TV Time

WARNING:

If you do not have little kids that watch TV, this post will be of no interest to you!

I've always been pretty liberal about TV. I don't have strict limits on how many hours of TV the kids are allowed each day or week and the only TV-themed rule I strictly enforce is the no-meals-in-front-of-the-TV and no TV on during meals. The kids like their shows, and it affords me a few quiet moments here and there. Catherine is not a TV watcher AT ALL and never has been. Alexander and Matthew are mainly interested in SportsCenter, but really their TV watching is limited to a little bit here and there after homework and sporting events (which comes down too not much time to watch TV). Many times, they'll stop playing, running, or Wii'ing (on the weekends), and get distracted by some show or another, and then resume their regularly scheduled activity, after a few still moments in front of the tube. They are bright children, social, healthy and active (OMG are they active!), so I think our TV philosophies are working just fine for us, thank you.


However, Andrew (3 1/2) is my TV watcher. He likes "his progwams" and I do allow him to watch more TV than I like to admit (but my sanity is on the line here people). Given this fact I too watch too much "kid TV". Therefore I have some burning questions of my own regarding the popular programming at our house:

• Why is Little Bear naked, but his parents wear clothes?
  
  
• Where the hell are Max & Ruby's parents? Sure, Ruby is pretty bossy and does a fine job, but I think it's unreasonable for a young bunny scout to be raising her toddler brother, who is quite a handful, let me tell you.
  
  
• Why does Franklin (and his sister Harriet, I suppose) have a first name when everyone else on this show just goes by Bear, Otter, Skunk, etc?
  
  
• Why does Otis on Back At The Barnyard have an udder? Otis is a man's name, he has a man's voice, so what's with the udder? I don't get it.

• Widget on Wow Wow Wubbzy has the same exact voice as Sandy on Spongebob. I guess this is more of an observation than a question.
  
  
• Just how old is Diego? He appears to be close in age to his cousin, Dora, but he can drive, man!

• Why is Caillou so whiney and annoying and why does my 7 year old still love this show? And why is he bald? And what the heck kind of name is Caillou?

I'll welcome any answers, insight or theories you may be willing to share. If not, happy TV watching!

7 Quick Takes/...or 7 Random Thoughts From My Week.... (Vol. 10)

-1-
It's Friday and I am feeling a bit like this...

-2-

But, thanks to Andrew (3 1/2), I just keep smiling...
he asked if he could help carry in Costco groceries. I said I didn't know, because most of the stuff was pretty heavy. "Relax, Mom. I've got big muscles!"

-3-
There's this "25 Random Things About Me" thing going around Facebook among my friends lately. I haven't yet done it, but I might give it a whirl this weekend. In reading some of my friends posts, it's funny to see what they pick as interesting facts about themselves. I was thinking, does how we define ourselves say something about us? Are we made up of what we've accomplished or our preferences in life? Hmmmmm?

-4-

Today I am missing the gym yet again. It seems that whenever I get myself on a good routine, one of the kids get sick. I thought today was going to be the day, but Brendan was up last night with a fever and has some nasty green stuff coming out of his nose this morning. I get so frustrated when I can't go to the gym. It is one of my few outlets. Besides, it is such a waste of money when I don't go. Thankfully the weather has been nice enough to get some good walks in with the double stroller.

-5-

Speaking of the good weather...it's really not such good news. California's water supply is in big trouble and we are facing the possibility that we will have mandatory rationing of our water. We are also looking at higher water fees as we go into the future. It's just really not good. I guess we will be looking at a brown lawn this summer and shorter showers!

-6-

I love my morning coffee!

-7-

Sick kids or not, I MUST exercise today. I am saving up all of my calories and tummy space for our church crab-feed tonight. I want to eat as guilt-free as possible..and enjoy it!

HAPPY FRIDAY TO YOU!

They will rise up and call her "Blessed"...

Yesterday I had the honor of attending the funeral and celebration Mass of Agapita Villanueva Pena. She was the mother of a long time friend of mine. It was one of the most touching and inspiring funerals I've ever been too. She was truly a Godly woman whose life had an impact on countless people. Her impact was so beautifully seen seen in the lives of her children and their spouses, her grand-children, as well as her nieces and nephews and anyone that had ever met her...myself included.

Her life was a wonderful gift to her family, and it left me wondering... what legacy will I leave my children, family and friends? I had 4 hours in the car on the way home from Carmel to think about it (as it is not a regular practice of mine to ponder my death). But, that is what I spent a good amount of time doing as I drove home to Roseville (between entertaining and keeping Andrew and Brendan happy in the back seat).

I loved hearing all of the wonderful memories that the Pena family had of their mother/grandmother. From the appearances of things, they learned from the best! What a great heritage "Pita" Pena has left behind. I can only hope and pray to do they same for my family.

Mrs. Pena "Pita", was remembered as a beautiful and radiant person. Most people best described her by her smile and kind personality that was contagious. She was also remembered as fun and fun loving; always spreading sunshine and joy and an amazingly strong woman with a incredible love of family.

I realize that I am in a tough "season of life", with small children and a busy life. I believe my five children are a true blessing...a gift from God, but also...a heck of a lot of work! I don't feel as though I am doing a very good job of "spreading joy and sunshine" in their lives!!! And radiant???...not so much!!!

However, it is my goal to leave this life on earth having touched lives, loved and been loved. I want to teach my children about living life to the fullest. But that is what I struggle with!!! I am not so sure that I am the best example of what I want my kids to remember. I desire to live a life worth admiring and emulating. I believe that what we do in life, echos in eternity. I want to exude unconditional love to my children. It is a huge task, especially with the pressure from the outside and my need to protect them. I want to be there for them whenever they need to talk, to get a hug, or to just be together. Whenever they have a problem, I want them to know that I will listen and give the best advice I can. I want them to know that I will always be with them, if only in their hearts.

So, what is the measure of a person when they die? I am hoping mine will be the impact I can make on my family and the friendships I have/will create along the journey. I hoping that God blesses me with many more years to try and accomplish the desire in my heart.

I have lots of thoughts circulating in my head right now. But for now, I will end this post (some of you might find it depressing).

Agapita Villanueva Pena... You were truly beautiful to the end! Your influential love will forever be felt in the hearts of your family and those that knew you. My hope for my life is the same! I will look to your presence in heaven as a guide for doing the right thing for my family. May you rest in Gods eternal peace!

Wordless Wednesday

"Cm'on Brendan...SMILE....Mom wants to take our picture!"

B is for Brendan

Beloved and beautiful
Really a blessing
Extremely sweet
Never short on hugs and snuggles
Dimple that we adore
An angel
Never-ending joy you bring to our family

7 Quick Takes/...or 7 Random Thoughts From My Week.... (Vol. 9)

Seven miscellaneous and possibly very random thoughts rolling through my head, rolling through our life...

-1-

I mentioned in my post last Friday that the reason I hadn't been posting pictures was because my camera battery was not charged and I could not find my charger. Well, I have found the charger and I have taken lots of pictures this week. I went to upload them yesterday and came to realize that Mike's "work lap-top" does not have any photo software on it. So, still no pictures to share...just my boring words. Sorry. Hopefully we will be making a decision soon about what we are going to do about getting a new computer. I need to do some research, figure out how we can afford it, and start looking for deals. I am still considering switching over to a Mac.

-2-

Mike and I are are taking the three older kids to a performance at our church this Saturday night (Andrew and Brendan will go into the childcare room). The performance is called "Afraid". It is a one man play starring Frank Runyeon on the "Gospel of Mark" staged with dramatic lighting and entertaining audience interaction, that tells the story of Christ’s life and death through the eyes of Mark. I am really looking forward to it.

-3-

I am very happy to be a stay at home mom. but I recently been feeling like it can be quite lonely. I think this new realization is in part due to the fact that I have no friends in this area that have "little children". I am not really into the whole "play-group/moms group thing. I seem to be too busy with carpooling, homework and sports with the older kids. Don't get me wrong...there is no other place I would rather be. but it can be lonely.

-4-

I received a pre-recorded call from our District Superintendent today. The gist of the call was to prepare us for the inevitable budget cuts that will effect our schools. The Governor's 2009-2010 budget proposal includes deep cuts to education It was a disturbing call covered up with lots of fluff, like "we care for your children and we will do all we can to provide them with the highest possible quality education". Similarly, Mike came home last week and shared with me some of the "proposed" budget cuts for his district. WOW! It was frightening to say the least. This happening in a state that already ranks 47th. in math and about 48th in reading. Thankfully Mike has some seniority at his school. They will be doing away with some Admin. positions in his district. We pray his is not one of them!

-5-

I have decided that next month I am going to challenge myself (and the family) and become more consciously aware of the money we spend. My plan is to write down every single cent that leaves our account. I am going to post (on the fridge), on a simple chart filled in with pencil. Yes, I know they have software for this type of thing, but I can't handle the complication...and the kids can't SEE it either. Paper and pencil is so much easier. I'm really excited to do this. Which is weird, I know, but I think it's fun. I want to see how far I can push myself and my children to buy nothing but the bare essentials for at least one month. I'm hoping that keeping track of everything will in some way curb the spending (which isn't excessive in the first place). It's like they tell you when you are on a diet to write down everything you eat. If you have to write 1 bag of Hershey's Kisses- 3, 780 calories, you might be reluctant to eat the whole bag. I am going to need to give this a little more thought and outline what I mean by "bare essentials". It can be a broad term that can sometimes be manipulated into meaning pretty much anything. I know finances are to be kept private and I mostwill most likely not share many of the details here on my blog. I jthink it is my responsibility to help my kids be aware of what it takes to run a household and maintain their lifestyle.

-6-

What are the kids up to?

Alexander and Matthew: Basketball game and baseball tryouts this weekend.

Catherine: Recovering from her pneumonia, but feeling the itch to get out of the house...(me too)

Andrew: He's three---what else is there to say?

Brendan: He is so amazingly sweet to cuddle! Have I mentioned I CAN'T KEEP HIM OFF THE DARN COUNTERS...oh yeah, I have!

-7-

I have mentioned before that I am on Facebook. I really didn't think I would get into it, but I must admit I enjoy it and I am thankful for it. I have been able to reconnect with old friends and family members. It's just nice to see what certain people are up to, or to even just a quick email to say that you are thinking of them.

Thanks for stopping by today. Hope I haven't bored you to death!

Obamamania-Schmania!!!

Okay, so I just have one more thing to say about this whole election/inauguration thing (and then I'll shut-up about it).
Obama is now President.
I know, I know. But here's what bugs me and it has NOTHING to do with Obama!.
It's about Oprah! I used to be one of her fans but she is now on my last nerve (I know this will make my dad very happy).
Yes, she is happy, overjoyed, blah blah blah.
Don't tell me to not watch her because I barely do in the first place. I pretty much hate daytime TV and don't usually have the TV on. But, with the inauguration and Catherine home sick this week. I didn't have many other options.
Anyways, I had seen a preview for Oprah's Wednesday show and in a way, I was looking forward to it because she was hyping it up about having some good "political" people on...the first people she introduces?
Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore!
For God's sake.
Then Justin Timberlake...going on and on about how "it's finally now COOL to be an American. "What???
Get real guy..."cool"?!
And wasn't he dating Britney Spears like 2 years ago?
And just have a chart buster called "Sexy Back"?
Who the hell cares what he has to say about something so important?
Demi and Ashton...
Really a pet peeve of mine when people with millions and millions and MILLIONS of dollars that were EASY to come by (for like, playing tricks on people???), homes across the country, tell US how we should all be working to end slavery across the world.
They could write one check and it'd be all gone! (more or less)
Then the media in general...
YOU KNOW if it was a conservative Republican elected, no matter WHO it was, the liberal left media would talk about is how much money was being spent on all these ceremonies and parties and WHAT A WASTE IT ALL IS in such tough economic times.
I'm just bugged by the whole thing.
All this talk about how "Obama" is going to make us better people and more willing to serve our neighbor.
Come on people...YOU are going to make yourself a better person (maybe try fitting God into the equation). YOU can go out and help the less fortunate among us...Obama doesn't need to tell you to do so!
Obama will not make you a better person . It's all about YOU!!
While there is the need to acknowledge the historic significance of our new President, it is just this whole celebrity thing about Obama that is so bothersome.

Okay, I am done now!

Our Poor Little Pookie!

Catherine has double pneumonia. We are thankful that it's not bad enough to require a hospital visit. The doctor heard it in her stethoscope yesterday and then the chest x-ray showed it in both sides of her lungs. It really surprised me because other than a fever and a slight cough, she wasn't wheezing or having a hard time breathing. However, in the middle of the night on Tuesday, she was complaining that her ribs and back hurt. I knew then that we needed to get her in to see the doctor.

Catherine received a shot of roseffin in the doctors office and then we started an oral antibiotic last night. We are hoping this will get her back to his full health and take care of that fever once and for all. If she still has a fever on Friday, then the doctor wants to see her again. She probably has not had pneumonia the entire time she has been sick. We didn't even think her illness qualified as more than a bad cold. She just seemed to have a cold symptoms and maybe a stomach virus thing (she had vomited a few times). I suppose the pneumonia came about because her immune system was already compromised from her cold...which in time turned into pneumonia.

She's been such a good sport about all of this...she doesn't complain at all about being sick (only complains about missing school, Girl Scouts, and indoor soccer). We are so thankful that we have answers and that all of this is treatable. Now we're just waiting for her to be well again! It sure has been quiet around here. I knew Catherine was active and talked A LOT, but she has been so quiet that it has almost been as I have had one less child. She sure keeps this place interesting. We love ya Pookie and hope you feel better soon!!

Ohh, La, La!!

Yes, Obama was not my choice, but I hopeful for our America & a change that we desperately need. This is indeed a historic event and I am happy that I am able to witness it, along with my children. I am very proud to be an American. I am hopeful for our new President, as long as he works honorably for the entire country, I can give him my loyalty and support.

But that being said....is it just me or does anyone else think that all this pricey inauguration hoopla is a bit overkill in this dicey economy? Some estimates peg the cost of the inauguration gala as high as $150 million! WOW! The costs will end up having to be absorbed by U.S. taxpayers — and the historic inauguration will produce an equally historic bill.

But hey, perhaps I should look on the bright side...maybe the extra spending and the lighter mood will be enough to jump start our economy!

Enjoy this historic day! God Bless America!

GOT MILK?

Check out the new shape of milk jugs! Crazy!! Apparently the new shapes are much easier to store and ship, therefore saving the companies money. More milk is able to be transported because the new shape allows you to stack them on top of each other, allowing more milk to be shipped per load. Which in turns cuts down on gas for travel time to ship the milk from place to place. Viola...funny milk jug shape, and cheaper milk! The new-fangled jugs started showing up at my Costco a couple months back.

BUT...let me tell you..there is a major drawback of the new jugs, which I didn't realize until I got them back to my kitchen and started to use them for what they’re ultimately designed for – pouring milk (and we do a lot of milk pouring in my house). The jugs have a large mouth that the milk is poured out of, and no real “spout” to help direct the flow (it reminds me of trying to pour from a paint can). As a result, we have ended up with more than one sloppy mess on our countertop which equals wasted milk and wasted money!

As a mom, it is wonderful when your child reaches the age when they can pour their own glass of milk or make their own bowl of cereal. Now I no longer know what age that is because I can hardly do it myself. The only thing I have figured out is that the name of the game is slow and easy, but even with that approach...I have made a mess or two.

Yes, I know that these new milk containers haven't yet shown up everywhere (however, they are on their way) and I could just go to the "regular" grocery store to buy my milk. But, for me..an extra stop...with the kids... when I do 95% of my shopping at Costco....hmmm? Not sure if it is worth it (especially when I can get on my blog soapbox about it and feel better)! I know...don't cry over spilled milk, right?!

BTW, I didn't even mention how difficult it is to simply try to pry off that paper foil seal without using your teeth!

Got Milk?.... Sure do.... All over my counter!

7 Quick Takes/Randon Thoughts from My Week...

It is Friday again! Where did the week go? Ugh. Honestly? I'm not even sure I have seven things to share, but I shall do my best.

-1-

This week we have had wonderful weather. It has been glorious. I can actually say that my overall mood was raised up because of the better weather. I am glad to be living in this part of the country!

-2-

Prayer time with Andrew is proving to be hilarious. Each night he comes up with the funniest prayers... I often have to cough and hold my hysterics in when I hear what he says to God.

-3-

I made a delicious salad for one of our dinners this week. Not only was it yummy but it was low-fat too. Mike said it was one of his most favorite salads EVER! The dressing was especially good.

Turkey Sausage & White Bean Salad

Makes 6 servings:

2 Tbsp red wine vinegar

3 tsp olive oil

2 tsp Dijon mustard

1 garlic clove, minced

1/4 tsp. salt

1 pound hot Italian turkey sausage, cut diagonally into 2" pieces

4 cups of mixed salad greens, coarsely chopped

1 (15 1/2 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

1 green bell pepper,seeded and diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

2 Tbsp chopped pimientos

To make the dressing, whisk together the vinegar, 2 tsp of the oil, the mustard, garlic and salt in a small bowl until blended, set aside.

Heat remaining 1 tsp oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Transfer the sausage to a large bowl. Add the salad green, beans, bell pepper, onion and pimentos. Drizzle with the dressing and toss well to coat. Serve immediately.

ENJOY!!

-4-

Mike got a speeding ticket a few months back. We were all in the car, heading home from church. He got clocked on radar in an area close to our home that we ALWAYS see cops with radar guns. At any rate, there were a few things that the cop did and said that made Mike think he could go to court and beat the ticket. Mike's court date was today...he just called, his ticket was dismissed. YEAH!!!

-5-

I am really trying to work on "letting go" when it comes to the kids (well Alexander and Matthew) and their school work. I am working with them on taking responsibility for their own work. They are both good students but they need direction from me to keep them on track to complete their assignments. I personally struggle with giving them leeway and allowing them to do it on their own. I know that I probably "hand-hold" them too much with each assignment. (hence the reason for the struggle). When do kids begin to make the connection about the effort required to do their best work and get good marks. They both enjoy getting the good grades and they are upset when they do poorly, but I don't think the cause and effect factor has clicked yet.

-6-

At my MOMS group this week, we walked the Labyrinth, actually prayed using the Labyrinth. It was my first time walking a Labyrinth and I have to say, I really loved it!

The Labyrinth is a maze-like path that takes you on a symbolic journey. It creates space to unwind and think and be close to God. The path has three stages - the 'inward' journey, the center and the 'outward' journey. The theme of the 'inward' journey is letting go of things which hinder our approach to God. The center of the Labyrinth is a space of meditative prayer and peace. The theme of the 'outward' journey is relationship - with ourselves and others - seen in the light of our relationship with God.

I am looking forward the walking the Labyrinth again. Maybe at Religious Ed. Congress next month.

-7-

I haven't posted many pictures in a while. That is because I haven't taken any in a while, which is because my camera battery is not charged and I can't find the charger. Maybe if I get off the computer and straighten up this house I will find it under one of the many piles of STUFF!!

Have a great weekend my friends!

The Day My Computer Died

On Tuesday evening, my computer died. And this time, it can't be brought back to life. So, I come to you courtesy of Mike's work lap top. You see, on Tuesday evening I attempted to turn on my computer to bring you all up to date on how exciting my life is and nothing happend...NOTHING...no lights, no blue screen of death...no weird words on the screen warning me the thing was about to blow-up..nothing...just DEAD!

"What the #$&%!", and yes, those were my exact words, I was just on this d*@# computer a couple hours earlier and everything was fine. But apparently my computer finally decided that enough was enough. After almost 5 years of supporting our family (yes, my laptop is our only computer in the house), hundreds pictures downloaded of the kids, emails, web surfing, and most importantly blogging, it finally kicked the bucket.

Let's face it, in computer years, my laptop was a dinosaur and it was time to be replaced. But, you may remember, I just dumped over $200 into it just over a month ago after getting a nasty virus. UGHHHHHHHHHH!! I just refused to acknowledge that it was time for a new computer. I really thought that I was buying myself some time with the repairs. I thought as long as my dinosaur of a computer was operating, there was no need to look into purchasing a new one. See where that got me.!!

So now, thanks to my dear hubby, I am able to bring you the latest tale as to why I have missed the last few days of blogging. It seems like the last two months if it has not been one thing it has been another. Quite frustrating if you ask me. So, I am looking for recommendations on computers (like I actually have the money for a new one, but we can pretend, right?) I am not too sure how long or often I will be able to borrow Mike's. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated comments! Should I stick with a PC or venture in the Mac world?

See, this is the problem with technology. Without me noticing it, I have become dependent on it. Not a little dependent, and not sort of dependent on it, but very much my-life-is-chaotic-without-it dependent without it. I was at a loss without my computer yesterday (how pathetic is that!). I couldn't check my e-mail. I couldn't update my blog or keep up with my "friends" on Facebook. Heck, I couldn't even update my "what are you doing right now" status. TRAGIC!!

But nothing in the world will prepare me for the loss of everything on my computer...all my songs, documents, saved e-mails, and my all of my PICTURES.

The guy at Geek Squad wasn't sure if they would be able to retrieve everything. Of course for a "fee" they will attempt to retrieve what they can. Gosh I hope so!!

May my lap top rest in peace!

Out of the mouth of babes...

"Mom, I have the hair-cuts. When will dey blow away?"

He meant...

"Mom, I have the hiccup's. When will they go away?

(Andrew 3 yrs. old)

7 Quick Takes/...or 7 Random Thoughts From My Week.... (Vol. 7)

A few days late, like so much in my chaotic life, but here is my Sunday edition of Friday Quick Takes…

-1-

Some of my New Year resolutions involve taking better care of myself and all that stuff that falls under that category. You know, healthier eating (which hopefully will translate into some weight loss), exercise more, etc... I’ve been working really hard to drink more water, have less caffeine, eat more well-balanced. I’ve done really well this week- 1 cup of coffee each day, at least 60 oz. of water a day and I’ve done well with the exercise. Also, I have given up my favorite high-caffeine energy drink...Go Girl (yes Laurie, I did it!). It all comes down to planning ahead and being prepared. If I take the time at night to think through what we’ll be eating the next day and what time I will go to the gym, I’m prepared as soon as I wake up.

-2-

I am reading a really great book right now...Having a Mary Spirit: Allowing God to Change Us from the Inside Out by Joanna Weaver. This book addresses faith from the inside out--our attitude, our spirit, our words, our outlook on life. It's a powerful read. It's not fluff. I am loving it!

-3-

I have been thinking a lot lately about who actually reads my blog. I know that I have at least two regular readers (thanks Laurie and Pete) and I know another handful of people that take a peak every now and then, but who are the other 1200 plus people that have visited my blog? It kind of weirds me out a bit. I mean, I started this blog as my form of scrapbooking, as a way to record the happenings of our lives. The more I blogged, the more I enjoyed it and I have found myself writing about a variety of topics that I am sure may surprise some people. I guess I need to remind myself that the purpose of this blog is really not to please my "blog-stalkers" but rather it is just about sharing my experiences, thoughts and special family times. I just don't want to find myself sanitising what I write because of who may be reading. Oh well, just another random thought.

-4-

Psst! Wanna buy some Girl Scout Cookies? It is that time of year. Catherine is a Brownie and this is her first year that she is able to sell cookies and let me tell you, she is raring to go. I haven't heard the end of it since Friday afternoon. She wants me to take her to "other neighborhoods" to sell (sure thing!) because ours is saturated with little girls in Brownie vests walking up and down the street. But like all successful businesswomen, she has set a goal for herself --100 boxes. She chose this lofty number because it's what she needs to earn herself a Cookie keychain. Thank goodness she doesn't want a digital camera (sell 800 boxes of cookies) or an iPod (1,000 boxes). Hey, if you are one of my "blog-stalkers" and want to buy some cookies...let me know!

-5-

I think I have mentioned it before, but my entire family is going to Disney World in April...all 19 us us. My mom and dad are taking all of us (my brother ans sister, spouses and kids). We are very blessed and lucky that they are being so generous. My kids are so excited and are talking about it more and more everyday. It is going to be even extra special for my kids, as they have never even been to DisneyLand here in CA. I have been busy reading "Disney World" with Kids" trying to get a realistic view of what we are in for...travel, crowds, lines, transportation, traveling with 5 kids!!!! I feel like I need to start preparing now in order to be ready for April!

-6-

Keeping Brendan off of the counters has been my biggest struggle lately.He is into EVERYTHING! Not only does he scale my counters, he crawls up on our kitchen table, dances on the living room table, empties our kitchen drawers over & over again, picks through the garbage (and sometimes finds leftovers for a snack), It's exhausting!!

-7-

I have learned over the years, never say "I will never do anything like that" or "My child will never do that" because chances are you will and so will your child.

That's it for me this Sunday. I'm off to do dishes, laundry, and straighten some of my house (don't be jealous).

Moms Hours of Operation...

I think moms need a 'Moms Hours of Operation' clause in our contracts. I will certainly fix boo boos, make three meals + snacks, read books, help with homework, drive carpool and to sporting events, attend to needs/issues/complaints, etc. But this cannot always extend into the early morning or late night hours. There have to be some limitations. No mom has that much patience and bandwidth. My 3 oldest kids (10, 10, 7) are old enough now to understand that mommy needs a break too. Yet sometimes I don't seem to be getting through. My hours of operation in this house are typically from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with not even one hour of quiet time to myself (except if I am at them gym, and wow...what fun that is!!). Although many times I regretfully don't get this hour. That's approximately 15 hours of kids. Fifteen hours of "He hit me", "Where are you?, "He is on the counter again mom!", "Where are you taking us now?", "Can you read me a book?", "I need a snack", "I need help with my homework", "Did you sign my planner?", "I need more ketchup", "I spilled my water", "I peepeed on the floor". You get the idea. You know the routine.

I think 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. would be a reasonable gig. Of course, taking into consideration when overtime hours are needed for potty training, illness, etc. that perhaps will take me into the wee hours of the night. But 15 hours of "on-time" everyday is too much! They don't even ask pilots to fly that distance and then wake up and do it all over again. Right? On top of the 15 hours of "on-time", I would like at least a couple hours of "alone-time" at the end of the day to take a breath and relax (and fold laundry). That usually puts me close to 11pm (or so). Is it so much to ask that at 5:30 a.m. I'm not asked to make breakfast, read a book, chase away monsters or move over and make room in MY bed or ? Another early morning for me today. I'm beat (and it is only 8:10am)!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABE!!

Today is Mike's __ birthday!

(I didn't ask him if I could share his age)

Some people would say that he puts up with a lot having me as his wife.

And they would be correct.

But it goes both ways (he would agree).

I don't talk about Mike much on my blog because I started this on my own, not really consulting him or expecting this place to become "my voice".

What I will tell you about Mike is that he turned himself into the kind of man he wanted to be solely by his own strong will, and it was like a force of nature. I am so proud of you babe and you should be equally as proud of yourself. You are a good father and husband. You are a hard working and truly dedicated to your work. You deserve all of life's happy surprises.

So here's to my hubby and to many more years of health, happiness and blessings. I love you Mike!! Thank you for all you do for us and may

God bless you in the years to come.
(and there better be lots of them!!)

The Best Gift Ever...

I believe that in the handbook of life, where it says people shouldn't brag, Moms are exempt (it's in tiny print at the bottom of the page)...besides, what else is my blog for?

So yesterday Alexander came home from school with a sheet of notebook paper folded neatly. On the outside was my name, written on a post-it note by his teacher. I thought to myself, this can be either good or bad, in that while I have yet to receive a "your kid misbehaved in school" call or letter, there's a first time for everything. So on a small scale I braced myself. But no, this note from his teacher actually contained good news and made me even more proud of Alexander than I am already.

As I opened the paper, another post-it note from his teacher read, "Jen, this assignment was to write and describe the best gift you have ever received. I thought this was so sweet. Enjoy!"

I then unfolded the paper one more time and began to read what Alexander had written about, (note, this assignment was completed before Christmas break)...

My Best Gift Ever

by: Alexander Gordon

Age 10

Mrs. Seffens 4th Grade Class

The best gift I have ever received is my awesome family with brothers, parents and a sister. My parents are really nice because they pay for all of my sports programs and teach me so many things. My brother and I are so cooperative with each other, even when we don't agree on the same thing. We always work it out. My sister can sometimes be a pain but she also is pretty cooperative too.

I am really lucky because I have parents to love me, make me lunch every day, and pay bills and taxes every year. They come and watch all of my sports games.

My bother Matthew is always by my side, even when I am down in the blues. Even though my sister is sometimes a rude, she is still a fun sister to play with.

I love my family and they are the best gift I have ever received!

Alexander's teacher said most students wrote about "material things"...Wii's, video games, etc... Thanks Alexander for being the son that you are! You are indeed a gift to our family and we wouldn't be complete without you! I love you Z!!

To those of you who may be reading my blog, thanks for continuing to allow me to share the little moments of my life with you. It goes without saying that I am striving to be the best mom and wife I can be. It is these little gems that make it all the more meaningful and helps to keep the way I view the joys and frustrations of daily life in perspective!

Christmas Clean-Up...FINALLY!!

Oh, the disorder of Christmas past is getting to me. Toys everywhere! Bits and pieces and parts! My tree down, all the decorations put away, but still...
Why does disorder make me feel like I can't sit down ever?
Like my heart is beating a little faster and my brain is aching?
Mike bemoans me to relax and just let it go for once.
But my excuse is...
"You don't have to clean up...you have no idea how long it takes to dig yourself out of days of a mess."How long would it take, I wonder, for him to say, "This place is ridiculous!"
Actually I don't want to know the answer to that!!!

I guess it's a sign of adulthood that I'm a little glad Christmas is over for this year? Mostly I am just glad to have the darn tree down so I will stop finding ornaments all over the house. (Thank you Brendan, my little redistribution king.)
It feels just as good to me to put things away, clean and organize as it does to drag it all out and put it up!!

Epiphany of the Lord

They were overjoyed at seeing the star,and on entering the housethey saw the child with Mary his mother.They prostrated themselves and did him homage.Then they opened their treasuresand offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

(from today's Gospel - Matthew 2:1-12)

Taking the Long Way Home...

Alexander, Matthew and I went to see Marley & Me yesterday afternoon.

(Catherine and my dad had seen it earlier in the week)
It was SO good.
Super good.
I'm not really even a dog person.
Bring a box of kleenex for the theatre and one for the way home.
I kid you not.
It's not a chic flick either.
I'll bet you Mike would have cried too...(maybe).

Alexander and Matthew couldn't decide what to watch..the movie OR me bawling!
I took the long way home so I could compose myself before entering the house with my parents, Catherine and the little boys!.
It was raining pretty hard.
That's why my eyes were wet.