Home is Where the Mom Is

My children are growing up...what does that say about me?

2010-05-04T05:39:00.000-07:00

20 days until my baby is 6. I am actually not counting down the days-she is! Every morning since May 1st it's been, 23 days, mom! 22 days! 21 days! So, on day 22 she presents me with a request. "Mom, can I get my ears pierced on May 24th for my 6th birthday?" I respond, "Remember, honey-I got my ears pierced on my 10th birthday and I thought you could wait until you're 10, too." She then brought up a very valid point. "But, mom. That's still 5 years away, and I've already waited 5 years." Simple Kindergarten math, but being mathtarded (thanks for the term, Julie!) as I am, it impressed me. I did pull the whole, "We'll talk it over with dad" which backfired since dad's response was, "I don't care." So, now it's not only 20 days until my baby is 6....now it's 20 days until my baby is 6 AND having her ears pierced. Whoa is me.

I really am going to start trying to make more time to come here. I miss it. I used to have so many fun bloggy friends and now I am so out of the loop. I let life get the best of me. What I really love doing is shouting to the world. Yes, shouting. I shout. About what? Who cares!! Now, to go comment so people know I am actually still alive.

Cuatro?

2010-01-30T10:53:00.000-08:00

Ok eventually I will stop counting how many days I've made a post. Right now, it's still kind of surreal to me. Thank you to my friends who didn't forget me. I heart you guys.

Don't let the 'posted from my iphone' fool you. It's an iPod. I'm not that important. But it is sorta cool I can blog while watching my kid play soccer. Nothing like one-fingered blogging. Rad.

I realized I haven't mentioned my kids. Yes, I still have them. Brandon is 14. Gets his braces off in a few weeks. Cute as ever. He shaves now and asked me for cologne and breath mints the other day. Yes, breath mints. Nolan is 7 and a ladies man, according to him. Apparently, there are 47 girls 'going for him' right now. He's disinterested. Kendall is a genius princess, according to her (and her father). She is the highest level reader in her class so that makes her the 'smartest.' And she's the prettiest girl daddy's ever seen. Besides mommy, of course (did I just throw that in there?)

Happy weekend friends!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Uno, Dos, TRES...

2010-01-29T15:52:00.000-08:00

I am cold. Normally, I would be wrapped up in a warm blanket, and it would be awfully difficult to type with my paws covered up by a blanket. But, ALAS...I have a Snuggie Deluxe that not only warms me from neck to toe, but allows my hands to be free so I can type this with ease. Oh, yes. Rad.
Do you ever look at your past blogs and think, "Wow I am smart, funny AND clever!" Because that was so me the other day. I was pondering why I never went back to blogging, so I started scrolling through my old ones and actually LOL'ed a few times while thinking, "Wow, did I actually write this? I am pretty flippin' hilarious!" Not to toot my own horn or anything; I just hope I can keep it up :)

I got a couple new bras in the mail today. I ordered my size, but for some reason, they are awfully tight. Couldn't be the fact that I gained weight and now my old ones stretched out and my size isn't actually my "size" anymore. I don't care though. I will squeeze because I am so irritated at myself for gaining weight-bah! Soooo, those of you losers out there...HOW do you do it? Ok, I mean BESIDES diet and exercise, because frankly, THAT's not fun.

So, friends, bear with me on this-I haven't blogged in a long long time and I may forget and have to ask all over, but it feels good to be back!

Whoa. Two days In a row!

2010-01-27T12:30:00.000-08:00

I hope I can keep this up.

So, HolleAnn, since you are the only comment I got, I will give you the story behind the photo. Some of you MAY know that I was (and still am, evidently) a HUGE New Kids on the Block fan. I went to a few concerts since I last blogged...ok, 4! Well, the last one I went to I got pretty good seats so I was STOKED! My friend, Leelee called me the day before (she had VIP Meet and Greet passes!) and asked me if I wanted to take her spot at the Meet and Greet. I was like, "WHAT?" I cried, and I thanked her profusely, because frankly, that's the coolest thing anyone could have ever done for me. So, I went. We get in this line to meet "the guys" and all the women (yes all 30+) were screaming about, "I wanna stand by Jordan. I want Donnie. Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh!" I said I was standing next to whoever I could, because I was just grateful to be having this experience. So, I got between Jon and Joey. And I was thrilled. Danny, however invited me backstage to talk to him about a fundraiser we were doing for Breast Cancer in honor of his mother. He ended up being a bit of a pompous jerk. BUT I did get to see Jon, Joey and Donnie up close while backstage, and THAT was worth it. I ain't got no shame lovin' the New Kids. Before you try to come up with a clever name for them, I have indeed heard them all. You aren't clever.

Hello...anybody in there??

2010-01-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I am doing this. I don't think anyone even remembers me, even. Yet, I feel compelled to write in this blog. Not because I am a fabulous writer, but because I have a lot to say and it won't all fit on facebook. I mean, how many times a day is it OK to update your status? That, and I re-read my Corey Feldman post down there and I pretty much decided that I am seriously rad. Hard core, even.

What I have been up to: I have a job. I KNOW...SAHM is a job, and it's the toughest job I've ever had. But this time, I have an office that I go into, with people I LOVE and get paid for being super anal and "detail-oriented." And I am done way before the children get out of school. So, they don't even know I am gone! So, this is what I am gonna do...PLEASE ask me any questions about my year and a few months away. I have so much to say and I really wanna tell you, but I don't want a page and a half of posts, so I wont. I will, however, leave you with THIS.

Yes, as a matter of fact; it IS a Kelly sandwich

2008-10-20T14:58:00.001-07:00

This is my kid. My middle schooler who turned 13 last Tuesday. Yeah, I am feeling a wee bit old. Isn't he cute? Yeah, the girls think so.
In fact, last month, we went to the carnival in town. Brandon and his buddies go off on their own and are to meet back with me and Zac. Well, he meets us and I notice his hat is gone. So I ask him, "Hey, buddy, where is your hat?" SO, he gets all bugged and says, "Some girl took it. She's with Kaitlyn." I know who Kaitlyn is, so I tell Brandon if I see her, I will get it. About an hour later I see some girl wearing his hat. I look next to her and see Kaitlyn (just so I know I have the right girl). I walk up to this nice girl and say, "Hi. May I please have my son's hat back?" She says, "Oh, you're Brandon's mom?" I tell her yes I am and she says, "Oh, I have talked to you on the phone. I am Jessica, Brandon's girlfriend." I just look at her and she says, "OH, I guess Brandon didn't tell you about me. He said he was going to tell you." He had told me about this girl, but he told me she thought he was her boyfriend but he didn't like her. Anyway, I said, "Oh, the reason he didn't tell me about you is probably because Brandon is not ALLOWED to have a girlfriend." She just looked at me like a deer in the headlights and walked away. I found Brandon, gave him his hat and told him the story. He says to me, "Dude! Mom, you rock! Thanks for doing that!" Then on Monday, he told her he can't have a girlfriend and "broke up" with her. Now he's getting all kinds of calls from girls and stuff. Man, I hate it. He's a little boy for cryin' out loud.

OH, also. On October 10 I went and saw New Kids on the Block in concert. I know, I know. Don't be jealous. Especially don't be jealous that I am going to Seattle in November and going AGAIN. Yep, I am THAT cool.

Thank YOU HolleeAnn!

2008-10-07T19:15:00.001-07:00

I got an email from HolleeAnn just because she misses me and I realized that I needed to post an update.

I have so much to say, too. I may have to do it in phases.

Grammie is doing great! She moved out of her house and into a Retirement Community. It turns out the reason she was dizzy and passing out is because she didn't have the energy to eat anymore. She could eat, but she couldn't cook. So she was eating 3 crackers with peanut butter each day. Now, she walks to the Dining Hall three times a day for her meals and if she misses one, she gets a phone call and they bring her food. She turned 90 on the 30th.

Here she is at her party:

Just try and tell me she isn't the cutest thing you ever did see. Don't worry though, we scolded her for the shortness of her skirt. We were there looking through old pictures and things and there was a photo of her in a BIKINI. OMGosh you guys, she was so flippin' cute! At one point, Zac's cousin says, "Wow, Gram, you have always been a hottie!" Gram says, "Oh, yes, Katie, I really have always been." Good to know all this trouble in her life hasn't caused any self esteem issues. LOL!

Thanks for thinking of us all and I will absolutely get back on the blog ball! I need you guys! And thanks again, HolleeAnn. You made my week (10 days ago!)

I know it seems like I've abandoned ship...

2008-08-06T08:09:00.000-07:00

and I guess I sort of have, though not intentionally. I fully intended to take a month off to get everything together for the kids when they started school (July 28th they went back). However, since then, Grammie has not been doing well. At all. And honestly, I am doing everything I can just to stay afloat. I am very, very sad and every time I think about her, I cry. She has been hospitalized twice in the last month and a half, and she has gotten dizzy and passed out a number of times. I know she is old, but I am not ready to lose her. I have only had her for 10 years! Please forgive me for not checking in. I will try to check in more often if I can. And please, please PRAY for Grammie. She is an angel and deserves the best. There is so much more detail involved, which I really can't get into, but Zac and I are trying to persuade her to move in with us. Please keep in touch if I am not on here, through the email in my profile.

Photo Story #4

2008-06-27T10:35:00.001-07:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

If you have ever read any posts about my son, Nolan (aka Ninja Boy), then you know he is a handful, to say the least. He is all boy and already at 6, he doesn't take crap from no one. No one that is, except for his "best friend" Jaydin. Jaydin is a little DIVA. She is absolutely, positively 110% G-I-R-L. You'd think that they would hate each other given the fact that they are polar opposites.

I know why Nolan likes her. She's the only person (besides family) that has put him in his place, and my boy LOVES a challenge.

Jaydin's mom, Monica (my BFF) took Nolan and Jaydin to a friend from Preschool's birthday party and then to another party for a family friend last summer. At the family party, Nolan and Jaydin decided to get in the hot tub. As they are getting in, a friend of Jaydin's family said, "Oh, Jaydin, is this your boyfriend, Nolan?" Nolan immediately pipes in and says, "NO!" Jaydin, at the same time, says, "Yes." She hears Nolan say "no" and she glares at him and says, "Nolan, you ARE my boyfriend, and THAT'S just the way it is!" Dude, I hope he keeps this girl forever!!

Photo Story #3

2008-06-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I had to actually publish this a day late (sorry!) since I couldn't actually save the image to my computer. You get a link instead, but I assure you-it's worth it.

I fully intended on sharing a different picture (actually I couldn't decide which one out of 3!) but they are all on my desktop, which, of course, won't start up for me right now. Sooooo, I am on hubby's lap top (as usual) and I had to scrounge for a 'photo story' pic. I am completely aware that nothing can top last week's (I know you're all still seething with envy, don't be hatin'), but this is what I came up with.

In the central valley of California where we live, it gets HOT. OK, not as hot as YOU in Arizona and stuff, but Hot enough. Like 112 degrees hot. The first summer we lived here (coming from the ocean where it rarely gets above 80), I *made* hubby (read: cried and cried until he agreed) put the house on the market, 'cause I wanted to go HOME! Well, for some reason (God!) the house couldn't sell, despite the reasonable asking price and the crazy hot housing market. Zac pleaded to me to try and stay one more year and if I still hated it, then we could sell it. I agreed. After that year, I realized I liked my friends and my life here and agreed to stay indefinitely. On one condition (c'mon...you gotta have conditions!). We had to get a pool. SO, we had it designed and it had a separate little shelf section that was only 18 inches deep so the babies could chill out without me freaking out. I saw the design on paper and we looked it over and couldn't quite figure out what in the world was so awkward about the design.
Finally, it comes to me. I say to the pool designer, "Um, Fred, uh, um, doesn't it look kind of like a, um, uh, penis??" My husband shot me "the glare," but he knew darn well he was thinking it, too! Fred assured me it would not look like genitalia. I beg to differ.

Bird's Eye View of my house

When you get to the page, you may need to click on "Bird's Eye View" to see the yard.

Photo Story Friday #2

2008-06-13T08:12:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "OH MY GOD! Is that Corey Feldman with our beloved Kelly??" Why yes, yes it is. Before you get too insanely jealous, let me tell you a story about the picture. Before I do, though, Yes, I am aware the photo is pretty rough. It has definitely seen its share of cubicles and grubby, admiring hands. Don't hold it against me.

When Zac and I were dating, I surprised him with a ticket to an 80's concert for his birthday (which is TODAY, by the way.) He was turning 26. It was Flock of Seagulls, Ric Ocasek from The Cars, Berlin (still rocked) and a "surprise guest." Imagine MY surprise when the surprise guest was MY favorite 80's actor. I mean, The Goonies alone could make you fall head over heels for this 'talented' actor. Add in the Lost Boys (filmed in MY hometown) and you have the complete package.

So, after Corey's concert (apparently he ~~thinks he can sing~~ sings), it was announced that if we bought his CD for 10.00, we could stand in line and meet him. Well, I didn't care whose birthday we were celebrating, I was gonna meet COREY FELDMAN! So, my wonderful boyfriend stood with me in line for an hour (he likes to say it was 2, but he's wrong. Sometimes I compromise at 1 1/2 hours) to meet him. In line I met a girl who said, "Oh my God! What are you gonna say when you meet him??" Gosh, I hadn't thought about it. So, I came up with a really good one-liner. It HAD to be good since I had loved him since I was 13 and by this time I was 24. So, I get up to the front. I say "Hello" to Corey and then I say, "Corey, I have waited 10 years for this moment." He looked at me adoringly with those big brown eyes and said in his raspy little voice that I love SO much, "Awww, I'm so glad you waited." Now, I'm not sure if he really was glad I waited or if he thought I was "special" so he was just being nice. Either way, I got the reaction I'd hope for. And after all that, my boyfriend still loved me, even married me. Not to say he doesn't make fun of me, ALL THE TIME, for this experience. Good thing we both have a sense of humor!

And, believe me, Zac went up a couple notches on my "coolness" meter, too.

Happy 35th Birthday to my awesome husband, Zac. I love you more than Corey!

*Oh, and just in case you missed the first season, The Two Coreys will air its Second Season (I mean, the first season was SO good, how could they not be picked up AGAIN?) on Sunday June 22nd. See the A&E website for the full schedule!*

My morning of affirmations

2008-06-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

Kendall sits next to me and says, "You're the bestest mom ever and I'm always gonna keep you." "And you're not fat." Hey, kid, thanks for throwing in that last part. I was beginning to worry you were trying to boost myself esteem since I'm a cow.

Nolan has pneumonia. Took him to the doctor yesterday and it was confirmed. So, he is laying low for a few days (yeah, try the whole "limited activity" with a 6 year-old boy!) I have been sleeping in the guest room with him for a few nights now to help him when he coughs all night. He says, "Mom, can you sleep with me again tonight?" I told him I miss my bed and I really want to sleep with my husband tonight (get your minds outta the gutter, people!). He then tells me, "Oh, Come ON, mom! It's not like HE's gonna miss you." See how much my kids love me??

Photo Story Friday

2008-06-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

There's no way I can post just one photo of this amazing woman. So, you're getting three, and you're gonna have to like it ;)

Proceed with Caution: Long winded-ness ahead.

This is Grammie. She is my husband's 89-year-old grandmother. She is nothing short of magnificent. I am not able to tell just one story about her because she has made such a huge impact on me in the 9 1/2 years I have known her. I know that she will not be around forever, and when she does go, I want the world to know how much she meant to me.

I remember when Zac and I started dating. I called him one day and he said, "I'll call you right back, I am on the phone with my grandma." I was thinking, "What? He talks to his grandmother?? Growing up, I had NO relationship with either of my grandmothers and the idea was so foreign to me. So, imagine my surprise when he called me back TWENTY minutes later, saying, "Oh, sorry I just got off the phone with her. We talk about 3 times a week." Whoa, what on EARTH would anyone want to talk to their grandmother about for THAT long?? And three times a week? I was beginning to think this guy was gonna be a dud.
A few months went by, and Zac wanted to introduce Brandon and me to his grandmother. Zac was a bit scared since Grammie was 80 and her only grandson was dating some chick with a kid. I was so nervous, because if he was scared, then there HAD to be a reason (I soon figured out that Zac is quite the over-reactor). We walked in and Grammie hugged me and hugged Brandon and she was just ecstatic to meet us. She sat us down and wanted to know everything about us. I knew at once what it felt liked to be welcomed with open arms. And I knew at once that I wanted this woman to be MY grandmother. She reminded me of the grandmother on 'Happy Gilmore.'
Grammie had a hard adult life, but you'd never know it. She takes everything with stride. Her husband left her and her two boys when the oldest was about 5. Grammie was a single mother and she never, ever dated again. She knew that her job was to care for her boys and not let anyone else get in the way of that. She did a wonderful job, and her boys are now taking care of her. The respect they have for their mother is admirable.
This is just a little teeny piece of Grammie, but there is SO MUCH MORE. I am sure I will share more about her, but for now, since I am tearing up already, this is gonna have to do it. I will say that I am a better person for knowing this amazing woman.
I tell my husband all the time, " I only married you for your grandmother." He thinks it's great. You know what's even better? Now, I have a Grammie that I talk to three times a week!

I've come to the realization...

2008-06-04T06:58:00.000-07:00

That I am not able to keep up with blogging when we have a lot going on in our lives. I have thought about it and thought about it. I've even said to myself, "I should TOTALLY blog this" several times a day and by the time I got around to picking up the computer, I was too tired to DO it. And I miss doing Thursday 13, too. Since the last time I posted, my two little ones had birthdays. My son, Nolan, aka NINJA turned 6 years old. And my only daughter, Kendall, aka PRINCESS, turned 4. So, on this Wednesday (since who knows if I will be able to get on tomorrow) I am going to do a list of 13 things about each of them, for their birthdays.

Kendall 5/24/04
1. She is ALL girl. I have never known a more girly girl. You'd think with three brothers, she'd be a tomboy. But no, she loves dresses ALL. THE. TIME. Babies, Barbies, Weddings, Princesses, you name it.
2. She is so proud that she has the "same eyes" as her mommy. She's the only one that got my brown eyes and she tells me all the time. It's a special connection we have.
3. She sings all the time. Her "favorite kind of song" is 'Bubbly' by Colbie Caillat. She makes up songs when we are driving around and sings them, annoying her brothers to no end.
4. She is SO smart. She is my speller =0). She saw one of Nolan's papers from Kindergarten and was so mad because he spelled something wrong and she caught it. Do you think this is my kid, lol??
5. She LOVES strawberries. We went to my cousins wedding this past weekend and her beautiful white sweater was white with red strawberry stains by the end. She must have eaten about 30 strawberries.
6. Kendall will play by herself with her babies and her Barbies for HOURS. I can always get things done when it's just her and me at home.
7. She is a toucher. She always wants to be touched. I am NOT a toucher, at all. It's hard for me when she is all over me. But it melts my heart when she says, "Mom, when I sit by you, will you just touch me on my arm?"
8. She will sit still and be quiet when I need her to, unlike the boys at this age. We had a promotion ceremony last week for my oldest (to 7th grade, wow!) and it was 1 1/2 hours long in the heat, and she was SO good the whole time.
9. Kendall potty trained herself at 20 months. I seriously didn't do a thing. Her brother was still using the kid potty and she wanted to, also, so she did. From then on, it was panties. Loved that!
10. She is SASSY. If anyone gets in her way and screws up her little routine, she will SCREAM, a blood curdling scream. You'd think someone was killing her.
11. She loves BABIES. Kendall is a nurturer and any time she sees a baby, she comforts and loves them.
12. Kendall is a pleaser. She is helpful and she really does what she's supposed to 90% of the time.
13. Kendall really, truly thinks she is a Princess. No one told her she was, but she is absolutely convinced she is. I am not about to burst her bubble.

Nolan 5/30/02
1. Nolan is stubborn. In fact, I don't know anyone quite as stubborn, besides his father. No real examples here, but you can imagine, I'm sure.
2. He is determined. The kid taught himself how to ride a bike on a whim one day.
3. He hates reading writing and spelling (boooo!) BUT he LOVES math.
4. The kid is his father reincarnated. He looks exactly like him. See 1, 2 and 3. He also has his dad's weird mannerisms AND sense of humor. It's a good thing I love my husband as much as I do, cuz I have two of him!!
5. Nolan does not know how to walk. He runs and jumps EVERYWHERE. He jumps all over the furniture (which drives me crazy) doing gymnastics.
6. Nolan understands things way above his age level. It's crazy how complex his mind is. He understand adult humor, especially, so we really have to be careful what we say in front of him, or he may just tell his preschool teacher, "Hey is that a banana in your pocket, or are you happy to see me?" Oh, wait. He did THAT already.
7. He is compassionate, which is something I did not really realize until this past weekend. We went to my cousin's wedding and my aunt has an 18-year-old foster daughter who is severely mentally challenged. Nolan was so nice to her and so attentive, I was floored.
8. His favorite food is artichokes. He likes them dipped in butter and garlic. (so do I!)
9. Nolan has piercing blue eyes. Everyone who meets him talks about how beautiful his eyes are.
10. Nolan is a homebody. He does not like spending the night anywhere besides home and anytime we talk about moving (which we aren't going to do anytime soon) he gets all upset. He really likes his room. He says when he gets married, they will live at home and his wife can sleep on the pull out under his bed.
11. He is VERY protective of his sister. She might bug the crap outta him, but he is always looking out for her. He'll never admit it, but he loves her dearly.
12. Nolan has bruises from head to toe. So much, in fact, that every time we go to the doctor, I get questioned. I finally asked the doctor, "You wanna come over for dinner sometime? See for yourself."
13. Nolan is my little booger. As active and crazy as he is, sometimes he will just sit close to me and play with my hair. It calms him down.

I love all of my children more than I could have ever imagined possible. Each one of them bring something special and different into my life and I do thank God every day for choosing me to be their mommy. I am so blessed.

I just can't believe my BABY is FOUR!

What I've been doing...

2008-05-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

Quick little play by play of the last week...

Went to the gym every. morning. I have been doing 1 1/2 hours of cardio every morning. And before you say it, I KNOW that lifting weights burns more fat than cardio. BUT at this point, I am happy with the results I am getting from Cardio alone, because I also know that muscle WEIGHS more than fat and I am not willing to gain any poundage just yet. Thanks for the concern, though. My motivation for going? I am reading a book, and I read the first two by the same author in the few weeks prior to this one. It is 'Such a Pretty Fat' by Jen Lancaster. I am so into this book that I tell myself that I can only read it on the elliptical. So, every morning I hop up and practically sprint to the gym. Except that I am in the car. Not sprinting. You get my drift. If you love snarky and just plain HILARIOUS, you too will pick up her books. Read them in order. Too funny!
Also, CRazyMama hosted a Giveaway a week or so ago, and I won! I love winning! I got the lotion a few days ago, and can I tell you I just LOVE it??!! So, Piper from Moonvine Organics...if you are reading this, THANK You! I do adore this lotion, and I love it for my children as well. Great on the eczema. Thanks again, Julie, for hosting this!
Funny thing about the giveaway. I have won a couple of giveaways lately from soe favorite bloggy friends. Each one emailed me and said, "I swear I didn't cheat..you won fair and square" or something along those lines. So either, I am super rad and they love me to bits, or I think I am super rad and all-deserving of winning contests, and they caught onto that! Either way, Whoo hoo...I love winning. The other contest I forgot to blog about. Thank YOU Cecily for the amazon gift card.
And one more thing on the home front. My MIL bought ME (ok, the kids, but I play it most) a WII. Dude, I love it! Just L-O-V-E it! Golf and bowling are my faves. Haven't bought any games besides the sports one it came with, but I am very content with those! I can beat anyone in this house at bowling, and I am getting better at golf, but Zac is a wee bit better. Don't tell him I said that.
SO, that is what has been happenin' over in these parts. I will really really try to post more and Comment more. This year end of school is crazy for me!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T06:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all my Bloggy Friends! I adore you all, I really do!!

Before I was a Mom:
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom:
I had never been puked on. Pooped on. Chewed on. Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom:
I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests. Or give
shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom:
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put her down.

I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop
the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom:
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important
and happy.

Before I was a Mom:
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to
make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the
wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

Have a wonderful day!!

I know it's been a while....

2008-05-06T06:01:00.000-07:00

So, here are my excuses (ALL TRUE) as to why I haven't been around.

I have been SO busy. I went on a retreat last weekend and my husband went on one too (separately), so for a week I was cleaning my house (if you have kids, then you know why it took me a WEEK) since my Mother-in-law was coming to stay with the kids. Also, I have gone back to the gym regularly. And...in the past 3 weeks, I have lost 10 pounds! Looks like this exercise thing works! I am trying to work out 5 days a week. And when I get home, I am pumped and don't want to sit down and look at a computer. But I wanted to check in. I will try to do so more often in the mornings. I will also be commenting, too. Don't give up on me just yet!

Also, if you haven't already seen, Crazymamaof6 is hosting a giveaway for Moonvine Organics. Hop on over and enter!!

Have a wonderful day!

TT # 27 - 13 Rejected Hallmark Greetings

2008-04-24T06:22:00.000-07:00

Thirteen Rejected Hallmark Greetings

1. So your daughter's a hooker,
and it spoiled your day...
Look at the bright side,
she's a really good lay.

2. How could two people as beautiful as you ...
(inside card)
Have such an ugly baby?

3. My tire was thumping....
I thought it was flat....
when I looked at the tire....
I noticed your cat... Sorry

4. You had your bladder removed
and you're on the mends....
here's a bouquet of flowers
and a box of Depends.

5. Happy Birthday, Uncle Dad!
(Available only in Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and West Virginia)

6. I must admit,
You brought religion into my life ...
(inside card)
I never believed in Hell
Until I met you.

7. When we were together,
You said you'd die for me ...
(inside card)
Now that we've broken up,
I think it's time
To keep your promise.

8. Congratulations on your new bundle of joy ...
(inside card)
Did you ever find out who the father was?

9. You are such a good friend!
If we were on a sinking ship
And there was only one life jacket ...
(inside card)
I'd miss you terribly

10. Happy Vasectomy!
Hope you feel zippy!
'Cause when I had mine
I got real snippy.

11. Heard your wife left you...
How upset you must be...
But don't fret about it ....
She moved in with me

12. Congratulations on your promotion.
Before you go ...
(inside card)
Will you take the knife from my back?
You'll probably need it again.

13. Congratulations on your wedding day!
(inside card)
Guess you didn't tell this one that you have genital herpes.

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Here's the deal...

2008-04-23T05:53:00.000-07:00

I have been a very bad blogger friend. I realize this. I apologize. Recently, I realized that since August, I have gained 20 lbs. Most of you don't know, but two years ago, I began my weight loss journey. I started eating right and exercising in May 2006, and by December, I had lost 55 lbs. Well, now, I found 20 of them and I am very upset by this. So I have decided to do something. I joined Weight Watchers and I am back at the gym 3+ days a week. Not the 5 days I was doing before, but life is much busier these days. So, wish me luck. I have 50+ lbs to lose!

Just for fun, I stole this from The FABULOUS Jenn at Enjoying the Ride.

1. How old will you be in 3 years? 35...ouch. 2. Do you think you'll be married by then? I would assume so, yes.
3. What do you look forward to most in the next 2 months? losing weight and fitting into my shorts from last year!
4. Who was the last person you called? Doug (our friend/Zac's co-worker)
5. Have you ever played a team sport? Softball, soccer and cheerleading in Jr. High/High School
6. Who was the last person to text you? Doug (It was American Idol night!)
7. Who was the last person you hugged? Kendall
8. What were you doing at midnight last night? Sleeping
9. Parents separated/divorced/married? married to each other for 38 years! Wowza!
10. Last time you saw your dad? Gosh, I don't even know. Christmas??
11. What happened at 9:00 a.m. today? I lost my crystal ball, so I can't tell ya!
12. How many states have you visited? Geez, I'm supposed to COUNT and think at 6 am? I think not. Probably like 10 or so.
13. If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be? Disneyland with my family-I love that place.
14. Do you prefer shoes, socks, or bare feet? socks. Not a foot fan.
15. Are you a social person? Yes, I am, most of the time. Unless I am in a group where I don't know most people, then I am quiet. Not shy in the least, though.
16. What was the last thing you drank? water
17. Favorite ice cream? chocolate malted crunch from Rite Aid.
18. What is your favorite dessert? Key Lime Cheesecake is pretty darn good!
19. Whats your favorite color? Purple, purple, purple!
20. What Jelly do you put on your PBJ? razzleberry.
21. Do you like coffee? yes, I do, but I prefer Chai tea if I am having caffeine.
22. How many glasses of water a day do you drink on average? about 120 oz of water a day. So, divide that by 8...
23. What do you drink in the morning? water or Chai tea.
24. Would you rather kiss someone with or without a tongue ring? I have never kissed anyone with a tongue ring, but I think it would be very interesting!
25. Do you sleep on a certain side of the bed? Yes, I do.
26. Do you know how to play poker? I think so. I can never remember though.
27. Whats so good about Fridays? The Weekend!
28. Any plans to visit the green monkeys on GoofyAuctions.com? No, no desire, thanks.
29. Do you eat out or at home more often? home
30. How big is your TV? it's pretty small. Like 25 inches.
31. Ever stolen a street sign? No, I have not.
32. Do you keep a piggy bank? I don't, but Zac has a ginormous pickle jar he keeps change in.
34. Have you ever been in an ambulance? no
35. Do you prefer the ocean or a pool? Pool, the ocean scares me.
36. Do you prefer a window seat or an aisle seat? I am not picky.
38. What is your favorite thing to spend money on? kids clothes.
39. Do you wear any jewelry 24/7? My wedding set.
40. Do you speak any other language? I can remember a bit of Spanish from m y years in HS, but I couldn't carry on a convo.
41. Can you roll your tongue? yes.
42. Who is the funniest person you know? My Zac is hilarious.
43. Do you sleep with stuffed animals? Nope. Who needs one when you have an (almost) 4 year old snuggling with you??
44. What is the main ring tone on your phone? It was the "Office" theme, but I had to change it, because I never heard it. I just always thought the radio was playing the Office music. So, it's the Nostalgic ring tone.
45. Do you still have clothes from when you were little? Nope.
46. What is the color of your bedroom wall? blue paneling
47. Do you shut off the water when you brush your teeth? I don't think I do.
48. Are you crushing on someone right now? Just my husband!
49. Do you currently hate someone? No way! I ain't no hater!
50. Why do you take surveys? What else am I gonna do at 6 am?

TT # 26 - 13 Expressions for the Stressful Days

2008-04-17T06:05:00.000-07:00

Because I have been stressin' lately, I thought this was appropriate. We DID get a truck. I will post about it as soon as I get some pics of it.

13 Expressions for Stressful Days

1. Don't bother me. I'm living happily ever after.
2. This isn't an office. It's Hell with fluorescent lighting.
3. I refuse to star in your psychodrama.
4. And which dwarf are you?
5. Therapy is expensive, poppin' bubble wrap is cheap! You choose.
6. And your crybaby whiny-assed opinion would be...?
7. I'm not crazy, I've just been in a very bad mood for 30 years.
8. Are these your eyeballs? I found them in my cleavage.
9. I'm not your type. I'm not inflatable.
10. I'm trying to imagine you with a personality.
11. How many times do I have to flush before you go away?
12. Nice perfume. Must you marinate in it?
13. Gene Police!!! Get out of the pool!!

Stressin'

2008-04-13T06:58:00.001-07:00

You may (or may not) have noticed that I haven't been around commenting this past week. It's OK if you haven't noticed ;). I am stressed. Last Sunday, I was driving my husband's truck and the freakin' Engine Blew! Of course, I had the boys with me, so I stopped to call the husband since I didn't want to wait three hours for a tow truck to fit all three of us. Did he answer either phone? Of course not... So, I kept trying to start the dang truck and it kept making this really high revving noise. Then, the third time, there was no revving, just loud knocking. Well, I was only a mile and a half from home. SO, I turned up the stereo (I hate myself for lovin' you by Joan Jett - kind of fitting for the enraged feelings I had at that particular moment) and headed home.

So, long story even longer... we are looking for a truck. We didn't want to and it's not at all financially convenient right now, but we are. We have some things in our favor, though. The first and most important being that we have EXCELLENT credit. So, basically, these car salesman fall at our feet. They WANT to work with us, and we have the upper hand, so that's nice. That's also why it's taken a full week to find what we want. We aren't settling for less than we deserve. But, we weren't planning on doing this for a year {sigh}.

I will try to be better this week in posting. I have had a lot I have wanted to say, but all my spare time has been spent looking for a flippin' truck!!

The Dancing Pickle on Letterman?

2008-04-11T06:10:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken ON location in the now FAMOUS Lodi, CA.

Remember when I posted about how I was mad at the Pickle?

Apparently? I am not the only one.

A couple of weeks ago, this blurb appeared in the the Lodi News-Sentinel Cop Log:

A pickle — the dancing human kind who works for Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop — was blocking traffic. An officer arrived and advised the pickle.

On the evening of April 1st, as part of his regular feature, “Small Town News,” David Letterman read that entry on “The Late Show.” and commented to Paul Schaffer, “You know, that probably happens more than we think. Cops advise pickles all the time.”

So, now, this coming Saturday, the pickle and the Statue of Liberty from the tax service doen the street are having a "dance-off." Yes, a dance-off. Front page news. And you all thought there was nothing to do in Lodi!! HA!

TT #25 - 13 Signs that You have grown up

2008-04-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

1. 6:00 AM is when you get up, not when you go to bed.
2. You hear your favorite song on an elevator.
3. You're the one calling the police because those damn kids next door won't turn down the stereo.
4. Your friends marry and divorce instead of hook up and break up.
5. Older relatives feel comfortable telling sex jokes around you. (This seriously grosses me out! I don't care that we are both adults, you're my UNCLE for cryin' out loud!)
6. You don't know what time Taco Bell closes anymore.
7. You no longer take naps from noon to 6 PM.
8. Eating a basket of chicken wings at 3 AM would severely upset, rather than settle, your stomach.
9. "I just can't drink the way I used to," replaces, "I'm never going to drink that much again."
10. You watch the Weather Channel.
11. Sleeping on the couch makes your back hurt.
12. You feed your dog Science Diet instead of McDonalds leftovers.
13. You read this entire list looking desperately for one sign that this doesn't apply to you.

A meme...sort of

2008-04-08T06:38:00.000-07:00

So, Holleann tagged me for this meme a week and a half ago. It is a Social Saturday Meme. I saw it on that particular Saturday and made a mental note to get to it before bed. After all, I would have to be a MORON to do a "Social Saturday" meme on any other day but a Saturday. I forgot. Then I saw it again on Sunday and said to myself, "Myself, you can do it NEXT Saturday!" Welp, next Saturday came and went and here I am on Tuesay doing the 'Social Saturday' meme I was tagged for on March 29th.

Here is the question:

Wait for it......

Wait for it.....

Today's Saturday Social Question:

Are you a procrastinator?

Must I REALLY answer that??

Someone needs an attitude adjustment!!

2008-04-05T06:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was desperately trying to function on two hours sleep. My daughter, Kendall, had been up ALL night long due to her "itchy Chicken Pops." And when I say all night, I mean ALL. NIGHT. At midnight, I decided I needed her to sleep, so I gave her Benadryl. Well, lucky me. The 'side effects' on the back include drowsiness OR excitability. Just guess which one my daughter had! Yep, so she was up. Just up. And I was tired. AS. ALL. GET. OUT. I don't function well on tired, just so you know.
At 11:30, Kendall and I went to pick up Nolan from school. They wanted Taco Bell. Fine-on ONE condition. I get a nap when we finish lunch. OK. We drive past Mr. Pickle's Sandwich shop. We see the dancing pickle (see photo and picture him groovin')

Now, on any other day, this pickle is hilarious. We drive by and laugh. But on this day, not so funny. ON this day, I roll down my window and say loudly (just in case he can hear underneath all that foamy polyester crap) " THAT dude needs to get a serious life!" Yeah, you have to remember my audience is a 5-year-old and a 3-year-old. Classy, mom.
Next stop, Taco Bell. I go around to go to the drive-thru. There are literally 15+ cars in that line. The line is looping around to the grocery store parking lot. It FIGURES. I carefully examine the few cars ahead of me and take a mental note that they are indeed ALONE. So, I say (out loud, mind you). YEAH, how many of these people are just TOO FREAKIN' lazy and how many of us ACTUALLY have a kid with chicken pox and CANNOT go inside??" Before anyone can answer me, I see the woman in front of me (who just pulled up to the speaker) OPEN her door to place her order. She opened her door, people...I mean is she just an inexperienced drive-thru orderer or what?? Regardless, I had something to say about it. I say, "WHAT A MORON! Who the crap opens their DOOR in the drive-thru to place their order?? IDIOTS!" This is when my 5-year-old chimes in, "Mom, maybe her window's broken." Wonderful, so now I am raising an optimist.

On a good note, I DID get my nap when we got home. The ninja went upstairs and played quietly in his room while the "Chicken Pops" girl and I took an hour and a half nap. I am better today. Talk to me; I promise not to rip your head off!

Thursday Thirteen #24 - 13 Ways to say "You're Stupid" in a Gentle Manner

2008-04-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

1. The wheel's spinning but the hamster's dead
2. He fell out of the stupid tree and hit every branch on the way down
3. Forgot to pay his brain bill
4. A few clowns short of a circus
5. A few fries short of a Happy Meal
6. A few beers short of a six-pack
7. An experiment in artificial stupidity
8. One Fruit Loop shy of a full bowl
9. One taco short of a combo plate
10. All foam, no beer
11. His antenna doesn't pick up all the channels
12. If he had another brain it would be lonely
13. Warning: Objects in mirror are dumber than they appear

I should probably document these things...

2008-03-29T20:50:00.001-07:00

I remember telling myself when I started this blog back in June that I was going to document all the cute fun things my ~~brats~~ lovely children did. I have done that a few times, but honestly, I think I have talked about ME more. Which is perfectly OK with me, because really? Before I started this blog, which forced me talk about myself, I had forgotten who "Me" was. And you know what? I really do, kinda like ME, and you do too, ADMIT it!!

So, I thought I would take the time to share a couple of Nolanisms (aka Ninja Boy), because, after all, he IS my comedian.

I have the most inappropriate child on the face of the planet. There was the time he told his preschool teacher (after she put him in a time-out) “You’re going DOWN, Mrs. Whatsyerface!” (Not really her name, I promise). Or the time he told my Mother in Law (after she told him NO) ” You wanna piece of ME, Punk?” But my personal favorite was when he walked into preschool and (again Mrs. Whatsyerface) told his teacher, “Hey, Is that a banana in your pocket or are you just happy to see me??” The best part? It’s a Christian preschool. I am so glad Mrs. Whatsyerface understands active little boys.

For your viewing pleasure, here is the Ninja (Chicken Pox and all) in the Flesh!

100 Questions answered

2008-03-27T13:45:00.000-07:00

I did have to pick and choose, and I am not planning on posting all the questions with the answers, but I will get to most of them. If there is one you really wanted me to answer that I didn't get to, let me know and I will answer it! So, grab a snack and read away!!

1. My favorite cereal is Lucky Charms, milk is a must
2. The person who has influenced my life the most is my first son.Though he is my most challenging child, he changed me at a time where my life needed it most.
3. If I could change one thing about myself physically: My weight. Otherwise, I would stop gossiping.
4. One thing I am most grateful for in my life is my children. They brighten up my days in a way no one else can. I am grateful I was chosen to be their mommy.
5. if you were at a dinner party and were offered a dish you had never tried, would you want to taste it even if it sounded strange and not appealing? Yes, I will try everything once. Why, Holleeann? Ya gonna have me over for dinner?? LOL
6. The person I admire most is my husband. He gives so unselfishly and loves us unconditionally, and I am inspired by him daily.
7. My "perfect" evening would consist of spending time alone with my husband. It doesn't matter what we are doing, really. OR an entire evening with no fighting children.
8. if you could change one thing about the way you were raised, what would it be? I would not have had an alcoholic father or a mother who enabled him. I love my parents tremendously, but those are two attributes I struggled (still struggle) with.
9. I value HONESTY most in all my relationships.
10. I would absolutely eat a bowl of live crickets for 50,000 dollars. I have a very difficult time saying, "NO" to a dare.
11. Would you make a fool out of yourself in public if it meant you were making your partner laugh? I am always making a fool out of myself in public, so yes, I would. I can be quite a ham if I am contributing to the laughter of others
12. Do you think the family of a murder victim should have any say in what punishment is given to the murderer? Yes, I do. ESPECIALLY if the victim is a child :-(
13. Would you have a ‘Happy Button’ installed on your body, connected to your brain, which would instantly make you very happy whenever you pressed it? During a certain week of the month, Absolutely.
14. I do think it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all. Though, I haven't lost, yet, so I suppose I can't honestly answer that one.
15. The music I am embarrassed to admit I like is definitely Britney Spears. I LOVE "Gimme More" and "Piece of me." I don't really care about admitting I like it so much as I don't like to admit that I turn it up full blast when I am the only one in the car and rock out and sing.
16. I don't honestly think I have let anyone take the blame for something bad I did. I am very guilt-prone and I just couldn't live with myself. I probably did as a kid with my sister, but that doesn't count. Does it?
17. I like my man to have a well groomed, hairy face. He looks like a 12-year-old when he shaves.
18. The stupidest thing I have said and regretted?? A good friend emailed me during "that time of the month" and I was in a bad mood and I emailed her a bunch of mean things. Not too long ago, either. I hurt her and I really regret it. It's a wonderful thing she is so forgiving. I better mind my P's and q's from now on. What does that mean, mind my P's and q's??
19. I don't enjoy eating disgusting things. Unless sushi counts, which it doesn't.
20. I HAVE been pick-pocketed. I was on a youth group trip to San Francisco in 6th grade and while waiting in line for the Wax Museum, my wallet was taken right out of my pocket. I was so sad :-(
21. I have one sibling, a sister who is 3 years and 9 months older than me.
22. I do not want more children, unless we adopt one. THAT I would love to do. Zac wants 14 more, thanks to the Duggar family tv shows. He has been fixed, though, so no more biologically.
23. I was NOT in any High School Clubs, unless partying was a club. I was a cheerleader in my freshman year, though.
24. I met my hubby at an engagement party for mutual friends. I couldn't stand him. More on that at a later time ;-)
25. After a stressful day, I usually plop on the couch and watch tv. I love tv. Every so often, I DO have a glass of wine, but I am not REALLY a Sneaky Bottlesipper. That's just a front ;-)
26. Would you rather have a super popular child who is dumber then a brick or a really smart child but has little social aptitude? The latter. I was never super popular. But I am blessed socially (lol). I would hate to have a child with social problems, but hey, at least I wouldn't have to try and help with math.
27. Blind or deaf?? Deaf. I could still communicate with my hands, and I wouldn't be missing out on all the goodness that God has given us.
28. My most embarrassing moment as a mother? It was at my 6 week check-up after having Kendall. I went to use the restroom, and I guess I forgot to lock the door. So, I am on the toilet, pants to my ankles, spread eagle, when a woman walks in. She screamed, I screamed. It was a mess. When I came out, she was nowhere to be found. I think I heard someone come in and say they saw a woman running down the street gouging out her eyeballs.
29. Would you rather home school all of your kids or send them to a school that had low academics? For this reason, I would homeschool.
30. I am an underwire gal. If not, the girls hang down to my belly Button and NO ONE wants to see that!
31. Funniest joke I ever heard?? A pirate walks into a bar with a steering wheel sticking out of his pants. The bartender says, "Hey Pirate...do you realize there is a steering wheel sticking out of your pants?" The pirate walks over to the bartender and says, "ARRRGGHHH..it's drivin' me nuts!"
31. I pee in the shower and in the pool. Wanna come over and swim???
32. My favorite drink is Iced Tea
33. My best choice ever was marrying my husband.
34. My fave flower is a gerbera daisy
35. I DO have my ears pierced. Once.
36. I can't leave home without my bra, See #30 for the reason.
37. I LOVE MAC make-up. Love it!!
38. My secret celebrity crush is no longer a secret, since I had it in my photo meme. I am not ashamed to admit it's Justin Timberlake. He has officially brought sexy back!! Meeooowww!!
39. The weirdest place I have puked?? In Santa Barbara in front of a pizza place. I was 14 and I was visiting my sister and her friends got me all drunk. I never drank after that until I was a grown up. The partying in HS did not include alcohol.
40. No mile high club for me. I will have to talk to my husband about that.
41. Fave cleaning product? That would imply I clean. I don't have a fave. I hate to clean.
42. My favorite shoes are my Mary Jane Crocs.
43. My fave piece of jewelry are my diamond earrings made from the engagement ring of my husband's grandmother.
44. I don't have a Favorite blog to read. Each blog I read gives me something different. Some are funny, some I can relate to entirely, some are inspirational.
45. If you could choose a different decade to be born in what would it be? I guess the 50's or 60's. I am a closet hippie and I would have loved to live in the hippie days.
46. My most annoying habit is eating when I am bored.
47. I have grown to love my name. Especially with my last name. Everyone thinks I am crazy Irish, when I really am not.
48. An embarrassing celebrity crush I had in 6th grade was hands down-Kirk Cameron.
49. I have never seen a ghost. My sister did, though. I don't get scared too easily.
50. least favorite chore is vacuuming
51. I love the theater, but can't get Zac to go with me.
52. My favorite cookie is White Chocolate Macadamia Nut.
53. I love Thrifty brand Chocolate Malted Crunch Ice Cream.
54. if you could only pick one food you had to eat everyday. for the rest of forever what would it be and why? Salad. I HEART salad.
I could eat it all the time and never get sick of it. Too bad I don't.
55. I am a sour girl, but love me some sweets when the time is right.
56. My favorite movie genre: I LOVE Romantic Comedies, and if they are from the 80's, even better!
57. My most fave song ever is "Deeper than the Holler" by Randy Travis.
58. Fave position?? I really think I like 3rd base, even though they always put me in the outfield ;-)
59. I wax my eyebrows on occasion, but I prefer to shave everywhere else.
60. My favorite exercise is the elliptical. I don't go to the gym nearly as often as I should these days, but I am slowly getting back.
61. A trait that I would like my children to have is good manners, if only for other people. My 12-year-old already has them, but I am training the others.
62. My favorite store is Target. You can find me in there a few times a week, LOVE it!
63. My favorite restaurant is The Outback, but the more kids I have the more I am loving The Old Spaghetti Factory.
64. If I could choose any super power, i would SO fly.
65. Do you like parties or small gatherings? I think I prefer small gatherings with close friends who think I am funny ;-)
66. How many best friends have you had in your life? Honestly, a lot. For some reason, I still keep in touch with almost ALL my High School/junior High friends, too.
67. I am not a cat person. At all.
68. What color do you hate? Ummmm, I don't really HATE a color. I won't wear orange, though.
69. If you were going to flee the country would it be Mexico or Canada? I would say Mexico 'cause the food is good, but my dad is from Canada, and I have family there, so realistically, Canada.
70. Did you birth all of your children in a hospital? Yep, and the first two were natural. Girls ain't nothin' but trouble, I tell ya.
71. What beauty product can you not live without? There is nothing I couldn't live without. I am not a girly girl and I don't wear make up on a regular basis. Does toothpaste count as a beauty product. Believe me, you don't want to talk to me when my teeth aren't brushed.
72. 13 Going on 3o is one movie I can watch over and over and never get tired of it. Also, The Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink, and Sixteen Candles.
73. My dream car right now is the '08 Dodge Grand Caravan.
74. My favorite cartoon as a kid was the Smurfs. I just bought Season One on amazon, too. Now, my kids like it, also.
75. If you had fertility issues would you adopt, sperm donor, etc. to what extent would you go for children? I would have gone to any extent I had to for children. We still may adopt one more (Zac is fixed), but I am already halfway crazy with 3.
76. What's your fantasy job? I always wanted to be an actress growing up. Then I could date some hottie actors.
77. If you wrote a cookbook - what would you name it? Meals You can Cook while your Kids are Buggin the Crap Outta you and won't leave you alone. For some reason, I can't find a publisher, though.
78. Flowers, candy, presents or sex? Flowers or pressies, please :)
79. My love language is ABSOLUTELY Acts of Service.
80. My most embarrassing moment (besides the whole coochie show at the Dr's office) In 9th grade I was wearing my purple MC Hammer pants at the bus stop in front of the school. It was a half day and EVERYONE ( I do mean everyone!) was waiting for the bus to go to the beach. Erik Nielsen came behind me and pantsed me. My pants were around my ankles. I was so pissed. It was a good thing I was wearing a bathing suit, but it didn't matter when it came to Erik's fate. He got a sock-right in the nose!
81. Stupid things that you still have guilt over... I really try not to carry around a lot of guilt. I feel bad for people whom I have treated badly in school, though.
82. My favorite scent is fresh baked cookies.
83. I want a Dodge Grand Caravan with the swivel seats and the table, but I cann't afford. Therefore, I drive a 99 Ford Taurus.
84. I am not a hoarder, really. I do keep a lot of Kendall's old clothes to make a quilt someday, though.
85. I am terrible at Algebra, Geometry or anything they learn after 5th grade.
86. I love English and I will correct all your grammar and spelling. It literally makes me cringe to see a misspelling or major grammatical error.
87. I am learning to sew. I have made 4 aprons (on my 5th and 6th now) and I love it! It is so much fun. In fact, I have a few dresses to sew and I think I may do that today.
88. NO way on Panty Hose. Ever. I hate the stuff.
89. When I pick my nose, I flick my boogers. Wherever they land, is where they land.
90. If you go to bed and there is clean laundry on the bed, what do you do with it? Lucky for me, there are always BASKETS of clean laundry in the hallway outside my room or in my bedroom, so there is ALWAYS somewhere to put it!
91. I would love to go n a cruise to the Bahamas with my husband for our 10th anniversary (May 2010).
92. I collect Wizard of Oz figurines, dolls, lunch boxes, plates, etc. I love the Wizard of Oz.
93. My favorite comfort food is Pizza. For sure. I love pizza. Or Ice Cream. I LOVE Ice Cream. Or cookies. I love cookies, too. Or Sushi. I could eat sushi all the time. I just love food. I stuff my face with whatever is accessible when I need comforting.
94. If I could eat Ice Cream for every meal without gaining weight, I SO would. I love it to pieces.
95. My favorite toy as a child was my big wheel. I loved riding that thing (I was an absolute tomboy)
96. PICKING ZITS IS...Necessary. I cannot stand to have one, and I will pick it til it scars and I don't give a crap.
97. I really wish I was a better writer. I can think of what I want to say and how to say it, but when it comes down to writing it, I suck.
98. My best make out session was in 9th grade with Eric Connelly. He had been around the block a time or two, and I hadn't. We made out for hours, but I wasn't gonna give up my Carnal Treasure, so he broke up with me. Ass.
99. I love The Office and Grey's Anatomy
100. I am so thankful I have discovered blogging. I love my bloggy friends!!

Whew!! That was 3 days of question answering. Thank you all for the thought provoking questions!!

This killin' Time Is Killin' Me.

2008-03-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

Just killin' time until I can post my 100 things about me. This here is post 99. I have the 100 things all written out. Does anyone actually want to see it?? Maybe tomorrow, maybe Friday...We will see....

OK, I am ALL set on questions!

2008-03-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

In two more posts, YOU will get all the information you have NEVER wanted to know about me! I'll bet you can't wait!!

Easter

2008-03-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Easter was not the same this year. This year, I got the kids (and Zac) up at 5:15 to attend the 6 am 'Sunrise Service' at the lake. It was beautiful and the kids were quiet (except when Zac pulled Kendall's baby hairs as he was adjusting her blanket). After the service, we went to IHOP with some our our good friends that we saw as we were leaving the service. IHOP is nasty though. Not much to choose from on Easter Sunday, though.

Then (this is the sad, "woe is me" part), Zac left to go to Grammie's (Brandon has been with Zac's dad and met them there). I know I have mentioned her before. Grammie is Zac's 89-year-old Grandmother and I love her to pieces. JUST adore her. However, since Nolan had the chicken pox last week (they are crusted over now and most are gone, even), we are anticipating Kendall getting it, and if with has an ounce of cooties, we needed to stay away.

So, what did we do? The kids played with their new art supplies, and I watched movies. After movies. Saw the end of "Cheaper by the dozen." Watched "13 Going on 30" for the hundredth time. Saw "In Her Shoes." It was a on-productive, feel sorry for me kinda day.

I think this is the last year the Easter Bunny will come. We can dye eggs and stuff, still, but not the baskets and what have you. I have always really hated the idea, as it really takes away from the true meaning of "Resurrection Day." When Nolan found his gift he said, "This is NOT what I wanted." I was mad and I of course told him, "Well, Jesus didn't WANT to die on the cross, but HE did!" (We pull out the "Jesus died on the cross" card every time they complain about going to church, etc. ie: "It's a good thing Jesus wasn't too tired to die on the cross for us!")) Nolan got the deer in the headlights look and then sucked up his disappointment.

I hope everyone had a great Resurrection Sunday!

2008-03-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

Some picture fun!! I love these.

2008-03-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

I snagged this from Julie and I am pretty sure Andrea did it, too!

Go to Photobucket.com search for each of the answers to these questions. and copy the html code and paste your answer.

1. What is your relationship status?

2. Who is your celebrity crush?
(Shut up-you KNOW he's hot..bringin' sexy back)

3. Who is your favorite band?
(Randy Travis has been my favorite for 17 years!)

4. What is your favorite movie?

and

5. What kind of pet do you have?
(this really was the pic that came up under dog and cat)

6. Where do you live?

7. where do you work?

8. What do you look like?

9. What do you drive?

10. What's your favorite TV show?

11. Describe yourself.

and

12. What's your name?

13. What's your favorite candy?
( I can never find these anywhere. If you find them and send them to me, I would be forever indebted to you!!)

Things that bug the crap outta me...ongoing

2008-03-22T06:37:00.000-07:00

So, back in November, I posted this as a Thursday Thirteen. But, every so often I am doing something and I think...MAN, I SO should have included that in my "Things That Bug The Crap Outta Me" post. So, I think from now on, when I think of one, I will just have to say it. Maybe I should put it as a favorite on my sidebar and just add to it...what do YOU think??

I will just share a few more here....

People who are not fat saying just how fat they are. Y'know, unless you are 200+ pounds, or a size 16 or larger, I don't want to hear from you. You are NOT FAT. So, stop with the "woe is me" routine and just shut it. I? AM FAT. And I am not going to listen to your 165 pound ass complaining about how your ass can't fit in your size 6 jeans.

Liars. Just tell me the truth already. I don't bite...hard.

When I see on my sitemeter that various people have stopped by without commenting. I mean, truthfully...do I smell or something?? (Clarification: It does not bother me when I see a regular commenter not comment...its the lurkers that bug me. Heaven knows I am guilty of not ALWAYS commenting!)

People who used to be fat, but are now thin, who act like they have never BEEN fat and don't know what it's like. Get off your high horse. You used to look like a sow, too, ya know?!?!

When I bloghop and comment on people's blogs, and they don't have the decency to even come by my blog...Bah!

I will have to add more as they come up. I can't strain my brain too hard. It's not even 7 am yet.

A boy who misses his mama

2008-03-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

This is my boy, Brandon. He is 12 1/2.

Brandon is at his Grandpa's house until Sunday. He's been there since Wednesday. He is there because he was going stir crazy (he has ADHD) cooped up in the house with his siblings and chicken pox.

Today, I checked my email and this is what I found:
Hi mommy! I miss you alot. When I get back Im gonna do everything I can to be awesome for you in my behavior. I hope the little bra... I mean Nolan and Kendall are doing good.
I MISS YOU A WHOLE GARBAGE LOAD YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love you,

Your loving, handsome, and most dashing son,
Brandon
P.S. I STILL MISS YOU!!!!

Isn't he sweet??

One more, just to prove he's my son....what a geek!

Help...I need somebody...Help!

2008-03-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

OK, so I don't really NEED somebody, but I do do need help. My 100th post is rapidly approaching...

I really wanted to write 100 things about me, but I am so dang unoriginal, I wouldn't be able to come up with anything original to say about ME. Sooooo, if you all wouldn't mind asking me a few questions so I have some ideas, I would be SO grateful!
ANd, yeah, in case you are wondering, I totally stole the idea from Cecily. The only difference is that I am a loser and have no prizes to give!

SO, ask me ANYTHING...what have you always wanted to know about Kelly??

I am gonna keep this as a sticky for a week, so check below for new posts!!

Look what the cat Chicken drug in!

2008-03-17T06:25:00.000-07:00

Remember this?? Well, last night as I was getting the kids ready for bed, I noticed I have a spotted little boy. There are only about 20 spots as of now, but it's definitely the "Chicken Pops" (as his sister would say). So, along with the spots, he has a fever and is vomiting a bit, so looks like a "stay inside and cater to the prince" week. That is, of course, until the princess gets it...

OH...Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

What's your leprechaun name??

2008-03-14T16:33:00.000-07:00

Your Leprechaun Name Is:

Sneaky Bottlesipper

What's Your Leprechaun Name?

DUDE! It's like they KNOW me!!

I'm the mommy, THAT'S why!

2008-03-13T22:15:00.000-07:00

I'm a yeller. Not proud of it, but I am. I yell for the kids to get dressed for school. I yell because we are running late for school. I yell up the stairs at the kids to come down for dinner. I yell when I am mad, happy, whatever. Just call me a big, fat loud mouth. I am a yeller.

Zac (hubby) is a lecturer. He lectures. All. The. Time. When the kids get a bad grade, they can expect to sit down and listen to dad discuss it for an eternity. When they do what they aren't supposed to do, dad will "talk" to them about it. You get the drift.

Personally, having lived with the latter growing up (of course, mine was a drunk lecturer. Zac just lectures), I would much prefer to be yelled at.

So, when Nolan told me this afternoon, "I don't have to listen to YOU; YOU aren't the boss. DAD IS!!", did I yell at him?? Nope. I told on him.

Who's the Boss Now, Punk?

Thursday 13 #23 - Irish Toasts

2008-03-13T06:24:00.000-07:00

13 Irish Toasts

In Celebration of St. Patty's Day, I thought I'd pay a little tribute to all the fellow Irish!! (I am not actually Irish, my name just sounds like I am. My husband and children, however...are.)

1. May you live as long as you want, and never want as long as you live.
2. May you live to be a hundred years, with one extra year to repent.
3. As you slide down the banisters of life may the splinters never point the wrong way.
4. May your troubles be as few and as far apart as my Grandmothers teeth.
5. May the Lord keep you in His hand and never close His fist too tight.
6. May your neighbors respect you, Trouble neglect you, The angels protect you, And heaven accept you.
7. May you die in bed at ninety-five years, shot by a jealous husband(or wife).
8. May your doctor never earn a dollar out of you and may your heart never give out. May the ten toes of your feet steer you clear of all misfortune, and before you're much older, may you hear much better toasts than this.
9. Beautiful young people are acts of nature, But beautiful old people are works of art.
10. May I see you grey and combing your children's hair.
11. May you have the hindsight to know where you've been, the foresight to know where you're going and the insight to know when you're going too far.
12. May the hinges of our friendship never grow rusty.
13. May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings, slow to make enemies, quick to make friends. But rich or poor, quick or slow, may you know nothing but happiness from this day forward.

And, one more, just because it's hilarious!!

Here's to our wives and girlfriends:
May they never meet!

Little Girls

2008-03-10T21:11:00.001-07:00

Before I moved to where I am living now, I went to church with a family who had 6 girls. Six. Every time I saw this family, the mom was pregnant. I KNOW they were trying for that boy, but that never happened. The kids names were Rachel, Leslie, Who knows, Who knows, Rebekah and Danielle (The middle children are always ignored anyway, right??). Anyway, I always imagined the mom stumbling around the house drinking vodka from the flower vase singing, "Little Girls" like Miss Hannigan on Annie. I wonder if she ever did that. I SO would if I had six girls.

2008-03-08T08:29:00.000-08:00

I don't know if I've ever had a migraine. Does it feel as if brain matter is going to explode through your temples any moment?? If, so, I have one.

Fantastic time to step in the "puddle in front of the toilet," wouldn't you say? (those of you with ~~husbands~~ boys know what I am talking about.) I'm not cleaning it up, either.

Washing my life away...

2008-03-07T09:56:00.001-08:00

After much research and going back and forth between, "Do I want a front loader because they look so dang cool" and "Do I want a top loader that holds more," I went with the latter. I decided that it is much more important to me to be able to do THREE loads of laundry in one wash with a 4.5 SUPER CAPACITY tub! Plus, it looks kinda cool too, with the glass top and all. Oh, I am so excited!! Now, I will sit here and wait. They will be here between 1-5 today!!

I give you the WHIRLPOOL CABRIO Washer and Dryer...

Thursday 13 # 22 - Play my Trivia Challenge!

2008-03-06T06:37:00.000-08:00

13 Reasons YOU should play my daily Trivia Challenge - Every Day! (on my sidebar, of course)

1. Who doesn't like trivia??
2. You need something to do besides blog all day long (for the SAHM's out there...'cause really all we do is blog, eat bon bons and watch soaps ALL. DAY. LONG.)
3. Come on-stimulate that MOMMY brain!
4. You aren't afraid to LOSE against ME! (No, I am not competitive AT.ALL.)
5. It's timed. so even if we both got them all correct, the one that does it in the fastest time is the REAL winner!
6. I need some people to play against me.
7. You enjoy a bit of a challenge
8. You REALLY love me and want to be a part of everything I am involved in. (Shut up. You KNOW it's true.)
9. You don't want to hurt my precious feelings by not playing :-(
10. Every month, the one with the most wins will get a special bloggy prize from ME!!
11. The questions are really pretty simple, I swear.
12. You want everyone to think you are super smart. Imagine your children's reaction. "Wow, mom (or dad), you got ALL those questions right?? WOW, you must be like really smart and stuff!"
13. YOU WANNA WIN!!!

My daughter

2008-03-04T13:46:00.000-08:00

I ate one of her goldfish crackers and she starts screaming at me.

"I HATE YOU!" Then in her sweetest little angel voice she says, " Well, I hate you a little, but I love you a lot."

Am I supposed to be gaga over that?

BTW, "hate" is not a word the kids are allowed to use. THAT is why she said afterwards that she "only" hates me a little bit, but she loves me a lot. I just thought it was sort of funny.

The Secret Life of a Soccer mom

2008-03-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

Did anyone else catch this show on TLC tonight? Did anyone else feel like vomiting after doing so??
I found this show so completely degrading to Stay at Home Moms everywhere. Basically, it takes a Stay at Home mom and puts her in her "dream career" for a week while dad tends to the kids. At the end of the show, they offer the mom a full time position, as if what she is doing at home is unimportant. The whole time they are talking about how she has sacrificed her life to be home with her kids. I am sorry, but I don't feel like it's a sacrifice to raise my children.
Yes, I did put my career dreams aside so I can raise my children, but you know what?? It was the best damn decision I ever made! And I would do it again in a heartbeat, AND I respect and admire any woman who does this for their children. The best gift you can give your children is your presence. I sincerely believe that. Now, this is not to say that if you do have a career that you are a neglectful parent. There are many reasons why both parents need to work. But DAMN! This television program made it seem that those of us who choose to stay home are doing a disservice to ourselves. What about our children?? I didn't have three children just so I can pawn them off on someone else. I CHOSE to have three children so that I can raise them and love them and give them security day in and day out. Sure, maybe I put my career on hold, but mark my words: I am absolutely LIVING MY DREAM. And, I am positive that my children will thank me for it someday.

30 Things

2008-03-02T14:52:00.000-08:00

I found this on Jenn's site, and though she didn't exactly "tag" me for this, I am doing it anyway because I know you are all DYING to know more about me. Plus, I am on a blogging roll lately and who knows when I will be again!!

1. If your doctor told you TODAY that you were pregnant, what would you say? Well, I guess now is as good a time as any to tell Zac about the lawn boy....(Zac has had a vasectomy...J/K about the lawn boy. Of course, if he looked like the one on Desperate Housewives...)

2. Do you trust all of your friends? Mostly. The ones I don't trust aren't true friends.

3. Would you move to another state or country to be with the one you love? Yep, absolutely. I would live anywhere as long as my family was there with me.

4. Do you believe that everything happens for a reason? Yes, I believe in God and I believe that He makes everything happen for a reason.

5. Can you make a dollar in change right now? Yep, I absolutely could. Which is weird, because I never, NEVER have cash.

6. Which one of your friends do you think would make the best doctor? Oh gosh, you would all have to be assuming that I have smart friends.

7. What naughty word do you use too often? Naughty?? Or bad? I say too many bad words, but when I hear "naughty" I think of sex...so, the naughty word that I like to use is "hump." I know, so juvenile.

8. Is there someone who pops into your mind at random times? Yes, there is someone. Old friends pop into my head a lot.

9. What's your most favorite scar? I don't have a lot of scars, but I do like the story behind the huge long one on my leg. Yep, I shaved for the first time at 12 and I STILL have the scar!

10. When was the last time you flew in a plane? Gosh, I don't really remember. Maybe 10 years ago to go to Washington. Wow, it's been a while.

11. What features do you find most attractive in the preferred sex? Ha ha...Preferred sex. I am sorry, that cracked me up. So PC, dontcha think?? I guess the eyes, but OMG I am totally laughing at the "preferred sex."

12. Fill in the blank. I love __________. Ice Cream.

13. What is a goal you would like to accomplish in the near future? I would like to get another "A" in this Child Development class. I would also like to get a job next year at a preschool that Kendall is attending.

14. If you were to wake up from being in a coma for an extended time who would you call? Assuming my husband was with me, I would call my mom and dad and my sister.

15. Where was your favorite picture taken? I like the pic of my husband and I at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in the faux clam shell. (see profile pic)

16. What's your middle name? Jean

17. Honestly, what's on your mind right now? This survey. I find it incredibly difficult to talk about me.

18. If you could go back in time and change something, what would it be? I would have given each of my children a second middle name. I know it's lame, but I always wanted more "biblical" names for my children and they don't have them. So, like Brandon Alexander Josiah or Nolan Patrick Silas or Kendall Norine Grace. I told you before, I love names.

19. Who was or will be the maid of honor/best man in your wedding? My sister was my maid of honor and my friend Connie was my Matron of Honor.

20. What are you wearing right now? Some cozy pants and a cozy sweater thingy.

21. Ever had a bar fight? No, I don't go to bars.

22. Who knows you the best? Besides myself, Zac does.

23. Did you buy something today? Just pizza for lunch.

24. Did you get in a fight with someone today? No, but Zac has been a grump, so I have been pissy.

25. When was the last time you had a massage? About 4 months ago. It was rad.

26. Last person to see you cry? My Doctor. I hate that.

27. Who made you cry? Aunt Flo.

28. What was the last TV show you watched? LOST, I guess.

29. Who was the last person you hung out with? My family and our friends Star and Zack and their kids.

30. Have you ever taken a peek at someone else's diary? Yes, I looked at my sister's Diary when I was younger. It was mean and awful. I found out a lot of things. Had a ton of ammo that I eventually used on her.

"Say What??"

2008-03-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

Holleeann from thevasquez3 high fived (tagged) me for this really fun hoopla (meme) she called it "Say What?!" and here's how it works:
1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Just list 10 things that won't likely ever come out of your mouth.
3. High-five (or 'tag') any amount of people to do the same on their blog.
4. Then come back here to Home is Where the Mom Is and let me know that you did it.

1. "I love it when you yell and scream and fight during breakfast. Just the perfect way to start my day."
2. "No, I don't want a bigger car. My car holds five very tightly, and since we have a family of 5, it works perfectly for us."
3. "Oh, I love being fat!"
4. "Hey, honey, come sit right beside me and cuddle away."
5. "Would you like a foot rub??"
6. "I don't mind at all if you are late. Every. single. time."
7. "Could you please whine a little louder?? I don't think I heard you."
8. " Oh, is that spelled wrong? I didn't even notice."
9. "Yes, I have been sitting on my a$$ all day. Hand me some more bon bons would ya?"
10. "No, thanks. I have all the money I need. You can keep the inheritance."

I will just tag a couple people for this one. Julia at crazymama and Jen at enjoying the ride

7 Random Things

2008-03-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

The rules are as follows:

I was actually tagged a while back, too, but I will do it again. For the first one, see this link.

#1 Link to the person who tagged you....Andrea at Raising 4 Boys
#2 Post the rules on your blog.
#3 Share seven random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
#4 Tag seven random people at the end of your post, and include links to their blogs.
#5 Leave a comment on their blogs so that they know they have been tagged.

#1 - I have a really bad habit of boxing cars in when I can see they are in a hurry and going dangerously above the speed limit. I will get in front of them and I will stay at the same speed as the car directly beside me so that they can't get by either way. I know...ANNOYING!

#2 - I don't like when people are late or flaky. I get very irritated. I am ALWAYS on time or early, and I expect a phone call if you are running late or if you are not going to fulfill your promise.

#3 - I prefer my children to call grown-ups by Mr. and Mrs. so-and-so. I think it's because I like to be called by Mrs. Kelly or my last name by children. I believe it is more respectful.

#4 - I am quite shy when I don't know people I am with. However, when I do get to know you, watch out! I may never shut up! (Anyone seen the In Living Color with the shy girl at the party, then she starts singing and won't shut up?? Yeah, that.)

#5 - I hate feet. They gross me out. Nasty toenails and callouses. Ew. When someone starts talking about feet, I gag. I gag when I think about pedicures and all that stuff. But I love baby feet and little kid feet.

#6 - I met Corey Feldman when Zac and I were dating. We were at an 80's concert (It was in 1999) and Corey Feldman was a guest star there. I made Zac wait in line for an hour and a half so I could meet him and get my pic taken with him. Someday I may post that picture. If you don't know who Corey Feldman is, well, I feel awful sorry for you.

#7- In 9th grade I had planned on kissing a boy I really liked. I had really bad breath and NO money. I asked everyone I knew if they had gum, and no one did. I tried to steal a pack and I got too scared. I drank water and it didn't mask the smell. He kept wanting to kiss me and we finally did and guess what? He said I had really bad breath and he had changed his mind about me. Doh!

Now 7 people to tag. I tag....

Jenn at Enjoying the Ride
Janie at ThinkHappyThawts
Holleeann at theVasquez3
Leeann at the World through the eyes of me
Sheri at Pants Optional
Julia at Crazy Mama of 6
AND
Lisa (who doesn't post enough) at God's Greatest Gift to me

Yeah, I'll have the Chicken Pox to go, please...

2008-02-29T15:36:00.000-08:00

Sounds weird, huh? Yeah, everyone I tell thinks I am a little bit loopy (which is debatable). I went to someone's house today that I have never met because I want my kids to get the chicken pox. Her kids have them. If nothing else, the kids had a fantabulous time playing together. I figure, I would much rather them get it now rather than when they are older. So, yeah, there's my story. Take me off your blogroll if you think I am a major freak, or embrace my freakishness. Whatever. You know you love me.

TT # 21 Wacky Warnings

2008-02-28T06:14:00.000-08:00

These are actual warning labels found on products. Some are pretty good!

1. On a shower cap: Fits one head (Sorry, freaks.)
2. On a child's scooter: This product moves when used (Uh, really?? Like, it actually moves and stuff?? Take it back, that's just crazy talk!)
3. Inside a six-inch plastic bag: Do not climb inside this bag and zip it. Doing so will cause injury or death. (You hear that? DO NOT climb inside!)
4. On an insect spray: This product not tested on animals (well, great...that's really encouraging)
5. On a can of pepper spray: May irritate eyes (MAY? MAY irritate eyes?? Comforting.)
6. On a fishing lure with a three-pronged hook: Harmful if swallowed (What do you think will happen if I just TRY??)
7. On a carpenter's drill: Not intended for use as a dental drill (That's right, Cletus, you may have to take mama to the ACTUAL dentist.)
8. On a package of earplugs: These earplugs are non-toxic, but may interfere with breathing if caught in the windpipe (So, you're telling me that JUST because they are non-toxic doesn't mean that I should eat them? Hmmmm...there's a concept.)
9. On a food processor: Not to be used for the other use (Is anyone else super curious as to what that "other use" may be??)
10. On a knife set: Never try to catch a falling knife (But, I'm a ninja!)
11. On a hair dryer: Do not use in shower (Now, does this just mean if the shower is on, because gosh, it sure would be convenient if I COULD use it IN the shower.)
12. On a bottle of dog shampoo:Contents should not be fed to fish (well, crap. I guess I'll just take it back, then!)
13. On a toilet: Recycled flush water unsafe for drinking (But I'm THIIIRRRRSSSSTTTTYYYY!!!!!)

Little Miss Mila Cecilia

2008-02-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday, my good friend, Jeannene and her family got some life-changing news. They found out what they had sort of expected all along; their beautiful 2 year old daughter, Mila, has Autism. As you can imagine, this is a very difficult time for them and they are asking for prayers. If you get a second, please go to Jeannene's blog and leave her a quick comment. She is so grateful for her community of blog friends, and she would really appreciate your support.

Mila is a beautiful, precious little girl. She doesn't smile much, but when she does, she lights up the room. She has such a sweet little personality, and I love her dearly. I feel so blessed, especially now, to be a part of her life. She will do amazing things! The Lord has blessed Jeannene and her family for giving them this amazing little miracle to help nurture and grow. Her autism does not and will not define her!

TT #20 - 80's movies!

2008-02-21T06:12:00.000-08:00

13 of my FAVORITE 80's Movies, Yeah!!

1. The Breakfast Club (Do you know how popular I am?? I am SO popular...)
2. Pretty in Pink (Love me some Duckie!)
3. Sixteen Candles (Fred, she's gotten her boobies.)
4. Some Kind of Wonderful (love Mary Stuart Masterson in this one!)
5. Can't Buy Me Love (I still can't believe that Ronald Miller is now a McDreamy!)
6. St. Elmo's Fire (I only just watched this for the first time last week, and I LOVED it!)
7. Dirty Dancing (Nobody Puts Baby in a Corner)
8. Footloose (Man, Kevin Bacon was so RAD!!)
9. Big (I still get freaked out when I go by he Voltar Machines!)
10. Karate Kid (I had a HUGE crush on Ralph Macchio)
11. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (I sure miss John Candy)
12. Top Gun (this,of course, was before Tom Cruise was, um, different.
13. The Toy (Richard Pryor was awesome!!)

Notice there is still no "Say Anything." I am not a John Cusack fan. I hope I don't disappoint those of you who love that movie, lol!

Mommy in Training

2008-02-20T19:30:00.000-08:00

My neighbor, Vickie, watches my daughter, Kendall every Tuesday for me while I work in Nolan's classroom. She is the RADDEST neighbor EVER. Well, yesterday when she had Kendall, they took a trip to the thrift store to buy Kendall a toy to keep at Vickie's. Kendall, of course, picked a baby. Well, they decided they needed a baby who would fit in regular baby clothes. So, they bought a diaper bag and baby clothes....and more baby clothes...and diapers...and a bib...and a teddy for the baby...and a bottle for her...and a book... Then Vickie made the baby a blanket. Kendall named her baby Carly.

Tonight, the doorbell rang. It was Vickie. Carly wants to spend the night with Kendall tonight. Kendall was absolutely on CLOUD 9!! Oh my gosh. Kendall sprang from her seat at the table (we had just finished dinner) and immediately changed Carly's diapers, which she got from Carly's diaper bag. Then she changed her clothes a few times. She read her a book and gave her a bottle (she used to nurse her babies, but she hasn't done that for a while :(). Then Carly went potty again, so she had to change her diaper. Then she put on Carly's jammies and kissed her goodnight and went to sleep with her (we are co-sleepers here.) She is the best Little Mommy.

Just in case you are wondering, Vickie HAS children-two grown boys. She is like an adopted Grandma to my kids. Kendall and her are good friends.

Kendall posing with Carly...awwww

Giving Carly a kiss

Carly's paraphernalia

Another of Kendall and Carly

Shhhh...they're asleep!

Email Forwards

2008-02-19T05:59:00.000-08:00

I need to tell you all something. I am NOT a fan of email forwards.In fact, most of the time I hate them. You know why I hate them?? I will tell you WHY. They clutter up my inbox, and if the title is clever enough, I am forced to open them. Yes, forced. There may even be someone behind me twisting my arm. And what about the ones that threaten you to forward it to 10 people or else someone close to you will die (or something of that sort)?? That's just mean.
So, I got a forward a while back titled "The friendship Oath." Normally I would have just passed it by because, well, I already know that I am a FABULOUS friend and if you wanna tell me that, pick up the phone andgive me a little sugar. Anyway, this was from someone who never sends me a forward, so I though, "What the hell..." This is the friendship Oath:

"Are you tired of those sissy "friendship" poems that always sound
good, but never actually come close to reality? Well, here is a series
of promises that actually speak of true friendship.

You will see no cutesy little smiley faces on this card - just the
stone cold truth of our friendship.

1 When you are sad -- I will help you get drunk and plot revenge
against the sorry bastard who made you that way.

2. When you are blue -- I will try to dislodge whatever is choking you.

3. When you smile -- I will know you finally got laid.

4. When you are scared -- I will rag on you about it every chance I get.

5. When you are worried -- I will tell you horrible stories about how
much worse it could be until you quit whining.

6. When you are confused -- I will use little words.

7. When you are sick -- Stay the hell away from me until you are well
again. I don't want to catch whatever you have.

8. When you fall -- I will point and laugh at your clumsy ass.

9. This is my oath..... I pledge it to the end. "Why?" you may ask ?,
"Because you are my friend".

Friendship is like peeing your pants: everyone can see it, but only
you can feel the true warmth.

Send this to "all 10" of your friends, then get depressed because you
can only think of four!!! (don't send it back to me...I don't want to
hear it!!!) And remember....when life hands you Lemons, get some
tequila and salt and call me."

I forwarded it on. It was that Good.

Now, I got another email the other day from someone who does send me a lot of forwards, so I have to carefully sift through, since some are really long, and I don't have the time. This one was titled Chelsea Clinton. I thought I better open it, since it is election time and all. OMG, I think I died laughing. Check this out:

Chelsea Clinton recently discussed current events with a very wise U.S. soldier.

She asked if, as an American fighting man, anything scared him.

He told her there were only three things he feared:

1) Osama

2) Obama

AND

3) Yo Mama

THAT'S funny right there - I don't care who you are!

Breakin' them up is hard to do!

2008-02-16T07:11:00.000-08:00

My son, Nolan (the ninja) is in Kindergarten. He's 5. He is hilarious. He just is. The other day, he comes home, all pissed off. And yes, this is word for word. Nolan is very articulate when he speaks.

Me: Nolan, what's wrong, buddy??
N: WELL, today I found out that Jacob and Allison are Boyfriend and Girlfriend! (kids in his class)
Me: So, what's wrong with that??
N: WHAT'S WRONG WITH THAT?? (giving me the "Mom, are you stupid", look) What's wrong with that is that you aren't aloud to have a boyfriend or girlfriend until you are 16. THAT'S what's wrong with THAT!
Me: Nolan, just because that's the rule in OUR house doesn't mean that's the rule for everyone.
N: Well, it doesn't matter anyway. I tried to break them up. And I won't stop trying until it works.
Me: How did you try to break them up?
N: I told Jacob that Allison kicks her cat all the time.
Me: Did he believe you?
N: No. But THEN I told Allison that Jacob throws up on his dog.
Me: Oh, I bet THAT did the trick!
N: Nope, they are still boyfriend and girlfriend. I will try again tomorrow.

I did it-I watched it!

2008-02-08T18:38:00.000-08:00

Say anything! Finally, I watched it.

I really wish I would have seen it when it cam out in 1989. I would have watched it every day, all day long. I did like it a lot. It was everything an 80's movie should be. BUT-we are so spoiled now and come so far 2 decades later that it was outdated (imagine that!) I am sure I would be saying the same for Pretty in Pink or The Breakfast Club if I had waited twenty years to see it. Oh, an let me just say....Lloyd Dobler is DEFINITELY no Duckie! All in all, it was a great movie. It did not disappoint. I am sorry, though...John Cusack is a dork. He really is. I didn't really like him back them, and I still think he's nerdy now. I was definitely more into the Emilio Estevez type then. It took me years to realize that I was in love with Duckie and not Blaine.

OH...on another note, but kinda the same...The other day, my son Brandon was hanging out with a kid named Dylan. I told Zac (my husband), "Oh how cute, Brandon and Dylan!!" Brandon was confused, as was Dylan. Zac says, "Honey, they have no idea what you are laughing about. THAT show was 20 years ago." I said, "No way!! 90210 was only like a couple years ago!" Then I counted. 90210 actually began 18 years ago. Craziness!! I AM old.

"Block" of some sort

2008-02-07T16:15:00.000-08:00

I don't consider myself much of a writer, so it can't be "Writer's Block." I just don't have much to say these days. My kids are driving me nuts starting at about 4 pm every day-nothing new there. I finished watching ALL the Grey's anatomy seasons and am officially "caught up"- can you say "Neglectful Mother??" Now I cannot wait until there are new episodes!
We went to Disneyland. It was fun. Just fun. Not amazing, not magical, just fun. Why, do you ask?? Yep-you guessed it. I missed the kids. I thought it would be awesome without them, but it was just fun. There's just something a little strange about a 32-year-old woman jumping up and down with excitement (yep, actually happened) because she sees Cinderella. There's nothing strange about it when there is a 3-year-old little girl by her side. We did have a good time, but I gohttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gift sick. Had to happen eventually, right? Next time, we are SO taking the brats.
Our crab feed went well, too. We raised $4200 for our MOPS program, so the coordinator for next year should be set. So, that's awesome.
OH-here is some BIG news! I rented SAY ANYTHING!! Just read the link, you'll see why it matters. Haven't watched it JUST yet, but I will. Maybe tonight, even.
I have been busy. One thing about me is I have a hard time juggling lots of things at once. Which means I have been a horrible, no good, neglectful bog buddy. I apologize and I vow to be a better commenter from here on out. Unless, of course, I get busy again. Then I will fall off the face of the planet, and do another apology post when I come back. Love ya, love your outfit!!

Have a Wonderful Weekend!

2008-02-01T07:03:00.000-08:00

Tonight is FINALLY the Crab Feed that my MOPS group has been preparing for since September. Thank GOD it's the day!! Then, after that, my husband and I are driving to Los Angeles and going to Disneyland! You did read that right...my HUSBAND and I!! I can;t remember the last time we got away by ourselves for fun! I did promise the ninja I would get a picture of Buzz and Woody. Other than that, the kids aren't too disappointed. Why should they be?? they get a weekend with Grandma and junk food!! Have a fun, safe weekend, everyone! I should be back in the game on Monday!!

Thursday 13 #18

2008-01-31T12:02:00.000-08:00

13 Christian Pick Up Lines
I can do this, because I AM a Christian, plus they are HILARIOUS!! I know I haven't been around all week-no comments, no nothing. Believe me, I wish I was around. I am halfway in charge of a Crab Feed this Friday, and that's all I have been doing all week! Ahhh! I promise to get back in the game by Monday!! I love you all!!

1. You know Jesus? Hey, me too!
2. Did it hurt when you fell from Heaven?
3. The word says "Give drink to those who are thirsty, and feed the hungry"; how about dinner?
4. You don't have an accountability partner? Me neither.
5. Is it a sin that you stole my heart?
6. Nice bracelet. What would Jesus date? I mean "do".
7. Do you believe in Divine appointment?
8. Have you ever tried praying at a drive in movie before?
9. (For the ladies) Excuse me, I believe one of your ribs belongs to me.
10. My friend told me to come and meet you, he said that you are a really nice person. I think you know him. Jesus, yeah, that's his name.
11. God told me to come talk to you.
12. I know a church where we could go and talk.
13. (my Personal Favorite) What? Friends listen to Amazing Grace in the dark.

BREAKING NEWS!!

2008-01-26T17:49:00.000-08:00

FROM PEOPLE MAGAZINE:

After months of speculation and rumor, the Kids are coming back. A well-placed source tells PEOPLE exclusively that New Kids On The Block are indeed getting back together.

The band's Web site, www.nkotb.com, which had been dormant, is now back up and running in anticipation of the official announcement, which the source says will be made in the next few weeks.

The site currently features a television graphic with a fuzzy, flickering photos of NKOTB in their heyday, and a link inviting fans to sign up for info.

The boy band, which made legions of tweens swoon in the early '90s, selling more than 50 million albums, became a worldwide phenomenon before calling it quits in 1994.

Eighteen years later, they're still "Hangin' Tough." The oldest "Kid," Jonathan Knight, now a real estate developer, will turn 40 later this year. Since the band's demise, former members Donnie Wahlberg, 38, and Joey McIntyre, 35, have seen acting success, while Danny Wood, 38, has worked as a music producer and Knight's brother, Jordan, 37, has continued to record.

Not that I care, particularly, but I thought MAYBE one of you might.

I mean, it would be shockingly moronic if someone (say a tween) were to carve Jordan Knight's initials in their arm back in NKOTB's heyday. I don't know anyone irresponsible enough to have done that!!

Thursday 13 #17

2008-01-24T06:08:00.000-08:00

Just so you all know, I am better. I had my moment of "Woe is me, feel sorry for me...now it's over. Thank you all for your kindness. You know I love you all!

13 Ways To Annoy People During A conversation!

1. Stare at the person’s nose while they are talking.
2. Repeat everything the person said before responding.
3. Ask the person to repeat themselves constantly.
4. Walk in circles around the person as you talk.
5. Make random hand gestures, like pointing at the person’s feet.
6. Stick out your tongue when the person isn’t looking.
7. Use a different name every time you refer to the person.
8. Start dancing for no apparent reason.
9. Blink your eyes one at a time.
10. Switch languages now and then. If you only know one, make up words.
11. Bring up things that have nothing to do with your what you’re talking about.
12. When the person is about to make their point, seem completely uninterested.
13. No matter what the person you’re talking to says, respond with “And then…”.

I guess I am NOT Super Mom!

2008-01-22T12:57:00.000-08:00

3 Posts in One Day - One for the records!

This is a vent-a major vent. I know people are busy-I KNOW this, because normally I am too. If you are reading this now, you may want to take a look at the first post I made today, or it may not make much sense.

You know how when your kids are sick, and you are at home all day for weeks-FOUR weeks, you tend to get a bit antsy and neurotic, BECAUSE YOU HAVE BARELY LEFT THE HOUSE??? That's me, right now.

Like I said, I know people are busy. But everyone I know knows that I have been cooped up in my house with sick kids, and do you think they call to see how the kids are doing? How I am doing?? Ok, sure there are a few, but really...I guess in these situations you find out who your friends are, huh? I mean, the phone rings OFF the hook every fricken' day. then they find out the kids are sick, and no one calls? Really?? HELLO! this is when I need my friends. Oh wait-I take it back. They DO call. They call because they are frustrated that I cannot fulfill my regular commitments (and if you know me, you know I am not flaky and that I take my commitments seriously). And then they are taken aback when I am not all gung ho and rarin' to go on things that I am normally extremely passionate about. Well, sorry people. I am more passionate about my kids and their well beings. I am more passionate about the fact that my daughter has had SEVERAL bladder infections in the past 6 months and that it may be something a tad more serious. I am MORE passionate about my family. And I am breaking here. I am really breaking because my children's health is something I have no f-ing control over. I just want to make them all better, and I cannot. Just don't tell Nolan that I am not Super Mom. I don't know how he would take it.

Me and my guy Meme

2008-01-22T07:34:00.000-08:00

Basics
1. Who is your man?Zac
2. How long have you been together? dating for almost 10 years married for over 7!
3. Dating/Engaged/Married? married for 7 years and 8 months
4. How old is your man? 34
?You or your man?*
1. Who eats more? HE does. he is a hog.
2. Who said "I love you" first? Him - I was scary and damaged at the time.
3. Who weighs more? HIM! Finally.
4. Who sings better? I would say me, because I can at least hold a tune. My man is tone deaf.
5. Who's Older? HIM! i'm 32
6. Who's smarter? We are both smart in different areas. He is good at math, but can't spell worth crap (yeah, I KNOW...and I STILL Married him!)

DIFFERENT WAYS
7. Who's temper is worse?depends on the time of the month ;) (I totally snagged Julie's answer)
8.Who does the laundry? Me, he better not touch it-he'll ruin everything.
9. Who does the dishes? Me- I do everything that has to do with chores.
10. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? ME
11. Who's feet are bigger? his are way bigger. He wears a Men's 11 and I am a women's 7 1/2
12. Who's hair is longer? Mine.
13. Who's better with the computer? Me-he is a blue collar dude. I think he finally knows how to forward an email, though.
14. Who mows the lawn? Javier, the gardener ( I know what you're thinking-he's not the hot gardener from Desperate housewives, either)
15. Who pays the bills? I do it.
16. Who cooks dinner? Me, again.
17. Who drives when you are together? he does. He says I "Drive like hell"
18. Who pays when you go out to dinner? He uses his card.
19. Who's the most stubborn? Absolutely HIM.
20. Who is the first one to admit when they're wrong? Though I hate to admit when I am wrong, its usually me just to avoid more fighting.
21. Who's parents do you see more? His dad.
22. Who named your dog? Our son, Brandon.
23. Who kissed who first? He kissed me.
24. Who asked who out? I guess he asked me out.
25. What did you do? real date ? we went to olive garden and he spilled his drink on my lap.
26. Who's more sensitive? Me. I still haven't seen him cry.
27. Who's taller? him
28. Who has more friends? ME
29. Who has more siblings? We both have one.
30. Who wears the pants in the relationship? We both do. At different times.

Thanks Julie. I loved doing this. Anyone else who wants to do it, please do! Just let me know you did, so I can drop by and read it!

2008-01-22T06:40:00.000-08:00

NO. FREAKIN'. WAY. Did I do something that made God mad?? Just as I start to think we are over the hump, a light at the end of the tunnel...

We went on a mini vacation this weekend. We went back home to Santa Cruz, Ca, to visit friends and family. We got there on Saturday and were leaving Monday. Sunday, we wake up, and my daughter, Kendall, has "hot pee" which translates into a Bladder Infection. SO, we headed to the ER. It was a 40 minute trip, but we did have to stop SIX times so she could urinate. After 5 hours, we got a prescription, and immediately, after her first dose, she felt some relief. Basically, our only full day of our vacation was spent in the ER.

We figured by today, since Kendall was feeling far better, everyone would be A-OK for school and everything. 3:30 am, what do I hear?? Nolan in the bathroom. Is he just coughing?? OH, of course not-that would be far too simple. Vomiting. DAMN! So, here we are staying home from school, yet again.

Guys, this is old. Thursday will be FOUR weeks since the first vomit, and frankly, I am so damn tired of it. I just want life to go back to the way it was pre-flu and pre-bladder infection. PLEASE, GOD???

Thursday 13 #16

2008-01-17T09:15:00.000-08:00

13 Reasons why it's GREAT to be a woman!

1. Women live longer than men.
2. Women can cry and get off a speeding ticket.
3. A woman can never be blamed if it's wet on the floor around the toilet bowl.
4. When a ship sinks, women (and children) get off first.
5. If a woman says something stupid, most men will just think she's cute.
6. A woman can hug her best friend without worrying she'll think she's gay.
7. Women know the truth about whether size matters...
8. A woman can fully assess a person just by looking at their shoes.
9. Women are capable of going longer than five minutes without thinking about either sex or football.
10. If a woman cries, she's sensitive; if a man cries, he's a wimp.
11. Women know who their children are without having a DNA test.
12. Women have total control over their eyebrows.
13. Women can talk to attractive members of the opposite sex without having to picture them naked.

Archive MeMe

2008-01-16T06:59:00.000-08:00

CrazyMama tagged me for a meme. I have to tell you that I am so tired (up all night with a little girl with a fever) but I chose to do this because I NEED a break. So, for the next ten minutes, I am taking time for ME. I will do the best I can on this. I really only have 60 posts to work with, so I can't guarantee it will be interesting. At all. But I am pretty sure nothing will be spelled wrong.

Archive Meme Instructions: Go back through your archives and post the links to your five favorite blog posts that you’ve written. But there is a catch:
Link 1 must be about family.
Link 2 must be about friends.
Link 3 must be about yourself, who you are… what you’re all about.
Link 4 must be about something you love.
Link 5 can be anything you choose.

Ninja Boy - Recent one, but it's my 5 year old learning to ride his bike. I found another one. About Nolan again. What can I say-he's my favorite (Just Kidding-Sheesh!!) Mother of the Year Goes To...

I don't know that I write about friends in here, except my last TT, but that is too recent.... Let me check- Nope, that's all I got for now. I don't talk about friends too much on here, because if they read it, I don't wanna get busted.

I can talk about me - fo' sho'- 13 things about me in general
and 13 things that bug the crap outta me

Something that I love - Awesome God

Just picked this one at random-no reason at all! Anything I choose

Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired

2008-01-14T16:31:00.000-08:00

No, not me. My two youngest children are sick. Kendall, the youngest, got sick two Thursdays ago, puking and diarrhea. Diarrhea STILL hasn't stopped and she puked again Thursday. Today, she has a fever. Three different sicknesses?? I don't know.
Nolan, my middle child, has been sick (lethargic and fever) all weekend. Last night, he puked. Today, no school. I am exhausted.
I decided to download the first season of Grey's Anatomy since we were gonna be home for a while. Did that, watched them, now I am hooked. I wasn't gonna get hooked on this show. No willpower here, that's for sure. Does anyone have season 3 I can borrow?? I swear I'll send it back (ended up downloading season 2, but i don't know that I can afford the rest!)! I need my fix!
But the kids are sick, so I can do whatever the hell I want.

TT # 15 - 13 Blogs I love and WHY I love them

2008-01-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

Here they are-in NO particular order... I love reading all your blogs, but here are 13 that are on my sidebar that I visit daily (no, I don't always comment) and here are the reasons these blogs ROCK! It sure is hard coming up with different adjectives to describe so many FANTABULOUS women!!

OK. I KNEW I was going to forget someone. I had actually THOUGHT I put this one in and my stupid computer was taking so long to load, I must have erased it on accident. (Could it be because I am downloading season 1 of Grey's Anatomy while I am doing this??)
Anyway, because of this, I am starting my list of 13 from ZERO.

0. Pants Optional - I love this blog because Sheri is so sweet. She is so obviously in love with her children and her husband. Her kids are GORGEOUS, too. Go look. Check out her daughter's hair. To. Die. For. Seriously.

1.Love Conquers All - Jeannene is my "real life" friend. I have known her for a few years. She is passionate about life and has a unique eye for all things creative. I couldn't imagine never having gotten to know Jeannene. I love her and her children and she is a very special part of my life. In her family, it is truly apparent that Love DEs Conquer All.

2.My Chaos My Bliss - Cecily is hilarious. If you have read this blog, you know that. Sometimes when she writes, I feel like she is my soul sister. She could write my posts for me half the time. I have enjoyed getting to know her, even if she does use words like "costed." I will keep the red pen put away this one time. Her Chaos is Our Enjoyment!

3. Enjoying The Ride - Jenn is amazing. She is sweet and inspiring. In fact, she was my inspiration for this Thursday 13. I hope to get to know her better, since we are fairly new blog friends. Hop on, friends, you WILL enjoy this ride!

4. Sarcastic Mom - DUDE-Lotus is so funny! Just look at her blog name. Sometimes you just need a little sarcasm (or a lot, in this case) in your life. If for no other reason, read this blog for the pictures. She has the most hilarious pictures on here. Braden's poop picture makes me throw up in my mouth a little bit every time I see it, but that's ok. The pictures of herself in various poses is cute, too!

5. TheVasquez3 - Holleeann is an incredible woman. The way she adores her daughter is so admirable. She is so obviously Jordan's mother, even if not by blood. The photos she posts are filled with love and I think she deserves a ton of credit just for being the woman that she is. Plus, she's adorable, and her blog portrays that!

6. The World Through The Eyes of Me - Leeann's blog has me in tears 75% of the time I read it. The compassion this woman has in her heart is remarkable. I admire her greatly and I LOVE her blog. She is fun, yet serious at times, too. If only everyone could see life through these same eyes.

7. From the Mixed-Up Files of Crystal - Crystal cracks me up. Her witty intellect is awesome. Plus, she loves the Office, as I do. And anyone who loves the Office is too cool for school. And she is.

8. Truly Delightful in Every Way?? - Julia (aka Crazy Mama of 6. yes, SIX!) is fantastic. First, she's a mother of SIX and still not completely insane (notice I said 'completely'), second she is a cancer survivor. and third, she is RAD! She makes me laugh every time I read her blog. She really is TRULY delightful.

9. Eccentricities Studio - I am actually just getting to know Dana, but it is obvious just from her blog that she is a fabulous person and a creative being! I am glad I am getting to know her!!

10. Playgroups are No Place For Children - Jennifer aka Binky Bitch cracks me up! Seriously. I can get my daily dose of humor with one click. Can you all tell I love to laugh??

11. Queen of the Mayhem - The Queen is so flippin' funny, I laugh out loud and nearly wet my pants every time I read her blog. Her juvenile humor is awesome. Reminds me of Beavis and Butthead. I think I like it so much because I do it, too. She's funny and she's a teacher, which is what I am in school for. So she double rocks.

12. Full Plate - MamaLee's blog is very entertaining. Her three children say and do the sweetest and naughtiest things. I love reading about her daily adventures. I got to know a lot about her, and she really does Rock. Plus, she is a Starbucks fanatic, like me. Starbucks fanatics unite! Her plate is full, and after reading this blog, you will be full as well.

13. God's Greatest Gift to me - Another of my "real life" friends. She doesn't blog too often, but I can assure you that she is an AMAZING woman. She is an awesome wife, mother and friend. I know if I need to vent and get some sane advice, I can call Lisa. She puts things into perspective and is so incredibly humble. I love her to pieces. We really need to hang out more, though. She is one of God's amazing Gifts

All of these blogs inspire me in one way or another. I am not a "writer", so I don't have a way with words like many of these women. So many of these women are like professional writers and stuff and when you read their blogs you really feel as if you are experiencing it with them. That's one of my favorite parts of blogging. I do need to get better at commenting, though. I don't leave messages on machines, either.

Back when I was a Kid...

2008-01-06T07:57:00.000-08:00

We went to Taco Bell Yesterday. We were just going for a quick snack, so I told everyone to just get one item. We sat down and I started talking to Zac, my husband. I said, "When I was in High School, we came here every day. I always got three bean burritos and a water for $2.00. They were only 59¢ each! Now, they are what? 99¢??" Then my 12 year old says, "Man, I wish I could go back and live in the OLDEN DAYS, too!" This really stinks...I guess I am getting old.

Uppercase Living

2008-01-04T14:38:00.000-08:00

I don't like to promote my business on my blog too much. BUT if you are interested in seeing what I sell, go see my friend, Jeannene's site. She did her Thursday 13 on ME, and that is too darn sweet! Go check it out!

Thursday 13 #14

2008-01-03T14:26:00.000-08:00

13 of my favorite Bumper Stickers!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-01T08:28:00.000-08:00

What?? Ninjas ride bikes with Princess Helmets!

2007-12-28T16:36:00.000-08:00

So, the little ninja decided today that he was going to ride a bike without training wheels. He is the most determined (we prefer that to stubborn) child I have ever met. So, he goes outside, gets on his bike (for the first time-I GOT IT ALL ON VIDEO) and takes off. It's like he's been doing it for, well, minutes (I can't say years, 'cause he's still wobbly). The only time he fell is when he hit the curb to stop. Guess we need to work on those brake skills, eh? I will try to include two videos. The first one will be Ninja boy riding for his first time. The second will be him practicing his brakes. Don't laugh at his helmet (Pink Princess with Duck tape on the bill). He did NOT want to wear that helmet outside, but we couldn't find his blue one. I assured him no one would see and if they did, they wouldn't care. And wouldn't you know the neighbor pulls up and the first thing she says is, "Hey, Nolan! Why do you have a Princess helmet on??" He just looked at me and growled. No, he really growled.

Here he goes:

Try out those brakes, Booger!

Thurday 13 # - 13 Christmas Memories 2007

2007-12-27T07:28:00.000-08:00

I thought I would compile a list of 13 memories that stood out this Christmas. Some funny, some irritating, some wonderful :-)

1. When my 2 year old nephew told me off. I was yelling up the stairs for my oldest son. I kept going, "Brandon, BRAndon, BRANDON!" Little Max (my nephew), says, "We scream OUTSIDE, Auntie." Oh, I thought I was going to pee myself.

2. We do a 'white elephant' gift exchange at my grandfather's Christmas Eve. The gift is supposed to be between 15-20 dollars. My grandfather brings a golden tree with the $2.99 price tag partially blacked out from the Grocery Outlet. My poor husbnad ended up with that one. It wouldn't be so irritating if it wasn't so typical.

3. Getting to spend quality time with my nephews. Max is 2 1/2 and Cole is 5 months. I love them to pieces and I don't see them a lot. It was so fun and sweet to hold a baby! I love him.

4. BOARD GAMES! I got three games for Christmas! RAD!! I got Vh1's, "I love the 80's" game. It is so awesome! I also got Catch Phrase and Cranium Wow! We played them all already and I am so looking forward to game night! Who's in??

5. Watching my children's faces as they open gifts that they have "wanted for their whole life." All three years, huh, Princess??

6. The drive home from Christmas Dinner at Grammie's. My 5 year old, Nolan, is sitting up front with Zac and I. He took off his socks and shoes and I cannot resist cute kid feet! So, I started rubbing his feet, He turns to me and says, "So, You wanna rub my putrid feet, do ya??"

7. Seeing Grammie. Grammie is my husband, Zac's 89 year old Grandmother. I love her so much!

8. Everyone getting along and sharing their new toys. Had to include that since it's now the 27th and all that love is long gone!

9. Christmas Eve Eve dinner at my house, Tamales, Enchiladas and good friends and family! Oh, and Catch Phrase! Whoo hoo....

10. Playing Catch Phrase and using this clue, "A blind singer who sings, , "Hello...is it me you're looking for??" My sister about died. She said, "Kel, I think you are going for Stevie Wonder, not Lionel Richie." There was a LOT of laughter. Paired with wine, it got pretty loud!

11. Watching 'A Christmas Story' for the 100th time with the family. Man, that's a GOOD movie.

12. My clean house...if even only for an hour...sigh.

13. The pure magic of the holiday season. The love, the laughter, the unselfish giving, the pure joy of children. I love it all. It's just too bad it doesn't happen all year long.

I hope you all had a joyous Christmas! Have a wonderful New Year!!

Answers to my Christmas Songs Thursday 13 and other Christmas Ramblings

2007-12-26T07:12:00.001-08:00

1.SIR LANCELOT WITH LARYNGITIS - Silent Night
2.VEHICULAR HOMICIDE WAS COMMITTED ON DAD’S MOM BY A PRECIPITOUS DARLING- Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer
3.THE APARTMENT OF TWO PSYCHIATRISTS - The Nutcracker Suite
4.WE ARE DONG, LEAR, AND NAT COLE - We Three Kings
5.DUODECIMAL ENUMERATION OF THE PASSAGE OF THE YULETIDE SEASON - 12 Days of Christmas
6.LEAVE AND BROADCAST FROM AN ELEVATION - Go Tell It on The Mountain
7.LISTEN, THE WINGED HEAVENLY MESSENGERS ARE PROCLAIMING TUNEFULLY. - Hark the Herald Angels Sing
8.I BEHELD A TRIO OF NAUTICAL VESSELS MOVING IN THIS DIRECTION. -I Saw Three Ships
9.A JOYFUL SONG OF REVERENCE RELATIVE TO HOLLOW METALLIC VESSELS WHICH VIBRATE AND BRING FORTH RINGING SOUND WHEN STRUCK - Carol of the Bells
10.MAY THE DEITY BESTOW AN ABSENCE OF FATIGUE TO MILD MALE HUMANS - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
11.ROSE-COLORED UNCOUTH DOLF IS AWARE OF THE NATURE OF PRECIPITATION, DARLING - Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
12.CUP-SHAPED INSTRUMENTS FASHIONED OF A WHITISH METALLIC ELEMENT - Silver Bells
13.AS THE GUARDIANS OF THE WOOLLY ANIMALS PROTECTED THEIR CHARGES IN THE DARK HOURS. - While the Shepherds Guarded Their Flocks By Night

You guys are really smart. I hate these things and those of you who tried did an awesome job.

So, Christmas. We had a good three days. Christmas started for us on December 23rd. My sister, my Brother in Law, My adorable nephews and my parents came here. My house was Spot.Less. I always need to ask myself why I bust my arse to clean when it just gets messed up beyond recognition. By the time the company leaves, I am left to clean for three days. But, I do love my family, so I suppose it's worth it. We opened presents on the 23rd, since my sister was going home Christmas Eve.

On Christmas Eve, we went to my grandfather's. I won't say much because I don't wanna sound like a big, fat Grinch. I will say that there is no relationship there, at all. And I don't mind.

Yesterday, the kids opened presents from Santa. OH, what a joyous occasion. There was hootin' and hollerin' (Yeah, 'cause we're the Beverly hillbillies, so I can use those words) and laughing and just all around happiness. It lasted until we got in the car to go to Grammie's. Then the usual "He touched me, she looked at me" resumed.

I have so much more to talk about, but honestly, I am tired, and this house needs tending to. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!!

TT #12 - Can YOU Name these 13 Christmas Songs??

2007-12-20T06:02:00.000-08:00

I know this gets circulated around the net every year, but there were some in here I have never actually heard, so I thought I would use it! Leave your answers in my comments! I love words, so I always have so much fun with these!! I hope you do too!

1. SIR LANCELOT WITH LARYNGITIS

2. VEHICULAR HOMICIDE WAS COMMITTED ON DAD’S MOM BY A PRECIPITOUS DARLING

3. THE APARTMENT OF TWO PSYCHIATRISTS

4. WE ARE DONG, LEAR, AND NAT COLE

5. DUODECIMAL ENUMERATION OF THE PASSAGE OF THE YULETIDE SEASON

6. LEAVE AND BROADCAST FROM AN ELEVATION

7. LISTEN, THE WINGED HEAVENLY MESSENGERS ARE PROCLAIMING TUNEFULLY.

8. I BEHELD A TRIO OF NAUTICAL VESSELS MOVING IN THIS DIRECTION.

9. A JOYFUL SONG OF REVERENCE RELATIVE TO HOLLOW METALLIC VESSELS WHICH VIBRATE AND BRING FORTH RINGING SOUND WHEN STRUCK

10. MAY THE DEITY BESTOW AN ABSENCE OF FATIGUE TO MILD MALE HUMANS

11. ROSE-COLORED UNCOUTH DOLF IS AWARE OF THE NATURE OF PRECIPITATION, DARLING

12. CUP-SHAPED INSTRUMENTS FASHIONED OF A WHITISH METALLIC ELEMENT

13. AS THE GUARDIANS OF THE WOOLLY ANIMALS PROTECTED THEIR CHARGES IN THE DARK HOURS.

Merry Christmas, Everyone, and NO CHEATING!!

My 50th POST!

2007-12-17T14:06:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I have already had FIFTY posts! In celebration, here is a Christmas song sung by one of my ALL time favorites, Adam Sandler! Just ignore the part when the old lady flips the bird...

What's UP, USPS???

2007-12-14T09:32:00.000-08:00

Every. Single. Year. Why is it that USPS manages to lose my mail every year? They try and tell me it's because it's a NEW subdivision. Hello??? We have been here SIX years now. How freakin' long does it take for them to figure out that we are here?? We do go through mail people often, but come on!! So, I found out the other day that something that I ordered through USPS was lost in the mail. Now, I find out that something my In-Laws sent hasn't arrived after two weeks. Seriously??? And it doesn't only happen this time of year, either. It happens all throughout the year, and I am having to call creditors to let them know I am not a flake, but my statement didn't come. Um....embarrassing!! It NEVER happens with UPS OR FedEx, JUST USPS! Arggghhhh!
Now I understand why people go postal!

TT #11 - 13 Favorite Mom Quotes!

2007-12-13T11:18:00.000-08:00

These are all from the Hallmark book, "It's a Mom Thing" by Tina Neidlein. There are so many more quotes it was SO hard to pick only 13!!

1. . I still try to buy cute underwear, but not too cute, because what do you think got me into this mess?

2. So, if I become a stay-at-home mom, does that mean the kids have to stay home, too? Just checking.

3. Those last 5 post-baby pounds are impossible to lose! Especially when you haven't lost the first 20!

4. Wow...I must've kidproofed the cleaning supply cabinet a little too well. Apparently, even my husband can't get into it!

5. Weird how having a baby makes you remember to take that birth control pill. And sometimes two, just in case

6. Shouldn't running errands count as exercise? Hello...it's called "running!"

7. Telling another adult you have to "go potty" doesn't make you pathetic. Okay, but just a little.

8. Show me a mom without stretch marks and I'll show you --- actually, I'll just sob. Maybe don't show me that mom, 'kay?

9. There are so many fairy tales I love..."The Mom Who Found Time to Paint Her Nails." That's a good one.

10. They call it a baby "shower" because it may be the last shower you ever get to enjoy again.

11. Can someone please send me to time-out? Hour...half- hour...I' ll sit quietly --- I promise!

12. "Who's the Tiredest Mom" is not a competition! But if it is...I'm winning!

13. "What to expect?" (There is a picture of a stork with a baby in the book) Here, let me sum it up for you real quick ----- 1. Lots of worry 2. Not lots of sleep

MEME TIME!

2007-12-12T06:11:00.000-08:00

I got this meme from HolleeAnn and it looked like so much fun, so I did it. Enjoy!
Here are the rules: Type the answer to each question into a Google image search, and you pick an image from the first page of results...easy peasy...and fun.a BIG tip make sure you set your Google search to use "strict filtering" (Filter both explicit text and explicit images).

1. Age on my next birthday

2. Place I would like to travel (Carribean)

3. Favorite place (Disneyland!)

4. Favorite food (sushi-yum!)

5. Favorite animal (Monkey!)

6. Favorite color (Purple! Oh, heck yeah! THESE boots were made for walkin'! Can I get a wha wha??)

7. Town I was born (Santa Cruz, Ca)

8. Name of past pet (Grover)

9. Name of past love (Jason...I should have known HE was bad news!)

10. My first name (Kelly. Wow, I really have NO idea how they got these photos of me..Gosh...I am so humiliated.)

11. Bad habit I have (Starbucks Frappuccino's Mocha Coconut...SO SO good. Why don't they make those anymore?? Maybe they saw the 20 lbs it left on my ARSE!!)

12. First job (babysitter)

13. Grandmothers name (Nellie Jean. She was my mom's mother who died when mom was 11. I am Kelly Jean. Guess I was named after her, huh?)

14. College major (Child Development)

If anyone so feels inclined to do this meme, do it! I hate tagging, and I refuse to do it, so there!!

Next time I will choose the small images. I hate that they're so big, but it doesn't look easy to change them at this point...and I gotta get outta here!

7 Things about me!

2007-12-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

My new blogger friend, Jenn tagged me a couple weeks ago, and I kept forgetting, until now....

Here are the rules:

*Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
*Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself.
*Tag 7 random people at the end of your post, and include links to their blogs.
*Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

I know I have done this before. I will try really hard not to tell you a bunch of things I have already told you.

1. We have 5 stocking holders that spell out SANTA. Each day, I look at the mantle and see that someone has rearranged the letters to spell out SATAN. Between the husband and the 12 year old, I am gonna go crazy.

2. Christmas is my favorite Holiday. I love Christmas Music, Christmas lights, Christmas Trees. My very favorite thing about Christmas is giving!! Watching my children's faces light up at their excitement is wonderful! There is something very magical about Christmas.

3. We cut down our tree every year. This year, we cut down the most heinous tree you have ever seen. As soon as my husband cut it, I said, "No, No...let;s get a different one." Well, he was not ABOUT to put it back after we had already CUT it. Bah! I guess we will make it through.

4. My sister was born on Christmas Day. Every year, we sing to her and to Jesus. She does get a little overlooked on the holiday.

5. Each of my children receive 3 gifts for Christmas. Jesus received 3, so they will too. This is a fairly new tradition and I really love it!

6. I don't usually have a specific preference for a Christmas Gift. I really, really want a new IPOD nano for Christmas, or at least the money to get one.

7. My favorite place to be at Christmastime is Disneyland.

I tag:
Jeannene
Bethany
Bethany
Cecily
HolleeAnn
Beth
Crystal

TT #10 - 13 Christmas Funnies!

2007-12-06T08:17:00.000-08:00

13 Christmas Funnies!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

Just call me Mother of the freakin' Year!

2007-12-03T08:21:00.000-08:00

Yeah. First, the tooth fairy forgets to come. I never did expand on that, did I? Long story short... Nolan wakes up first thing, looks on his window sill and sees his tooth. "MOooooooooooooooooooM!! The tooth fairy FORGOT to come! I ran in there, with a dollar bill clutched in my fist. I said, "Baby, did you look under your pillow??" Thank GOD his answer was, "No, not yet." I reached under his pillow, and opened my fist. He looked under it to find a crumpled up dollar bill. He says, "Oh, I guess she just forgot my tooth." I told him that sometimes the tooth fairy leaves it because some moms (weirdos) like to KEEP their kids teeth. So, there is that.
Fast forward to today. I am downstairs cookin' eggs and toast for breakfast, feelin' pretty darn good about myself since I no longer feed my children a buttload of sugar for breakfast on a regular basis. Then, Nolan (do you think it's always this poor kid since he's the middle child?) says, "Oh, mom! I am so excited to be Star of the Week!" I look over on the counter and see his BLANK poster and BLANK "All About Nolan, sheet." "Crap," I say. I ran into the guest room and started going through pictures and stickers and all the scrapbook ~~crap~~ supplies that I have accumulated but have yet to use. We managed to get something together and it's pretty cute. I then threw on some pants. Had my oversized shirt on with no bra, so I threw on hubby's jacket, did not brush my hair, and jumped in the car. The whole way there I was thinking of Holleeann and praying to God I didn't get in a fender bender in all my glamorousity (Yeah, I know, I made it up, OK??). He made it to school only 10 minutes late, and THAT I was proud of. Nolan was a good sport about it all. He can get pretty stubborn at times, but this morning he was my angel, Thank GOD!
Now, the Princess of the house has been throwing a tantrum for the past half hour, and mommy has been ignoring her. Looks like this 'Mother of the Year' needs coffee. I guess it could be worse. At least I am not Britney.

I have a confession

2007-11-30T06:42:00.000-08:00

Some of you may not believe this. Most of you, actually.

Allow me to preface my deep, dark confession by professing my deep love for all things 80's. Movies, music, you name it. I love it. I'd even wear neon and leg warmers if my family would let me out of the house that way. In fact, i do believe there is a board game out there called, "I love the 80's." I need that.

Here goes nothing: I have NEVER seen the movie Say Anything. Whew, it's out. I did try to lie yesterday when I left a comment for stubarnes by saying, "Yeah, I am not a huge fan of Lloyd Dobler. I know it was a great 80’s movie, but he’s a geek." Yep, I am a complete loser.

Back when Say Anything came out, I was completely obsessed with all movies that starred Molly Ringwald. I would sit at home all weekend alternating between The Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink and Sixteen Candles. I had no time for anything else. By the time I realized I wanted to see Say Anything, my window had passed. I couldn't possibly waste my time watching such an "old" movie. Now, the only reason I haven't seen it is because I have three kids and barely have time to make sure my underwear are on right side in let alone watch an 80's movie. Besides, the only time I would get would be when the husband is home. I can see this going over well, "Hey honey, let's sit down and watch a John Cusack movie from the 80's!"

So there you have it. It did feel good to get it out in the open. Just so you know, I truly have felt that a piece of my life has been missing, and I believe seeing this movie would fill that emptiness.

Thursday Thirteen #9

2007-11-29T07:40:00.000-08:00

Thirteen Movie Characters that I am in love with (not enough to leave my husband for...I don't think)

1. Jack Dawson from the Titanic
2. Robby Hart from the Wedding Singer
3. Brad Pitt's character in Thelma and Louise!
4. Joe Black from meet Joe Black (believe it or not, I am not generally a Brad Pitt fan)
5. Duckie from Pretty in Pink
6. Mater from Cars (I might just leave him for this one, lol)
7. Noah Calhoun from The Notebook
8. Johnny Castle from Dirty Dancing
9. Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger) from 10 Things I Hate About You.
10. Harry Potter from the Harry Potter series (Who wouldn't be in love with him?)
11. Will Turner from the Pirates of the Caribbean
12. Matt Flamhaff from 13 Going on 30. ( I don't know if I am in LOVE with the character or the togetherness of the TWO characters)
13. Forrest Gump.

R.I.P. James Darrell Young

2007-11-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

I got a call yesterday from my good friend, Cori. Her husband (who we went in August to visit) J.D. lost his battle with cancer yesterday.

In December 2006, J.D. was diagnosed with Burkitt's Lymphoma. After undergoing several rounds of chemotherapy, his cancer did not go into remission, which required him to undergo far more severe courses of treatment. He needed a bone marrow transplant. A few weeks ago, I got a call from his wife (she's been my friend for 22 years) stating that they found a match for a bone marrow. This, we knew, was nothing short of a miracle, and everyone knew it!
Last Wednesday, J.D. passed out. He went to the hospital and he had pneumonia. On Tuesday, November 27th, my friend J.D. passed away. With pneumonia on top of the cancer, he couldn't fight anymore. He was fairly young (38, I think?) and leaves behind his wife, Cori, his 15 yr old son, Robert, and his 2 year old son Thomas James.
J.D. was such a fun, good person. He and I shared a lot of inside jokes, probably not appropriate to share here ;-). He was a good dad and an all around good guy! I am going to miss him a lot.

Please keep his family in your prayers. They are so upset right now and need all the prayers they can get.

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth...or something along those lines

2007-11-26T15:14:00.000-08:00

My Nolan Bug (I dare not call him that in public, he's a NINJA for heaven's sake) realized on Wednesday that he had a loose tooth. He was so excited. I told him it would be a week or so before it became loose enough to pull out. Then we saw a friend of his and his friend mentioned that his tooth has been loose for a MONTH! A MONTH! Oh,no...anyone who knows Nolan knows how determined this child is. He had waited FOREVER for a tooth to become loose, and he was not about to wait a whole nother week!! So, on Thursday, he was wiggling that sucker all day long, telling anyone who came within 5 feet of him how loose it was. He was PROUD. All day Friday, he was wiggling that tooth. Friday night, we were in the car and he says, "Hey mom? You think if I twist my tooth it will become looser and come out?" I said, "I don't know, buddy, you can try." He tried. "It really hurts mom, but I think I will twist it just one more time to see." ...................................................................................
......................................................."Hey mom!!!! It's OUT! It's out!!" I don't think I have ever seen this boy so proud.

Did I mention he was a ninja??

Don't even ask how I got out of the whole, "Hey MOM?? I think the tooth fairy forgot to come" the next morning. Oops...

THURSDAY 13 #8

2007-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

13 Things I am thankful for this year.

First of all, I need to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ...He alone deserves all the credit for all the things I have been blessed with this year, and the 30 something years prior.
I am gonna knock out the important things first...

1. I am thankful for my 3 1/2 minute shower this morning, disrupted 3 times by screaming children. I am also thankful for my shared potty experiences. Nothing like a party on the pot! I am thankful for these things, because I have been SO blessed with three beautiful and intelligent children. There are so many people who cannot have children that would kill for a 3 minute shower.

2. I am thankful for dirty socks stuffed in between couch cushions. Yes, my husband, Zac is not the most tidy person alive, but he is my husband and I love him. I am so lucky to have a man who loves me, loves our children and works his butt off for everything we have. He is amazing.

3. My friends. The friends who I have known forever. The friends who I have just met. My online friends and my In real Life friends. My friends who I have hurt and have forgiven me. My friends who I haven't hurt yet, but have the capacity to forgive when I do :-). All my friends who visit me on this blog...I am thankful for you. I especially love you when you give me awards, LOL!

4. I am thankful for my sister, her husband and my nephews. I have always wanted to be an auntie and for the past 2 1/2 years, I have been happy to take that role.

5. 80's music. It's important. I love it and it's my main form of entertainment. Without it, my soul would be lost. It really would.

6. Fuzzy socks. I could not sleep last night because my feet were freezing. I mean ICE cold. I got up, grabbed a pair of fuzzy socks and I was fine :-) Fuzzy socks are my friend.

7. Ice cream. Despite the oh-so-attractive "front butt" it gives me, it's the best thing EVER. I could eat ice cream for every meal of every day, but my thighs beg me not to, so I resist.

8. MOPS. Seriously, if it weren't for my MOPS group, I would be in a straight jacket right now. I love my friends there and the joy that serving gives me.

9. New Kids on the Block. Now, before you think I am a complete psycho, hear me out. I am thankful for the nostalgic feelings it gives me when I see a New Kids Video. The feeling that I am a kid with no cares in the world and no responsibilities. Oh, to go back to that day for just a moment.

10. School. I am thankful that I have been given the means and the opportunity to go back to school after 15 years. I am not so thankful for that 96% I got on my test last week, but I will survive. I keep having to remind myself that it is still an 'A', even if I did get one question wrong.

11. I am thankful for a vehicle. It may not be the most practical vehicle for our family of 5, but it gets us from point a to point b with pretty good gas mileage.

12. I am VERY VERY grateful for my husband's 89 year old grandmother. I make sure to remind him on a daily basis that I married him for his grandmother. She's the most amazing woman I have ever met. I love her tremendously and I hope and pray she makes it another 20+ years!

13. High School Musical. When all else fails, put it on. I love it, the kids love it and it has some AWESOME music on it! LOVE me some HSM, plus the boys are so cute. I would have been all over this movie when I was a kid!!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!!

Shopping and Make-Up

2007-11-18T06:36:00.000-08:00

I went!!!!!!! My sweet daughter felt much better Saturday morning. My husband took the day off to stay home with the kids and I went shopping with my girlfriends. There were two buses with 90 women! Holy geez, that's a lot of women! Believe me...it was! You should have heard all the hens on the ride up cackling away!
We got there, and we went to Macy's and I found a ton of stuff that my daughter does not need, but HAS to have! Teenie Wahine by Roxy was all on sale, so I ahd no choice. Then we went and had a 30 dollar lunch at the Neiman Marcus (Needless MarkUp) restaurant, Rotunda. Not worth it. But, one of our friends had heard wonderful things about it and insisted we go there. I know, we could have gone somewhere else, but the company was awesome. My friend, Monica and I spent a good part of the rest of the day complaining about the $30 lunch! Then we walked around the city and did a lot of people watching and laughing! There are some FREAKS up in that city!
Then, about an hou before it was time to leave, we went to the MAC counter. My friend asked how long it would take to do a make over. The lady said 20 minutes and so I got a make over. It was a little much for me, but it was fun, and apparently my eyes looked fabulous. I ended up buying QUITE a bit of make up. I love MAC, and though I don't wear make up often, I really wanted it. And what mommy wants, mommy gets.
I am sure you are wondering why Kendall got stuff, but I got nothing for the boys. Here is a conversation I had with Kendall the other day (she is 3, mind you.)

Kendall: Mom, do you know why I WANT everything?
Me: No, honey, I don't Why DO you want everything?
Kendall: Because I am a princess!!
Me: Yes, you are my princess, honey.
Kendall: Yeah, and princesses get EVERYTHING they want!

Riiiiightttt. Still trying to figure out how to get that Furreal PONY....NOT!

Shop in the City!

2007-11-16T07:33:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow morning, at 7:30 am, I am getting on a bus with 50 women that will drive us 2 hours to San Francisco to SHOP! I am not a big fan of shopping, but it is Christmastime, and I NEVER get a break, so I am really really excited about it. REALLY. Oh, and just so you know, I look EXACTLY like the chick on the left in the picture. Yep. That's me.
One minor setback. My daughter was up last night puking and coughing. Feverish, too. And you know what I actually had the AUDACITY to think?? Well, if I don't go, I have only lost $30.00 and my daughter needs me. Then I thought about it. I have been looking forward to this trip for over a month now. I won't only be losing $30.00, I will be losing part of my sanity (and believe me, I can't exactly afford to lose much more). You know when you are SO looking forward to some "me" time that you very very rarely get?? So, why in the world would I even think of not going, just because my daughter has a minor illness?? OH, yeah, because I love her tremendously and I would do anything for her. And you know what? I wouldn't even resent her for it.

BUT, cross your fingers she feels better by tomorrow! I would like to regain SOME sanity!

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Thursday 13 #7

2007-11-15T06:02:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of Christmas shopping (Have YOU started?)... 13 Things my children will NOT be receiving for Christmas, in spite of all the "I want that"'s that I hear!

1. Bratz Dolls. Who the heck came up with the thought, "Hey let's get some dolls with over sized heads and eyes, dress them up like hookers, and market them to little girls!"? Apparently they knew something I didn't, but regardless, my daughter will never, EVER have a Bratz doll.

2. Hot wheels sets. Now, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy Hot Wheels. However, anytime my 5 year old son gets a "set", I have to put it together. Then, it never fails, it breaks after a day and a half. Then we have this huge Hot Wheel track in pieces and no place to put them. Sorry, kid, you may have to use your imagination this year!!

3. Aquadots. Even before I heard of the recall (the Aquadots have date rape drugs in them), I would never buy these for my kids. I mean, I am looking at minimal mess potential here. Have you SEEN these dots? Good Lord, they are these little tiny dots that stick together. They are so small and so conspicuous. I am just glad they are recalled. Now I can tell my kids, "Sorry, guys, Aquadots will KILL you. We can't buy them."

4. Furreal Friends S'mores Pony. This is just ridiculous. Why do these companies market such products ALL OVER the television?? It's bull crap; that's what it is. I don't know about you, but I don't have 250.00 to spend on my daughter. It's all over the freakin' TV and all I get when it comes on is a 3 year old girl jumping up and down excitedly screaming, "I want that! Get that for me, OK mommy??" Yeah, NO.

5. Mouse Trap.. It takes 3 hours to put together, 15 minutes to play, and 5 seconds to lose half the pieces. Um, No thanks.

6. Any board game with a NEW Edition (except the new Cranium...I Want that!!). My son wants RISK. It's 17.00. Oh, but now they have "Pirates of the Caribbean" risk RIGHT next to it, for how much?? Oh, yeah! $35.00. So now he doesn't want Risk, he wants the uber expensive Risk. Crap.

7. TMX Elmo, Cookie Monster OR Ernie. Cute, I must admit, but SCARY as hell. These things are a trip. Elmo's laugh scares the crap outta me anyway.

8. American Girl doll. For some reason, the American Girl catalog came to my house. I swear there are crazy spies stalking our homes. How is it that at Christmastime the appropriate magazines come to each house? I get American girl, Construction Playthings and Lego....Hmmm...could the magazines be more age appropriate?? OK, off the tangent. American girl is cute and all. But there HAS to be a doll out there with Blonde hair and brown eyes that I can tell my daughter that it looks just like her. I don't really need to spend $200, do I??

9. WWE Action Figures. I have a 12 year old that LOVES WWE. He also loves Action Figures. These things are ugly and I don't want them in my home. I am sure just having them around will devalue my home.

10. K'Nex Roller Coaster. If I can't put together Hot Wheels, what makes you think I will be able to put this one together?? I am getting a headache just looking at it.

11. The American Idol Talent Challenge.
As mothers, aren't we tortured enough??

12. Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader? I will not allow my children to have it based solely on my competitiveness. It turns out, I am NOT smarter than a 5th grader, and so be it, NO ONE in this house will be proven to be. I MUST win!

13. Anything that makes an ungodly amount of noise. Why? It's unnecessary. And with three children, Lord knows there is enough noise to go around!

Thursday 13 #6

2007-11-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

13 Songs I LOVE from Movies and/or TV shows

Can YOU guess which movie/show they are from??

1. At This Moment by Billy Vera (What did you think I would do at this moment When you're standing before me With tears in your eyes... (Family Ties..The Real Thing episode)

2. Let's Hear it For the Boy by Denise Williams (Footloose)

3. Love Stinks by J.Giels Band (Wedding Singer...LOVE this movie!)

4. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts (Cars)

5. If you Leave by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (Pretty in Pink)

6. I'll Be There For You by The Rembrandts (shut up - you know you like it!) (Friends theme song)

7. Love is a Battlefield by Pat Benatar (13 Going on 30)

8. Kiss You All Over by Exile (Happy Gilmore)

9. She's Like the Wind by Patrick Swayze (my version, "She broke the wind" was much better, but never went anywhere for some reason :-?) (Dirty Dancing)

10. Don't You Forget About Me by Simple Minds (The Breakfast Club)

11. Dancin' With Myself by Billy Idol (Can't Buy Me Love)

12. Overnight male by George Strait (Pure Country...had to throw a country song or two in the list)

13. Somewhere Over The Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo`ole (or however the heck you spell it. Oh GIVE me a break! YOU try spelling it!!) (50 First Dates)

Yosemite!

2007-11-06T06:00:00.001-08:00

We went to Yosemite National Park this weekend. It was AMAZING. Seriously. I have no idea how I can live approximately 3 hours from such a place for twenty somethin' years and never know this even existed. Now that I am a grown up (shut up- I AM!) and live 2 hours away, we are planning on going often. Why wouldn't we?? Wanna see pictures??

The cabin we stayed in. SO small. This is what I get for being a cheap butt and saving $15 a night. Next time, I think I'll splurge.

The 18 people we went with (except me and Kendall, since I was taking the pic and she was on the back of my bike. We biked around Yosemite about 10 miles. It was awesome!

My family on a bridge at Yosemite. Try not to look too hard; we may use it as our Christmas Card.

Just a quick pic I took while riding my bike. Yep, RIDING. I didn't even stop to take it-that's talent.

A picture I took of me WHILE on my bike. I told you I was talented.

The kiddos. I would love to tell you what exactly they are in front of, but I have no idea. My poor husband had to hear me the whole time going, "Is that Half Dome? What about that, is that half dome? How 'bout now??

The beauty that is Yosemite.

We had such a wonderful time. We are already planning our next trip in the next few months. I think I have a new favorite place to be!!

13 Things That Bug the Crap Outta Me - THURSDAY 13 #5

2007-11-01T06:44:00.000-07:00

I know there may be a couple duplicate sin this list from one of my very first posts, but if I am listing it again, then it must really piss me off.

1. Teenagers and PRE-teenagers in Slutty Halloween costumes. Who the heck lets these girls out of the house?? Then there's me with my pre-teen boy (he's 12 now, I guess he's officially 'PRE-teen') trying desperately to distract him so he doesn't stare!

2. Whiny children. Just speak to me in a regular voice. Ask me a question in your 'big boy/girl' voice and most likely you will get what you ask for. Unless it's asking me to watch Sponge Bob at 6:30 in the morning. I gotta draw the line somewhere.

3. People who are on the phone at the checkout. It's incredibly rude and self-centered. Hang up the phone for two seconds to say hello to the poor cashier who has been working her butt off for annoying people like you ALL day.

4. Candy. I know I have said before that chocolate makes me ill. What I did not mention is that I really do enjoy the stuff. And I am feeling the effects today. I hope I don't puke.

5. People who try to tell me how to raise my kids. I don't care how you did it with your kids, THIS is how I am doing it with mine. If they grow up in need of serious therapy, then I guess I did it wrong. For now, I will do it my way. For some reason God blessed me with three (sometimes) wonderful children. So I will raise them as well as I know how!

6. People who smoke in front of children. I don't care if you smoke, but please just take it outside so not to harm your precious babies with the toxic fumes from the end of your fag (yes it is a slang word for cigarette...and I LOVE using it!)

7. Self flushing toilets. I go in, I adjust the seat cover just perfectly and ....WHOOSH...it flushes down. So, I grab another seat cover I place it carefully on the seat, making sure I am not in the 'red light' area, I pull down my pants and quickly hop on the seat. Careful not to move once you're on the seat because if you do,...WHOOSH...and that's disgusting. Just plain gross. Who knows what fecal matter and urine just sprayed all up on your girly parts. When you get home, you need to shower after using one of these. Whoever invented them is an idiot.

8. People who can't drive. I am a good driver. The rest of y'all are idiots. My kids will even tell you so :-)

9. California stereotypes. No, I don't eat granola (not every day, anyway), I DO shave my legs and armpits, there are no palm trees where I live, and I don't have fake boobs (well, duh, they are down to my belly button!)or dyed blond hair.

10. My house that cannot stay clean. You can complain all you want, Mr. Husband man, but I do believe those are YOUR socks shoved in between the couch cushions, and YOUR plate caked with food still on the dinner table, and wait...I'm pretty sure that's YOUR laundry trailed from the front door, up the stairs, landing 2 feet away from the clothes hamper. Yep, I DO believe so.

11. My parents. I do love them dearly, I do. But when you come over, would it KILL you to clean up your coffee messes? Is it so difficult to get up off your butt and PLAY with the kids? Hey, dad....sit still and visit for a minute (can anyone say ADD??)

12. Early arrivers. When you say you are going to be here "Late afternoon/Early Evening, I assume you mean between 4:30-5. So, when you get here at 2 o' fricken clock, I AM a bit irritated. Anyone who has kids knows that when you are expecting company, the cleaning of the house cannot begin until about an hour before the guests are expected to arrive, or the house will be a disaster AGAIN by the time they get there. So, you will see where I have the problem. Unless you wanna see my house in shambles, DO NOT come early.

13. Nosy people. Mind your own dang business. You don't need to know every single detail. Blah!

I forgot to add to my tag.

2007-10-29T06:50:00.000-07:00

I should have put this in with my seven random facts. I didn't, though. And I apologize, but I feel like it is my duty to share it, as I think some may think it a sickness.

I am SUPER anal about spelling and grammar. I will be reading a blog and I can point out every single spelling error. Not so much the grammatical errors, as they sometimes confuse me, but I do know the basic ones. Sometimes I sit with my virtual red pen and circle each and every misspelling. It really makes me crazy when things are spelled incorrectly. Now, in my defense, EVERY so often I will misspell something, but it's not because I don't know how to spell it; it's because I get so excited that I am typing away and I forget to go back and notice that I made an error.

Also, please use the correct forms of there, your, to, etc... It does drive me batty when I have to take out the red pen.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Maybe now that you are more aware of my disease, you will be more aware of your spelling / grammatical errors.

I have been tagged!!

2007-10-28T06:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks Cecily! I have to list 7 Random things about me. This may be sort of difficult since I just listed 13 Random facts a few weeks ago on my very FIRST Thursday Thirteen. I think I can come up with 7 more, though. I DO like talking about me!

1. I am very, very competitive. To a fault, some may say. If I commit to doing something (school, for example), I better be the best at it, or I will throw a temper tantrum (youngest child syndrome? Maybe.)

2. I love playing Board Games. Cranium, Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, anything. I would rather do this than most anything.

3. Zac and I played Yahtzee while I was in labor with our daughter. I won, in case you were wondering.

4. I have lived in California all my life and I have NEVER been to Yosemite National Park

We are going on Friday to stay in cabins! YAY!!

5. My oldest son, who is 12, is dressing up like Napoleon Dynamite for Halooween. He put on his outfit yesterday and was walking around going, "I'll dress up however I want to dress up, GOSH!"

6. I have an obsession with names. I own many baby names books. Not because I want to have another baby, but because I love reading about names and their meanings and stuff. I didn't name my kids for their meanings, though.

7. Brandon was named after a town in Manitoba, Canada. My dad was born in the town and was going to name my sister and I Brandon, but we turned out to be girls (oh, the disappointment!), so I stepped up and named him Brandon. Oddly enough, Brandon is the miniature version of my father. Oh joy. Nolan was going to be named Ryan up until two days before he was born. We saw some Osteoporosis commercial starring Nolan Ryan and I turned and said, "Hney, what do you think of the name Nolan?" Zac liked it and we used it. Nolan Patrick. Not Nolan Ryan. Kendall is named after her Grandpa, Ken. Her middle name is Norine after Zac's 89 year old Grandmother.

I am not good at tagging people. I have to get to know more bloggers before I actually tag them. SO, feel free to do it and please let me know if you put this on your blog.

13 Costumes of Halloweens Past -Thursday 13 #4

2007-10-25T06:09:00.000-07:00

I am actually not sure I can remember every one, since I dressed up as the same thing a few years in a row. I will try. I may have to make some up so you think I am cool.

Disclaimer: We were poor when I was growing up, so a lot of these are throw together things. I only once remember my mom BUYING me a costume...see #1 for that one.

1. Strawberry Shortcake. This is the earliest costume I can remember. Complete with plastic mask and plastic pullover jumpsuit thingy. Freakin' adorable.
2. A baby. I was a baby all the time, so dressing up as one for many years in a row was not too far in left field. As long as we are being honest, I still AM a baby.
3. A bum. I lived in Santa Cruz, CA. I fit in quite well.
4. A ghost. Oooooh, scary. Look at that scary person with a sheet over their body and jagged circles cut out for eyes!!
5. A Pack of Wrigley's Spearmint Gum. Back when the pack was 25 cents, so I had 25¢ stamped across the top of my body. Uh huh, that was fun for a freshman girl.
6. A cave girl. It wasn't cute, At all.
7. A football player. 7th grade. I borrowed a boy's jersey, he borrowed my cheerleading outfit. It was fun walking around with a helmet on and banging my head into poles and such.
8. A nerd. I know what you are thinking. I DID have a hard time finding all the things I needed for this outfit. Never did find a pocket protector.
9. A boy. What? I just wanted to pee standing up. They have it SO easy.
10. A china girl. I think there is a picture of me in this. It may have been a dance recital, and nt Halloween, but I was still dressed up. I only took dance for like, a year. I am not known for my coordination style.
11. A clown. It was last minute so I threw on my mom's lame arse clown suit. SO original.
12. A cheerleader. My sister was a cheerleader, so I wore her outfit. Oh, joy.
13. A spider. This one was super cool, actually. I wish my mom still had it. I would SO wear it again.

I've been sorta kinda tagged

2007-10-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, fine, I wasn't actually TAGGED, per se, but MamaLee did it, and she said anyone who wanted to do it, could. SO I AM.

1. Name one person who made you laugh last night? Another student in my class when she said, "Boys like to play with balls." Yeah, that's right - I AM, in fact, 12.
2. What were you doing at 0800? dropping Nolan off at school
3. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? laundry - always.
4. What happened to you in 2006? Lots of things happened in 2006. I'm supposed to pinpoint ONE thing?? Um, I went to Disneyland in May 2006. THAT was fun.
5. What was the last thing you said out loud? How much longer do we have to watch UFC??
6. How many beverages did you have today? Lots of water and 3 iced teas
7. What color is your hairbrush? brownish. Actually rust colored.
8. What was the last thing you paid for? My utility bill yesterday :-(
9. Where were you last night? School.
10. What color is your front door? blue
11. Where do you keep your change? In my ashtray. Or in the money jar.
12. What’s the weather like today? sunny
13. What’s the best ice-cream flavor? Chocolate Malted Crunch from Rite Aid (Thrifty brand)
14. What excites you? Getting A+'s on my tests :)
15. Do you want to cut your hair? Yes, I do actually. It's time.
16. Are you over the age of 25? Yes I am . 7 years over.
17. Do you talk a lot? Sometimes, yes. Way too much on the phone.
18. Do you watch the O.C.? No. I've never watched it.
19. Do you know anyone named Steven? Yes, my sort of adopted brother. Haven't seen him in years. I miss Steven
20. Do you make up your own words? Well, YEAH.
21. Are you a jealous person? Not really, not even when I was constantly being cheated on by my ex boyfriend in High School. I should have been, but it's not in me.
22. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘A’. Andrea (yes, you are still my friend all the way out in Georgia :-(
23. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘K’. Kellie (not me, I spell my name with a 'y', but I am a good friend :-)
24. Who’s the first person on your received call list? Paula.
25. What does the last text message you received say? I don't text
26. Do you chew on your straw? yes.
27. Do you have curly hair? No
28. Where’s the next place you’re going to? Bed; to the kids' school in the morning.
29. Who’s the rudest person in your life? My grandfather. no tact.
30. What was the last thing you ate? A reese's PB Cup
31. Will you get married in the future? Nope. I am married for the last time
32. What’s the best movie you’ve seen in the past 2 weeks? Wild Hogs was the only new movie I have seen lately. It was ok. I saw Pretty Woman for the 6000th time this week, and that was better,
33. Is there anyone you like right now? I like lots of people.
34. When was the last time you did the dishes? This afternoon
35. Are you currently depressed? Nope.
36. Did you cry today? No.
37. Why did you answer and post this? It looked like fun.
38. Tag 5 people who would do this survey. Jeannene, Lisa, Bep . I don't feel like tagging anyone else, cuz I don't wanna bug them, but if you feel like doing it, PLEASE do!

A 32 year old Temper Tantrum??

2007-10-23T11:25:00.000-07:00

My husband , our friend and I play scrabble quite a bit, like, a few times a week. We have all these stupid made up rules when we play. One rule is when you do a challenge, you can choose to really challenge a word and play by SCRABBLE rules or you can do what we call a "friendly lookup" where you choose not to challenge, but look it up anyway. On a friendly lookup, the looker upper says whether or not it is a word and most of the time if it's NOT A WORD, the person who played the word takes it off the board and starts over.
SO, it was MY turn. I had a seven letter word (50 point Bonus, kachow!) Gruntle. I could play the "L" off of the end of 'ova', making it 'oval'. My husband and our friend both say, "Challenge!" Well, I had definitely heard DISgruntle, but couldn't recall (under the pressure) if indeed, I had ever heard the word, "gruntle." I started to second guess myself, because BOTH of them (our friend has been around 15 years longer than us) had never heard the word. So, my husband, Zac, decides to do a "Friendly lookup." He looks it up, then looks at me and slyly shakes his head ,"no" as if to say, "No, honey, it's not a word, take it off before it gets challenged for real." So I took it off and used gruel or something lame like that. AS SOON as I write my score (a measly 17 points) Zac yells, "cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will of". Yes, as a matter of fact, that IS the definition of gruntle. I was PISSED. Yes, PISSED. Needless to say, being the competitor that I am, I pouted and was mean the rest of the game. It was not even about winning (which I did anyway!). It was about the betrayal of my husband that had me DISGRUNTLED. Yep, we all know THAT is a word.