out of my funk.  I think it will. I will it to do so!  ;-)

I am having a minor surgery on Friday... and I think I am a bit worked up about that too.  Talked to a friend this morning. She eased my mind.  If nothing else, offered her love and support.  Just thinking too much about it.  It will be just fine.  I know this.....

I sent out Luke's invitations yesterday.... and we even hand delivered a few!  Luke loved giving them to people or putting them in their mailbox.... and it was nice to have a stop and chat with my Aunt.  :-)  I got them on Etsy and I just love them.  Super simple. With his picture. That's all I wanted.  I have an amazing ability to see something, choose it and get it done. Did it all Sunday....

Major props to Nicole Barczak who took this amazing picture!!!!!!  :-)

I love the age Luke is now and how aware of his birthday (and Christmas!) he is. He is really excited and into "planning" it. He told me who he wanted to come... and it was adorable.  I always have a hard time deciding between just a small party of just those who live nearby or more extended family... and we went bigger this year.

Luke selected the food. He loves hot dogs. No surpise there.  :-))))))

So... it's the fun in life that gets us through the dreary days.  The night out with friends tonite. The girls' drinking night tomorrow.  The day at the salon on Thursday.  Holiday parties coming up.  A special boy's birthday party. And, the icing on the cake.. the holidays themselves. I do so love the holidays.

I am so thankful that even though my mood is low today... I know I will soon be lifted up....

Today I am Thankful for Pictures...

This is going to be a REALLY ironic post... because I have no pictures to post....  :-)))))  Seriously...... that is funny.  HA!

Okay, but seriously... I am thankful for pictures! I am so glad I take so many and I wish I took more.  I love, love, love looking back on pictures.... I smile with the memories that pictures bring to life for me.  My office is full of pictures.  My house.  My phone. My bedroom.  I just love pictures.

I love seeing people smile. I love when people are silly in pictures. I love that my eight year old reminds me to do this.  She always wants the "silly pose"... I am glad I take the silly pose.  I am glad she makes me be silly.... otherwise, I could be very boring. Far too serious.

I love that Luke wants a camera of his own for Christmas.  I love this. I am getting him one.

I love old pictures.  I am so glad my family took pictures!! I am glad we have videos on DVD of when my mom was little... when I was little... I need to take more video of my kids.  It's awesome to look back on.  You can get lost watching old videos.  My kids love to make silly videos.

I love my silly kids. :-)

I love that I am doing Project Life even though I'm behind........ I have pictures... I need to print them. I need to take the time to catch up!  Hopefully over the weeks me and the kids are off together......

I am so looking forward to two solid weeks off together..........  Wish Scott could be off the whole time too, but he only has one week left.  One is better than none though! 

So....... here's to spending some time taking more pictures! The holidays are fast approaching!!!!!!

Giving THANKS!

Whew... it's been a while!  Things have been busy and we have been gone.. so the daily thanks has definitely not been posted here!  I have been posting to Facebook and I am still thinking about my thankfulness daily, so all is not lost. I do so like talking about the reasons behind my thankfulness here though.....

So!  How was your Thanksgiving?  Ours was wonderful!  Last week, we prepared to leave for Missouri to spend Thanksgiving with my Mom and Dave... and then, the rest of the weekend with Scott's brother, Mark and his kids.  Good cousin fun for Ally, Luke, Natalie and Evan!

I worked Monday and Tuesday... and the kids went to school.  Of course, we had a TON of stuff going on at work. Last Tuesday, I was thankful that I am adaptable to change.... because my department is going through a big re-organization. It's really stressful for a lot of people.  Lots of shifting. New bosses/supervisors for many people... and some might not even be doing the same type of work.  Many, many people have a bad attitude about it.. and it drags you down. I always see change as a good thing.  An opportunity for growth. Besides.... we have NO CONTROL over this change... so we can sit around and bitch and make it harder on ourselves... or we can embrace it and go with the flow!  So, I choose to be happy about it.... it's always for the best! Everything happens for a reason!

It was still a lot to cope with and deal with... and get through... and then, pack and mentally prepare for a day in the car with the kids.

UGH!!!!

Wednesday... we got up bright and early and left the house around 6:30 for the drive to Columbia.  I cannot tell you how amazing the kids were. They surpassed my expectations! They had one or two moments of meltdown, but we quickly intervened and all was well! At one point, Ally exclaimed that she actually enjoyed the drive!!!!  Wednesday, I was thankful for how well the kids handled the drive!

We got to my Mom's at a decent time.... late afternoon.... enjoyed some wine and a great dinner... and all pretty much passed out to sleep pretty early!

The next day, we woke up too darn early (kids!!!) and prepared the feast!  We had an amazing breakfast of french toast and bacon.  Have I mentioned my kids love bacon?  ;-)  We watched football, drank more wine, got a family picture (thank god for self timers!), and had a GREAT turkey dinner with all my favorite things!!!!!!

On Thanksgiving, I was thankful for my blessings that are too many to count. I am grateful for so much in my life.  My life is very full.

We even ran out and did a little shopping in the evening on Thanksgiving! Scored some great deals at Michaels!  Friday we did a little more shopping (my mom and I) while Scott took the kids to an indoor play place.  They burned off some energy and I got a few more gifts checked off their wish lists... and then, we made the drive to Kansas City to visit with Mark, Natalie, and Evan!

Friday I was thankful for family that lived so close together out of state!  Makes it nice and easy to pay them all a visit!

The kids had a blast together.  I cannot believe I didn't take a single picture.  The evening of our arrival, I started with a nasty cold. Ugh. Sore throat. Congestion.  I was so bummed.... but I powered through.  The kids just played and played.  Luke and Evan interacted for the first time.  Luke is finally old enough and brave enough to really get into playing in a whole new way.  I kept just stopping and smiling, watching how well he and Evan interacted and got along.

Then, all the kids slept on the floor together. It was rough getting them down, but they had a blast..... lots of fun and very little sleep was the name of the weekend!!!!!!!

Saturday I was thankful for that cousin time.  I am so glad we make every effort to get them together..... kids should know their cousins.  Cousins are the best!

We left Kansas  City around 3:30 Michigan time..... and drove straight home.  We considered stopping if we needed to... but we just wanted to be home... so we coffeed up and powered through.  I kept my cold at bay with lots of sudafed and pain killers.  Ugh.

We got home around 3..... again, the kids were amazing.... Luke doesn't sleep well in the car, but Ally slept quite a bit. She was also taking Dramamine for naseau so I am sure that contributed to her sleepiness.  Luke watched TV shows on the iPad... DVDs and played games... and did finally fall asleep around midnight.

We all climbed into bed when we got home... and the entire house slept until 10:30.... even Ally who slept most of the way home too!  She had a lot to catch up on!

Today, I am thankful that we made the trip.... and at the same time, thankful to be home.  This is the first time I have been brave enough to agree to a road trip with my kids since Ally was about 18 months old and screamed the entire way home from Cape Hatteras.  :-)  I am not a huge fan of driving long distances.. but the trip was so worthwhile... and I am glad we did it.  And, the kids were troopers!

Scott took them to see the Muppets and I am enjoying some down time.  The week ahead is FULL as always...... lots of things going on at school.... work.... life! Preparing for holidays and birthdays.  Need to get Luke's invites out.  Need to get things in order. Feeling good though. There is always a lot going on... but it's a "good a lot" if you know what I mean.

Definitely a lot to be thankful for. I hope your Thanksgivings were just as wonderful blog friends...

Today I am Thankful for eBay....

Yes, it's true.... today I am thankful for eBay.  You may be laughing right now and think this is a pretty silly thing to be thanful for.... but what began as a simple eBay Challenge between me and my hubby... to help offset the costs of Christmas... has turned into a full-fledged money making venture.

Between the two of us, to date, we have made well over a thousand dollars.  I think that I, alone have made over a grand... and he has made around $400-500??  Seriously people. WHO KNEW the power of "one man's junk is another man's treasure?"

We know it now!!

Of course, we cannot keep up the money making pace at this level. Right now, we are selling those things we have held on to for a long time because they had more value than a Goodwill item....... so we will eventually exhaust the big ticket items. I have sold all the jeans and purses and plan to for a while. What is left, I love, use and wear!

But.. it makes you think.... you can get amazing return on your investement..... when you buy nice stuff!  Seriously.... people are willing to pay a lot for name brands.... and electronics..... and kids stuff!  It is awesome.  Absolutely awesome.  And the US Post office makes the shipping so easy now with the flat rate envelopes and boxes. Takes the guesswork out of what you charge... and you print the labels right from eBay...... it's just all so freakin' amazing....

Today alone,  I am shipping out ten items which range from boots to purses to video games to doll clothes.

So.  Much.  Fun.

Scott and I are talking about how we want to focus on buying things with great resale value... and that we will start saving the boxes from things more often than not... especially the kids stuff........ we sold Ally's DS that she got three or four years ago, with a few games for $140!!!!  Scott has all the boxes and everything for it..... it will make a GREAT Christmas gift for a little girl... and in turn, we can buy something amazing for Ally!

We got Luke's birthday gift on eBay... a Leapster Explorer Bundle with charger and four games for $80!  Trying to sell and buy used this year! I bought him a whole bunch of Thomas stuff on eBay (a moving bridge, train wash station and three trains - all for $40!)... the Aquadoodle he wants... and I am watching some other items!  Love, love, lovin' it!!!!!!!!!!!

It's a lot of fun AND something he and I are enjoying doing together!!! The phone ap makes it ALL worthwhile.......  so much more simple than uploading and doing it on the computer...... amazing!!!!!!

So, yes, it's true... today I am the dork that is thankful for eBay!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am Thankful for my Baby Girl....

Oh Ally-Roo... I learn so much from you everyday.  You have been put on this earth to teach me to be a better person... of this I am certain.  You are here to teach me patience.  You are here to teach me to back down.  You are here to teach me how to truly love.

You are my biggest challenge and my most rewarding victory.  The fact that the two of us can remain living in the same house is a miracle.  I love you more than words... and you make me crazier than anyone on the planet.

You truly do have a heart of gold. Your sensitivity is what makes you so defensive.  You hurt easily and you would never admit it. For some reason, you refuse to show weakness.  You do not trust easily.  You do not back down.  You are so strong.  So smart. So much fun to be around.  You bring energy with you everywhere you go and people are drawn to you.

You are in a word: Amazing... and I love you to pieces.  I know you and I will always have our struggles, but I also know you and I will love each other be closer than most mother/daughters for a lifetime.....

November 19: I am Thankful we Pack a LOT into our Weekends....

So, this weekend we went to the auction.... then, since the kids stayed the night at Jane and Adam's, we went and picked them up around 11 and took them and Gracie downtown to do some shopping, wish list making at the toy house, and had lunch at the CRAZY Cowboy... YUM!!!!!

We then went back home and took a nap (EVERYONE!) and got ready for a night out at the club... the kids had a Kid's Night Out and made gingerbread houses and we had dinner with some friends.  How much do I love the monthly kids' night out at the club????? How much do I wish they did it weekly?  Okay, every other week would be good. It's just so much fun... they are right there being taken care of... and you get two hours of peace having dinner!!!!!!  It's a GREAT deal! The kids had a blast...... and it was Luke's first event on his own there!  He's finally old enough! HOORAY!!!

November 18: I am Thankful for Painkillers...

Whew, last Friday I woke up with a DOOZY of a headache!!!!  I had to work Friday... my department is being reorganized and we had a meeting regarding it that I couldn't miss. So, I fought the headache ALL DAY LONG.... and well into the evening.  Eventually, it must have subsided or I got used to the pain... or it was the drinks...  ;-)

We went to the Lumen Christi Auction Friday night and had a BLAST!  What a fun night out.  Just a lot of laughs with a lot of friends... and hysterical times bidding on silly things and great things (we won some bottles of wine!) and making "carrot cake" and just feeling good supporting our schools!!!

Today I am Thankful for my Little Man...

Oh Luke... what did I do before you came around?  You are the sweetest boy in the world.  You are sensitive to a fault almost as you really get upset when others are upset.  You can barely cope when Ally has one of her fits and you just ask to go to bed.  It breaks my heart when her actions hurt you like that.

You are shy and you don't trust people easily. It takes a lot to earn your affections... but when someone does, they are in your spell forever.  You are a mama's boy through and through and I will relish in that until the day you realize it's not so cool.

You are a picky eater... you hate having your haircut... you have strong opinions about your clothes and your pajamas.... you would prefer to never wear a coat, let alone a hat.... shoes make you cringe.... you love taking a bath, but detest having your hair washed.... you love Adele.... you sing and dance just like your sister.... you are obsessed with all things fire right now, fire trucks, fire men, fire stations.... you have to "play in your room" for a few minutes every night before bed and read two stories.... you are almost four and you still have a sippy cup of warm milk before bed and two upon waking... I spoil you in this way....  you love candy.... your legs hurt a lot... sometimes it makes you call out in the night.... I think you are growing all the time and it hurts...

Sometimes it hurts me too... to think that you are growing all the time... but as you grow, I only love and even "like" you more... I enjoy you at every stage and am lucky enough to be the kind of Mom that looks forward and not backward (most of the time).  We all have our moments......

Everyone says that you are going to break girls' hearts when you are older.... I think they might be right.  You are as charming as you are gorgeous... but I don't think you will ever treat girls unkindly.  You are so kindhearted.  So sweet.  You truly care how others feel. I see this in you and it fills me with joy.

You fill me with love little man..... I could not be more thankful for you today and everyday....

Today I am Thankful NO ONE Expects me to be On-Time in the Morning....

Three days a week, I work.  I work and I attempt to get a third grader ready for school, in addition to myself ready for work... and then, take a pre-schooler to school.  I get up at 5:30 in order to get this all done before we leave the house at what is supposed to be 7:30 and is invariably, 8:00 every day... when I'm lucky!

Today, it was 8:34.

Ridiculous.

Luke fought everything this morning. He just decided to be difficult for difficult's sake, I swear. When he worke up, Scott went in. He didn't want Scott.  He wanted Mommy to get him out of bed.  I go in and he wants me to carry him to the table. He has lost all ability to walk apparently.  Then, I can't put him down on the floor next to the chair.... no, he wants to be placed into the chair like he is six months old.

He didn't want Scott to leave (this NEVER happens!!!). He wanted Scott to take him (again never happens!). He didn't like ANY of the shirts in his closet! (what three year old BOY has an opninon on this?)  He didn't want to wear socks with his shoes (ok, this often happens). He wanted to take candy to school.  He wanted to eat candy for breakfast.  He didnt' want to go to school.  He didn't want me to leave when we got there.

Whew......... all that fun before 9 am!!!!!!  You can't buy that kind of a good time people!!!!  ;-)

I rolled into work at 9:11.  Not the best.

So, seriously... thank GOD that no one comes looking for me before 9..... the work/school morning is not a smooth one. I keep trying to make it easier..... but short of my getting up even earlier and getting the kids up super early just to anticipate all the road blocks they will throw... I don't know what more to do.

I know I need to do more to prepare the night before. I know this.  Sometimes, I do it all before I go to bed.  Lay out the clothes. Make the lunches.  Even decide what I am going to wear... but then, there are nights like last night, where after I get the kids in bed... I literally FALL into bed myself and pass out.

Last night was one of those nights......

And I think I know why...

I agreed to be the coach for Ally's Destination Imagination Team at Queens.  Yes.. it appears when it comes to all things "my daugther's school" I have an inability to say NO!  :-)))))))  I am apparently addicted to all things Queens.  :-)

This is not a bad thing. It really is not.  The truth of the matter is this:  Ally will have DI every week until about 4:45 pm.  I am not going to be able to go home and come back and get her. I am not going to be able to go home at a normal time and expect Scott to leave that early to get her. So... I end up "killing time" in town until she's done.  I might as well be prodcutive and help.

And... no one was stepping up to do it.  I watched countless emails and pleas for volunteers and help.... and then, I found out it was Ally's team that was coachless.... so I called up my good friend Monica, who's daughter is also on this particular team... and she agreed to be in if I was in. So we are gonna figure this out together....

She is a riduclously, amazing, supportive mommy friend!!!!!!!!

After the meeting.... I had a minor anxiety attack.  It's a little more than I had anticipated in terms of time and resources necessary.  But a glass of wine and a chat with my partner in crime on this one... and I was feeling brave once again.  Monica and I will just fumble through together and accomplish greatness.  :-)

So....... after my stressful couple hours.... glass of wine.... and trip back from the ledge..... I put Luke to bed at 7:30... and crawled into my bed with Ally and fell asleep before Scott even took her out to put her to bed at around 8:00.  I was that tired.

Obviously my body was telling me I needed sleep..... so sleep I did!

Supermom requires a great deal of sleep I have discovered. Superpowers take a lot out of ya!

Many Thanks...

So, I am a little behind and I skipped a thanks somewhere in the craziness of life!  (I use crazy in a good way)

The other day... Saturday... I was thankful to spend some time with my mom who was in town!  It was a brief trip for her... which is still nice.  We went and spent the day at my Grandma's and stayed a lot later than even my mom did. The kids had a great time visiting.... and Luke is so freakin' adorable with my Grandma, his Great-Grandma who we call Baci.  He doesn't like many people... he is reserved and quiet... but he LOVES her!

We had the opportunity to be there when there weren't too many others around. People were coming and going all day... making visits to my Great-Uncle who is in a care facility and others.  So.... when it was just the kids, and my Grandma and I... Luke really opened up.  So nice to see.  :-)

It was a really nice day of visiting....... we shared food and wine.... and polish honey whiskey which is delicious I tell you!  :-)

Then... I did post Sunday when I was thankful for sleep and we had a pretty crappy day. The kids were not the best.....

Yesterday, I was thankful for two things..... everything I have been through in my life, no matter how very bad, because it has made me exactly who I am today.... and my cleaning lady!

Something very deep... and something very "surface."  :-)

I am truly thankful for the perspective I have on life. I think I am a more empathetic, accepting, understanding person because of the things  I have gone through.  I'm not saying my life was or has been all bad... it most definitely has not. I am blessed beyond belief.  I am simply saying that I embrace every moment of my life because it shapes you. Every experience shapes and builds you... and makes you exactly who you are supposed to be...

And I like looking back on all that I've accomplised, failed at, enjoyed and hated... and just learning and living with the lessons of all that I have and will do....... it's a good, good thing.

And, of course, I love my cleaning lady!  Is there anything better than coming home to a squeaky clean house after you've worked all day, attended multiple kids after school events all night, and come home exhausted from it all?  A great, great feeling.

Then, there is today...... I am thankful for music in my life!!!!!

This morning, I get the routine request from my (almost) four year old in the back seat..... "Mommy can you play Adele?"  I could not be more proud of my kids' taste in music! We love, love, love music in our household. It is on a thousand times more often than the TV.  Always in the car, in my bathroom, in the kitchen, in Ally's room and in the living room.  Our life has an amazing soundtrack and it keeps us dancing and singing through our days!

I just love music!

I love concerts with friends and my hubby... and now, my daughter!  I love that Luke makes up dances to songs like his sister always has. I love that Ally wants an iHome for Christmas so she can listen to music on her iPod in her room.  I love Radio Disney.... and Just Dance... and eveything "childish" that is musical that my kids love to do.  Life is just better with some tunes on in the background!!!!!!!!

Today I am Thankful for Sleep...

.... And it seems everyone around here could use a whole lot more of it. Man. Today was brutal. Brutal!!! I don't know what was wrong with my kids but they were out of control grumpy today. Seriously. Scott lost his temper with Luke of all people. So, that just tells you how very bad the day was.

Whew. It's not really been the greatest week. Everyone has had a case of the grumpies. We came off a vacay and time change in addition to the time zone change. Scott was getting over a cold as were the kids. So I kept excusing everyone's bullshit. But today.... There was just no excuse. It was just our kids being awful. They refused to be helpful. Fought every little thing. Talked nasty. Cried and cried and whined and whined.

Ugh. Good riddance to you Sunday!! It's been awful. Happy to see you end!!!! Looking forward to more sleep. Much more!!

Updates on our day yesterday when I'm in a better mood. It's amazing I didn't run away from home today. ;)

So today I am super duper thankful for sleep!!!!!!!

Just Gotta Share...

I have discovered selling on eBay. I had dabbled in it a while ago.  Just a bit. Sold a few pair of jeans.  Made some money. Used it to buy new jeans. It was nice. Like getting them for free.  Just not really at all...... but you know what I mean! ;-)

So, now, Scott and I have embarked upon the eBay Challenge. We are seeing who can sell more than the who. So far, I am so winning. But I have an advantage. I swear to you... eBay is a women's playground. They love getting designer jeans, purses and clothes from Anthro.  I know that's what I shop for on eBay!

We also have a GOAL in mind... we are going to try to pay for Christmas with our eBay winnings.... or at least a chunk of it.  Maybe at least the kids.....

I have made $298.44 since Oct. 31  :-)

I am GIDDY!!!!!!!  All from things collecting dust in my house.  A pair of Ugg slipper that Scott got that were the wrong size years ago and he didn't return.  Some jeans I will NEVER fit into again.  A leather jacket I will NEVER fit into again.  A purse I haven't used in 8 years.  A dress I bought on an amazing sale that I never wore and now it's too small. Sold it for more than I paid.  :-)

Good times.... I am loving the eBay Challenge.  And kicking some butt too!  :-)))))

I am Thankful for the United Way of Jackson...

Today I am thankful for the United Way of Jackson!!!!  Not only do my hubby and I do the majority of our charitable giving through them, but Scott has served on their board as Treasurer in the past. We learned a lot about how the organization works and all the amazing things it does for Jackson.  In these hard times.... it's organizations like the United Way that keep many people in their homes, with heat and food on their tables.

I am also happy to support them by attending the WONDERFUL functions and fundraisers they have! Tonight the Women's Leadership Council of the United Way is hosting "The Power of the Purse" out at the Country Club.  They started this event just last year... and I filled a table with amazing coworkers of mine.  We were happy to support their inaugural event and loved it so much we are going back this year!

You can (if you so choose) bid on amazing purses filled with even more amazing stuff from local businesses.  There are hand painted wine glasses (I got these last year!!). And lots and lots of other girlie stuff.  Drinks.  Food.  A DJ for late night dancing.  A good, good time.......  :-)

And I can definitely use a night out after my day of full blown mommy-ness. Every moment of today was dedicated to my kids.  I am watching a friend of Allys' so her mommy can have a weekend away.  And she invited another friend. So three nine year olds.  To balance it out... I invited Grace over for Luke so he's not so left out. We have baked cookies.  Painted.  Played hide and seek.  And generally had quite the day!

Happy to have some time for me later..... Daddy is even coming home early so I can get out of here and go get dressed and ready with some other girls.  Remember the days of dressing and putting makeup on together?  So.  Much. Fun.

So today I am thankful for the United Way for all that they do and the night out the provide!

Nov. 10 - I am Thankful for my Children's Amazing Teachers...

Yesterday we had parent/teacher conferences for both Ally and Luke.  Luke's was first.... I dropped the kids off with their Uncle Adam, who single-handedly fed five kids (one of which has a BAD case of croup) and took care of them all while we were gone.  Huge KUDOS to Uncle Adam!!!!!!

I met Scott at St. Mary's and we met with his three year old preschool teacher, Ms. Joann.  First of all, this woman is a saint. She has such a patient demeanor and a presence that just puts you at peace. This is actually a trait that both my kids' teachers share!  She had some papers to show us how well Luke is doing these days with learning his letters and tracing them.  He can recognize all his colors and shapes... most of his numbers.... and well, none of his letters.  Something to work toward!  A part of me felt really bad.... cuz I know for a fact Ally could recognize and probably even write her letters by this time.  So... we will just have to be better at working with him.

He gets a "report card" like sheet.... it makes me smile.  Things he can do, and things that need improvement.  But, more importantly, at least to me at this time, he is doing really, really well socially. I wanted him to start preschool this early for his social development.  He is such a sweet, shy boy... and he needs to really learn how to interact with the world around him.

He is doing so, so, so well! Better than I could have ever hoped.  He no longer cries.  Ms. Joann tells me he always participates.  He comes up during circle time if it's his turn to do the weather or the clock.  He dances with his friends.  He has become buddies with one other little boy in particular, Joey. Which is pretty cool, cuz I know Joey's parents.... and his mom and I had talked at length when they started this year, about our concerns for our sons.  They were the same concerns, because both of our boys are on the more sensitive side. So, Joey and Luke are a great pair.  Joey also calls him Lukie, which I find adorable.

He also (of course!) has a best girl friend there... Ellie.... Ms. Joann tells me that Ellie is his go-to when he is feeling particularly overwhelmed or even the day he was sick.  Ah yes... a little girl comforts him.  Makes perfect sense being that he is surrounded by girls. And his best friend in the entire world is Grace.....

Sidenote: My mother-in-law told me the cutest story.  Last week, she was snuggling Luke and Grace and she made some mention to Luke that someday he would snuggle with his girlfriend.  Grace looked up at her horrified and said... "But I thought I was Lukie's girlfriend???"  Nana told her that someday she would have a boyfriend.... to which she replied of course, "Lukie is going to be my boyfriend."  They are so sweet.... Jane and I worry about the day when they do have boyfriends and girlfriends. I'm pretty sure that the other will kick some ass should their boyfriend/girlfriend hurt their BFF.  They will always have one another's backs.....  :-)

So, Luke is doing so, so well in school. Joann just loves him and he is such a sweet boy she always tells me.  I can tell she truly enjoys having him in her classroom and she is bummed a little the days he isn't there.

We then made our way over to Queens (in some horrid snow might I add!) to meet with Ally's Third Grade teacher, Mrs. Phelan.  This woman is also a saint.  She is so calm, even I feel at complete peace in her presence.  She makes ME want to be a better person and I know she quietly commands this from her class as well. She has a gift, this woman, and it shows. She is exactly where she is meant to be.

Her opening words were "What can I say? Ally is amazing!"  She had her report card.... all A's and one B. She said "I'm sure Ally was upset by that B, knowing how she is!"  True story.  A B in Social Studies of all subjects.  She went on to say, that grade is a reflection of the transition they are making this year. The first test Ally took, she got a 71% on.. which is a D.  She didn't quite "get" how the tests worked Mrs. Phelan said.  It was a wake up call for her... and the entire year, they are really focusing on learning how to study.  How to make study guides. How to write and take notes.  A life-long super important skill!  So, Ally's tests improved through the quarter.  She got 100% on many... just not enough to pull that grade up since that first test counted for so much of her grade.

Her marks in conduct are even better this year.  Mrs. Phelan sees a lot less talking and socializing than her second grade teacher did. I think Ally is more at peace within herself these days and that is showing in the classroom.  Mrs. Phelan also commented on how neat she is... both in her work (handwriting) and her desk. She keeps her desk super organized and clean.

I would like Mrs. Phelan to see her room.  :-))))))

Oh well... we want our kids to be better for other than they are for us. It's a sad, but true story.  Home should be the one place we can all let go and be ourselves......

So, Ally is rocking third grade so far.  We are so very proud of her. There aren't words for how proud of her grades and how proud we are to hear all the amazing things her teachers say about her.  A great girl that one.  :-)

I feel so blessed to be a part of both the schools we are a part of.  So, I could not be more thankful for my kids' amazing teachers!!!

I am Thankful for my Sister-in-Law....

Yesterday I was thankful for my sister-in-law, Jane.... she is not only one of my best friends, she is family... and that doesn't always go hand in hand.  I am very blessed to have her in my life.

She is always the first to say yes when I need a girls' night out. When I need to vent and have a drink. She is always there to watch my kids and even keep them overnight so we can have a night out. She takes gorgeous pictures of my family.  She makes me laugh.  She helps me with the little things... she helps find a new doctor, she gives me advice on just about anything and everything and she listens when I'm sad, upset, happy or elated about something.

We love to vacation together with and without our children.  We have some of the best times....

She is a good person.  Good to the core. And the ways in which she is imperfect, as we all are... are the things that make me love her even more.

So... as we sat for hours and drank and talked and talked... and were eventually kicked out of a restaurant cuz we closed them out, I was and always am thankful for my sister-in-law...

I am Thankful for Moments of Affection Between my Children...

Today I am thankful for those brief moments of affection between Luke and Ally.  I know they love one another.... but we all know that sibling love can be funny at times.  It appears absent far too often and when one of them does something so loving to the other... I just can't help but bask in the glow of the moment....

Last night, I spent the entire evening in Express Care with Luke.  When I picked him up from school, they told me he was unusually quiet and lethargic all day. That they did take his temp cuz he felt warm, but that he was not running a temp at all.  When they would ask him if he felt bad, he always answered no.

I got him in the car and started toward home. I listened to him cough. A lot.  I looked back at him and he just looked awful.  He looked almost green... and he was slumped over.  Luke is not my sick kid.  He does not get sick often and when he does, it's a cold and he powers right through like he's fine.  Starting school has definitely taken it's toll on him and he's catching some new things....

So, I turn around in Spring Arbor and go back to Kids Express... since it is now after 5.

We check in there and they tell me it's about a two hour wait. Ugh. What to do?  I am already there... so I decide we will wait.  Luke sits on my lap and is just so out of it.... He keeps having painful attacks while we are there too.... just says "it hurts!"  I have no idea what for some time....

And then, I find out...

"Mommy - I pooped my pants..."

"Oh Lukie, I am so sorry.  Okay...."

We go to the bathroom.... someone is in the ONE STALL of the ladies, so I say ef it and go into the mens' room. Desperate times here.

I get Luke's pants off and miraculously, Lightening McQueen has held strong and contained the poo-poo mess..... he sacrificed a lot for us Mr. McQueen and his life ended in the trash can at Express Care, but he served us well...

Luke finishes his business...... and I cannot describe to you.... stands up, looks at me and declares "I feel a lot better now Mommy!!"

He turns into a whole new person!   His color returns. He is talking to me again. It's wild. But.... I have waited this long, so we might as well have him checked out....

And, if course, no infection..... he has a virus....

There is a point to this story that links it to what I am thankful for today!  I swear it... here it comes...

While we are in the little room after we get called back he says "Mommy, I wish Ally was here. I like being with her."

Melt my heart.

Then, this morning, as Ally is leaving... he runs to the door before she can walk out and says... "don't go Ally...  I want to give you a hug and a kiss!!!"

To which Ally responds... "Okay on the hug. The kiss is a no."

All in all.  Pretty darn cute.

I am so thankful for those brief moments of affection between my little ones.

I am Thankful for a Tear-Free Drop Off....

Today I am thankful that Luke didn't cry when I dropped him off at preschool this morning! I did not think it would go anywhere near as well as it went since he hasn't been there in about a week and a half! I thought for sure I would be peeling his little hands off me while he cried and screamed.... and running out as fast as I could before I started to cry myself......

We talked a lot about returning to school after Mommy and Daddy being gone.  He seemed excited to go back.  He even said he actually missed Ms. Joanne.  It was adorable.  I'm sure she missed him too.  ;-)

He chose his lunch (hot dog) and watched me pack it last night. I let him choose what he wore today even though I disagreed with his choice of a short sleeve shirt. I let him take a stuffed turtle in addition to his blankie.

And he rocked it. We went into the classroom and I asked him to show me his favorite things.  He took me right over to the trucks and cars and pointed to each of the three fire trucks on the shelf, telling me that the fire trucks are his favorite things to play with. He is really into the fire truck, fire man, fire station lately and the theme resonates in his Christmas list!

So, today I am thankful that I didn't have to start my morning out by hearing my little man cry...... I am super thankful for no tears at the drop off!

Christmas/Birthday Lists...

My kids crack me up. Since we've been gone a week, the magazines and ads have piled up... So this morning there were a zillion to look at. The kids decided to take advantage and pour thru them and make their wish lists for their birthdays and Christmas!!!!

Ally's List:

Blue iHome
Lots of iTunes gift cards
Money
Elf on a Shelf
Clothes from Justice
Cupcake and gymnastics Pandora charms
Ugg moccasins
A spiral notebook and cool pencil
Everything On It by Shel Silverstein
Mirror peace signs for wall
Fudge books by Judy Bloom
Pogo stick
Just Dance 3
Operation the game
Live turtles or hamsters
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth
Graffiti chalk scooter
Bar for my door
Bookshelf
Snow ball maker
Ski equipment
Roller skates
Earrings from Claire's

Luke's List:

Dora kitchen
Paint, paper and brushes
Charge Up Race Speedway
Tonka Motorized Firetruck
Little People Firetruck
Hot Wheels Wall Track Set
Fire station
Aqua doodle color mat
Playdough
Leapster Explorer
Leap Frog My Own Laptop
Alphie
Rubix Cube

Pretty thorough. :)))). We had long talks about how you don't get everything on your list!!!!!!!

The San Francisco Treat....

What a time we had in San Francisco!!! I love nothing more than exploring a new city with my hubby!!!!  We love, love a city... we love what it has to offer.. the amazing sights, shopping, and food.  I love the afternoon glass of wine or martini at lunch, because it's okay to do that when you have no place you have to be or kids you have to take care of!

The day I arrived (Tuesday), it was late.... so I grabbed a late dinner in the hotel bar and a great glass of wine... and slept like a rock after a day of traveling.  Wednesday, Scott was still attending the conference so I hit the shopping district of Union Square hard. Three hours in an amazing Anthro... the semi-annual sale at Nordstroms.... browsing all the designer high end shops that I have no business shopping at.  It was sunny and gorgeous... and I love the buzz of the city!!

We had dinner that night at an amazing steak house.... our waiter was so much fun!  Each day or night I tried a different pinot noir from California.... branching out from my usual Oregon preference... I felt like I was in Cali, so I needed to drink from Cali!  :-)

Thursday we ventured even further out..... and had a luxurious nap mid-day... rode the cable car out to Fisherman's Wharf for a great dinner at a seafood place..... and some more amazing wine....

Friday we ventured even further out...... and did not break for a nap!  We made it to China Town and North Beach and Little Italy. We ate at a most amazing Asian bistro for lunch... best meal we had while we were there. And some amazing martinis!

We were still hitting the pavement when dinner time rolled around... so we hit up an Italian place... had some wine and shared a margarhita pizza... yum!

We saw so much.... walked so much... at great food.... drank great wine.... talked and talked and laughed and laughed and didn't have a care in the world.... we encountered the city crazies and felt both sympathy at those who lived on those streets... and a sense of thankfulness for what we had that kept us off those same streets. We saw street performers.... and we sat in a Starbucks for hours one afternoon and got hysterical with a conversation on the city fashion of wearing leggings with everything.  People who had no business wearing leggings.  Leggings that were no more than tights.... and not covered by a tunic or dress.  Lordy day. I like leggings too. I do.... but to wear leggings one must cover ones butt!  Just a statement of fact people. Cover up your business!!!!!!!!

We had a great adult trip.  Reconnected.  Rested.  And enjoyed every moment.  We hardly took any pictures, we were so caught up in the time we were having..... and that's just fine..... we will always have the memories.  Here are a few of the pics we did get....

I am Thankful for Sundays at Home with my Family...

Today I am thankful to be home with my family. With no where to go. Nothing to do. We are just home together, doing the everyday, mundane things that need to be done around here that make our household tick. Laundry. Making meals. Picking up.  Signing homework.  Planning lunches.  Talking about what our week has in store.

I love the peace of Sundays.  I love the calm before the storm of the work and school week.  I love the Sunday meal together. I always have.  Today we are making meatloaf and mashed potatoes. It doesn't get more "home cookin'" than that.

Today is the day we make our lists and check things off.  It's the day we feel like we are actually starting out on top of things.. cuz as the week goes on, life gets a little crazy... and the house gets destroyed and we run frantic in the mornings... and we forget to pack our gym clothes, our leotard or our yoga mat.... and we lose this peaceful feeling we had on Sunday....

But, for now... I am thankful for this Sunday at home with the people I love the most....

November 5: I am Thankful to be Going Home!!!

Today I am thankful to be going home! As much as I absolutely LOVE to get away... and I love to travel more than the average bear..... I absolutely love that feeling of going home, especially when I have been away from my kids or even my hubby.

I love the feeling of missing my kids so much it hurts. I love that moment where we are reunited and they are holding back tears they are so happy to see us. I freely let the tears fall... I am that happy to see them.  Nothing beats that feeling of returning to the place and people you call home.

I am so thankful I have the amazing home I always want to return to!

November 4: I am Thankful for my Hubby...

Today I am thankful for my partner in life... my best friend.... the man who picks me up when I am down and lifts me like no one in this world can... my husband, Scott.

When we get away from life.... it really hits home for me how much fun we have when we are together.  We sometimes lose sight of that when life gets crazy. When we get bogged down in the day to day drudgery, it is so difficult to keep our relationship a priority... but so very important for us. We never want to lose sight of who we once were before marriage, kids, and the business of life started to cloud us.

We run an amazing household together and parent together like pros.  We are truly an amazing partnership.  We share the same goals.... life dreams.... and aspirations for ourselves, our family and our children.

We are not afraid to make mistakes and admit it. We carry the other person when the other cannot go on anymore.  We get through more than most people I know.... and we are better for it. We do not give up on us.

My husband has taught me, showed me, and proved to me that true love exists... and I love that we just got away together to really remember.... I love that I like him..... and I know that one day, when my kids are grown and gone.... we will still be having just as much crazy fun as we are now... we will one day be the old couple that make people smile because we still hold hands.... and laugh over wine and dinner.

This much I know is true.... I am thankful for my husband.....

November 3: I am Thankful for Amazing Moms...

Today I am thankful for the amazing moms of all Ally's best friends who have become some of my closest friends. I am thankful for the mom who drove Ally to school every day while Scott and I were out of town and saved my in-laws the trip into Jackson. I am thankful for the mom who takes Ally home every Wednesday before gymnastics and makes her a smoothie and gets her changed and back to the gym on time.  I am thankful that at any given point, I can call on one of these moms and ask them to pick Ally up from school... take her to football game... or even keep her overnight for me.

I am even more thankful that these moms and I have become friends who actually enjoy one another's company! We have gone on vacation with one of the family's..... I have had countless girls' nights out.... been to one another's houses.... and had "play dates" with adult time and kid time.  We have a lot in common in addition to our daughters and I am so thankful that they are in my life!

There are many, many other moms I have come to know through school that I am close with and love as well..... the PTO moms... the Ambassadors group moms... the moms who volunteer their time and I interact with all the time. The moms who come and help me at Girl Scouts... there are so many wonderful women out there.

I am so thankful for the mommy support in my life!!!

November 2: I am Thankful for our Jobs...

Today I am thankful for mine and Scott's jobs!! In this economy and trying time for so, so many... we are beyond blessed to have the stable jobs and income that we do.  We are not only blessed to be able to provide for our family financially, but we are blessed with amazing co-workers, and a day to day job that we care about and believe in.  While not perfect all the time, each of us has a job that we don't mind getting out of bed to go to every day.... and with as much TIME as you spend doing your job.... you should really try as hard as you can to make it something you love doing!

I am thankful that my hubby has the work ethic and drive that he does.  He is an amazing man.... with amazing talents.  He is truly one of the smartest people I know.  He is a natural born leader.  Everyone who works for him, with him and around him, love to be with him.  He is fair.  He is empowering.  He pushes people without being pushy.  I am in constant awe of how far he has come in his career and our family is blessed as a result of his hard work.

I am thankful that I have the opportunity to work part time..... for a while there.... both mine and Scott's careers were going a little crazy... and it was virtually impossible for us to be the kind of parents we wanted to be.... and have the kind of home life we wanted to have. We either needed to slow down  or hire a live-in nanny.... and for us, the answer was to slow down.  It was one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Top five for sure.  It has changed me and made me a better person for myself and for my kids and family.  I like who I am better. I love the balance I have now.  I feel like this is exactly where I am supposed to be.

And I love that three day a week job I get to go to... and use my brain.... and interact with amazing people who have become amazing friends..... and that every day... I get to leave right on time to get my kids... and be there for homework and after school activities.

Today, I am thankful for our amazing jobs!

November 1: I am Thankful for my In-Laws...

Today I am thankful for my in-laws.... who are always willing to watch my children so Scott and I can get away. Whether it be a week in Mexico, a night out for a concert or dinner, or a few days in San Francisco... they always happily take our kids and care for them as we would.  Love them as we would.  And have a great time doing so!

My mother-in-law watched Ally from the time I went back to work when Ally was around five months old. Every single day.  Forty hours a week.  When Ally was almost two, we put her in daycare two days a week so she could learn to interact with other kids.  But.... every other day.... she was with her Nana.

My father-in-law retired somewhere in there... and he was there when Luke came along and started going every day.  Not too long after Luke came along and Ally was in the first grade, I went part-time, but Luke still went there the days that I worked... three days a week.  They have always been there and been our primary "day care"... what a blessing it is to have them in our lives and have never had to make that day care decision.

They have saved us tens of thousands of dollars... but more than that, they love our children... and my nieces that they also watch. They are truly angels to do all that they do for us.  I know I cannot imagine giving of my time every day to watch my grandchildren someday.... I am not sure I am that selfless.

We would never be able to get away, Scott and I.... if it weren't for them. It's so so so hard to leave your kids overnight with others.  Impossible when they're little for sure.... but when it's grandma and grandpa, it's not so bad.

We are blessed and unquestionable lucky to have them in our lives.... and in our children's lives.

So, today, I am more than thankful for my in-laws!

Hold Your Horses....

I know it's November and I promise I will be posting my daily thanks when I return from San Francisco. For now, I am enjoying lots of time with my hubby, in an amazing city, child free!!!! So I am gonna love every minute!!! Blogging will resume next week. Promise!!!

Boo for a Sick Day...

I am home with the little man today.  He had croup over the weekend.... maybe starting Thursday/Friday.  The barkey cough didn't last too long... but he seems to feel worse now that the cold has moved to his chest and made him much more congested. Still, I would rather hear the productive/stuffy cough than the bark! That croupy cough scares me.  :(

He spiked a fever last night... and I was crossing my fingers that he would wake up better this morning, but no such luck. I cannot, in good conscience, send him to school with a fever.  Just can't.  I know it's just a virus and he will be fine... but I am also going out of town tomorrow and want to give him all the love I can until I have to go.  I certainly know I will leave him in good hands. Still, always harder to leave them when they are sick.

'Tis the season!  Ugh.

So, we are home taking it easy. He is missing his very first party at school and he knows it. He is really bummed.  I promised him there would be more parties.... he seems to be taking it well.

A lazy day for the little man... Mommy's bed, blankie, and Playhouse Disney!

Pumpkin Carving and More Parties....

Yesterday we got our pumpkins (we always do this - get them at the last minute - you can get them for a $1 then you know!!!  HA!) and carved them..... I am not gonna lie. It always sounds like more fun that it really is.  At least with my kids.  ;-)

Ally draws out what she wants her pumpkin to look like after searching on the internet for the perfect face and inspiration.  Then, she draws it on the pumpkin.  Of course, no one can actually carve what she draws... but Scott does his very best.  She is a bit disappointed, but she is okay.

Luke cannot stand the entire process really. Notice his face in the photo above.  He does NOT WANT to cut up his pumpkin. We really should have just let him draw on it or paint it. The scooping out of the guts made him gag. At one point, I was sure he was going to vomit on the table.  So, Ally is pouting,  Luke is gagging.  I am frantically picking out all the pumpkin seeds.  It's a good time people.

But just you wait.  It gets better.

We get them all carved (somehow I do not have a picture of the finished product!) and Scott puts them outside..... we go about our afternoon. Luke needs a nap (did I mention he has croup!?) and Ally takes her quiet time.  The dogs are put outside.  A few minutes later, Scott goes outside... and guess what? Fergus has eaten the face off Luke's pumpkin!

Awesome huh????

Best part... Luke STILL does not know.... and we took Scott to the airport this morning so I get to be the bearer of bad news and break Luke's heart with his half eaten pumpkin!

Anyone want a free Scottie?????  ;-)

Seriously....... WTF Fergus???? I know we do not do the best with our dogs. Their actions are a complete reflection on our inability to take the time to train them.  Honest truth - we have no business being dog owners.  They are loved and cared for. They are not well trained.  Our children take all our energy in that department. I am sorry.  No more patience or time for the fur babies. They are just going to be wild all their lives..... I accept this.

So, I will have to live with them destroying pumpkins from here on out.  I accept my choices.  ;)

Ugh.....

Last night we went to the Halloween Party at Queens.. and it was a bit of a madhouse!  Kids had fun though.  Luke decorated two cookies.  Painted a pumpkin. Made a picture frame.  Played a few games. Ate some junk food.  Aunt Jane, Gracie and the babies joined us in the madness.  I'm not sure what Ally did cuz she was off with her friends most of the time....  :-)  Ah... the independent almost nine year old.

I have no pictures from last night. Forgot my camera!  I suck!  Scott snapped one or two with his phone.... but I don't have them. But, remember the pictures from our work party? That's what the kids looked like  :-))))))

This morning, we got up and had a big breakfast and took Scott to the airport.... the kids were a little weepy, but they are okay now.  I am going to spend the day picking up and getting myself ready to leave Tuesday morning.... it's going to be a LOT crazy tomorrow single parenting Halloween, but I am prepared for the challenge... with the help of others of course!

Luke's party is in the morning.  Baking cookies for that today. He gets to dress up and I think he is kinda over the costume thing already.  ;-)  Then, I will take a break for yoga at lunch time... and then, head to Ally's party in the afternoon. They do not get to dress up.  The kindergarteners do and they parade around the school.  Pretty darn cute! Can't wait to see all of them!

Tomorrow evening, Ally will go trick or treating here in town with a friend and her parents.  I may take Luke out a bit, but he really enjoys helping pass out candy too. So we will do a bit of both! And, of course, some where in there, we have to do the traditional trick or treat to Nana and Papa and have Aunt Jane try to get pics of all the kids. That always goes REALLY well.  ;-)  But it's fun!!!!!!

No idea what to pack for San Fran.  Weather going to be in 60s/70s... that's definitely still jacket weather for me.  I always take too much and I am sure this time will be no exception.  Scott and I are staying smack dab in the middle of a really nice shopping district and I cannot wait to add to my suitcase.  :-)

I have been selling stuff on eBay and everything ends in the next day or two (so I can ship out before I leave) and that could really pad my shopping budget!!!  :-)  Lots of bids on most stuff and lots of watchers!  People love Uggs, jeans and purses!

Well, I should get off the computer and get my butt in gear.  A house to pick up.... and many, many things to do..... Happy Sunday Blog friends!