Hooray! It's June!

The doctor who delivered Ryan said that the last few weeks of pregnancy are God's way of preparing you for childbirth, because you'll go through anything, including labor, just to get the darn thing out of you! Over the few years that my children have been in school, I have used the same analogy. The last few weeks of school with field trips, field days, talent shows, presentations, etc, etc, etc, are God's way of preparing you for summer vacation, because you'll go through anything, including having your children with you all day, everyday, just for the insanity to stop.

The question is, however; what is God trying to teach someone when these two occurances collide? And, when it is 90 degrees out? I'm not sure. In fact, I think that the collision of these three forces creates a very great evil. But, at least it's June, and with the exception of the heat, it will all be over soon!

5 1/2 days!

This is what I heard this morning as my children were leaving for the bus stop. 5 1/2 days being the number of days left of school. Most people have said the school year has flown by...I assume they have not been pregnant for most of it. But, still, I can't help but think how much things have changed in my life since August, 2006.

Those first few days alone were horrible. The house was terribly quiet, and time dragged by terribly slow. I missed by kids by 11:00 every day. I begged my friends to invite me to lunch, to go walking, for coffee, anything. And, the kindly obliged. But, then, I volunteered up at school, and got a job, and then (surprise!) got pregnant. And, just like everyone said would happen, my time filled up and I ended up spending most of the year running around like a chicken wihtout a head.

My kids had great years...all of them. Phenomenal, really. Except for a little bit of girl stuff, but I'm beginning to think that is unavoidable.

To Mrs. B~I want to say thank you for creating a nurturing environment for Ryan. Thank you for seeing his "special energy", as we've come to call it, as an asset, rather than something that needed to be disciplined or drugged out of him. I am so thankful for you!

To Mrs. B~Thank you for being so creative. The way you encouraged Trisha's creativity made her like a pig in mud in your class. I will not forget your coming to see her play on a very cold December evening, when I am sure you had other things to do. I am so thankful for you!

To Miss P ~ I wasn't so sure about you at first, I will admit, but I appreciate your creativity and your ability to be consistent in your expectations. That is exactly what my Jaden needs and that is why he thrived in your class. I appreciate your willingness to think outside the box for solutions for him, and I admire the way you have stood your ground against the many parent complaints you received (unwarrantedly) this year. I am so thankful for you!

To Ms. Z ~ I want to thank you for a great year for Jonathan. I appreciate the way that you created such a warm atmosphere in your classroom where everyone was really friends. Case in point: having everyone from your class in a talent show routine. Jonathan leaves your classroom having gained a lot of knowledge and a lot of close frienships. I am so thankful for you!

It has been a good year. And, next year, I won't have to worry about the transition to having everyone gone, since I'll be busy with an infant. Plus, I know that time has a way of getting filled up, which is why I intend to make the most of every moment I have with my kids this summer!

If parenting is a competition, score 1 loss for me

So, yesterday turned out to be pretty exciting. Around 7:20 pm, Ryan hit Jaden in the head with a baseball bat. Nice. What's even better is that for a few minutes I heard some screaming outside and was getting all mad thinking that Jaden and Ryan were out there fighting again. I was just about to give them both a large piece of my mind, along with some consequence, when Ryan rushed through the door. "Mom, um, well, I was playing baseball, and it was an accident, and well, I accidentally hit Jaden in the head with my baseball bat (aluminum) accidentally." I ran out the door all the while screaming something about God...a prayer I'm sure, only to see that Jaden has a lump on the side of his head that is cartoon-like. Sort of like the kind Elmer Fudd would get when trying to catch Bugs Bunny. I never thought that was funny on TV, and I can assure you that I did not find it funny last night, either.

So, off to the ER. The Dr. comes in and tells Jaden he will be getting a CT Scan and she starts to explain what that is. Jaden says, "I know what it is. I just wish someone would tell me why it is called a CAT scan, because I have never once seen a cat!" part way through her little speech. Poor kid. As we are sitting there waiting for the results of the CT scan, all I can think besides "Dear God let everything be all right" is "I.CAN.NOT.DO.THIS." and by I can not do this, I mean have this new baby. It was insane to think that we could have another baby and deal with the insanity that happens around here on a regular basis. The other thing I was thinking of was how I kept thinking that maybe I should go outside and sit down while they were playing outside. I, obviously, never followed that motherly instinct. Nice.

Turns out he's fine. Minor concussion. had him home today watching and monitoring. He had a headache this morning and was slightly lethargic, but he's happily playing video games now. Another major crisis averted, thank God. There is a new rule here in our house, that there is no playing with baseball bats unless mom or dad is outside.

Tripmom's Book Club

I don't really get an opportunity to do much reading, but when I visited my sister a few weeks back, I did some reading on the plane, and I am here to highly recommend this book: "Death by Suburb: How to Keep the Suburbs from Killing Your Soul" by David Goetz. I must warn you, this is a non-fiction book. However, I know the readers of Kiddyland to be very bright and learned people, so I am sure this is no problem. It gives 8 great tips to living a "thicker" life beyond lattes, SUVs and soccer. Not that those things are bad in and of themselves.

In one part, the author relays a story about an acquaintance whose wife was diagnosed with cancer. In addition to caring for her and their children and trying to keep up with the demands at work, he was scheduled to coach his son's little league soccer game. He noticeed halfway through the game that one of the playera had left the game. Afterwards, he found out why. The parents, upset that their daughter was not getting the playing time they felt she deserved pulled her from the game and went home. "He thought he had rotated all of the players through. He said he didn't say much to the wife when he called later for damamge control. Soccer is stupid when you think your wife is dying." p.48

Another quote:

"Successful children are the ultimate glory in today's Park District and Travel team culture. Children level the playing field. Whether from blue money, new money, or no money, each child represents real potential for glory in the here and now. They are the ultimate extension of ourselves. ...Parenting is hard these days, perhaps because it truly is today's most competitive sport."

I really could blog about this book all day. But, instead just read it for yourselves. And, if you happen to actually do that, let me know what you think!

I probably shouldn't be let out of the house...

Because I just can't be held responsible for my emotions lately. It's really bad. I just never know what is going to happen.

For example, I was watching my TiVo'd Desperate Housewives on Monday. And, I started crying when Lynette found out about her cancer. Fine, I'm sure that's probably in the realm of normal. My problem: I kept crying about it all day. All day, people. I suppose bursting into tears for no reason is nothing new to this pregnancy. A few weeks ago,the whole fam was playing hide and seek. I thought I had a totally great hiding place, but Rob found me right away. You guessed it...I started crying. It just seems to be happening alot lately.

Then, there's the other thing. You just never know when I might flip someone off. Not literally, but in my heart. I was at field day last week and I swore someone was staring at me. I know I am huge. I know it's kind of like a freak show, but c'mon. I thought I might punch her.

It's probably just better if I lock myself up at home...that way no one gets hurt! :)

That's 2 hours of my life I can't get back.

That's how I feel after watching The Departed. Didn't it win an Oscar or something? I thought it had and who doesn't like Matt Damon, Leo, and Jack Nicholson (who I sometimes get mixed up with Jack Nicklaus the famous golfer, but I digress). It.was.terrible. I mean it...terrible. I even stayed up to like 10:30 to watch it. It started out good. It was almost really good. It was as if they didn't know how to end it, so let's just kill everyone and that should do it. I feel like I want my $3.25 back. Do yourself a favor...if you haven't seen it...don't bother.

Miracle in Lane 2

Before there was "High School Musical" or "Jump In", The Disney Channel made a lovely movie called "Miracle in Lane 2". It's based on a true story of a boy with Spina Bifida who wants to win a trophy just like his older brother more than anything else. After unsuccessful attempts at mainstream sports, he befriends a neighbor who gets him into the soapbox derby. Of course, he wins a trophy bigger than any his brother had ever seen. I love, love, love this movie and everytime I watch it I cry through the whole thing. It's wonderful.

On Wednesday night, we (almost) had our own little miracle in lane 2. Jonathan and Jaden were competing in a little car race we had at church. In the third grade division, there were probably about 18 racers. Jonathan was quickly eliminated after two quick losses. Jaden, however, was a different story. 1st race...win. 2nd race...win. 3rd race...win. At this point, Jaden is nearly hyperventilating with joy. And, you know what...so is Jonathan. The winner of the next race would be guaranteed 3rd place and a medal. Best 2 out of 3. First run...win. Second run...lose. 3rd run...win. The final race was for 1st place. Best 2 out of 3. First run...lose. Second run...win. Thrid run...lose! 2nd place isn't too bad though and he did get a wonderful medal. Just as in the fiction story, I cried through the whole thing. It was wonderful!

Life isn't always fair for Jaden. Scratch that...life is hardly ever fair for Jaden. I just was so glad and grateful that he won something and was so excited and proud of himself. It was also very gratifing to see how excited Jonathan was for him. Although later we did have to have the "Everyone is a winner in our family" talk. :-)

9 year old boys!

I have just been thinking lately about how much I love 9 year old boys. I'm almost sad that they are almost 10 because I think 9 has to be the greatest age I've encountered so far. They are so independent and yet still so snuggly. I can see them already becoming gentlemen, wanting to take care of the ladies of the house. They can wrestle with their friends and act all cool, yet they aren't to shy to wave feverishly at their mom each morning as the bus pulls away from the stop. And, they don't have any of the hormonal/emotional stuff that comes with 9 year old girls that can be oh so challening. It's just a neat age. Half way to being a man, only half way from being a baby. It's a neat mix of characteristics that I enjoy alot!

As way of an example, here's a cute conversation I overheard the other day:

Jaden is talking about how he really wants this pirate alarm clock from the back of a cereal box for $4.95. HE says to Jonathan, "How can I get my hands on $4.95?". Then he says, "Mom, can you give me some chores so I can make $4.95?" I tell him that I can. Then he says to Jonathan, "Never mind, I'll just bet Josh." Jonathan:"Yeah, I bet Josh all of the time, he owes me like $6.00 now."

I, for some reason just found this the cutest thing in the world...seeing how the mind of a nine year old works. Of course we had to have a conversation about how gambling isn't really a legitimate way to earn money...

Top 10 Signs You're Entering Your Third Trimester

10). When you drop something you really have to think about how badly you want it to determine whether you are going to bend over and pick it up.
9.) People are no longer afraid to ask you if you are pregnant.
8.) You ask your youngest son if he wants to feel the baby move, and he says,"I've already felt it like 100 times!".
7.) You stop worrying about losing the baby and start worrying about what you are going to do with it once it gets here.
6.) It takes 20 minutes to get into a comfortable sleeping position...that is only comfortable for 20 minutes.
5.) Ah, heck, I can't remember #5. Baby takes all the oxygen from my brain!
4.) You start feeling like a walking, talking Pepto Bismol commercial. (heartburn, nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea...)
3.) Two words: Urinary Incontinence.
2.) You look at your belly and wonder how in the world you are possibly going to get three months bigger.
1.) You are willing to disown any person who might respond to this post by saying 'Wow, your pregnancy is going by so fast!" or something similar. :-)

Something hilarious that you must see!

We went on a little mini-vacation and the triplets made this...it's pretty hilarious!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y11pWnDU2LI

I don't know how to make the link all blue so you just click it, so you'll have to cut and paste...sorry! :)

Grease pics are forthcoming...

Happy Anniversary!

Today is my 14th wedding anniversary. It's been a great day. I went to lunch with Rob. We got Primantis and ate them at Mellon Square on a georgeous 70 degree day.

I can assure it was not 70 degrees or sunny on the day we got married. In fact, we were in the middle of a large snow storm. We went to Disneyworld for our honeymoon. That wasn't so great either. From walking (yes, walking) to MGM from our hotel to almost crashing and burning on the plane trip home to getting so sunburnt in the two hours of sun we actually had that I could not even stand to have anything touch me to watching NCAA basketball...it wasn't what I had dreamed.

A week later we moved to Pittsburgh. Neither one of us had a job. We had a few bucks from the wedding and we were young and adventerous, so why not? In our first apartment we had a TV, a card table and a second hand waterbed. We'd spend mornings sending out resumes and evenings playing rummy. I got so that I hated rummy. I still, to this day, have no desire whatsoever to play rummy. After a month, Rob found a job. I think we bought a couch to celebrate.

All of this to say, it really wasn't the greatest start to a marriage. But, I know people who had dream honeymoons and moved into their first homes fully furnished...and are now divorced. I love the life Rob and I have built together. I love our kids. I love our home. I love our past. I'm excited about our future. I love that we can spend $12.50 on an anniversary lunch eating downtown and it's one of the best dates ever. I love that he can predict most of the time, what I am going to do and say. And, I love that I can do the same with him. I even love that sometimes those things he does and says are a little annoying. (Like, why does he still have notebooks from computer classes in college in his closet?) I love that we started with nothing. I love that we have fought through some hard times and have come out the other side. I love that we are still together and with the help of God, we always will be.

The (dreaded) PSSAs

Now that my kisd are in third grade, they have officially entered the part of their schooliong lives where they get to take part in official standardized testing. My kids are pretty nervous, which is silly, considering their amazing brillance. But, I suppose it would be hard not to be. The school seems to keep saying over and over again, "Don't be nervous about this thing that we are making a super-huge deal about." And, for the school I suppose it is.

See, I am not one of those people who hates the No Child Left Behind legislation. I really think, in theory, it's very good. Yes, the school district should be teaching my children. And, yes, if they are not, I should be able to send my children elsewhere. I like that children who are in special education have to also be included in the testing results. I really do think no child should be left behind. And, I think the thing that I like the most about it is that teachers hate it. I always think accountability is a great thing, unless I am the one being held accountable.

In practice, though, is a somewhat different story, I feel. It's put wayyyyy too much emphasis on testing. Even my little 1st grader had to take some standardized tests this year, just to give him practice. After all, I can't imagine one of my kids sitting before a college entrance person telling them how wonderful they did on their 3rd grade PSSAs or their 1st grade Terra Novas. It is far more important for the school than it is for my child.

Which is why it is upsetting that my children are getting worked up over something that doesn't even really affect them. The school is doing lots things to make it seem like it's fun to take a teast, but it's sort of like this: suppose there was an elephant in my living room and I told my kids, "Don't be nervous about the elephant, in fact, don't even bother yourselves about it. It's a fine elephant and you don't need to worry about it at all." But, then, I did a cheer about the elephant, sang songs about the elephant and everyday I had them dress up the elephant and then just before the elephant was about to leave, I threw a big party for the elephant. It would be pretty hard not to concern oneself with that elephant.

It seems like maybe it would just be easier if we just gave the kids a stinking test with a simple sentence, "You'll be taking some tests next week." I don't know. Call me crazy. One thing I do know is this: the "good night's sleep" that I'm supposed to make sure my kids get next week is not bloody likely to happen given the pressure they seem to be feeling.

The Saga of the Stomachache

So, for some time now, Ryan has had a stomachache. Not anything too major. He's still been able to jump around and express all of that "special energy" he has. But, when he is turning down ice cream, I know something is really up. So, of course, my first thought is: "He's upset about the baby." Why not, he's been the baby for so long, of course he might be having some issues with not being the baby anymore. Since I am Super-Mom, I am certain I can cure this without much problem. A day off school to spend time together, some extra snuggle time, maybe a special lunch here and there, along with reminding him that he will always be my baby BOY should've done the trick. It hasn't. Then enteres my second thought: stomach cancer. Because afterall, if it's not bad mothering that's messing him up, it has to be cancer...am I right? I looked up stomach cancer on the internet and given the fact that he is not over the age of 60 nor had a prolonged history of stomach problems I think he's probably OK. My third thought, after days of tracking at and looking at his poop (isn't motherhood glamorous) is that he is having some trouble with constipation. A little more fiber, a little more water and he's good as new. I should probably have it checked by a doctor, but what could they possibly tell me that I wouldn't already know ;-)

BTW, haven't heard anything about the house. I am guessing there are some sort of further shenanigans with the government and stuff. I think Tom Petty sang a song about the waiting is the hardest part. True dat, dawg!

Agents, and buyers, and loans...oh my!

So, here's what we've been up to: trying to buy a house. I know this information is probably upsetting to the Michigan folks who were hoping our next home purchase might be in that state. However, let me tell you about this house. It's next to one of Trisha's good friend's homes, so we knew back in October or so of 1995 that there was a druggie living there who had been arrested and that the house had been seized. Great! So, we looked into how we might purchase the house on Sheriff's sale. Of course, we found out that to buy a house a Sheriff's sale, you have to come up with the entire amount of the sale within a week of the auction. I'm sorry to say we were a few dollars shy of the needed $290,000. So, we thought it was our tough luck and someone else would get the house. Fortunately, however, no one bought it at the Sheriff's sale in April, 2006. Since then, apparently, the federal government and the bank have been haggling over who gets to sell it. Monday it went on the market. When we went in to see the house, there were three other people there at the same time. When we put our offer in at 10:30 this morning, our was the 15th offer. To be competitive, we overbid and we dropped the contigency of having to sell our current house first. Even still, I think it's a long shot that we will get this house. Which is a bummer. It's a huge house with a den that could be a bedroom for Jaden and a large first floor laundry which could easily be converted into a bathroom for Jaden. The kids would get to go to the same elementary school. It has a flat driveway. It's really perfect and I'm hoping and praying for some sort of strange miracle. (Like all bids over ours just happen to get misplaced or something). I think we should know something tomorrow or Thursday. If it's God's will... I also have to plug Beth Mastro here. She's a totally kick-butt agent and I highly recommend!

In the meantime, we have been busiing ourselves by trying to get our house ready to sell. Allow me to just say that it is amazing how much junk a family of 6 can collect. IN fact, it was so much we decided to have a junk person come and haul it away. You know the kind with the ad that says something like:"Will haul anything away but your mother-in-law". SO, Rob spent the day gathering all of the trash and putting it on the bottom of the driveway. I can only imagine what our neighbor must have been thinking. When the guy whose job it is is to deal with trash gets here, he says, without provocation might I add, "I've seen worse." I almost doubt that. Glad to have it all gone, though...whether we move or not.

I have an announcement to make:

I hate winter. And, my next house WILL, I repeat WILL, have a flat driveway.

Thank you.

2nd trimester ultrasound

Truly, nothing had been able to strike fear in my heart lately than those words. I do not remember being that nervous for Ryan. Could be becasue I've had bad news at an ultrasound; could also be because as I get older, I hear more and more terrible stories. At any rate, prior to mine, I had myself worked up into quite a tizzy, certain that something was going to be wrong with this baby. I was able to calm myslef down a bit, because since that time in 1997 when my world crashed while lying on a table with blue gel all over my stomach, I have learned a few things:

1) A 20 week ultrasound isn't a guarantee. Just because a baby looks good on a scan, or even looks good after birth means nothing. Heck, the CDC just came out with staitistics that 1 in 150 kids will have autism. That's way higher than the rate for Spina Bifida and even higher than my person rate for Down's Syndrome, even with my advanced maternal age, and there is no test in the world that can predict whether or not my child will have autism. It's a very scary prospect, but there are no guarantees. There is no way to know what the future will hold for this child. I know that each of the days ordained for it were written in GOd's book of life before one of them came to be, (Pslam 136) and that gives me some comfort, actually.

2) All of my kids, if they live on this planet and they are human (which they are) will suffer at one point or another. It's simply part of the human experience here on earth. Part of the reason no one wants their child to be born "unhealthy" is that we don't want them to suffer. And, sure most of our parenting is spent, wisely, in keeping them from unneccessary suffering. We tell them not to run with scissors, or play in the street, or touch the hot stove, etc, etc and those things are great. But, as much as we might try to prevent it, they will have pain. And, I am not so sure that it is a bad thing that my children have seen through Jaden's struggles and illnesses that life is not 100% perfect, 100% of the time. Maybe they won't be so shocked when they are adults and something doesn't work out quite as they had planned.

3) There is great value in a child with a disability/illness. Before having a child with a disability, I am not sure I believed this deep down. But, to me, Jaden is a daily word picture if you will of my relationship with God. Afterall, the cross already told me that all of us are diabled. It's just that I can fluff up my hair, put on some lipstick and my not-so-fat pants and hide mine pretty well. Jaden's major disability is unhideable. And, so is mine...in the eyes of God. Sure, caring for Jaden can get tiring. Afterall, there are many things my other 9 year olds can do, that Jaden can not. But, I don't hold his neediness against him, because he is my child and I love him. In the same way, God does not hold my neediness against me, becasue I am His child and He loves me.

4) Our children are really God's first. I get to join Him in the miracle of creation, but really this kiddo was HIs idea before it was mine. (Psalm136). I think of my friends who gave birth to a son with Trisomy 18 in November. He wasn't supposed to live more than 3 days, and he's now 3 months old. About a month ago, it really looked like it might be tht end of his life, so we gathered a group around them, and prayed for them. After we prayed, do you know what my friend did? She passed her son around so we all could hold him. On what could very well ahve been his last minutes on earth, she passed her son around. Now, there is someone who knows that her child is God's before it is her's and it's a really cool thing to watch.

So, after thinking through all of this, I was able to calm down. And, as it turns out we had a good scan. Although our newest daughter was not being very cooperative, it does look, so far, like everything is OK.

The Irony of Life

Some people find it amusing...I do not.

For example, yesterday morning I had the opportunity to appear in front of the fine magistrate of Mt. Lebanon, to plead my case to have a speeding ticket overturned. I told him about how I was a very safe driver and that my last speeding ticket was 14 years ago. I told him about how I was a mom hurrying to get home so I could beat the kids off the school bus, etc. etc. It must have worked, because he was merciful and gave me a non-points ticket with a fine of about $80 less than the original. Hooray!

Here comes the irony: I am truly no more than 3 blocks from the courthouse when I see in my rearview another #@&! cop with his lights blinking. Apparently, I was going 37 in a 15. Yes, even though it was past 9 am, this area was still considered a school zone, thus not the regular 35 speed limit. Perhaps I should think it funny that this ticket is the exact same amount over as the previous ticket. Perhaps I should think it funny that I just got done telling the judge what a good driver I was and how much I valued children, only to get caught speeding in a school zone. Perhaps...

Counseling, anyone?

Our elementary school, like most in the country has a guidance counselor on staff. Mr. Hughey, or as the kids call him, "The Feelings Teacher" is ours. Every year, Mr. Hughey comes around in the beginning of the year to talk to the kids about their feelings. They color in a little "feeling wheel" (I now have about 14 in my home) to help them identify their feelings. They are also told that at any time, if they have a problem or some bad feelings, they can fill out a slip and talk to Mr. Hughey. Isn't that sweet!

OK, so a few days ago, I am in the car with Trisha,who was contemplating whether or not she should try-out for the community theater showing of Grease. See, when she did a Christmas Carol, there were some 12 year old mean girls who gave her a bit of a hard time. She couldn't really decide what to do, so I suggested that we talk to Mrs. Shannon the director. You know what Trish says???? "That's what Mr. Hughey said I should do." Um, what??

Turns out, Trisha has been filling out lots of little slips lately for Mr. Hughey. One slip said: "I don't know what to do about Grease." There were also slips for: "Maddy is being mean to me", "Maddy and Kaitlyn are fighting and I'm stuck in the middle", and perhaps my personal favorite: "My mom is acting weird." I told Trisha we should probably save those slips for big things, but I guess to her, those are big things. Poor Mr. Hughey. He probably thinks we are one messed up family. Good thing we are adding another!

A lot has changed...

since I was last pregnant 7 years ago. For example, 7 years ago, I ate lunch meat like it was going out of style. Turns out, it actually was going out of style. At least for pregnant ladies. It seems I can catch some strange bacterial illness from lunch meat and it's now banned.

7 years ago, during those transition weeks between regular clothes and maternity clothes, you were stuck using rubber bands and long shirts. NOW, they have these things called Belly Bands that you can use over your old pants. Just leave them unbuttoned, pull up the belly band and voila! no one can even tell your pants are completely undone.

Those were interesting changes, but this one is the most interesting of all: 7 years ago, as your pregnancy progressed, your belly would be begin to expand and stick out. NOW, it appears that back ends are now the part that beings to expand and stick out.

What other changes/surprises are ahead? I can only guess. Maybe in the past 7 years, labor has become less painful!!

Look What I Got

Finally. It's like I'm finally coming into the 2000s! I got some gift cards for Xmas from my boss and this is what I bought. I feel really cool with it, I must admit! So, anyway, I did a shuffle of my songs and here were the first 10:

1. Praise You With the Dance

2. Baby Got Back

3. Everybody Dance Now

4. Now that We Found Love

5. Hey man, Nice Shot

6. Consuming Fire

7. Pump up the Jam

8. Ride Like the Wind

9. Blister in the Sun

10. Everything's Zen

Just a fun, eclectic mix and it's all mine!! :-) Who knows, before long, I might even have a page on MySpace!

Meerkat Manor

Have you seen this show on Animal Planet? It's pretty addictive. I used to make fun of Rob for his watching it all of the time, until I started. It's fascinating. In honor of those adorable little meerkats, I present:

Everything I needed to know about life, I learned from watching Meerkat Manor:

(and these are in no particular order)

1. If your wife has recently given birth to a litter, it's very important that you quickly knock her up again. If this means mating with her while she is nursing her new pups, so be it. You don't get pregnant 15 times in 6 years by just sitting around.

2. Apparently, it's universal among the species that everyone has a crazy uncle with [social problems]. However, it's just not a good idea to have him babysit your children.

3. If food is scarce, it is OK to take food away from your children. If they try to get it back, give them a warning bite. If they still try to get it back, kick them out of your family.

4. If a rival male is roving around looking to mate, trust him on that. He's just looking to mate, not become your dominant male and start a family with you.

5. If your teenage daughter comes home pregnant after meeting the aforementioned roving male, your choice are to a)kick her out of the family b)move the whole family and leave her pups behind c)both. It is not an option to show grace/understanding. Afterall, she might try to take your position in the family.

6. Should someone try to challenge your authority, a good tactic is to pee all over the place. This practice apparently lets people know that you are in charge.

2006 ~ The year of the Fluke

That's what I've decided I am going to call last year...the year of the fluke. Since some really strange and fluke-y things happened. Like in January when Jaden had to have shunt surgery. That wasn't really a fluke, it is something that just happens when you have a kid with Spina Bifida. Sometimes their shunt fails. However, the shunt fell out of the proper placement in the first surgery and they had to do another surgery less than 18 hours later. Apparently, that very rarely happens, maybe less than 1% of the time. Weren't we lucky!! It was just a fluke!

Then in August, Rob was admitted to the hospital for five days. How he got to the hospital is a really great story in a typical male kind of way. Just to give you a clue, I got a call around 6pm, when I would normally be expecting him home, saying that he was in the Emergency Room and could I possible come down. Anyway, turned out to be diverticulitis. Now, some of you do not know my husband, but, he has a diet that makes a squirrel look like he is low on fiber. As it turned out, in all of those feet of colon, he had 2 inches that had diverticula, and those 2 inches were the ones that got infected! So very rare and strange in an otherwise healthy 30-something male. Just a fluke, said the Dr.

And, then in perhaps the biggest fluke of all, we found out on Halloween that we were expecting a baby. I have always wanted another baby. In Spetember, Rob finally said that he could be willing to welcome another child into our home. By the end of October, I was pregnant. Pretty normal for the average woman, but we're not average. We tried two plus years to get the triplets and now I am working on my 5th...craxy, wonderful fluke!~

There were other small things too that I won't bore you with. But, here's the thing. I don't really believe in flukes. I believe that everything happens for a reason. I believe in a Sovereign God who allows and ordains things to come into my life to teach me things and to bring Him glory. Maybe the lesson is as simple as remembering that our bodies will fail us and this world is not my home, or something that I seem to keep needing to be reminded about: that God is in control and His timing is always perfect.

There is something about a new year that I always find a bit scary, I guess. Because that's the thing about life...you never know what is around the next corner. Sometimes it's a wonderful surprise and sometimes it's not so great. Although, I do not know what 2007 will hold for us, I know WHO holds 2007 and I pray that He will bless us and keep us (and you) come what may!

Surprise!

Well, I know I haven't written in awhile, and the three of you who read the blog (Hi, dad!) are probably bored to tears wondering when I'll write again. You see the thing is I've been very, very tired. And, very, very sick. And, this is because:

I'm having another baby!!

I'm sure those of you who did not previously have this information just spit your coffee across the room. It's shocking, trust me, I know. I am 13 weeks, feeling a little better and anticipating a lovely delivery in the beginning of July. 7/07. And, maybe with a little luck, 7/7/07 :-)

This was Strange....

I had an interesting conversation this afternoon:

Ryan: "Mom?"
Me: "Yes, Ryan"
Ryan: "I was thinking...if I were a midget, which is a small person, and I had a really small soccer ball, I could play soccer in the attic all day."
Me: "Hmmmm"

Where does he come up with these things?

Little Actress

Trisha in the plaid dress as Mrs. Fezziwig. I think we like her lines and costume the best. Trisha in the red dress with white apron is as Lily Cratchett. The two other girls are friends who came to see her, which was so very nice!

I cried through her whole first performance. I know, I have issues!

In other news, specifically in the "prrof that I am old" category: Rob and I were offered Steelers tickets for tonight's game...for free. We have never been to a game at Heinz field and really wanted to go, but we decided it was too late and too cold for our old selves. Ten years ago, none of that would've mattered...such a shame!

Thanksgiving Eve

Well, once again I am busily packing for our annual Thanksgiving trek. I love Thanksgiving and this year is going to be great. Once again, I have so much to be thankful for.

I continue to be so thankful for the love that God lavishes on me each and every day.

I am thankful for Rob and his wonderfulness. Each year gets better and better.

I am thankful for my wonderful children. They really, really are amazing, fun, challenging, rewarding, exciting, exhausting little blessings.

I am thankful for having a wonderful extended family that keeps getting bigger and bigger.

I am thankful for great friends who continually inspire and encourage me.

In a year that has been filled with lots of twists and turns and unexpected little things, I really have a lot to be thankful for. I'm sure you do too. So, what are you thankful for?

A Christmas Carol

For those of you who have asked, here is Trisha's scehdule of performances:

Dec 1 10:00 and 7:30
Dec 2 2:00 and 7:30
Dec 3 2:00
Dec 8 10:00 and 7:30
Dec 9 2:00 and 7:30
Dec 10 2:00

Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for kids. Thanks for being interested in coming to see her. I know she is very, very excited!!

Like I said...

Boys will be boys!

Boys will be boys...

Having three boys is quite an adventure. The fact that I am not a boy makes this adventure all the more interesting. As I watch their little lives and habits on a daily basis, I often find myself perplexed and confused by their behaviors. For example....

1. Why is farting so darn funny? I was making lunches for school this morning, when all of a sudden I feel someone sneaking up behind me. I don't really pay much attention, until a half full balloon is let go by my bottom to let all of the air out making a loud farting noise. All three boys yell in chorus, "Mommy! Say excuse me" and explode into laughter. Oh, boy, when I said, "sorry" it was even funnier. Perhaps this could have been OK if it was only done once. By the time they got on the bus, this episode repeated itself many, many times. Each time the boys laughed and laughed.

2. Why must I constantly tell them to get their hands out of their pants? It's not that they are "playing", it's just more like somewhere they like to rest their hands, like a pocket or something. Or maybe they just feel better knowing that the thing is still there, I don't know. I don't understand.

3. What is it that makes boys tell dumb jokes? My dad does it. My husband does it. And, now, my older two sons do it.

4. What is it about boys that make them want to things that either a) extremely dangerous or b) extremely dirty? If it's not risking your life, or putting grass stains on your pants, it's not worth doing, I guess.

5. Don't even get me started on how they act around a girl they think is cute!

All this craziness aside, I wouldn't trade them for the world, my boys. It seems strange; the farting, the hands in the pants and the crazy jokes. But, they do make me laugh. And, while I don't enjoy scrubbing pants to get grass stains out, or taking my boys in for the occasional stitching, I love watching them play with abandon and high energy. In some ways, as I parent my boys and try to understand the mind of a male, it has helped me to understand Rob more too, which is a good thing. It reminds me of the old saying that if I can teach my children half as much as they have taught me then I have done a good job.

Why I can be happy today....

As expected, it wasn't a great night for Republicans. I really am most sad about Rick Santorum. I think he's a good guy. But, I am also certain that his career in politics is not over.

Last night was continually compared to what the Republicans did in 1994. I don't really think that is afair comparison, actually. If you will recall, in 1994, Newt Gingrich, a right-wing conservative, authored the Contract with America. In it were such things as term limits, tax reform including the elimination of capital gains and death taxes and the marriage penalty. It included pro-family, pro-life iniatives. The candidates that signed that were the candidates that won. By sticking to true conservatism, we were able to win.

Now to 2006. You just didn't see the same thing, I am sorry. You didn't see Nancy Pelosi talking about her very left agenda. You didn't see the democrats recruiting candidates that are left of center like their leadership. Heck, Howard Dean wasn't even allowed out during the campaign from what I could tell. In fact, most of the seats that were lost, were lost to very conservative democrats. For example, Casey in PA, Whitehouse in RI among others. Last night was not a victory for the left, except that they were brilliant in who the recruited to run in these key states. By sticking to conservatism, the democrats were able to win.

Oh yes, lest I forget, another eason to be happy today is that pro-marriage iniatives won in every state where they were on the ballot.

I remember after 2004, Hilary Clinton said something about the democrats getting the message that America wanted the dems to move more to the right. They did this year. Maybe, just maybe, it's a permanent thing. I seriously doubt it.

Elections

I am a Republican. Oh, sure, sometimes, I will try to be all PC and say I vote for the best candidate, blah, blah, blah. In my Republican heart-of-hearts, I know that the worst Republican is always better than the best Democrat.

Case in point: 1996; Clinton vs. Dole. Now, I like Bob Dole. I appreciate his service to our country, and I cheer him on in his struggle against erectile dysfunction. However, I don't think there's a person in the world who really thought he could win, or if he did win, really do a better job than Bill Clinton. (Of course, in retrospect...but, I digress) I still voted for Dole. Why? The worst Republican is always better than the best Democrat.

I think the last time I considered voting for a Democrat was in 1990 Blanchard vs. Engler for Governor of Michigan. I was going to vote for Blanchard; however, I didn't make it to the polls. Apparently, neither did lots of other Blanchardites since Engler won. Which is another point, see it used to be that Democrats wouldn't vote. But, they will tomorrow. They are charged up, much like we were in 1994. Oh yes, rain or shine, Democrats will vote tomorrow.

Fellow Republican, I know you're upset about Iraq. I am too. Who isn't? If only Bush had fired Rumsfeld last week or something, maybe we could've gotten a bounce. I know that you don't want to vote for same old, same old; but you also don't want to vote for Ed Rendell. I get that, but I urge you not to stay home. GO vote. The worst Republican is always better than the best Democrat.

We will probably lose and lose big tomorrow. After years of winning, the cycle is going to turn. It will turn in our favor once again. It is the cyclical nature of politics, finance, life afterall. Let's just hope not too much damage is done in the meantime.

Oh, and to the three democrats that read my blog...if you ran for office, I would make an excpetion to my rule! Would you really expect any other kind of post from me? ;-)

I'm so depressed...

I just found out that the Steelers have the same record as the Cleveland Browns...

how pathetic is that???

The annual HAlloween pic

The two extra kids are Emily and Liam, our neighbors. We only looked that good for about 2 seconds after we walked outside as it was pouring down rain. But, the kids got some good candy and seemed to have a lovely time!

Random Musings on a Friday Evening

Jonathan scored his first U-10 goal last weekend. It was a perfect goal too. I was so excited for him, since it was frustrating him that he hadn't scored a goal since he moved up. Let me tell you how excited I was for him: when I jumped up and cheered, I peed my pants. Lovely. I remember days of long ago when I had Kegels. No more. As a side note, the more I cheer for these sporting events, the more I realize I am my mother.

Why is it that Ryan loves to do the most dangerous activity available to him? It's as if he looks around and says I could sit here and color or I could play with knives...I think I will play with knives. He never chooses the safe, calm, quiet thing. Why is that? Like the other day, I come out of my house to discover RYan standing on the top of my van with a light-saberin his pajamas. What process does the mind go through to think up an idea like that?

Did I mention that Trisha is a wee-bit "emotional" lately? I think I have...

Jaden is fine. Pretty normal, actually.

Rob, who's Rob??? I haven't seen him lately. Although we are going to an adult Halloween party together tomorrow night. He is going to be a Steelers fan and I am going to be a terrible towel. I'm so freakin creative...I tell you. Plus, as an added benefit, if something should happen to win the door prize and jump up in excitement, it can dry me off when I pee my pants :)

Cheers!

2008 Elections

I have gotten access to a top secret document outlining the agenda of the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Now, although it is a very top secret document, I have chosen to share it with some of my closest friends:


7:00 P.M. Opening flag burning.
7:15 P.M. Pledge of allegiance to U.N.
7:30 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
7:30 till 8:00 P.M. Nonreligious prayer and worship. Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton.
8:00 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
8:05 P.M. Ceremonial tree hugging.
8:15- 8:30 P.M. Gay Wedding-- Barney Frank Presiding with NAMBLA QUEEN
8:30 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
8:35 P.M. Free Saddam Rally. Cindy Sheehan-- Susan Sarandon.
9:00 P.M. Keynote speech. The proper etiquette for surrender-- French President Jacques Chirac
9:15 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
9:20 P.M. Collection to benefit Osama Bin Laden kidney transplant fund
9:30 P.M. Unveiling of plan to free freedom fighters from Guantanamo Bay . Sean Penn
9:40 P.M. Why I hate the Military, A short talk by William Jefferson Clinton
9:45 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
9:50 P.M. Dan Rather presented Truth in Broadcasting award, presented by Michael Moore 9:55 P.M., Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
10:00 P.M. How George Bush and Donald Rumsfeld brought down the World Trade Center Towers-- Howard Dean
10:30 P.M. Nomination of Hillary Rodham Clinton by Mahmud Ahnadinejad
11:00 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
11:05 P.M. Al Gore reinvents Internet
11:15 P.M. Our Troops are War criminals-- John Kerry
11:30 P.M. Coronation Of Mrs. H illary Rodham Clinton
12:00 A.M. Ted Kennedy is toasted AGAIN
12:05 A.M. Bill asks Ted to drive Hillary home

Ha!

For those of you who aren't aware, I've been in a training program to become a medical transcriptionist. I think it will be OK work with some nice money that I can make from home. Anyway, here's a quote from one of yesterday's lessons...it made me laugh:

"Medical vocabulary can enliven a conversation, brighten up a cocktail party, provide around-the-dinner-table entertainment, and otherwise add a little pizazz to your day."

Great! I've been looking to add a little pizazz to my day! :)

The Mind of a Nine-Year-Old Girl

Who can understand it??

No, really. I mean it. Who understands it and thus can help me with my daughter? Let's just take this morning as a "for instance". The bus comes to pick her up for school promptly at 8:22 am. Last week, I would let her sleep until about 7:45 if she didn't wake herself up. However, she began complaining vehemently that that didn't give her enough time to "feel like herself", so this morning I woke her at 7:30. She complained vehemently that I did not give her enough time to sleep. I guess tomorrow I will try for 7:37 and 30 seconds.

Next, since it's a bit chilly this morning, I suggested that she put on a jacket. "I don't have a jacket," she says. Hmmmmm, at last count I remember seeing about 6. "None of them are good," she says. Well, I'm not sure what she counts as "good", but I think I'd be happy with 2 Columbia jackets, 1 Old Navy jean jacket, 1 Gap poncho and 1 Gap hoodie.

I expected such excapades from a 13 or 14 year old pre-teen. This is 9, people!

Here's the thing though: if I take a step back and look at the things she's complaining about, I see that she is not too different than me. I mean sometimes I'll look at a closet full of clothes and say that none of them are good. So, I suppose I can relate. Doesn't mean it's not annoying as all get out!

Ode to the Sack Ladies

My 0-5 Fantasy Football Team...


It was so much fun that warm August night
I was so proud of my draft, I left in delight.
"I will beat everyone", I thought with a grin.
This is my year. I'm gonna win!

Shaun Alexander was my very first pick
He's really good. He'll do the trick.
Where is he you may ask if you don't already know
He's sitting at home with a big broken toe.

Next came Williams, Cadillac that is.
Last year, as a rookie that kid was a whiz.
This year, however; it's just not the same.
In fact, his whole team is really quite lame.

Domanick Davis was pick number three.
Three solid running backs. I was filled with glee.
But that pick didn't get me very far.
I think Mr. Davis now sells used cars.

Then there was Chad Johnson, Delhomme, and Big Ben
They haven't done much...where have they been?
Oh well, people say it's all only for fun.
I'm just hoping this weekend I finally win one!

M.S.U.

I love fall. Just so many wonderful memories around this time fo the year. Plus, it is so pretty. When I was in Lansing a few weeks ago, I couldn't help but think of my days in college. College is a great thing. I can remember many in-depth, philosophical conversations I had over the course of my 4+ years there. Some of which changed the direction of my life. One such conversation involved this guy:





Sparty is the huge sort of mascot statue that sits in the middle of everything. You had to pass by him at least once a day to get anywhere. One afternoon, a coupple of friends and I had a lengthy and heated discussion over what time of the day would be the best to, um, defecate on Sparty. I think the criteria was finding a time when no one would see you do it, but also a time when lots of people would come by shortly thereafter. I think we talked about this for like an hour. Like I said, philosphical. Life-changing. And, only in college!

Well,

Since that last post prompted such heated debate...let me explain what he meant by the quote.

I heard a guy saying that parents today put way too much of a value on a good education. Not that higher education isn't a good thing, but that true greatness can't be achieved through education. Nor is education a leading indicator of how much someone will make when they grow up. nN fact, he sited research that showed that kids who were A students most likely grow up to be educators. C students having given up on trying to keep up are most likely to become entrepeneurs. Thus, A students teach B students to work for C students.

I think I may have needed to hear that. Not that I necessarily agree with him. I'll give you a "for instance". We had Open House at school on Monday. It was a wonderful evening. And, although they say they are not supposed to talk about individual performance. I did hear really good things from all of the good teachers. And, I mean really good...like top of the class good. And, this boggles my mind. Because, in reality, I have done everything wrong. Some of it wasn't entirely my fault. I mean the triplets were born premature. They spent weeks in the hospital. They weren't held all the time to help those brain synapses get going, I didn't breastfeed, I barely read to them. I let them watch Teletubbies and other programs and I let them eat sugar and play video games. So, I ask you? How in the world are they doing so well?? I stand in awe..I tell you. And, I believe it is a miracle! You tell me without saying it's a miracle how Jaden, who had a 7 minute cardiac arrest at 4 weeks old is reading at a 6th grade ++ level. It's impossible.

But, here's the thing. I can't put all of my hope on that. In fact, if all my kids do is do really well at school, then I have failed as a parent. If I haven't taught them that all of that is rubbish compared to the surpassing greatness of Christ (Phillipians 3), then I have failed.

It would be nice if the fact that in 3rd and 1st grade they are doing well in school meant that they would do well in life. It would be nice if there were some "leading indiciators" that would tell me if they would lead wonderful, fulfilling, adult lives where they serve God and others and have wonderful people in their lives who support and love them through ups and downs. I just don't know if there are. Which is why I keep praying...

Interesting.

Here's a quote I heard toady...think about it and then let me know your reaction. No, really, I"m serious about that...let me know your reaction. You know, using the comments feature ;-)

This is in reference to the value of higher education as it relates to being successful (monetarily) in life:

A students teach B students how to work for C students.

Hmmmmm....

An Open Letter to MIchigan Drivers

God help you!

I know that your economy depends on cars being bought/sold. Therefore, you must reason, that if you drive crazy and wreck a car and buy a new one, everyone wins. That's the only thing I can figure. Several questions...

1) If I am going 75 in the right lane, why do you ride my tail and get irate?
2) Conversely, how come I can be practically riding your bumper going 70 and then have to get up to 85 to pass you? Most cars built after 1974 have cruise control...it is a lovely thing.
3) IN most states, the left lane is used as a passing lane. If you have 300 cars in line behind you, a good thing to do is pull over and let the faster traffic through.

And, to the lady in Ann Arbor with the "Peace" etc. bumper stickers including one that said, "Hitting kids is never OK": Do you see the irony in yourself when you weave in and out of traffic with your child in the car going at least 80 MPH? Just curious.

Thank you...I feel much better now.

Family Size

So, I've been thinking lately about family size. The thing is I have gotten very used to people bugging their eyes out when they find out I have four kids, as if that is a big family. Even more astonishing to people is when I mention that if I could (if Rob/God allowed), I would have AT LEAST one more. Why is that so weird? There are stranger, less productive things I could invest my time in. And, for people who study the Bible, aren't we taught that "Sons are an inheritance from the Lord; children a reward from Him. " Psalm 127:3 and "Blessed is the man whose quiver is full[of children]" Psalm 127:5? I don't know...it's just something I've been thinking about! Anyway, I'll share with you this thing I got from a friend to highlight my point:

The government recently calculated the cost of raising a child from birth to 18 and came up with $240,000 for a middle income family. Talk about price shock! That doesn't even touch college tuition. But $240,000 isn't so bad if you break it down. It translates into * $13,333 a year, * $1100.38 a month, or * $250.00 a week. * That's a mere $36.00 a day! * Just over a dollar an hour. Still, you might think the best financial advice is don't have children if you want to be "rich." Actually, it is just the opposite.

What do you get for your $240,000?
* Naming rights. First, middle, and last
* Glimpses of God every day
* Giggles under the covers every night.
* More love than your heart can hold.
* Butterfly kisses and Velcro hugs.
* Endless wonder over rocks, ants, clouds, and warm cookies.
* A hand to hold, usually covered with jelly or chocolate.
* A partner for blowing bubbles and flying kites.
* Someone to laugh yourself silly with, no matter what the boss said or how your stocks performed that day

For $240,000 you never have to grow up. You get to:
* finger -paint.
* carve pumpkins.
* play hide-and-seek.
* catch lightning bugs.
* never stop believing in Santa Claus.

You have an excuse to:
* keep reading the Adventures of Piglet and Pooh.
* watch Saturday morning cartoons.
* go to Disney movies.
* wish on stars

You get to frame rainbows, hearts, and flowers under refrigerator magnets and collect spray painted noodle wreaths for Christmas, hand prints set in clay for Mother's Day, and cards with backward letters for Father's Day

For a mere $36.00 a day, there is no greater bang for your buck. You get to be a hero just for:
* retrieving a Frisbee off the garage roof.
* taking the training wheels off a bike.
* removing a splinter.
* filling a wading pool.
* coaxing a wad of gum out of bangs.
* and coaching a baseball team that never wins but always gets treated to ice cream regardless

You get a front row seat in history to witness the:
* first step
* first word
* first bra
* first date
* first time behind the wheel

You get to be immortal. You get another branch added to your family tree and if you're lucky, a long list of limbs in your obituary called grandchildren and great grandchildren. You get an education in psychology, nursing, criminal justice, communications, and human sexuality that no college can match. In the eyes of a child, you rank right up there under God. You have all the power to heal a boo-boo, scare away the monsters under the bed, patch a broken heart, police a slumber party, ground them forever, and love them without limits, so one day they will, like you, love without counting the cost. That is quite a deal for the price!!

Love & enjoy your children & grandchildren. It's the best investment you'll make.

My 100th post

Yes, on this, Talk-Like-A-Pirate Day, I made my 100th post. In honor of this occasion, I present you with this quick quiz to see what your pirate personality might be. Enjoy!

http://www.talklikeapirate.com/ppi.html

The Zany Adventures of Kosmo Kramer

I shouldv'e known when we named our cat after this guy 11 years ago, he'd be nothing but trouble. You see, we've been trying to get rid of our cat for many weeks now. Why? Because he no longer uses his litter box. We've tried adopting him out to people...no luck. Here's a snapshot of some of the things we have tried recently to get rid of him.

Trip to Humane Society:
Me: "Hi. Um, can you please take my cat?"
Nasty-PETA-Lesbian-Lady: "Why, what's wrong with him?"
Me: "Well, he pees and poops all over the place."
NPLL: "Have you tried changing the litter?"
Me (Only in my head) Response #1: "Well, I did change it that one time when we moved to our house 6 years ago." Response #2: "What is this 'litter' you speak of?"
Me: "Um, yeah...I've changed the litter."
NPLL: "Well, we are are full and can't take any more cats. We have over 200 cats" yada, yada, yada
Me: "Can I trade?"
NPLL: "No."

Ok. Let's try the vet.

Me: "Hi. WE totally hate, er, I mean love our cat. BUt, he's peeing and pooping all over the place. Is there anything we can do for him?"
Dr.: "Well, maybe he has an infection, we could give him some antibiotics."
Me: "Yeah. Can't we just, say, put him to sleep?"
Dr. :" Well, I can't ethically do that." Yada, yada, yada.
Bottom Line: My cat comes home with some antibiotics and antidepressants. If those don't work in 4-6 weeks, we can talk about putting him down. And, yes, I did say my cat is on antidepressants.

Here are things still left to try:

1) Go to an out of town vet, walk in and say, "Hi, I'm Sally Jones and this is Tiger for a 11:00 appointment." The receptionist will say she doesn't have us listed for an appointment. I'll say, "I'll go out to the car and get the card." Leaving Kosmo in the waiting room, I'll "go out to get the card" and take off!

2) Drop Kosmo off at a very exclusive resort AKA "Butkas Cat Care Business". At BCCB, cats are encourged to return to the feral roots. They are dropped of in a remote section of a large farm and then allowed to fend for themselves.

3) Keep Kosmo outside all of the time until one of the neighbors complain that I am mistreating my cat. I think then the humane society will come and get it. Sure, it might mean a night or two in jail for Rob and/or I, but really, it's a small price to pay.

4) Have the children start peeing and pooping all over the place as an object lesson to show Kosmo just how ridiculous he is being.

5) {INSERT YOUR SUGGESTION HERE}

9/11/01

I find myself watching alot of the coverage of the 9/11 anniversary events today. I'm not really sure why...it really hadn't fazed me the past few years. Who can help but think about where they were 5 years ago today. This morning, as I watched the Today show, Jonathan came down and sat on my lap and asked me, "What is 9/11?". I asked him some questions to see if he had any memory of the event and was kind of surprised to find out that he didn't. Strange, isn't it?An event he can't even remember will have such a profound impact on his life.

Most of the children in today's elementary schools can't remember 9/11, but their parents sure can. People who have taught for a long, long time say that this generation of parents are some of the most over-protective and un-trusting they have seen. NO wonder.Think of what we have seen since then...the images we've had to process. We've seen terrorists bomb busses, trains, and subways. We've seen them invade schools and take hostages. We've been told that we need to come up with a family terror plan and buy plastic covers and duck tape for our windows. We've seen arrests and close calls. We've seen danger.

We no longer have to just worry about strangers approaching our children on the street, we have to worry about them posing as 13 year-olds and approaching them in chat rooms. We no longer have to just worry about our children getting sick from the flu or pneumonia, there's now Avian Flu, SARS, anthrax. WE don't just have to worry about our kids getting in fights with kids at school, but we have to worry about MySpace character asassinations. And, whether it's conscience like it is today, or buried somewhere in our subconscience, we worry that one day, maybe soon, our kids could be victims of a terror attack. So, maybe, just maybe, there is good reason for our overproectiveness and untrusting natures.

During an interview with President Bush today, Matt Lauer asked, "If we saw all of the intelligence that you see on a daily basis, would it be harder for us to sleep at night?" The president said probably so. So, Matt Lauer asked, "So, then, how do you sleep at night?" And, the President answered, "Because I have faith in Almighty God" Amen. You see, I owe it to my children to remember that though I do not know what the future holds, I know WHO holds the future. I know WHO holds their future. And, I pray that He will guard them and protect them, especially when I can't.

Some Interesting Comversations

I had this weekend... I'll keep the names confidential to protect the innocent.

This one struck me as strange:

Me to Son #1 who came downstairs after sleeping in his underwear: "Son, what's all over the front of your underwear?"
S1: "Chocolate"
Me: "Ummm, how did you get chocolate all over the front of your underwear"
S1: "I was eating chocolate in bed."
Me: "Okaaaaaay."

This one made me laugh:

Son #2(these are not in birth order, don't try to guess) was trying to do the Hand Jive from Grease. After messing up a few times, S2 exclaims: "Great! Now I'll never get in Grease the Musical!"


Here's another:

During the playing of Family Basketball last night (or, as I call it, the time where I sit inside terribly embarrased at my children's lack of ability to get along with one another) Son #1 was really being uncooperative. I asked him to come inside and I told him he was being uncooperative. He got very upset, indeed. After he calmed down, I asked him why he got so upset. He said that he didn't like my calling him a name. I said, "Uncooperative?" He said, "Yes. I don't even know who Uncle Ofrative is!"

I can't tell you any about Trisha since that would be a dead give-away! :)

What I Did This Summer

In typical back-to-school-essay style: (Although I've forgotten how to write an essay)

Besides the everyday summer type things like swimming, picnics, playdates, movies, vacations, etc. I did something very interesting this summer. I went on a 30 day fast. Yes, it's true. From June 12th-July 11th, I ate nothing! I only drank juices and water and maybe occassionally some tea.

I decided to fast because I felt like I needed some cleansing physically and spiritually. John Piper in his book, "A Hunger for God" says: "If you have no desire for God, it is not because you have drunk deeply and are satisfied. It is because you have nibbled too long at the table of the world. Your soul is stuffed with small things and there is no room for the great. God did not create you for this. "

The first week was difficult but after that it really was quite, well, refreshing, I guess. It was really an incredible experience, and probably something I will try to do once a year.

So, what are you doing with all of your free time?

That seems to be the question of the week. So, to everyone who has asked, here are the top 10 things I plan on doing with my free time:

10. Attempt to get my name on the highscore board daily on GSN.com's Phrase Frenzy
9. Call my sister everyday when the kids get on the bus (7:30 her time) to wake her up, just for the fun of it.
8. Work hard at breaking the world record for number of Bon-Bons eaten in one day.
7. Exercise incessantly until I have the perfect body...NA! Scratch that, that doesn't sound like fun afterall!
6. Have lunch everyday with a different friend.
5. GO shopping to buy new outfits so that I look fabulous when I go out to lunch with my friends.
4. Take up a new addiction.
3. Stalk my children up at school. BTW, binoculars are on my wish list for my birthday, people.
2. Become a "Master Lurker" in the blog world by reading and never commenting.

And, the number one thing I plan on doing with my free time....
1. Get regular haircuts, eyebrow waxings, manicures and pedicures.

So, there!

A Letter to My Kids on Their First Day of School

Dear Kids,

Well, it's here. The first day of school. Summer sure flew by. There were so many things that I wanted to do with you this summer. But, as usual, time flew by and most of them went un-done. However, I do think we had a great time together even with the few wrenches thrown into our plans.

Trisha, when I hugged you goodbye this morning, I didn't want to let go. You have such a sweet, caring spirit and I know the world can be cruel. I think your teacher is going to do a great job of nurturing your creative side, but I know you are worried about some of the girls in your class. I wish I could tell you that girl politics will get better, but I am afraid it doesn't. Just know what an awesome person you are, and know that I am going to pay very, very close attention to that this year. I love you.

Jonathan, when I hugged you goodbye this morning, I didn't want to let go. I am amzed at what a responsible young man you are becoming and I am amazed at what a gentleman you are. I have some concerns about your teacher...in some ways, she reminds me of the one you had in first grade. I'm praying that she'll bond with you immediately and appreciate your humor and your willingness to learn in the same way your dad and I do. I love you.

Jaden, when I hugged you goodbye this morning, I didn't want to let you go. I know how hard this is for you. I know how anxious you are. I could see the fear on your face as you got on the bus. But, you were brave and you did it and I am very, very proud of you. I am excited for you because your teacher seems great and the aide that you love is back for another year. You're an extremely hard worker and wherever you go you motivvate people. I love you.

Ryan, when I hugged you goodbye this morning, I didn't want to let you go. Oh my gosh, how fast time has flown! And, despite my wishing and calling you my "baby", it became very clear this morning that you certainly are a big boy and very ready for first grade. You're definitely a free spirit and part of me worries about your obedience level in school. I know that you'll do great, your teacher is awesome and you love to learn and you love to please. I love you.

It's weird, given the way the last week went with all of the fighting, I was really looking forward to this day. After your busses left, I went back inside the house and I couldn't believe how quiet it was...nearly too quiet. In fact, here it is 11:30 and I miss you terribly. In fact, I'm going to go up to school soon so I can stalk you while you're at recess.

May God bless you and keep you, may He make your paths straight, may He cause your teachers to fall in love with you and may He raise up friends who will be a positive influence in your lives.

All my love, Mom

My Goodness!

I haven't posted in so long. It's not that I haven't thought about you, it's just that we have been so busy enjoying the last few days of summer vacation. Here's waht we've been up to:


Ryan at First Grade Orientation. I really haven't seen him that quiet and still in a very, very long time. His teacher is very nice and nurturing. She greeted him by getting down to his eye level and telling him how glad she was to have him in her class. ROb asked if I cried. Um, yeah, nearly. Very different from my first first grade orientation experience.

Trisha is getting ready to do the rock-climbing wall at the the Triplets' ninth (yes, that's right, ninth, birthday party!)

That's Rob up on the tippy top of the rick climbing wall. As you can guess, his colon is feeling better and he is nearly 100%. Hooray!

Here's the crazy boys at the birthday party. We had both boys and girls together. I was surprised that there was some boy/girl chasing. But, overall, I think it was just good, clean fun! Although I do use the term "clean" very, very loosely! :)


This is Jaden up to bat at the Pony League World Series Opening Game. It was the perfect day for baseball. Jaden has been playing in a league sponsored by the Washington Wild Things for special need children. They are called the Lil Wild Things and do lots of neat things. This game to open the Pony League World Series is just one of them.

Here we are at a Washington Wild Things game. Jaden got to go out to the Pitchers MOund and be on the field for the singing of the National Anthem...another perfect day!

That's just a few highlight. I promise to get bback to the witty and touching stories(if I do say so myself) after the 28th. Until then, here's to enjoying what's left of summer!!

One big basket of eggs

Rob was in the hospital for 5 days last week/this week. That wasn't a lot of fun, I have to be honest. He's better now and I think he's going to be fine. But, I don't like going to sleep alone. Because then all I have to keep me company is my thoughts.

Here's the thing: After the triplets were born, I made a decision to stay at home with them, to become a housewife, if you will. I have pretty much always worked some sort of parttime position, but as far as being career-minded goes, that pretty much went out the window in 1997. This isn't something I think of often, but by choosing to be a housewife, I have pretty much put all of my eggs in the "rob" basket. I am pretty much totally dependent on him for my financial well-being. Normally, this thought doesn't really come to mind, or if it does, it doesn't bother me, but with him laying in a hospital bed and doctors not being sure what was wrong, this really began to bother me. IN fact, it has me totally rethinking my decision not to work. Everyone knows it's not a good idea to have all of your eggs in one basket.

Rob tells me he has plenty of life insurance and he was kind enough to say I still have some things going for me so I could find another man. Great. Just what I want. After I worked so hard to break in this one! Of course, it looks like ROb is going to be around for a good long time, but I'm still going to be looking for that job!

The Pediatician

Ryan saw the Pediatrician this week for his well visit. He is doing very well. But, I did receive some very, very upsetting news at the visit: Dr. Porter is leaving the practice and moving to NY.

Dr. Porter joined the practice right around the time Ryan was born and he's been my favorite ever since. He's been there for well visits and visits with sick kids. He's handled my slightly-neurotic-albeit-inside-the-bounds-of-normal questions without making me feel like an idiot. We've talked about the danger/benefits of vaccinations and he's given me tips on how to get my children to do or stop doing just about anything I've wanted them to do or stop doing. He's called my home after Jaden's surgeries to make sure we were OK. He knows off the top of his head that Ryan had some blood work done at 2 years old, and still sucks his thumb, and that Jonathan has an "innocent" heart murmer. (Not the kind that will kill him on a rollercoaster, I asked). He's reassured me that yes, around 9 years old, girls do start to change a bit.

In a nutshell, I've entrusted Dr. Porter with the health and wellbeing of my children, which is, in essence, trusting him with my heart. That's why I'm not embarassed that when he gave me a hug and wished my family well, I felt a tear roll down my cheek.

Now on to terrorizing the newbie...

Big Brother

You have to help me! I am in the throws of a very powerful addiction! I am hooked on Big Brother 7 - All Stars. It's true. I love it. I can't get enough. I watch every episode and although I haven't stooped so far as to buy the Live Feed package, I do read the daily postings of those who have. You know, there is a girl who stays up all night to watch the houseguests and report on their happenings. As much as I'd like to think that is totally weird, most of the good strategizing happens in the middle of the night, so I'm really glad she does it! My sister says I need to get a life, and perhaps that's true. After James wins the big money and spltis it with his biggest fan (me), I'll be sure to get started on it. Big Brother isn't watching me, I'm watching it!

Speaking of 1984, I've been school shopping with Trisha lately and I've noticed that tight, pegged ankle length jeans with boots are back as are wearing black leggings under a short denim skirt. Big bangs can't be far behind, right? And I was jst getting used to the "long and lean" look of the flared leg jean. Those 80s pants just made me look short and stumpy....bummer.

In the words of Jaden: peace, out!

Michigan

Michigan's OK. I mean it's not Penna and it's not "round in the ends and high in the middle", but it's pretty OK. Yesterday the kids and I got back from a fun time visiting with my parents. On the first day, we went to a lake and swam. Do you know how much it cost...$4.00 for the whole family!! For $20.00, you could get a pass to come to the lake for the whole year and swim. That's a $165.00 savings over the 5 pool passes I bought. Now, of course, that would not be a full savings, because if you are going to swim in a lake all summer, you'd have to account for the copays of hospital visits and pharmaceuticals required to rid your family of various bacterium such as E.Coli or MRSA. But, still, a better deal.

On another day, we went to the Rainforest Cafe. I think only Auburn Hills and Disneyworld/land have Rainforest Cafes, so you know it's gotta be an alright place. Good times and where else can you ahve good food and have your kids freak out from loud thunderstorms every 30 minutes...just kidding...I love it there. Makes me want to move there, I tell ya.

Also, when I was there I read a very disturbing book that I can't get out of my head. It is called, "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Picoulet. I read it in like 4 hours. About a family dealing with a daughter with Leukemia. There's alot to it and I highly recommend it, but I could really see myself in the mom of the book. I hate to compare cancer to Spina Bifida, but I think one thing I could see is that when you have a kid with some chronic health problems, there are bound to be times when your other kids are "thrown under the bus" so to speak, while you deal with the tragedy at hand.

A good trip was had by all...

Yikes!

TRISHA HAS CHICKEN POX.

I know, it's like saying she has an 8 track player or an Atari system. She had even been vaccinated. Lord help me!!

Happy Birthday, Little King

6 YEARS OLD!!! It is so hard to believe. But, as they say, time flies when you're having fun and I so enjoy having Ryan for a son. BTW, the name Ryan means "Little King"

Thanks Craiglist!

I don't know how to do links, but this was so funny, I had to make sure you saw it. Makes me very thankful I no longer work in an office...Enjoy! :)

We've all been there but don't like to admit it. As much as we try to convince ourselves otherwise, the WORK POOP is inevitable. For those who hate pooping at work, following is the Survival Guide for taking a dump at work.

CROP DUSTING: When farting, you walk briskly around the office so the smell is not in your area and everyone else gets a whiff but doesn't know where it came from. Be careful when you do this. Do not stop until the full fart has been expelled. Walk an extra 30 feet to make sure the smell has left your pants.

FLY BY: This is the act of scouting out a bathroom before pooping. Walk in and check for other poopers. If there are others in the bathroom, leave and come back again. Be careful not to become a FREQUENT FLYER. People may become suspicious if they catch you constantly going into the bathroom.

ESCAPEE: This is a fart that slips out while taking a leak at the urinal or forcing a poop in a stall. This is usually accompanied by a sudden wave of embarrassment. If you release an escapee, do not acknowledge it. Pretend it did not happen. If you are standing next to the farter in the urinal, pretend you did not hear it. No one likes an escapee. It is uncomfortable for all involved. Making a joke or laughing makes both parties feel uneasy.

JAILBREAK: When forcing a poop, several farts slip out at a machine gun pace. This is usually a side effect of diarrhea or a hangover. If this should happen, do not panic. Remain in the stall until everyone has left the bathroom to spare everyone the awkwardness of what just occurred.

COURTESY FLUSH: The act of flushing the toilet the instant the poop hits the water. This reduces the amount of air time the poop has to stink up the bathroom. This can help you avoid being caught doing the WALK OF SHAME.

WALK OF SHAME: Walking from the stall, to the sink, to the door after you have just stunk the bathroom. This can be a very uncomfortable moment if someone walks in and busts you. As with farts, it is best to pretend that the smell does not exist. This very uncomfortable walk can be avoided with the use of the COURTESY FLUSH.

OUT OF THE CLOSET POOPER: This is a colleague who poops at work and is damn proud of it. You will often see an Out Of The Closet Pooper enter the bathroom with a newspaper or magazine under his or her arm. Always look around the office for the Out Of The Closet Pooper before entering the bathroom.

THE POOPING FRIENDS NETWORK (P.F.N): A group of co-workers who band together to ensure emergency pooping goes off without incident. This group can help you to monitor the hereabouts of Out Of The Closet Poopers, and identify SAFE HAVENS.

SAFE HAVENS: A Safe Haven is a seldom-used bathroom somewhere in the building where you can least expect visitors. Try floors that are predominantly of the opposite sex. This will reduce the odds of a pooper of your sex entering the bathroom.

TURD BURGLAR: This is someone who does not realize that you are in the stall and tries to force the door open. This is one of the most shocking and vulnerable moments that can occur when taking a poop at work If this occurs, remain in the stall until the Turd Burglar leaves. This way you will avoid all uncomfortable eye contact.

CAMO-COUGH: A phony cough that alerts all new entrants into the bathroom that you are in a stall is called a Camo-Cough. This can be used to cover-up a WATERMELON, or to alert potential Turd Burglars. The Camo-Cough is very effective when used in conjunction with an ASTAIRE.

ASTAIRE: A subtle toe-tap that is used to alert potential Turd Burglars that you are occupying a stall. This will remove all doubt that the stall is occupied. If you hear an Astaire, leave the bathroom immediately so the pooper can poop in peace.

WATERMELON: A watermelon is a big poop that creates a loud splash when hitting the toilet water. This is also an embarrassing incident. If you feel a Watermelon coming on, create a diversion. See CAMO-COUGH.

HAVANA OMELET: A case of diarrhea that creates a series of loud splashes in the toilet water. Often accompanied by an Escapee. Try using a Camo-Cough with an Astaire.

UNCLE TODD: An Uncle Todd is a bathroom user who seems to linger around forever. This person could spend extended lengths of time in front of the mirror or sitting on the pot. An Uncle Todd makes it difficult to relax while on the crapper, as you should always wait to poop when the bathroom is empty. This benefits you as well as other bathroom attendees.

Four Things about me
Things you may not have known about me.....
A) Four jobs I have had in my life:
1. McDonald's Drive Thru lady
2. Dental Receptionist
3. Something-or-other at a Financial Services Firm
4. Leasing Agent for an Apartment Complex

B) Four Movies I would watch over and over.
1. Grease
2. Father of the Bride
3. Jerry Maguire
4. Terms of Endearment

C) Four Places I have lived
1. Milford, MI
2. East Lansing, MI
3. Bethel Park, PA
4. Canonsburg PA

D) Four TV shows I love to watch
1. Guiding Light
2. Survivor
3. Grey's Anatomy
4. Amazing Race

E) Four places I've been on vacation
1. Nassau, Bahamas
2. St. Petersburg, FL
3. Disneyworld
4. Amaraillo, TX

F) Web sites I visit
1. EverythingFing.blogspot.com
2. noelheikkinen.com
3. ebay.com
4. mothering.com

G) Four of my favorite foods
1. ice cream
2. pizza
3. anything mexican
4. Gorgeous Gorgonzola salad from Bella Piatto

H) Four Places I'd rather be right now
1. The Beach
2. Heaven
3. Shopping
4. Asleep in bed

OK, LURKERS, here's your chance, jump in and tell me more about you by answering the same questions. Doesn't it sound like fun :-)

Grease is the word.

Well, Wednesday night it was a big night on the town for Rob and I as we went to see the Pittsburgh CLO production of Grease. Those of you who have known me for any length of time know of my affinity for the movie, so I was so thrilled when Rob got me tickets as a Mother's Day gift. The musical is a little different from the movie. Some things I really like better in the musical and some things better in the movie.

I think the first time I saw Grease I was eight years old. Sang along to every tune. And, for my birthday, my Grandma and Grandpa Anderson got my the soundtrack LP! Best present ever :)

I found out something interesting about Grease earlier this summer from my sister-in-law. Apparently, Grease is only a white-girl thing. She asked me what it is about white girls of a certain age that makes them just love the movie. I was sure thinking about that when I saw it Wed. night. I think for me, the appeal had to be those tight black pants. I mean who didn't want to walk around in those like Olivia Newton John telling some guy he better shape up!

Anyway, all around good fun! And, to Rob, who bought me the tickets and actually clapped as enthusiastically as I did even though he was probably hating every minute of it: "You're the one that I want, you are the one I want...ooh, ooh, ooh, honey. The one I need, oh yes, indeed" :)

Experiment $0.00

This week I gave myself a challenge. My mission was to not spend any money from Monday-Friday. I thought it would be simple enough. We had already bought pool passes. I went to the grocery store and stocked up on snacks and food, and I filled my gas tank. It really shouldn't have been a problem. Except, that the weather wasn't really pool weather. And, Trisha had Brownie camp all week 1/2 hour away each way. And, we ran out of milk. So, in the end I had to spend $17 at Giant Eagle for milk, juice, and cat food, and with any luck I'll be able to make it to the gas station on the fumes I have left in the van. $17 isn't bad, though. It was fun to do for a few days...but, I don't think I'll try it again anytime soon :)

Gymnastics

Trisha had her gymnastics show last night. She did a beautiful job!! SHe knew where she needed to be and she did all of her stations well; beam, floor, vault, bars, everything! She even did great on teh bars which she told me was something she was nervous about because she wasn't very good at the trick they had to do. She did it perfectly. Way to go, Trisha!!

BTW, Trisha is also owner of a very successful pet sitting business. She has worked with dogs, cats, ferrets, fish, hamsters, etc. She can watch pets at your house or ours. SHe has several return cutomers including Missy the cat, Jenna the dog, and Hunny and Hunter the dogs.

Thanks for the guilt :)

So now the government is coming out with ads telling mothers that not breastfeeding your baby is as dangerous as smoking or going riding on a bull while pregnant. Really?!?! C'mon. I think all normal minded people can agree that ideally, breastfeeding would be the way to go. And, I think most mothers go into their birthing experience with the intention to breastfeed. Sometimes, though, that just doesn't work out like we had hoped. For a whole host of reasons, sometimes moms can't exclusively breastfeed for 6 months. And, the government coming out with these ads and claims doesn't help the problem at all. Heaping guilt on people who are trying to do the best that they can does not solve any problems at all.

Not one of my children were breastfed exclusively for 6 months. None of them had chronic ear infections or chronic respiratory disease. I think all told, not including Spina Bifida related things, all four of my kids have been on antibiotics maybe 10 times combined in the 8.5 years since becoming a mom. They consistently (again, except for Jaden) miss less than 5 days of school per year because of illness. They are very healthy children. I get that that data doesn't qualify as a scientific study, but I just have to wonder if the data they have isn't somewhat skewed. I mean, afterall, babies who are exclusively breastfed for 6 months, probably aren't in daycare several hours a day where there are germs all over the place. They are probably at home. Could that perhaps be why they are more healthy?? Something to think about!

Of course, now in my next post, I"m going to have to say something nice about daycare, since I just made those moms feel guilty :)

So Proud.

AS a mother of four, I often find it difficult to praise one kid without feeling guilty that I'm not praising the others. They don't make it easier either. Often when I say something like, "Hey, so-and-so, I really liked the way you [insert thing here]!" one of the other kids will say, "what about me?" Anyway, despite feeling guilty and the inevitable, "What about me?"s, this post is about Jonathan. We had soccer tournaments yesterday, and while all of my soccer playing children had great games, Jonathan really shined. It wasn't just that he scored five goals (one was taken away,though), it was that I can see that everything has clicked with him on the soccer field and I am excited for him because I could see that he is excited for himself. I could see that he knew he had mastered a skill and he was proud. And, so was I.

I was also proud because in his last game he played against one of his best buddies. What I liked was that everytime Sean got a goal, even though he was on the opposite team, Jonathan clapped for him or gave him a high-five, and vice versa. It was nice to see.

I'm so proud...

Summer Boredom Happened So Fast...

It didn't take long folks. In fact, I think it was about 9:15 this morning when the first, "I'm bored" of the summer was uttered. However, my children are creative and have come up with some new games of their own. Here are my top three:

3. Who can fight over the most ridiculous thing? The current winner is Jaden and Ryan for their heated "My foot stinks more than yours" argument.

2. How many kicks does it take to get your sibling to yell out for mom. I know sounds like fun. A spin-off of that game is how many times can you jump on your sibling's head before they yell for mom.

And, my favorite so far....

1. Guess in which bodily oriface I have hidden a small chess piece. At least, I assume that is what they were playing, otherwise, why would Ryan have put a small pawn up his nose?!?!

It's gonna be a long summer, folks :)

Last Free Afternoon

Yesterday was my last free afternoon of the 2005-2006 school year. So, to celebrate I went out and did lots of my favorite things to do:

1. Went through Starbucks and got a grande Mocha Frappucino (full fat for me thanks, today is a special day)
2. While I drove, I played music, Prince's Purple Rain, really really loud in my minivan. I'm sure that I looked extremely cool
3. Went to Ni-Kohls and did a little shopping. Something unfortunate happened here, though. I bought a new pair of sunglasses that looked really cool in that little mirror on top on the rack. I suppose pretty much anything can look great in that small of a mirror. Unfortunately when I got them on in the car and was walking into my next stop, I saw them full on and well, not good.
4. Went to Big Lots! I know I'm almost embarassed to admit that is one of my favorite things to do, but they have blow-out prices for crying out loud! Who wouldn't love that??
5. Came home and watched some TiVod Apprentice and Guiding Lights. I may or may not have eaten some bon-bons.
6. Took a shower.

That, my friends is a perfect afternoon. And, a perfect way to end my few hours of independence, at least for a few months.