LiLi's Blog of Random Thoughts

Hello Blog World

2011-05-05T07:25:00.001-05:00

Happy CINCO DE MAYO!!!!!!! Eat something MEXICAN today! Juevos Rancheros for breakfast for me! Yummeh! Enjoy the day!!!

Breathing Again

2011-02-26T21:38:00.003-05:00

Well, it looks like I am FINALLY on the mend. The flu, bronchitis and a double ear infection had a great hold on me. The bronchitis is still holding on and causing some chest and back discomfort, but over all, I feel quite a bit better! Still very tired and run down, trying to keep things low key.

I may start a new blog for my journey. Not linked to this site. Stay tuned for that, however! My schedule is ramping up again. This week I have DEFINITELY over booked and don't know quite how I am going to fit it all in! On Thursday alone, I have three commitments and they each overlap in time frame! GAH!!! Being MOM comes first, so Little Man's Art Show takes precedence over EVERYTHING on Thursday.

OK, the chest pain is too uncomfortable to sit up any longer, so I think I am going to go lay down.

Sickness ... GO A W A Y!

2011-02-24T12:06:00.002-05:00

So, now we have three confirmed cases of the flu here in our house and 2 cases of strep! Lemme tell ya, we are doing great! My cough is really working out my core ab muscles. I'm hardly able to eat or drink, though both hungry and thirsty.

Thankful that my precious mommy is making my family a scrumptious pot of CHICKEN SOUP! Oh we so need it! I cannot wait to get the first spoonful into my mouth tonight! Chicken soup cures everything, you know! ;)

Now that everyone is on tamiflu and amoxacillan maybe we can get some wellness back in this joint!

I've been instructed, by my new instructor... that I must rest all weekend and not do anything to over exert myself and cause relapse. I am following her lead! Come 5 a.m. on Tuesday, March 1 -- I will be headed to my very first "Body Back" class. You see, I won a contest! I get eight weeks of this class for FREE! I'm REALLY nervous, but REALLY excited. Thus why I HAVE to get better so I can give the class my all next week.

I talked to the instructor this morning and she said that we will go easy on Tuesday and just do an assessment of where everyone is... but then Thursday we kick it into high gear.

I have goals for myself in this endeavor. My goals are: put an end to emotional/stress eating, address the issues that keep holding me back from achieving my goals and learn to let GO of them, to become stronger, to become more physically fit!

SO, in the first class, we will get weighed (OH this is SO scary for me, people will know how much I weigh, and that is FRIGHTENING for me!) and then measured! I hope it won't be too traumatic for me! I always feel so judged. I've been assured that this group of ladies is extremely supportive and they come in all shapes and sizes.

NOW, I've just got to get better so I can make it to class on Tuesday morning!

WOW... I've been blindsided!

2011-02-22T23:26:00.003-05:00

So, you probably noticed that I did not blog yesterday, and this blog is coming almost into the next day... well, I got blindsided with some kind of sickness and it is horrible! Fever, chills, coughing until I almost puke, complete lack of energy and just feeling like a pile of dung! I wish it on no one. Daughter numero uno and little man have both been hit with it, my nephew has had it... we are suffering! I don't know if it is the flu or what, but it is not fun. My ears are now killing me. The pediatrician said Wils' was just a virus that needed to run it's course. He seemed a little better today, but still really worn out.

So, I am keeping this post short and sweet, and adding something to my bucket list (I've never made one, so I guess I am starting one now!)

Wall/Rock Climbing -- I want to do it! It is now a goal!

OK, that's all for now. Going back to sleep, maybe, the baby keeps crying out! *sigh* mommy needs rest!

On the blog again...

2011-02-20T13:08:00.010-05:00

Yep, that's right! I'm on the blog again! A big change is coming to my life. An exciting opportunity has dropped into my lap! A challenge has been issued and I am taking it head on. Full Speed Ahead!

I am making a commitment, right here, right now! I will blog everyday of my journey. Why will I blog, because, I want to SEE where I started and how I do along the way. Some days will be hard, some days I will be exhausted and may want to give up. My blog will be my outlet.

My friends and family are needed for support. I have my own ability to sabotage my efforts, I do not need help from outside forces, so hear me right now... if you don't want to see me succeed at this, then stop reading my blog RIGHT NOW -- I have my own evils that keep me from achieving my dreams and I definitely do not want any naysayers on my journey with me. So move along, there is nothing to see here!

This blog is for me to work out what I am going through each day. Words of encouragement along my journey are much appreciated. Stories that could be motivational, MORE than appreciated! PRAYERS are coveted!

My absolutely gorgeous, beyond amazing, hunky, delicious, fantastic, precious, inspiring Mr. Perfect made a statement that I need to be reminded of throughout this journey. I was telling him how nervous I am, and how I fail so miserably so easily all the time... and he said, "Give it to God, let GOD succeed -- it isn't all about you, but about what God can do in and through you." WOW!!! Who is that man I married?!?! To think, when we met, he wasn't even a Christian, didn't really know much about the church or the body of Christ -- and now HE is reminding me that GOD has the power to perform miracles and the power to help me achieve my goals. His words were and are extremely encouraging. I know he will be praying for me everyday on my journey. I am eternally grateful for a husband who is filled with the Holy Spirit and isn't afraid to use the power that God has bestowed in all of us! Thank you, GOD, for Mr. Perfect in my life. I am so glad you hand picked him for me!

OK, so today is Day 1... even though the actual hard part of the journey doesn't start until Feb. 28. Day 1 = getting mentally prepared for the journey ahead. Getting my head in the game. Getting my heart in the game. Talking myself OUT of self sabotage. Moving myself forward into a new phase.

A quick review of the past 10.5 years:

July 1, 2000 Married Mr. Perfect
May 1, 2001 Last BCP ever
July 1, 2001 Discovered we were preggo!
August, 2001 DNC to remove fetal tissue from miscarriage
October 2002 Round 1 of Clomid
November 2002 Round 2 of Clomid
December 8, 2002 Discovered we were preggo!
August 15, 2003 Induction
August 16, 2003 Induction continued
August 17, 2003 Induction day 3, 10:42 p.m. Baby Girl #1 born by c/section
January 31, 2004 Discovered we were preggo!
February 14, 2004 Miscarriage on Valentine's Day
January 2005 Discovered we were preggo!
March 2005, Discovered baby had no heartbeat
June 2005, Discovered we were preggo!
June 2005, lost the baby just as soon as we discovered
July 2005, began water aerobics
September 2005, began working out in earnest and doing Weight Watchers
October 2005, 30th birthday! Told Mr. Perfect I was happy with my life and meant it.
November 2005 had lost 29 lbs.
November 2005, Thanksgiving Day, discovered at the gym that I was PREGGO!
July 14, 2006 Baby Boy born by c/section
April 2007 Discovered I was preggo!
December 13, 2007 Baby Girl #2 was born!
February 2009 Car was rearended, discovered I was preggo!
March 2009 Walked in the 10K, started spotting
April 10, 2009 discovered baby had no heartbeat, decided to allow my body to naturally cleanse
May 2009 experienced the worst miscarriage of all of my losses, 3 hour pain intensive labor
May 2009 begged Mr. Perfect to NEVER get me pregnant again
July 6, 2009 discovered I was preggo!
September 2009 could not find the baby's heartbeat, emergency ultrasound, baby was FINE!
November 2009 high level ultrasound to view baby's heart -- everything was fine
March 9, 2010 Baby Girl #3 born a week earlier than scheduled, healthy and amazing!
May 10, 2010 Baby girl #3 to ER for croup in the middle of the night
May 12, 2010 Baby girl #3 referred to a cardiologist for possible VSD (congenital heart defect)
May 19, 2010 Baby girl #3 cardiologist confirmed 2 heart defects (VSD/PDA)
May 19, 2010 Decided to start a chapter in Virginia of The Children's Heart Foundation
June 17, 2010 CHFVA held its first meeting
September 2010 second meeting w/ cardiologist, seems defects are trying to self correct
October 18, 2010 CHFVA held its first Golf Tournament in memory of Allison Jacobs
February 18, 2010 Offered a life changing experience and accepted it
February 20, 2010 Started blogging again...

As you can see, a lot of my past 10 years has revolved around pregnancy and losses and some scary moments with child #4. Being a mom is the most rewarding and wonderful job in the world, and the job I wanted most in the world. I wouldn't have gone through 5 losses if I didn't seriously want to be a mother. However, in becoming a mother, I've lost sight of ME... and that is not good for any of us in my family. I have forgotten to take care of myself. And in not taking care of me, others in my family have suffered. It is time to get ME back. It is time to take care of ME so I can better take care of these little people I helped bring into this world. It is time to take care of ME so I can be the wife Mr. Perfect deserves! It is time to take care of ME so I feel better about myself, so I like myself again and so I can relieve some self inflicted pressure off my life.

Since having child #2 I've neglected several areas in my life. It is easy to make excuses for why I have ignored these areas, but truth be told, I long to focus on these areas again. Yes, the excuses will still be there, and I'm sure I will try and pull them out ... but I have to remember that first and foremost I am doing this journey for MYSELF so that I can be a better wife, mother, friend and leader. With Mr. Perfect and Four children -- there are NO excuses that are acceptable for ignoring what I need to do in my life... do I want to continue to be here and be mother to my children and wife to my husband? If so, then I need to start this journey and stick with it! We are never guaranteed tomorrow, but with the way I have been living, I've been pushing the limits of tomorrow for a long time, giving up a chance at tomorrow for stupid excuses. No more excuses will hold me back. It's time for me to get my . . .

Stay tuned!

On tap for this week...

2010-05-23T21:35:00.003-05:00

Today was Cheaters Lasagna!
I used left over ground turkey meat and left over egg noodles.
1 jar of spaghetti sauce
1 tsp of minced garlic
1 can of tomato sauce (small can)
1/2 small tub of ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella (part skim)
1 cup parm (possibly a little less than 1 full cup... I didn't measure)

heated sauce w/ ground turkey, garlic and tomato sauce
mixed 1 1/2 cups of Moz with ricotta and 1/2 of parm
preheated oven to 350
spread a ladle full of sauce into bottom of a 9x13
layered some egg noodles
more sauce
layer of cheese mixture (use it all)
more noodles
more sauce
then topped with remaining parm and moz

Bake for 30 minutes

At 15 minutes throw in a loaf of fresh Italian bread that has been doused w/ garlic and melted butter. (make sure to wrap in foil so it will not get too crispy)

Serve w/ salad and your favorite dressing. DELICIOUS! Next time, I hope to add in green pepper and baby spinach (to the sauce)... just to add a little extra nutrition!

Now for the rest of the week... I have another turkey tenderloin... this will be the meat for turkey tacos, enchiladas and bbq. I have turkey burgers. I have ingredients for sweet and sour meatballs. I have seafood ravioli and I have perogies. It should be interesting to see how far I can make all of this stretch. The lasagna will be around for another meal... that is for certain! Oh and I have chicken for baked chicken dinner and also for slicing over salad for another meal!

Stay tuned!!!

Cheaters Cobbler

2010-05-21T11:36:00.003-05:00

If you've heard of dump cake... this is just a variation!
I use 2 cans of peaches (one in fruit juice and the other in extra light syrup)
1 box butter recipe yellow cake mix
1 stick of melted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark, doesn't matter, and I eyeball it, I never measure)

preheat oven to 350
dump the peaches in a greased 9x13
top w/ cake mix
evenly top with melted butter
sprinkle on brown sugar (you can add crushed nuts or some quick cooking oats to the brown sugar)

bake until bubbling and crust is lightly browned... serve warm... some would like this with vanilla ice cream... my poppy would have liked it with milk poured over the top

Toss in blueberries if you'd like! Or switch it up altogether and make up your own cheaters cobbler! (but be sure to share what you made)

Chicken Stroganoff

2010-05-21T11:27:00.003-05:00

I tossed 3 frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot with 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, doused it with 1/2 cup of chardonay and cooked on low all day. The chicken eventually fell apart, and I cooked up some whole wheat egg noodles and tossed them in the crockpot... stirred everything together. I spooned it all into a lovely serving dish. Served with a side of salad. Mixed reviews... I loved it, hubby loved it, kids loved everything but the noodles. Easy, inexpensive, tasty, and leftovers!

All the leftovers in my fridge will make their way to my mom's house tonight. Friday nights are dinner at Gammy's every other week. Tonight is just potluck... Spaghetti, Chicken Stroganoff, Pork Pot Roast, salad, whatever other sides Gammy has lying around, mac n chz, and then peach cheaters cobbler for dessert!

I, however, am going out for a GIRLS NIGHT OUT!!! :)

As for the left over egg noodles... I'll be making a cheaters lasagna! Perfect for a Sunday dinner. Need to pick up more salad, and some crusty bread to turn into yummy garlic bread!!!

As for Satruday... I think the kids will have a nuggets and fries day and the hubs and I will finally get around to having our Naan and Curry Chicken!

Quick Fix Meals meets Semi Homemade -- McGhan Style

2010-05-20T11:53:00.003-05:00

So, I love to cook. BUT, I don't like complicated recipes. I like shortcuts, and I like to get a lot of meals out of one product. I like to see how cheaply I can feed my family, while making delicious and healthy meals.

Last week I made a fantastic discovery -- preseasoned TURKEY TENDERLOIN. It's $7.99. YIKES, that seems steep for my budget. I decided I'd buy it anyway and see how far I could make it go. The first night, we had turkey tenderloin w/ mashers and roasted veggies. Over half of the tenderloin was left. I decided I'd shred it up. When I shredded it, there was a lot there. I decided we could get 2 more meals out of it. I used 1/2 and mixed w/ our fav. bbq sauce. The other half I mixed w/ taco sauce.

The second meal was BBQ sandwiches w/ coleslaw and fruit.
Our third meal was tacos (crunch) w/ lettuce, salsa and fixins, and fuit.

All in all... our meals were UNDER $2.00 per person -- that would be under $10.00 to feed 5 people! Taco night was probably around $1.10 per person! THAT rocks my socks!

I also take a pound of ground turkey breast, and I stretch that out to 2 meals. Spaghetti with meat sauce and then something else... right now, the 2nd half of that meat is in the freezer waiting for inspiration.

Soon, I'll be making meatballs with the ground turkey. I can definitely get 2 meals out of meatballs... I can do italian meatballs with pasta and I can do sweet and sour meatballs with brown rice. The good thing is, I can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze what I don't use.

Chicken goes along way at this house, and Schwan's just made it even easier, by having 5 lbs of chicken for $13.99 -- it feeds 20 people!!! Can you say, chicken salad, chicken casserole, smothered chicken, chicken pot pie, cheesy chicken and noodles? I thought so!

And now I have an itch to start gardening... when I saw the beautiful lettuce my mom picked at my sister's house last night, it REALLY made me want to grow my own veggies. I love veggies, but can't stand to pay so much for them, and if I grow them at home, there are no pesticides to contend with! I think I want to start with lettuce and herbs. We have a huge yard, so finding a spot to grow veggies shouldn't be that difficult. I also hope to grow some blueberries (for next year of course)... my kids can eat their weight in blueberries!

So anyway, I may be using my blog to discuss my adventures in cooking and gardening for a big family! I welcome ideas on frugal cooking for a large family!

HauteLook -- for real

2010-05-06T10:38:00.002-05:00

SO, if you love to shop, like I do... but you are on a budget... like I am... I just wanted to share this little website with you! http://www.hautelook.com/invite/LMcGhan566 you have to be invited to go to the site, so consider this your personal invitation! They have great sales... not all sales are equal though, so pay close attention! ie: Danskos sale was no better than the Danskos Outlet... but do your research! You can sometimes find wedding gifts for people for amazing prices! Or buy something for yourself... Just check it out and see if you might find a deal on something you've wanted for a long time. I belong to several of these... including some children only ones-- which The MiniSocial is my FAVORITE, so if you want to be included on any of those, just leave me a comment and I'll get you the details... On MiniSocial, I was able to get Maegs two pair of CUTE (not seen in stores around here) Crocs-- she's been wanting them for ages, but I didn't want to get her the regular ones... I was hoping to find some more feminine... and I did, FOR $10 vs. the $30+ you find the regular ones in the store for!!! WooHoo!

Too Early Miss Cait... way too early...

2010-01-12T17:06:00.002-05:00

I am having some painful contractions this afternoon. I'm having to remind lil Cait that it is WAY too early for her to make her arrival. Stay put lil girl. We can't wait to meet you, but we'd rather wait, so that you are nice and healthy!!!

so much to do

2010-01-12T11:32:00.002-05:00

So much to do and so little motivation... I should be SUPER motivated with Cait expected in 9 weeks. My motivation is just lacking. I've got to clear out the nursery, scrub it down, and get it ready for it's newest occupant. Meanwhile, I've got to get Mia prepared for her new room and bed. I've still got to finish cleaning out the toys in the kids rooms that are no longer being used... and that are not likely to be used by Cait. I need to get rid of all the boys clothes in the house that Wils isn't currently wearing or able to wear in the future. I've got to get rid of all the baby girl clothes that are the wrong season for Cait. I've got to clean out my room AGAIN. I've got to get the roof replaced (hopefully BEFORE Cait's arrival). I've got to get the kitchen painted, the nursery door repaired, my room painted and not to mention furniture purchases. We need to get new living room furniture, a new bedroom suit for our room, wooden pryamid bunks for the older kids rooms and new kitchen chairs (a whole set would be nice, but just chairs would suffice).

Then there is the whole BABY STUFF that is still needed for little Cait. Christmas of 2008 I gave away nearly everything (baby gear) to a family who was fostering three children. Then in the spring, what I had left, I sold in a yard sale. And the infant seat I was using, was in my car when I was rear ended. SO, now I've got to get a new travel system, a new travel lite pack n play, a new bouncy seat, (thankful to my sister for a swing!), and new infant/nb gowns.

Then of course, I'd love to replace the blinds in our house w/ these faux wooden blinds I found at WalMart-- they'd look SO much better than what we currently have, and would spruce up the look of our home.

SO, you see, much to be done. I think my lack of motivation is knowing that most of this can't be accomplished due to a lack of funds at this time. I know God is in control and I need to just let go and let God! Sometimes that is SO much easier said than done. And being overwhelmed makes me retreat, rather than become proactive. The cold weather (ridiculously cold) does not help with my attitude one bit!

I need to make myself a goal for each day... if I can accomplish ONE thing in a day, then maybe I can start to get some motivation and do a little more each day. It's worth aiming for. I can't remain in funky town forever... I have a family relying on me!

Funky Town

2010-01-11T21:55:00.003-05:00

I'm living in Funky Town... and not in a good way. I'm in a FUNK. yuck! I think it is all this blessed frigid weather. I'm not meant to live in climates this cold. 50 degrees, FINE... under 40? Forget it! I've got 9 weeks until Cait arrives, and I have nothing ready for her arrival. I think I just may be the world's worst mom!

It's time again...

2009-10-06T06:37:00.002-05:00

Matt's about to hit the road for another trip. I'm about this close (pinched fingers a fraction of an inch apart) from packing up the kids and going with him! This morning sickness stuff is really getting to me and I don't know how I am going to manage w/o him here in the mornings to help me get through!

Thankfully, Wednesday is a busy day with church activities after school... so I'll be able to handle that day pretty well, especially since Matt won't leave until after he drops Maegan at school in the morning. It's Thursday and Friday that are going to be a bit crazy. And that doesn't even include worrying about him driving alone from Richmond to Atlanta!!!

Pray for no pukies, no flu and NO accidents (for either of us)!!!

It hurts... and I'm being a baby!

2009-02-20T09:01:00.002-05:00

Yep, I'm being a baby. Let me whine. Leave me to it and don't tell me to suck it up. I want my pity party and I shall have it! Then I'll be done and move on. It's how I deal. My car, my sweet late model red minivan-- I call her big bertha (she's huge)-- I was driving along, after dropping Matt off at the airport, and I was thinking, I should really trade her in, now that gas prices are bearable, I really want my big SUV, I love the extra room in the trunk. So my jogger fits right in without any shuffling. Pack everything I need for the beach. Fit an extra person in for whatever reason... you know, I just want an SUV, I was spoiled by my Jeep, and I miss it... I want an SUV. So, I was thinking, right ow is the time to buy..,. prices are way low, incentives WAY high... it would be nice to get one. SO, I was thinking, my car is so cute and in relatively good condition... I bet I could fetch about $10K on it... adorable little thing. (big thing)

My next thoughts, as I am leaving the airport, I should really go get a new power adapter for my computer, I can't live w/o the computer while Matt is gone, and it's a business write off anyway, so I'll head to the apple store. I thought, hmm... I will go pick up Anthony (a friend from church, he's like a little brother to Matt and I), he can chill in the car with the kids while I run in and run out, and I'll buy him some Starbucks as a treat. The kids love Ant (my nickname for him), that would be perfect. Then I realize, he's probably got a lot of work to do at church and the pastors might not appreciate my taking him away for a half an hour. SO, I did what I didn't really want to do. I called my mom. "Mom can you watch the kids long enough for me to run to the Apple Store? I'll go there and then run right back, no stops between." She said sure, but I knew she was tired. I felt so bad asking... but I did not want to take ALL THREE into the Apple store, expecially when I did not have my double stroller with me. So, I dropped them off with mom, and I drove out to Short Pump Town Centre to the Apple Store. Ran in, got my power adapter, ran straight through Nordstroms, with blinders on, though I REALLY wanted to stop and look at handbags! Got in my car and headed for hom, quite proud of myself, because I knew I'd be home by 5:15, plenty of time for Mom to get herself fed and get to church for choir. I decide to take the "shortcut" by the cinema to the stoplight, avoiding the Broad Street Road traffic. This shortcut has FOUR stop signs and isn't even half a mile long! I stop, I go. I stop, I go. I stop. I take my foot off the brake, ready to go and I SCREAM, as my back tightens up and I hear a crack and my car lurches. It took a whole 2 seconds for me to process what has just happened. I put my foot back on the brake, and I think ... Was I just hit? I look in the rear view mirror and realize, that is EXACTLY what happened. I've never been hit before, panic set in BIG time. I didn't know what to do next. I was shaking.

OK Lisa, but the car in park. OK Lisa, *grumbling, trying not to curse, sending out a few mother F --without the last three letters, good girl* Get out of the car, more grumbling, some whimpering, I think I recall looking at the guy who hit me and saying, Why did you do this to me? Still shaking, get the cell phone, turn the car off, shut the door, look at the damage. Oh boy, worse than I thought. Bumper is cracked all the way across the back, back door smooshed in and down. Call mom, sister answers Dee I was in an accident, gotta go. Hang up, call nonemergency police number-- Firemen on the way (his car was leaking fluid). Hang up, call my insurance company, all the while exchanging info with the guy who hit me and realizing he used to be my trainer at the gym. I tell my company I'm filing the claim with HIS company since it was his fault that I was hit. He is perfectly OK with that. Call his insurance, file claim, chat w/ fireman. He says I wouldn't let my wife drive this home, you can't know what happened under the car, I'd get it towed. Still on phone with his insurance. Police arrive. Can't do anything about it because it is on private property, obvious what happened, but no ticket, which was fine by me, it was an accident plain and simple. Officer called two trucks for both of us. Officer stayed with us while we filed our claims. Officer left. We were in a parking lot, his ride arrived, I still didn't know if anyone was coming to get me. Matt texted while this was going on, saying he was on the plane about to leave. I texted back, I was in an accident. No response. I get back in touch with my family and ask if someone can please come get me. I remove car seats, then realizing they need to be replaced as now their safety/integrity has been compromised. BUT, I have no choice, the kids have to have something to ride in. I cry a lot. I try not to, because I didn't want to make Doug feel worse than he already did. Back really tense, pretty sore, but everything moves, so I think I'm OK. Tow truck comes and gets big bertha and off she goes... by car! I realize my strollers are in the car (my umbrellas, not the jogger)-- I cry some more, but just silently. Make small talk with Doug and his father as we wait for my family to arrive. They wouldn't leave me until they knew I had a ride. My sister picks me up. We head home. I'm tired and emotional. Matt calls. I wasn't very nice. I wasn't in the mood. I am still not in the mood. This is all on me, I'm not happy about that.

Yesterday, filled with attempts at getting things moving... not great. Got Maegan to school. Called Jeni, asked if she'd watch the 2 little ones, she said yes. drop them off with Jeni and I go to Patient First. Start having xrays of my neck and the xray machine breaks... it's the kids nap time, they let me leave, pick up kids get them down for nap. Try and figure out how to get to another Patient First to get xrays, gotta figure out how to get the rental, gotta get to 4 pm appointment with adjuster... Not gonna happen. Mom says she will help. Mom has her own crisis. 4pm comes and goes, no new xrays, no meeting, no car. 4:30, call Daddy beg him to help. He says no problem come get me. Get the kids ready and then Mom says she can do it. We head to the door and sister shows up. She keeps Maegan, we take Wils and Mia with us. I get my rental minivan-- it's similar to big bertha, but it's not the same, I miss my car. Mom takes the kids home, I head to Patient First... xray machine, still down. I get gas head to mom's house, call insurance guy, reschedule for today at 5pm. Am so tired. Have to go to a jewelry party with mom... had a nice time, good short escape. Bring kids home, line up a babysitter for today, so I can get to Patient First and try again. Sister says she'll keep kids for the 5pm meeting. Kids to bed everyone asleep by 8:30. Phone rings, ignore it, phone rings, ignore it, phone rings, ignore it, am in bed, not going to get up for anyone or anything (except the kids if need be)-- asleep by 10:30.

Now it is today. I'm doing housework. Mia has learned to climb the stairs. Have her in jail, she's not happy. I'm tried and sore. I want to sleep. I want to wake up and this never happened. Matt due home at midnight. He's taking a cab... this after I'd already arranged to have someone sit at the house with the kids. Canceled sitter. Will just chill here. Bed by 10:30 again, that felt good.

OK back to sweeping, vacuuming and laundry, just because I'm sore, doesn't mean housework stops.

Just checkin in...

2009-01-26T08:32:00.002-05:00

It's been a while. I'm still addicted to Facebook, I won't lie about it. It's a good thing I have no access to the computer during the day. I actually get house work done these days... amazing how that happens.

I'm so ready for the Super Bowl! We are having a party. Nothing fancy, just a few friends and their kids, and my family (those that show up). We are making hoagies, and serving various dips and appetizers and sweets. Matthew always makes the Super Bowl fun, so it doesn't matter if you have a favorite team or not. We have a TOP SECRET trivia game, that NO ONE (including myself) is allowed to see the questions prior to kick off, and NO googling for the answers. We also have a little number draw, he makes a little "scoreboard" on our game card, and we draw a number from a cup -- there is a cup for each quarter. This is where I usually score my points, I'm good at picking the numbers, or let's say I have been good in the past. Then there is a section for "during the game" where we have a list of qualities (ie: longest hair, most tattoos, biggest player, etc.) and we have to pick... the more people that MATCH the more points you get... we also get to pick our favorite commercial, and you just HOPE someone else picked the same one so you get the points!

The trivia game is the cooolest part of the game card. There are questions rated Touchdown and extra point or Field Goal. If you pick Touchdown questions, you have the option of answering the extra point question. If you pick the field goal, then you forgo the chance at the touchdown question. He usually has a pretty good list of these questions. He does his research for months prior to the Super Bowl. My dad always gives me a good run for my money, as he was a football coach and can recall mad stats. I just make educated guesses, because I'm an NFL junkie.

I really think that Matt should get intouch with NFL and see if he can get his cards made into a real Super Bowl game that people can purchase each year (updated for the current season). The cards are so cool, and so well thought out. Everyone should have these sweet party games at their Super Bowl party, because, even if you don't like football, it gets you involved and makes the party more fun. People often remember our SB parties because of all the work Matt puts into it. Football is our favorite sport. It is what I do every Sunday from August through the first week of Feb. Once the season is over, I'm pretty bummed. I'm so glad we can end our season with a great party, even though it is bittersweet. And even though our teams can't seem to make it to the SB here lately, we still find a way to have a great time.

I have many family and friends going for the Steelers this year. I must say, I can not jump on this bandwagon. I am going for the underdog in this game. The Cinderella team if you will... ARIZONA CARDINALS. And, I actually called this a while back... when we were headed into the playoffs, I said, ultimately, I'd love to see the Vikings in it, because I have a friend who plays for them, HOWEVER, I had a feeling that AZ was going all the way, and I was (and still am) VERY cool with that. My mom grew up on AZ, my sister went to college in AZ, it's time for AZ to win it. The cards have not gone to the SB in 61 years. I say GOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ARIZONA!!!! I can't remember if I called Pitt as the other team in SB... if I could go back and figure it out, I'd let you know, but I think the conversation has been deleted! ughhhhhhhhh

So anyway, there is an update from my end!

Oh I am still here, don't you worry your pretty little head!

2009-01-16T08:49:00.002-05:00

Did you think I'd given up blogging? No, I just got sucked into FACEBOOK! It is so addictive. I love it. If you don't have a facebook account, you need one, and if you have one, you need to add me! I love being in touch with old friends that I haven't been in touch with in years. I love staying in touch with my friends who have left town (ie: Kirsten), it's so nice to have a way to keep up with one another. The chat feature is AWESOME! I love it. SO, that's where I have been. Stuck on Facebook. I post notes there occassionally. But, I am going to do better about blogging more often.

I hope all is well and that everyone is enjoying the NEW YEAR.

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

2008-12-25T08:35:00.002-05:00

Is it REALLY Christmas? You wouldn't know it at my house. I'm the only one awake. Mom and Dad just called. They are packing the car and heading over. I'll wake the masses when they arrive. Although, I think Wils is beginning to stir. I've got to hold him off until they get here and I get his siblings up.

Who ever thought that 8:40 on Christmas Morning children would still be sleeping? My kids love their sleep. Thats for sure! Too funny. OK, well, Merry Christmas. Enjoy your day with your family or friends, and remember to give Praises to the King and maybe sing a little HAPPY BIRTHDAY to him! ;)

Opinions Please

2008-11-17T08:33:00.002-05:00

SO, there is a box. The contents of this box have not been seen in FIVE YEARS (actually 5.5 almost)-- So, what do you do with the box? Do you just toss it, without going through it, because after all, if you haven't needed it in 5 years, then you must not be missing it. Do you go through it, because you never know there could be something of value in there? Do you keep it, and just deal with it later?

What's your opinion?

How about baseball cards... do you think that collecting baseball cards is a good thing, an annoying thing, serves a purpose, just creates more clutter? When should one actually part with ones baseball cards? Or should just hold on to them until you die and pass them down to the next generation?

How about toys? Should you keep toys to pass down? Should you purge them and give to less fortunate? Should you have an organized system for storage of toys?

Now about clothing... should you purge twice a year? Once a year? Should t-shirts have sentimental value and need to be kept until you pass and someone with no value attached tosses it for you?

I ask all of this, because, I want to do some serious purging. I'm so ready to just take a garbage bag and start tossing items. Now, I know I stand to receive great opposition from 2 in my family... Mr. Perfect and my first little princess. The prince and the littlest princess could care less.

As it stands today... toys are being purged. A trash pile, a charity pile, and a keep pile. With the littlest princess about to turn 1 and then Christmas being right on the heels of that celebration, it is high time to purge the toys and make some room. When I get paid next week, I'll be heading to Target for storage bins for all of the different toys that we are keeping. Everything is getting a label and getting put in a place. And hopefully we will get a nice system that we can all live with. My last system, no one paid attention too, and the mess is worse than ever. I can't take it much more. I don't like STUFF cluttering up my house.

And that brings me to my second portion of this Poll of sorts:
What do you want your children to receive for Christmas this year?
These are my leanings this year:
Daughter #1
A new, bigger bike, with training wheels
Barbie items and storage
Son
An arm chair for his play room
Hot Wheels/Matchbox cars and storage
Daughter #2
A Britax Marathon car seat
I have no clue what to get her for a toy!

All of them will get winter coats, hats and gloves, as well as clothing.

Now when people ask me what I want for my children for Christmas, that is a very tough question for me to answer. I don't want more junk. I want to control the amount of toys coming in the house, as I don't want to have a house overflowing with toys that don't get played with. So, when people ask, I am tempted to answer: money towards a family membership to the Children's Museum (a gift that gets used ALL YEAR LONG in our house), swimming lessons, movie tickets (for the oldest child)-- you know, things that my kids can USE that don't take up space in the house. I would think other mothers would agree with this. A gift card to Barnes and Noble is TWO gifts in one! They get to GO to the book store and leisurely peruse the books and then they get to pick on to take home. They love it! Granted, my kids have more books than their bookcase can hold, and we probably need to look at purging their too... but there is where my problem lies. I can't seem to let go of a book (children's books)-- I want to pass them down, generation to generation. I need to let go of that, and start giving these books to schools and hospitals that could really use them.

Well, lots to do today. Purging toys. Wish me luck. I'm ready to get this done!

Wow, it's been a while.

2008-10-20T15:35:00.001-05:00

OK I know I made a list a while back, of the things I needed to blog about. SO, here you go...

WAAAAAAAAAAY back in July, my little man turned 2! We had a birthday party the day before we left for the beach. Pizza and cake! Wils got firetrucks (his favorite), a lawn mower (bubble more favorite by far), and then his grandparents in Idaho sent him his very first set of GOLF CLUBS! (ok, seriously, THAT is the most favorite!) Wils just enjoyed himself to no end. We played outside and the kids just ran around, until they were literally too tired to keep moving! Our next door neighbors came over after most of the guests had left. Carrie asked for cake, and said she was "craving some cake" so I ran in and got her a piece. We sat out on the deck and chatted, and before she left, she said, "If you are wondering WHY I am craving cake, it's because ... I AM PREGNANT!" OMG, I am so excited for she and Josh. They came over last Friday night (October 0th) I'd been waiting to hear from her all day. I was holding Mia, and she grabbed Mia from my arms and squeezed her close and then looked at me and said, "I'm having one of these!" I could not be happier for them! Carlee Grace should arrive in late February!

So, the day after Wils' birthday party, we hit the road. Dee, Dawson, and Maegan all in her little car, Matthew, Me, Wils and Mia all in our minivan. Sand buckets, check! Boogie boards, check! suitcases, check! Diapers, check! Stroller, check! Pack n plays, check! Let's Roll!!!!!!!!!

We spent a week in Southern Shores, at a little cottage we go to every year, just steps from the ocean. Mom and Dad brought Grandma, and one of Dad's first cousins. My cousin Paul and his wife and their teenage sons met us down there. The first night, we just did a quick mexican dinner in the cottage and then played games. The next day we spent the day on the beach... in fact most of the week was beautiful, so we spent countless hours on the beach. Dee had promised to take Dawson mini-golf, and so she and Dad and Maegan and Dawson went one after noon while the little ones were sleeping. When they came back, they were SOAKED. Apparently, close to the last hole, the skies opened up and dumped buckets of rain on them. Maegan was not impressed.

During the week we had different visitors, some stayed over night, and some just stayed for a few short minutes. Paul and his family left on Tuesday. Then Ryan, Stephanie, Keriana and baby Riley came for their visit. They stayed until Friday or was it Saturday? Winston, Morgan and Casey dropped in for a quick visit. Winston, Daddy, Ryan and Matt played golf. Morgan and Casey went with Dee and Dawson and Maegan over to the ocean. I stayed in, because I had two sleeping babies. On Wednesday, Pamela and Adam came for the remainder of the week. And Uncle Geno came on Wednesday as well.

There was a cooking competition, Men vs. Women... or brother's (Matt (my husband, but Dee's bro in law obviously) and Ryan) vs. sisters (Dee and myself-- Steph's hands were full with caring for Riley). The men set the stage the first night of competition. They went with an island feel. They wore tropical shirts and straw hats while they cooked. We had Caribbean inspired foods, yams and plantains roasted, there were beans but they had meat so I didn't eat that, I can't even remember all they served, but I know this... they dirtied EVERY SINGLE DISH in the cottage! They made specialty drinks that were delicious! Then they served a tropical pie, which was similar to key lime, but WAAAAAAAAAAAAAY better!!! So yummy!

The next night brought out the women. We were very organized in our meal planning. We worked on a time line. The boys didn't have dinner set on the table to eat until after 8pm. We girls did NOT want that to happen with our meal. We prepared our salad early in the afternoon. We prepared our entree (Church Chicken), in the afternoon as well, assembled and ready to heat. I can't recall our sides, other than the salad, which we actually served as a first course. We, too, had special drinks. We made white wine spritzers with a strawberry in the bottom of the glass. Our dessert was toffee ooey gooey butter bars (recipe used by Paula Deen). Our dinner was hot and ready to roll by 5:30 pm! AND it was a hit!

The boys won on creativity and culinary skill. The girls won on taste, cleanliness and timeliness! I think that means that the girls took home the gold!!!

We did have a Karaoke night, but it flopped, in that, so many people signed up, that our song never got called! It was getting close to 1am and we were too tired to hang about anymore. But we did have fun.

I found my new favorite drink, while in the OBX. If you have the chance to go Aqua... you MUST, simply MUST get an Aqua Belini! O M G! Scrumdiddlyumptious! HOWEVER, I must forwarn anyone who wishes to try it, if you are a light weight, find someone to share this drink with. I'm a heavy girl, and one belini and I was lit up! The twist on this otherwise classic beverage... SKYY Vodka. Wooo, I'm a believer!

We played games all week, always fun. We enjoyed some fun times of soccer on the beach, boogie boarding, skim boarding (hilarity), and lots of Wii action. Even some Wii drama! I know there was more I wanted to say about the trip, but I can no longer remember. My brain is fried. My bed is calling my name!

More blogging later! ;)

Things I Want

2008-09-18T11:44:00.003-05:00

This is not one of those entries, where I talk about things that would make me happy, or what have you... This is straight up, a material wants post. I'm putting in writing my wants. They are wants, not needs, so they aren't earth shattering. They aren't super important. They are just what I state they are... WANTS! They are in no particular order of importance. These are just things I desire, and I'm just blogging about them, well because I WANT to! heehee SO, here's my list...

WANTS FOR THE HOUSE
new mailbox (black metal w/ little red flag, pull tray inside that slides)
new mailbox post (white, would prefer one with a little cubby just under the mailbox for neighborhood information that gets dropped off from time to time)
new house numbers on the porch
new black shutters (vinyl would be nice)
new storm door for back door
new storm door for front door
kitchen fan replaced
new kitchen light remounted
new kitchen sink and faucet
new counter tops
cabinetry installed in utility room
new vanity tops and sinks in both bathrooms
new bathroom mirrors
new bathroom fixtures
new bathroom faucets (including sink and baths)
new bathroom floors (ceramic tile)
new carpet for stairs and upstairs
all wood floors refinished
renew the gas contract for my gas logs
new room size rug (Persian or Oriental type) for living room
new covers on my kitchen seat cushions
newly painted kitchen
new bedroom furniture for Wils and Maegan (double bunk beds and big dressers with mirrors)
new living room furniture (L shaped sofa with ottoman/cocktail table, club chairs with a chess table for bay window, new amoire with retractable doors... large enough for our tv)
new washer and dryer (front loading/energy efficient)
microwave over stove
kitchen island with storage
professional landscaping
Gift cards to Lowes and Value City furniture!!! (LOL)

WANTS FOR ME
eyebrows waxed
hair shaped up (maybe a touch of color?)
some new clothes
a gym membership
a pedicure
a facial (at Red Door)
Starfish book by Jett Beres and Ken Block
some cute new clothes
some new fun shoes
some good smelling bath gels! (Vickies or BBW-- I'm all OUT!)
some new make up
a cute handbag and a cute make up clutch (Kate Spade, Coach, Michael Kors, etc.)
some new clothes -- that actually look nice on me
gastric bypass ... NO really I don't, I'd rather the gym membership!
membership to Weight Watchers (aka The Fat Farm)
a full night of sleep
a Disney vacation
a Wii FIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
and some new clothes and shoes and a handbag or two and some sunglasses
Gift Certs to Target, Prime Outlets, Old Navy.com, etc.

WANTS FOR THE KIDS
new Dr. Martens for Wils
new Tretorns for Maegan
new Nikes for Wils
a fall wardrobe for Mia
Robeez shoes for Mia
some cute coordinating leggings and tunics for Maegan for school
some nice polos (long and short sleeved) for Wils, Maegan and Mia
Winter coats for all three
Snow gear for all three
A trip to DISNEY
a drum kit for Maegan and Wils (both of whom are extremely interested in instruments)
new bedroom decor for Wils and Maegan... and them to finally have their OWN rooms... bye bye playroom!
an organized spot for all of their toys
a new carseat for Mia (Britax Marathon Olivia)

FOR MATT
a mini cooper
an epiphany to clean out his drawers and such of clothes he's likely never to wear again
an epiphany to clean out his car
an organizer for the shed so the bikes can be hung up, so all sporting equipment can be hung up, so all beach chairs can be hung up, a place for all beach accessories to be stored, a golf bench for his clubs and accessories, and floor space for lawn tools, and a new power cord so we can mow the grass and trim the weeds! (You get me the power cord, Matty, I'll mow, it's FUN! -- except you have to mow by the shed, I'm scared of snakes being in the ivy!)

And well... there you have it, a pretty big representation of all of my WANTS!

OH and I forgot a category--

WANTS FOR MY MARRIAGE
a date
a babysitter that is local that we can trust and that can come over on weeknights (our current sitter is away at college and WE MISS HER)
a sister hazel concert
a weekend getaway to the beach
an NFL football game (2 tickets, cold weather, hot yummy coffee, and a good view--- Redskins tix preferred!)

OK, and I have to have a separate list for my kitchen---
I really really want some good EASY few ingredient cookbooks that I can "go to" on any occassion!
I want new plates (different color to go with the different color I want on my walls)
I want new cups/glassware
I want some fun kitchen gadgets
I REALLY want that collapsable strainer! That thing is positively awesome!
I'd really, also, like a stainless steal strainer, that when not being used as a strainer, would make a sweet fruit bowl on the counter!
I'd like a ziplock storage bag organizer for the pantry
I'd like some sweet serving dishes

OK really, I think my wants are getting WAY out of hand.

The only thing on this list that I really NEED, is my eyebrows waxed... post haste! Maybe I can get that done this weekend! Let's all hope that works out. I'm tired of walking around with "wooly worms" above my eyes as Danielle so sweetly pointed out. (I guess that's what a sorority sister is for!)

Carry on, OH and post your own WANTS list! :) I love reading and getting ideas! lol

My biggest WANT right now is a new home and our house to be SOLD! We are wanting to build in the near future, but we don't WANT that if it isn't what GOD has planned for us. Sometimes it is difficult to sit back and wait, to see what the Lord has in store... but I know HIS plans far out weigh our own and if we are patient and trusting He will lead us right where He wants us to be! And all in all... my desire is His will for my life!

Remembering Ella

2008-09-04T17:49:00.002-05:00

As you know, a while ago I posted about baby Ella. Ella passed away yesterday in her mother's arms, standing outside in the warm sunshine, while her daddy stood beside. Please read Ella's Story and keep her memory alive. It is a very positive and precious glimpse into the life of sweet Ella.

It's time...

2008-09-01T21:54:00.003-05:00

Lunch has been packed in a new purple lunch bag. Snack has been packed in a second purple lunch bag. Her backpack with purple butterflies is sitting on the kitchen chair, waiting for her to find it. Papers have been signed. Clothes are ready to be put on in the morning. Shoes are waiting by the front door.

It's time. It's finally arrived. The day I have been so excited about, yet so in fear of, has come. My baby girl is starting Kindergarten, in a public school! I so wanted to home school. However, I know I am not organized enough to bring that to fruition, so it is up to the public schools now, to educate my daughter.

We've met the teacher. She's sweet as pie. We've seen the classroom. We've seen her cubby. We've dropped off school supplies. We've found the library and the cafeteria. There is nothing left to do, but to take my baby to the school in the morning. Take her there, open the car door, and watch her walk into the school like a big girl. Her life is going to change tomorrow. Her innocence will be somewhat changed.

This is the little baby who was determined NOT to come into this world by natural means, no matter what mommy did to help it along. This is the cute bald baby that would just grin at me while she was nursing. This is the sweet little girl who knew how to spell her name by the time she was 18 months old. This is the little girl who stayed by my side when I was pregnant and could scarcely get out of bed. This is the little girl who wanted a sister so badly and told everyone else that I was going to have a girl, and I did. This is the little girl who suddenly has grown up way too fast. This is my baby girl. This is my daughter that I wanted with all my heart. This is my littler girl who is growing increasingly more independent by the moment.

We've read the rules on conduct. We've talked about respecting people. We've discussed not trading food or taking food from others. We've had the chat I didn't think would come until much later... Do NOT accept medicine or pills or anything from anyone else at school and tell a teacher IMMEDIATELY if someone offers those things to you! Oh my! I don't know that I am ready for this. However, there isn't much I can do about it. My baby girl is starting Kindergarten.

So, if you have a moment tomorrow, and you think about it. Please say a prayer for me, that I would not be an emotional wreck and that I am positive and encouraging. And pray for my baby girl, that she not be scared, that she not get lost, that no one will offer her anything unsavory, that she will not be harrassed by any other students, that she won't drive her teacher crazy, that she'll remember to sit in her seat, that she'll be a team player, that she'll be sweet and remember her manners, that she'll have FUN! And pray, that she will miss me just a little bit, so that when she sees me in the afternoon, there to pick her up, that she will be happy to see me and ready to tell me all about her exciting new experiences.

I'm so excited for her, but so scared, and so not ready for this. She also starts t-ball tomorrow night. Her cousin Dawson, and best friend, Kiersten are also on her team. It should be a long, but hopefully FUN day tomorrow.

Sakes Alive, my girl is FIVE!

2008-08-17T20:56:00.002-05:00

Yep, that's right... My Maegan is 5 years old today! In fact, at this very moment 5 years ago, I was in the OR being prepped for a c-section 58 hours after being hospitalized for an induction. Yes, I said 58 hours (52 of which I did without an epidural). At 10:42 pm she was born, and I got to see her just a moment after that. She was so cute and so mad. I don't remember much after that first glance. I didn't see her again for over an hour, as I passed out while they were sewing me up, and I did not wake up until I was in my recovery room. It was so funny, I could hear my mom saying, "Should we be worried that her blood pressure is so low? Shouldn't it be coming up soon." And I started opening my eyes and I could see my mom and dad, my sister, my brother and his girl friend, and then I saw Matt standing beside me. Just a few short seconds later, my wee little girl was being wheeled in for her first real visit with mommy.

WOW, she was incredible. Such a dainty little thing. 7 lbs 5 oz, 20 1/2 inches long. My arms were still numb from the surgery (yes even my arms went numb)... and I was scared to hold her, for fear I'd drop her since I couldn't feel my arms. Once she was placed in my arms, I knew I never wanted to let her go. She was just so perfect. She had a tiny turned up nose, pursed lips and she was just checking us out. Everyone got to hold her.

Now, here she is, 5 years old, about to start kindergarten. A smart little attitude... but yet, still with that perfect little tiny turned up nose. Where she was born nearly bald, she now has hair almost to her toosh. She's so smart. She is learning to read. She is learning to write. She loves math and science. She loves pretending she is a super hero. She is an amazing big sister to her little brother and sister and has told me recently that we need to have one more baby and it has to be a boy, so that we can be even. She has a huge heart that is filled with love (and some times a little piss and vinegar)... but mostly love. She adores sports. She's fantastic at soccer. She's about to start tee ball. She's beginning her THIRD year of ballet, and with it, she will also be learning jazz! Her best friend is still Kiersten. They don't see each other often, but when they do, it's like no time has passed between them. And now they will probably be on the same tee ball team. Maegan's favorite color is purple. And she's all about purple butterflies. She is just one amazing little person. I adored her the moment I knew I was pregnant with her, and fell more deeply in love the moment I first saw her... and now today, I love her just as much. She is my blessing from Heaven. I'm so very blessed to call her my baby. She means the world to me.

And, so now, she moves on to a new phase and chapter of her life. I look forward to all of the new discoveries she will make as an elementary schooler. I'm so proud of her accomplishments. I can't wait to see what life holds for this little treasure.

Happy Birthday, my beautiful Purple Butterfly Princess! You will never truly know just how much your Mommy adores you, from the tip of your toes all the way up to the top of your head, from the stories you make up, to the new words you are learning to read. I am so THANKFUL that God put you in my life. What a blessed mother I am, not just to know you, but to be your mommy!

An Important Note

2008-08-02T14:42:00.002-05:00

I left out a vital part of the 4th of July story from below...
Maegan, Hannah and Jake got to ride HORSES on the 4th of July. Grandpa Tangedal's neighbors came over to ride through his pasture, and they saw the kids and offered to let them ride. This was Maegan's very first horseback ride! After the trot through the pasture, they added Wils and Mia to the mix and we did photos of all the kids sitting on the horses! SO FUN! I just could not NOT tell you guys about it. It was awesome and now Maegan LOVES horses. She did NOT want to get down. On Wednesday or Thursday of that trip, the kids go to visit Grandpa T's farm! They got to meet COWS! I was not there for that trip, but from what I hear they had fun. I don't believe anyone snapped a picture, however! :(

One Wild and Crazy Summer

2008-08-02T10:49:00.004-05:00

Summer came with gusto! We have been running around like crazy since late spring! Maegan had ballet recital and preschool graduation on the same night. Then the following weekend was season end of soccer. The weeks following that, we visited Aunt DeeDee up at her home in Gainesville. (Dee is my sister for those who don't know.) We spent many fun hours playing at the pool. We also spent time helping Dee pack for her impending move back to the home place.

At the end of June, we ventured off on our first of 2 summer vacations. We replaced all of the tires on our minivan, loaded it up, and headed up to Dee's house. We stopped there for some playing in the pool and a little rest before our big trek to Illinois. It was a long night of driving and I even assisted in driving by doing the first 5 hours of our 12 hour trip.

Once in Illinois, we stopped to visit our precious friend Val. Val is a friend I met through Storknet. She and I were both suffering from some fertility issues that were very frustrating. We bonded early upon meeting on line. Once we realized where Val lived, we decided to make her place a stopping point on our journey's out west (when we drive). Val is an amazingly gracious hostess. And beyond that, she's a top photographer and graphic artist. Val and I have seen each other through 4 too many miscarriages, and we now are both proud parents of living thriving little people. Val has Noah and Maia. Noah and Maegan are the same age (2 months apart) and Maia and Wils are a little over a year apart in age.

The children had such a ball at Miss Val's house! Maegan felt so comfortable, she actually stripped to her birthday suit and jumped in the kiddie pool in the backyard! Wils ran around in a diaper and polo and made himself right at home riding Maia's Barbie bike and playing with Noah's construction trucks! Mia enjoyed posing for Miss Val's camera. Matthew got some much needed sleep for the next part of our trip.

Saying goodbye to Val is never easy. She just makes you feel so at home, you don't want to leave. You want to stay and see all of her newest photography, drink a yummy beverage, and just chill on her absolutely adorable deck, that is bedecked with party lights on the patio furniture. We hated missing Neil this time, but hope to get back there before too long to have a nice visit with him as well! (Maybe golf for he and Matt?) Sadly, after only a few hours, we hugged each other, said our goodbye's and began the next leg of our journey. (pictures from Val's are on her flickr account)

Once back in the car, we headed up through Wisconsin and into the great state of Minnesota. We pulled in around 2AM to the Brown's house. Stacy, Matt's precious and wonderful cousin, met us at the back door and helped us get everyone down to the basement. We got there just in time to send Greg off to work (YIKES, I could never go to work that early). We slept well and woke up at nearly 9 AM!!! Stacy has five kiddos. Sebastian is the oldest, in HIGH SCHOOL, no way! Elias would be son #2. He was followed closely by Hayleigh. E and H are in elementary school. Last year, Stacy and I found out with in a week of each other that we were expecting. A big surprise for both of us! Stacy was due shortly before me, but delivered twins over a month before little Mia joined this world. Christian and McKinley are absolutely precious little ones! It was fun seeing them rolling around on the floor with Mia. Hayleigh and Maegan became fast friends and played outside together and Wils... he just hung out with everyone.

After a few hours with the Browns, we loaded up again and headed out. The Browns were supposed to go the last leg with us, but unfortunately, Greg was not able to get away from work when he'd hoped. We told them we'd see them the next day.

Off to North Dakota! Through the prairie we went, through a massive rainstorm (couldn't see anything), through some crazy winds, we finally arrived at 3 AM in Epping, North Dakota, to the home of Greg and Pat Bjella. Everyone was asleep, so we snuck into the trailer we hoped was the one we were supposed to be sleeping in. SCORE! Grandma Sister (as Maegan calls Matt's mom) woke up straight away and came down to the "living room" for hugs and kisses from the kids. She met Mia for the first time, that night. What a sweet meeting it was. Grandpa Gene woke up and welcomed all of us, then took Maegan to find Uncle Geno and wake him up. Geno was in a tent.

After several hours of good sleep, we all woke up and were excited to see all of the family. It was a McGhan Family Reunion. Grandma McGhan was there, Auntie Cindy and her fiance Larry, Sommer and her son Hunter, Shanon came with his daughter Raigyn, Auntie Pat and Uncle Greg were hosting us. They have a beautiful A-frame home on the prairie. Lots of area for little ones to explore. Soon enough the Brown's joined us, and Auntie Holly and Uncle Gary showed up as well. We were missing Gordy and Kim, and they came the next day. There was lots of horseshoe playing, some fishing on the lake, some good old family band music (Grandma McG on electric bass!), lots of food, too many pictures, and lots of SUNSHINE. It was a great weekend. We extended our stay until Tuesday. Stacy happened to break her wrist while we were there. Ugh! She's my hero. I do not know HOW she cared for 7 month old twins with ONE arm! Bless her heart! The mosquitoes enjoyed snacking on us every night, which often made us carry the party inside. All in all, it was a wonderful trip. Matthew designed the coolest t-shirts for the event.

Once we packed up and pulled out of Epping, we headed Northwest (slightly), up to Westby, which is both in North Dakota and Montana. We stopped on the way to see the elevator where Geno works. And for those of you NOT familiar with farming, I'm NOT talking about the elevator you see in a building... he's not a doorman! He works for a grain elevator and drives a big rig between the farms and the elevators. The kids got a special treat while they were there. One of Geno's bosses gave them ice cream! I'd say the kids enjoyed that!

We got into Westby at dinnertime. This was the day of Matt's and my 8th wedding anniversary. We had no celebration. We did nothing, but eat fried chicken (on the bone which to me is disgusting, but it was what was offered, and I'm of a southern upbringing where you politely taste what you are served... and being a nursing mom, I had to eat to keep up production for my little nursling!). That and potato wedges. How exciting. What a romantic anniversary. Woohoo! NO MATTER... it was wonderful seeing the Tangedal family. Craig, Tracy, Hannah, Jake, Grandma and Grandpa were at the house. The kids got to see THREE of their great-grandparents while in North Dakota... how cool is that?! So, after dinner and saying hellos to everyone... we all scooted off to bed.

Wednesday we did not do much of anything, that I can recall. We walked to town (hahaha, cracks me up everytime I say it... literally, it's not even a 1/4 of a mile, and it is half a block long), we got some groceries at the store, and headed back to the house. It was a day of relaxation. Thursday night, Matt's cousins Jordan and Ryan, who play in a band, were playing for the Plentywood, MT reunion. So, we packed everyone up and headed into Plentywood for a fun evening of good music! We were the first ones to head back into Westby, because the kids needed sleep. So, it was another early(ish) night for us. Friday was July 4th.

So, normally, on the 4th of July, we spend the evening watching fireworks on the beach. They don't have fireworks on the beach in North Dakota. So, when I woke up Friday morning, I was very homesick. I was wanting to get in my car, head to the Ashton's house for a day of playing in the pool a big backyard BBQ and then our normal walk over to the beach to sit under the stars for fireworks. I was determined to make the best of my day in NoDak, in spite of my no beach fireworks. Tracy mentioned that she was taking her 2 to the parade in Plentywood and she'd be happy to take Maegan with and that cousin Logan was going as well. I thought, sure, she can go. Then I asked Matt if I could go, too. I wanted to do something special with Maegan, since I don't get to do that often. He said sure, and off we went. When we returned, Grandma Sister was watching Wils and Mia and Matthew had gone off to golf with his Dad. Later that afternoon, I found out through Grandpa Gene, that he and Matt would be leaving at 6:30 the next morning to play golf. I also found out, that there were no fireworks to speak of, in the area. And then I learned that Matt was going to go to his brother's house for a while. I put the kids to bed, and silently wished I were back home, because I was really missing it. I came out of the trailer for a while (Yes, we stayed in Matt's grandparents 5th wheel camper for part of our stay in NoDak and then in his Uncle Doug's camper for the rest of our time.) to watch Logan setting off some firecrackers, but I figured I should probably stay in the camper just in the event one of them woke up to the firecrackers and got scared. I asked Matt to stay with his parents that night, in the other camper, so as not to wake the kids at 6:30.

Saturday morning, I putzed around, fed the kids, watched some tv, and then found out that the Tangedal family reunion was taking place at 1pm and NOT at 5 like I had originally thought! I scrambled to get us all dressed and ready. Grandpa G. and Grandma S. took Wils in their car. Matt and I took the girls in ours. We headed down to the park (we could have walked). Now this was a BIG reunion, cousins from Cali, Canada, us from VA, people from ALL over! We ate a little lunch, took some pix, gave some kisses and then got in our car for the trip back to VA.

We arrived in Minneapolis at 3AM, we were all exhausted and ready for some sleep. Stacy welcomed us back into her home. She's so very gracious and wonderful. I can't even begin to tell you what an amazing person she is inside and out. I'm so thankful for her. We only stayed for a few hours, long enough for some good shut eye. Then we were on the road again, destination Toledo, Ohio.

Well, destination Toledo got squashed long about oh... Eau Claire, WI. We were STUCK... dead stuck in traffic. THE DELLS... GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!! Traffic was backed up for MILES. We'd move, we'd sit, we'd move, we'd sit. I was close to going bald from pulling my hair out and trying to keep Wils from going into fits of screaming rage. Mia and Maegan slept through much of this. Finally, I BEGGED and PLEADED with Matthew to take a side road to get us out of there. We made a mistake. We went THROUGH The Dells. OK, it was a mistake traffic-wise... however, it was a sight for the eyes! What a cool place! So much to do, everywhere! WOW! I'd never seen anything like it, except maybe Gatlinburg, TN. So, we choose to get BACK on the interstate. Another big NO NO! So a few more exits and we were back off on a side road, and this time, we were going MORE than 10mph! After the longest ride of our life through WI, we FINALLY (in the dark) made it into CHI-TOWN baby! I love Chicago... and I've only ever driven through it... I hear I'd love it even more if I got to go on the magnificent mile (or whatever it is called)... *sigh* Gotta put that on my to do list! Driving through Chicago is just so fascinating. We passed some big name vehicles. We saw that amazing skyline. And you know what else? God was looking down on us that night... he saw to it that I got to see FIREWORKS in Chicago! (We stopped for gas in Chicago, near where fireworks were going off.) I didn't get to see many, but the one's I saw were beautiful.

We carried on through Gary, Indiana and were ready to truck it on to Toledo (or I was ready, but apparently Matt was not)... when South Bend appeared before us. Maegan woke up crying hysterically. And then the skies opened up and dumped a huge vat of rain on us and made sure to include a stunning light show with extremely loud sound effects. Matthew said, "STOP HERE LISA" I said, NO, I can make it to Toledo. He said "NO! STOP HERE!" So, reluctantly, I pulled off the interstate and into a toll exit, and we headed for Holiday Inn Express, South Bend. OH sweet heavenly peace!

Well, OK not at first. FIRST we had to get a room. Matt secured the room. I stayed with the kiddos. Then we unload the kids and find out just why Maegan was crying... she'd PEED HER CARSEAT! GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! Oh Joy! A urine stinking car ride for the next day. So, here it is 2 am, Maegan has to take a bath. Wils is excited because it's a big huge king sized bed. Mia doesn't want to go back to sleep. Matt's exhausted and ready for lights out, and I'm pissed we didn't make it to Toledo.

Finally, the room was quiet. Everyone was snug in the big bed and Mia in her pack n play. We overslept! We were now over 4 hours behind in our final day of travel. We were supposed to be headed to my sister's house and picking somethings up to bring back home, and she and her son were going to follow us. We got up and got ready as fast as we could. Let me tell you, Holiday Inn Express is the WAY to stay!!! Awesome rooms, bathrooms that are stunning! AND a hot breakfast, so we didn't have to STOP on our way out of town. We got to Toledo in record time, and then blew through it. In fact, most of Ohio was a blur. We did bathroom breaks, but that was it. By the time we got to PA, my sister had already left her house and arrived at my parents home. SO, our pitstop in Northern VA was no longer. Come Maryland, Mia began to explain her disappointment with the amount of time it was taking to get home, and she commenced to screaming from MD all the way back to our house. Granted we did see a glorious rainbow on this extension of our trip. And I looked at Mia and told her quite frankly, "Mia, I adore you, but we are 2 hours from home, and this momma isn't stopping for anything!" She stopped crying just as we pulled onto our exit. We were headed to my parent's house (very close to our own, mind you). As we turned onto the main street to get to their neighborhood I started chanting "NO TRAIN, NO TRAIN, NO TRAIN" and with that, the lights came on and the crossing bars went down and Maegan woke up. BUT, it was just a Ghost train. We all cheered as the bars went back up.

By the time we pulled into Mom and Dad's driveway, all of the kids were awake and excited to get out of the car. AND to see their Gammy and PopPop... oh yes, and their Aunt DeeDee and cousin Dawson.

It was a very long trip, a very good trip, a very exhausting trip and a much needed trip. I'm so glad we did it.

SO, that's just the beginning of this wild and crazy summer. Part 2 coming soon!

Before I get to those...

2008-07-31T08:22:00.004-05:00

I am very excited about something that is happening in my house, and I want to share it! My little boy, who turned 2 on July 14, has hit a major milestone. This mommy can not be more thrilled.

I bought my baby boy the Baby Bjorn saddle potty, in white. It sits directly across from my potty. The little man has decided ON HIS OWN ACCORD, that he wants to use the potty. (Pause for cheers, applause and fanfare) Now, let me go on to say, he is NO WAY ready to be out of his diapers just yet. He's just showing a genuine interest in using the potty.

Every morning, he comes downstairs, takes off his diaper and tells us, "I go potty." He walks himself into the bathroom, sits on his potty and waits until he makes something! He's both tinkled and pooped in the potty! I'm just amazed at how well he has picked it up. Granted he still wakes with completely soaked diapers, and he wets here and there throughout the day. The fact remains, though, he's telling US when he does have to go, and he takes initiative and gets up and goes to the potty and produces!

If we ask him to go, he's more likely to say "NO!" so we use a little motivation. The other night he wanted "beans" (aka: reeses pieces). He wouldn't even sit on the potty, so I told him if he wanted the bean he had to sit on the potty. He sat, ate his bean and got up. I grabbed a few more beans and told him he could have more if he sat down and made peepee. He said "NO" but he still wanted the beans. SO, I said if you don't sit on the potty and make peepee I'm gonna eat the beans. He said "NO" so I ate a bean. You've never in your life seen a kid move so fast to get on the potty! I busted out laughing and said "Well, Matt, now we know his motivation!" Thankfully, he doesn't ask for a bean all of the time, because we don't keep them on hand. My sister had brought them because we were making dinner/desserts for friends who had babies.

So, anyway, I'm very proud of my big bad 2 year old boy! He has 1 year to learn how to use the potty before he begins pre-school. We plan to take it slowly and keep it on his pace. I explained to him today, if he can keep his diaper dry, he can get big boy undies like his cousin Dawson. (HE LOVES TO DO EVERYTHING DAWSON DOES) If we can get him in big boy pants by Christmas, I'll feel ahead of the game. I, selfishly, do NOT want him potty trained prior to our Disney vacation. We go in December, so I'm thinking maybe we'll do pull-ups while in Disney and then move to Big Boy britches at Christmas. (We never did pull-ups with Maegan.) Anyway, I'm ahead of myself. We will just continue following his lead. I'm extremely proud of him!

And then there is the littlest princess and she is making strides of her own. More sleeping through the night AND she's beginning to scoot and attempting moving across the floor to get to what she wants to have. Our house is a bunch of milestone making kids right now. My biggest princess begins Kindy in ONE month!!!

GAH!!! Life is moving fast! I was truly hoping we'd be beginning this school year in new home. That, sadly, has not worked out. We are at a standstill. Thankfully, we have no desperate NEED to sell our home and can hold off for a few more years. I'm just, selfishly, bummed because I was looking forward to waking up mornings in my new home. Getting my girl up for school, helping her get dressed and then spending the early morning hours before school chatting with her, fixing a big breakfast for everyone in my new kitchen, and then after getting her off to school... relaxing in my kitchen with a cup of hot tea, while my younger two played. *sigh* I can still do those things in this house. It just isn't as convenient as it would have been if we'd gotten the home we wanted. The older two share a room, thus, I'll probably have 2 awake in the early hours of the morning when school starts. We are still on separate floors for sleeping. And my kitchen doesn't over look my living room, so I can't relax in my kitchen drinking tea and watching my babies play. It's all selfish desire and I know that God has everything under control, so I'm trying not to be too upset by it all. Everyday that goes by we are in a better financial situation. So, when the day comes that our house is supposed to sell, maybe we will be able to purchase a home that we had NO idea we'd ever be able to own. For now, we just continue paying things off and trying to figure out what to do with our house. Keep it on the market, take it off, refinance and pay off car, refinance and do renovations, do nothing. Decisions Decisions Decisions...

I'm Back!!!

2008-07-30T23:26:00.002-05:00

I am back and I have LOTS to share. Unfortunately, it is really late, and I just don't have the energy in me to sit here and think and type. SO, the topics (roughly) for my upcoming blog posts will be:

McGhan Family Reunion

Tangedal Family Reunion

The Little Man's Birthday Party

The Annual Beach Vacation

BABIES!!!

and Nights out with Sisters!

Lots to cover and I promise to get started as soon as possible. If you have facebook, feel free to check out the beach pictures I uploaded this week... more to come there, as well!

OK, that's all for now. I'm exhausted!

Matthew Wilson turns 2...

2008-07-13T22:20:00.004-05:00

July 14, 2006

I got up and threw on a white tanktop and some khaki shorts. I lounged around the house a bit, because we'd just received a phone call from Dr. Dausch. Matt took the call while I continued to rest. She said "Don't come in this morning. Wait until 1pm to come to the office."

Today was the day. I was going to meet my baby boy. I was at exactly 38 weeks gestation. I'd been having plenty of Braxton Hicks contractions. I'd begun to dilate. And our beach trip was fast approaching, as was his due date. And, not wanting to take the chance of having him while on our trip, we were doing all we could to get him here a little sooner.

Since time was on my side this particular Friday morning, I decided to take some fun pictures with my then only child, and some last moment pregnancy pictures. We got Maegan all ready to go, and Matt took her to my mom's house. I went for a pedicure. I was nervous, but excited. I couldn't wait to meet my little man. My little surprise miracle from out of the blue!

I went back to mom's house and Matt and I headed off for the hospital. Mom got Maegan to my cousin, and then she and Daddy were going to meet us at the hospital once we called and gave them a time.

We drove to Dr. Dausch's office. We didn't really know what to expect. This was such a different experience then having Maegan. We walked in, signed in, and waited and waited and waited. Finally, they took me back to see Dr. D. She did a cervical check and said, "Things have progressed." And then I felt a sharp pain and I said, "GAH!" and she said, "OH, sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you!"

She left the room, and then came back and said, "OK, I've called Labor and Delivery and you can head over there now." So, hand in hand, Matt and I walked over to admissions, and then proceeded on to Labor and Delivery.

I had two nurses checking me in. They asked me to go on to the bathroom and get changed into the lovely hospital gown. Matt waited patiently and I got changed into the oh so fashionable gown. I came out and crawled in the bed.

Upon sitting down in the bed, I had a contraction. Not bad. Easy enough. I'd had these before. One nurse began hooking me up to the monitors. The other nurse asked me about 20,000 questions. My IV went in without a hitch. Another contraction came on. Still pretty easy. Nothing gripping.

More questions. I knew I was having a c-section, so I wasn't too worried about these contractions that suddenly seemed to be picking up in speed and intensity. I was beginning to have to breathe through them a bit. Still, nothing like my pitocin induced contractions that I had with Maegan.

One nurse looked at me and said, "I doubt you are really in labor."

I didn't say anything in response.

Mom and Dad showed up. We had called Mom on our way over from the doctor's office to admission. Mom seemed excited and nervous. Dad was very excited to meet his newest grandson.

The anesthesiologist came in. He was a very nice man. Tall and slender, and very kind with an excellent bedside manner. I instantly felt at ease with him. This was NOTHING like my experience with Maegan (that had taken place at a different hospital). He proceeded to ask me questions. They were quite repetitive, but I answered them just the same. And I continued breathing through contractions that seemed to be about 3 minutes apart, and were registering quite nicely on the monitor.

Soon, it was time to whisk me away to the OR. It wouldn't be long until I met my baby boy!

The OR was very cold. Matthew was in his scrubs and was instructed to wait just outside the door, until the epidural was in place. A precious nurse clasped me in a bear hug and talked me through the epidural procedure. She had me completely at ease. The epidural went in ... piece of cake! I got on the table, laid down, and Matt was by my side.

I was shivering. My legs were becoming numb. Contractions were a thing of the past! I was becoming nauseous. I was going to puke. I was beginning to panic, that I'd not be able to enjoy the birth of my boy, because I'd be puking my guts up like I did while having my princess! The anesthesiologist quickly put those fears to rest, while Dr. D. stepped up to the table and began surgery. I got a shot of something in my IV and suddenly, I was no longer queasy.

Dr. D was just talking away to the nurses, I was chatting with Matt. Meanwhile, my guts are all over the table. In no time, I hear Dr. D. laughing and saying "He's Out! Look to your left, Lisa and you'll see him!" Sure enough the nurse brought him around. Matthew followed her and took pictures as they got his APGARS and warmed him up a bit. I laid there crying tears of pure joy. I could hear my baby boy crying. He was perfect... or so I thought.

A few moments later, I was sewn back up, and Matthew Wilson aka Wils, was resting in my arms. They wheeled me back to my room where I was greeted by Mom, Dad and Grandma. I was feeling great and passed Wils off to my parents so I could quickly put make up on. Matt and I began making all of the obligatory phone calls. Soon, Wils was back in my arms after quite a few photo ops.

As I was holding him, I noticed a whine to his cries. I knew this whine. I'd just seen it on Birth Day a few days prior. That whine meant he'd swallowed fluid and couldn't expel it! I patted his back a little and tried to offer him some help. His color was perfect, so I knew it wasn't dire, he was able to get oxygen. The worry was that pneumonia would set in. I didn't let on to anyone what I knew. I carried on as normal. I attempted to nurse him, but he was just not able to suck and breathe simultaneously. This is when I knew that he was having troubles that I couldn't fix. After a little over an hour, Dr. D. came in, she got her picture taken with us and little Wils was carted off to be checked by our pediatrician.

Dr. McAtee came to see me, just before I was headed up to my room. My brother, my new niece and my sister in law were with us. Ryan and his family gave us some privacy and Dr. McAtee filled us in on the situation.

Wils had, in fact, swallowed fluid that he was unable to expel. He was going to be going to the progressive care nursery to be evaluated. I took the news well and had but one question. "Will I still be able to nurse?" Dr. McAtee explained that her son went through the same thing and that he went on to nurse just fine. That said, I was OK.

Later that evening, friends dropped by to see us. I was filled in on Wils' weight and length... 7 lbs 7 oz and 19.5 inches long. The neo-natologist brought Wils in to see me before she took him to the nursery. She was so kind. She said she didn't feel he'd be down there for very long. I kissed my boy and off he went... to spend his birthday in the Progressive Care Nursery. Matt took people down to meet Wils, and I stayed in my room and rested. I wasn't allowed to get out of bed.

After a night of calling the PCN every couple of hours and wondering WHEN I'd get my son, I finally was able to get cleaned up, showered, and devoid of all wires, tubes, etc. My sister got me a wheelchair and we were off to see Wils. It had been just about 24 hours since his birth at 3:42 the day before. I was so happy to see him, but was just sick, seeing him all hooked up to the machines and monitors. He wasn't on O2 and hadn't needed any at all, PRAISE GOD! He was just laying in his little bed under warming lamps. The monitors beeped and blinked. He'd open his eyes. He'd wiggle his toes. Dee and I were in love with him and were drinking up the sight of him. His nurse let us hold him.

I was so happy to have him in my arms again. He was so tiny, so perfect, so beautiful. He was sucking on a pacifier. I learned later, that was to help him learn to suck, so he'd be a successful eater! It worked.

I asked his nurse if I could nurse him. She said no, they were feeding him formula so they could see how much he was eating, but that I could pump and they'd add that to his bottle. Then the Neo-natologist overheard us and he said I could come back that night and nurse him after his bottle.

I went back up to my room to greet visitors and to get some rest. That evening, they brought me back down. He nursed successfully. I was so proud of my boy. Then he puked on me. The first of what would turn out to be MANY pukings to come!

The next morning I took the baby bath class that is a must, why, I don't know. When I got back, I had a nice surprise... Wils was up in the regular nursery and he was hungry and wanted MOMMY! I got to feed my boy and have him in my room with me. He had his portrait taken. And then, he was whisked away for his snipsnip of the foreskin. He handled it very well. I was a proud Mommy.

The rest of the day we snuggled and got to know each other. He was perfect, in every way. And I was totally in love with him.

Today he is TWO years old. Time has flown by. He's still so amazing. He's a tiny little guy. He has gorgeous blonde hair that curls in the back. He has a heart of pure gold. He loves to give kisses. If he tells me once, he tells me 1000 times a day "I love you, Mommy." and he melts my heart each and every time. He adores his big sister and his baby sister. He's outspoken. He loves being outside. He loves to eat (though you couldn't tell by looking at him). He's just the way God intended him to be. He's my little miracle. He's my surprise. He's my boy. And now, he's 2! Time really does fly. I'm so blessed to have Matthew Wilson in my life.

Thank you, Lord Jesus, thank you for my baby boy. Thank you for making him so perfect and wonderful. Thank you for allowing me to be his mommy. I'm so very blessed. Amen.

Happy Birthday, my little Prince! Mommy loves you with all her heart. And I hope you and your sisters will always know just how wonderful you are to me, and how much I adore each one of you.

I Am an Aunt, AGAIN!

2008-07-02T16:36:00.002-05:00

WooHoo!!! I am once again, blessed to be called Aunt Lili. My brother, Ryan and his wife, Stephanie, welcomed baby Riley (spelling may be changed to Rylee) Lyn Robertson just before 3pm EST. She weighed in at 7 lbs 4 oz and is 4 days early (induction). Mom and Baby are doing well. Daddy is in a bit of shock that he has a 2nd wedding to pay for in the future, and no little boy to go fishing with, however, he says she is beautiful and looks much like her big sister and mommy. I'm away in North Dakota and could not be there for the birth (BUMMER)... but was on the phone with the family when he came out to deliver the exciting news about our newest addition to the family.

They broke our cycle! My parents have 6 grandchildren... Maegan (g), Dawson (b), Keriana (g), Wils (b), Mia (g), and now Riley (g). My parents are thrilled beyond belief! My sister was able to be there for the birth and has enjoyed spending lots of time holding Riley and giving her love (I hope she gave her a kiss or two from Aunt Lili.)... Our family could not be happier. What a blessing, six wonderfully healthy, beautiful and precious little ones! I can't wait to get home to see and hold this newest bundle of joy!

Now we wait for our cousin, Lindsey, to deliver... 4 weeks and 4 days to go! :D

I LOVE BABIES!

And then there were two!

2008-06-21T13:45:00.003-05:00

So, at Mia's appointment with her doctor on Friday, the doctor said, "Oh well, I see one tooth, but it doesn't appear that any others will be popping through anytime soon." This was as she was looking in Mia's mouth. I guess by that she meant, in the next 48 hours there would be no tooth, because here... 72 hous later... Mia has a second bottom tooth poking through her gums! I guess this would explain the poor sleeping the past two nights. Now, let me say... back when Wils was nearly 4 months old, I said to Mr. Perfect, "Look in his mouth, doesn't it look like he's getting two teeth?" Mr. Perfect agreed. Then he took Wils to his 4 month check up, because I had to be at Maegan's school for something at the same time (probably pick up time)... and when he got home from the doctor, he said that she looked at Wils' gums and said that those were not actually teeth popping through, but rather some kind of something that I'd never heard of. 24 hours later, he had 2 little teeth poking through. (This was a different doc.) So, I'm beginning to think Doctors are not the ones to ask about emerging teeth!

For a teething baby, Mia sure is a good and happy girl. She seems to only suffer minimal discomfort. She hates Orajel. I've not been dosing her up on Tylenol. She just seems to happily babble away, and grin at every chance. She's very much in an exploratory phase. New textures are so incredible to her. She's just something else! She turned 6 months, started solids and landed 2 new teeth, all in one week. She's starting off the 2nd half of her first year of life with GUSTO!

As for Wils... he's laying in Maegan's big bed taking his nap! :) He loves the big bed. It's time to start picking out their new furniture! Maegan's furniture is going out the same time Wils' baby furniture is going. The only thing we are keeping is the dresser that Adam and his father made for Maegan when she was born. That dresser is so awesome. It is a knock off of a PBK style dresser, but it's made with much more quality, and it cost me over $400 LESS!

So, I'm thinking of getting both Maegan and Wils pyramid bunks. I guess I'll get Maegs a white one, and Wils a darker wood color... not sure yet. I like these beds because they allow for many over night guests! Mr. Perfect's family lives out of state and always stay with us when they come to visit. This will make it easier for everyone to have a bed to sleep in, rather than having to blow up the air mattress and take up floor space for a week or more.

OK, see I took a LONG break in the middle of writing this, and now my train of thought has gone off track. SOOOOOOOOO, I'm gonna call it quits for now!

Except I have to say, Mia is talking like crazy! It's the funniest thing. She's all excited and flailing her hands.

And we just had a wicked hail storm! Maegan said, OH MY GRACIOUS ICE IS COMING OUT OF THE SKY!!! lol

An update of sorts...

2008-06-19T19:39:00.003-05:00

I posted a while back, about the little prince needing a hair cut (or several hairs cut)! In the end, I couldn't part with the curls just yet, so we just trimmed up the bangs. My mom cut them, and we got it on video. Pretty comical to say the least. He was NOT impressed with having his hair cut, and thank goodness we let him hold his football or all hell may have broken loose. I think he was more upset about having to sit still and not throw his ball, than he was about having the hair chopped. The curls will be saying goodbye in July, just before our beach trip. UGH.. how can he not have curly locks at the beach!?! OK, may have just talked myself out of that idea.

In other news, he's ready to be potty trained... Well, let's rephrase that, he's ready but not willing! He comes and tells me when he has pooped or peed. He says, Mommy, diapah change! He is so not interested in the potty, except when Maegan is on it. And then, it's just to torment her because he know she likes "privacy please"... so it's fun to make her mad. (oh the joys of sibling rivalry) If we ask him if he'd like to go potty he says, "YES!" and runs to the bathroom, but as soon as we go to help him get his pants down, he careens out of the bathroom at top speed screaming "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" One day... one day... I'm not going to push it. He'll be ready before college. (I hope.)

Then there is Mia. Oh little precious one. My sweet baby girl got her very first tooth! And she is the first of my children to get just ONE tooth! Both Maegan and Wils cut two teeth at a time until all of their teeth were in. She has a bottom right front tooth. Once that little tooth pushed through, Miss Mia started sleeping through the night (well, let's say, she will sleep 7 hours in a row again... and for me, that's a full night of sleep!)... She also had a well baby check up this week. Mia, my biggest baby at birth... is my SMALLEST baby at 6 months! Wils and Maegan were both a good 18 lbs at 6 months. Granted, Wils didn't gain any weight from 6-9 months and only gained a pound by 12 months. Mia hasn't even hit the 17 lbs. mark yet! She's got a killer set of chunkified thighs though! She's 25 1/4 inches tall, which is right slam in the middle of the charts, so no complaints out of me for that, considering her brother has never been over the 25% on the charts for height, that would be why he's known as our wee little man. Other than that, Precious one is right on target for goals and is living life to the fullest.

And now we come to my princess. Or shall I call her, Miss Attitude? We are working very hard on changing her quite too grown up attitude. She has decided that she can speak to adults anyway she wants, and that most certainly is NOT OK. So, we are working on respect and obedience, doing the right thing, and using manners. She's always been so good about using her manners, so this change has really caught us off guard. I want my precious Maegie back... the one who is so polite and sweet. I think she learned a lot of not so nice things from the girls in ballet and pre-K this year. I witnessed some bullying in ballet, and Maegan, it seems, has adopted this towards her brother and her cousin and even her Aunt! It is NOT OK, and we as her parents are not allowing her to believe it is OK to treat others in such a nasty way. We've had to reduce some time spent with another friend, because our parenting skills are very different and her child is allowed to do things that I won't tolerate out of my children. Respecting everyone is very important to me, and so is turning the other cheek. I will not permit Maegan to be mean just because someone has been mean to her. I'm trying very hard to teach, that you can be nice, and still not let people walk all over you. So, until she's firmly grounded in this philosophy, I will keep a tight reign on her play dates.

In other Maegan news... she's beginning to learn to read. AND, I want to give a big load of credit to the television show, Super Why! She loves that show and is really beginning to learn how to put words together and sound them out. She has known all of her letters since before she was 2, so it's nice to see her finally using them to read! Now, she's not reading sentences or anything, however, she can look at me typing, or follow along in a book, and she can pick out words she knows, and sometimes she even sounds words out. Tonight, she really knocked my socks off. I was teaching her that when S and H stand beside one another (SH) it makes the sound shhhhhhhhhhhhh... Well, she saw the rest of the word that I was talking about (ORT) and she said, "ORT"--- "SHORT! OH MOMMY IT'S SHORT!" OK, I know that may not be a big deal to some people, but I'm telling you right now, it made me prouder than a peacock to hear my baby learning! She's such a smart girl and a willing learner! I'm forever amazed by her! I know there are other children out there that can already read books by her age, but personally, I think she's doing a marvelous job! She is so excited about starting Kindy in the fall. She said to me recently, "I can not wait to learn science and math!" I am planning to spend the summer teaching her about some social study topics... and since we are about to embark on a very long journey, I plan to take a map with us, and to highlight the areas we traveled through to get to our destination. She is completely enthralled by maps and globes and absolutely loved seeing how far Thailand was from us when Daddy flew there in February. (She has a globe on her dresser.) I'm just happy that she is such an eager learner. I hope I can foster that in every way!

SO, one last note about my boy. Tonight he is sobbing, in his crib. He is heart broken. It's killing me to hear him so sad. Why is he so sad? Wils wants to sleep in the big bed with Maegan. She has a double bed, and he's more than welcome to sleep in it... or he would be IF he'd settle down and go to sleep. However, Maegan doesn't want him in her bed (I understand that), and she has a difficult time falling asleep when he's playing. So, he had to get in his crib. Mr. Perfect and I had the talk tonight. It's time to convert the crib. Gah! My wee little man is growing up! We've decided when we are back from our trek, we will convert his crib into a little toddler bed.

So, there you go... the very long update on my babies!

A Bittersweet Day...

2008-06-13T20:45:00.002-05:00

My sweet little Mia turned 6 months old today. She's growing up so fast. She's absolutely precious and is all smiles for her mommy. Today was hard for me though, because with the birthday comes the beginning of solid food. My baby no longer will receive all of her nourishment from me... she's becoming more independent. How did this go so quickly?

Literally, in the 6 months Mia has been on this earth, she's had 1 bottle. And now, she's eating solid foods and drinking water from a straw cup. She was such an eager eater. She put her hands up and reached for that spoon. I couldn't get it in her mouth fast enough. She'd grin as she tasted her avocados. She really enjoyed her new task. I knew this day would come, but I just didn't think it would happen quite so fast. She doesn't seem like she's been here 6 months already.

It's when my babies hit this stage that I get the overwhelming desire to have another child. I'm not sure what it is that makes me want to keep having babies, but I just don't want to stop. I love being the sole provider for their needs. I love that everything they need, I can provide. (I know I said it twice in two different ways.) When they start getting a little independence I don't feel quite so needed. I adore my babies in all of their stages. I'm really going to miss these past 6 months. My baby is growing up. I've just got to go with it.

Maybe one day God will bless us with another baby, but now is not the time. We have been blessed beyond measure with the three gorgeous children we have, and I want to do right by them and by God. So, while I want at least 1 more, rather than dwelling on that, I plan to live in the here and now and enjoy every stage. I just wish time would slow down a little bit. I'm not ready to be done with rocking my babies.

Happy Half Birthday, Mia! You are a blessing, a gift and a treasure. I'm so thankful I've been given the opportunity to be your mother.

The Sickness... a confession

2008-06-12T08:47:00.002-05:00

I have it, and I have it bad. I have "the sickness." I am guilty, certified, and true. I LOVE TO BUY KIDS CLOTHES! Granted, I don't have any money to spend, and I don't like buying on credit. However, I look and I look often. And, when I get the chance to make money, I turn around and spend it on fabulous clothing for my little babies. Now, I'm not so sick that I buy everything for it's stated original price. I do in fact buy most everything on sale or clearance... but only because I have to watch my pennies. However, I'm telling you right now... if money were no object, my children would be dressed to the nines 24/7 and I wouldn't care if things got ruined because I'd just buy more. Yep, I know that sounds terrible and it probably is terrible... however, my babies deserve to be dressed in the best, finest, and most adorable clothing. SO, there you have it, my confession. I'm a wanna be children's clothes hog! I could look at websites all day long and dream about putting my kids in those beautiful clothes. I could spend HOURS at Buttons and Bow, picking out clothing, socks, shoes and bows.

I would say, I'm fortunate that I know my limits and I don't often go beyond my limits when it comes to buying clothes. I guess we could say my HUSBAND is fortunate for that reason. I don't buy stuff and hide it from him. And my mom and I can find $50.00 dresses for under $5.00 at times. He knows that I know the value of a dollar and that I do not shop with reckless abandon. However, he also knows that if given the chance and the money, I would certainly go on a shopping spree to end all shopping sprees and we'd have to buy a house with custom closets to fit all the children's clothes in side, by color and season, of course! There are far too many beautiful children's clothes out there, and I'd like a sampling of them all, PLEASE!

And mini confession... I ADORE baby girl bathing suits and hair bows! I could spend a small fortune in these two categories alone! I need to learn how to make the bows, as Maegan has hair to her tooshy and a big bow in her hair is just the ticket! I could save a lot by making my own bows, and I could probably have a nice little side business making them for friends.

One more thing I love... custom burp clothes! I have a sewing machine, and I'm going to go buy some prefold diapers and some gorgeous ribbon, and I'm going to start making them for all of my friends having babies. One thing it will help me to learn to sew in a straight line (I have problems with this), and it will get my machine working again. Oh it works, I just haven't used it in a while.

So, there you have it... my confessions of the day. NOW, off to dress my babies!

Get On Board the Organization Train...

2008-06-06T12:49:00.002-05:00

Yep, c'mon and join me! Let's clean and organize our spaces! Let's have homes we enjoy living in. Let's pass on this skill to our children. Let's do it!

OK, so the reason behind this post? I just cleared out 8 years + worth of clutter from my desk in my kitchen! Do you even understand how freeing that was? OK we've been shoving the desk shut for YEARS now. When we moved into this house, we had 3 days to pack up our crap and get out of our old house, it's a long story about the new owner of the house not sticking to the terms of our contract, yadda yadda yadda... So anyway, no time to toss, only time to grab and stash! When we moved in here, we never took the time to toss or go through these things in the desk. So, finally, this morning, I wanted no more part of the clutter in my desk. I wanted to open my desk and be able to use it. I want to sit there and write cards or letters. I want to sit there and sort my mail. I want to open the desk and not have all of the contents come spilling out. I want to close the desk without having to creatively shove everything back in. SO, I spent 4 hours... yes that is correct... 4 hours sorting through it all.

The kids were awesome. They entertained themselves (and Mia napped) so I could sit there and work work work. It paid off... $20.00 in my pocket! The desk looks awesome! There are still things Mr. Perfect must sort through, but the majority of it is done! AND I organized all of the desk drawers and even vacuumed them out. Now I feel like doing every cabinet, every room, every thing!

The desk was a yard sale find, shortly before I was married. I think I paid $10.00 for it. I repainted it and Mr. Perfect and I got new handles of it. Now we have other handles that we put on it, but for some reason Mr. Perfect left one of the odd handles on it... I removed that today and put the matching handle in it's spot. Lovely! I wish I'd taken a before picture, so you could just see how much was shoved up in that piece! Anyway, I love my desk again. I'm so happy I took the time to work on that!

Since we are taking the house off the market for the summer, I'm just planning to get down to brass tacks and go through the entire house, cleaning, organizing and replacing things like rugs, light fixtures, etc. I figure, if we are going to stay awhile, we might as well make it something we enjoy living in! And organization will help with that immensely!

So, get on board, and go clean out something that's been bugging you and see if you don't feel a million times freer after the experience. I DARE YOU!

OH Boy Oh Boy oh boy!

2008-05-22T12:53:00.002-05:00

I'm a nervous wreck. I'm not handling this well. Wils has to have his hair cut. It's his first cut. Considering Maegan is going to be 5 in August and has never had a haircut, this is the first time I've dealt with it. I'm really nervous. I love his baby hair. He's so handsome, so gorgeous, and the back of his hair curls up in the most adorable flip. It's so very sweet. However, my poor boy can't see. His locks are falling in his face, and I'm feeling quite guilty. I just had his formal portraits done (hoping to pick up the oil tomorrow), so I have his beautiful hair forever caught in a portrait. It's just, it's so final. Once you cut a child's hair, it will never be that baby fine hair again! It changes. Maegan took forever to get hair... and now her's is approaching her crack and fast! However, I'm not worried about getting her hair cut just yet. I'm going to wait until she's sitting on it, and then get it cut off for locks of love. Wils is another matter entirely. He's a boy. I don't want people confusing him with a girl. He's beautiful, so it could easily happen. (Confession: Dee and I put a bow in his hair the other day, and wow, he'd be one spectacular girl... alas no one can confuse him with a girl with the set he has! *yikes*) So, I'm going to bite the bullet and take him to Pigtails and Crewcuts and have his little curls snipped off and a little boy cut in place of his baby hair. *cry* This is going to be so difficult for me. I'm already struggling through it! But, it is what needs to be done. I have to get his bangs cut, and figure we might as well do it all at once rather than putting off the inevitable. SO, help me through this... PLEASE especially you momma's who have been there, done that! I'm really nervous and sick to my stomach over it.

I'll post pix when I can, but the Mia is no longer co-operating with mommy being on the computer!

Nights are boring...

2008-05-19T20:07:00.003-05:00

When Matt's not around, my nights are boring. I guess doing nothing with Mr. Perfect is better than doing nothing alone! I'm so exhausted. I don't sleep well when he's away. Every noise is louder. I just lay here in the bed and think until my brain gives up and I pass out... but that doesn't last long because the teeny little miss wakes up to eat! And today, the two "big" (haha) kids woke up before 7am!!! OK that's just NOT allowed until they are in school! *sigh* The Princess woke up, came down stairs and immediately started with a bloody nose... I HAD to get up. Then the littlest Princess and my Little Man were raring to go.

After breakfast and getting Mia down for a nap. I took the older two and we went outside to play in the sunshine. WOW... I didn't realize that I'd get so much sun sitting out there. Maegs rode her bike. Wils and I did chalk drawings on the driveway. We are supposed to get rain the rest of the week, so I wanted to take advantage of the sun. We were not out there more than 2 hours... but some how, my feet turned black (other than where the straps of my flippies are)... and my face is what I like to call... Lobster Red! Ouch! It wasn't HOT out there, so it was easy to just hang out and soak in the sun. We were all having so much fun. Maegan is quite entertaining on that bike of hers. Oh my, the girl can make me laugh.

We went in around noon and I made lunch. The kids ate, and by 1pm Wils was down for his nap. I brought Maegan in my room for some down time (movie time), and I laid down. Not even 10 minutes later, Mia was up and ready to be fed. So, we just chilled and played with her toys until she was exhausted again. I put her down, spent some quiet time with Maegan. And then Wils was up. I got him changed and we went back outside to play. He was just running back and forth, up and down the driveway. Very entertaining! Maegan was, again, riding her bike. Today she mastered the "Jack Rabbit!" She absolutely loves standing up and peddling. Then she crashed... big time. I kept telling her NOT to use the Basket Ball Goal Post for braking, or something was going to get broken! Well, she didn't listen and kept doing it, and she finally missed her mark and ended up hitting the post with her handle bars instead of her bike wheel. It knocked her straight off the bike. Keep in mind, this child has a ballet recital this week... She busted up her elbow. She has bruises all over her arms and legs. She's going to look black and blue up on that stage! Never the less, she learned a lesson.

So after Mia woke up, the 4 of us went to Taco Bell for dinner. Did you know, TB does NOT have milk!?! My kids were not impressed. So, I decided I'd hit McD's for milk... they were "sold out." SO, Wendy's was next door... BINGO! We scored milk and then came home and sat at the table together eating dinner. I love hot sauce from TB. So I poured 3 packets of hot sauce onto my plate. Well, Wils said, "HOT MOMMY HOT!" and then promptly dips his taco in my hot sauce. I just looked at him as he LICKED it off. Then he turns to me and says "HOT MOMMY HOT!" and goes in for more! He did this until I finally took the plate away. The kid is crazy! He's the same kid that drank salsa! He loves spicy mexican food. He's mine, that's for sure!

After dinner, Maegan and Wils had a bath while Mia and I kept them dry and entertained. Or were they entertaining us? Wils says, "Mommy, Hair, Mommy!" So, I washed his hair. Then I had to run and get towels from the folded laundry, and when I came back Wils was turning on the shower... I went to turn it off and turned it the wrong way and sprayed Maegan straight in the face. Scared the absolute crap out of her! I about wet myself laughing and apologizing.

Mia was tired of waiting around. She was ready for DINNER and she was ready right then! So, I told Maegan and Wils they could watch a Baby Einstein movie until I was finished nursing Mia. When she was finished the kids did NOT want the movie off, so I said, OK but you're going to give up your reading time if we watch the rest... they were both cool with it. (My guess is because we read books throughout the day all day, so I guess they felt the movie was more of a treat than reading with mommy.) After the movie, we headed upstairs and brushed teeth. I put everyone in their beds, gave kisses and hugs, let them call Daddy, and then I turned out the lights and Mia and I came down stairs.

Daddy called while Mia and I were cuddling and chatting. He'd missed the call from the kids. He's in Cheers eating dinner. I did ask if anyone yelled out "MATT" when he walked in. He said Nope. (bummer) As I finished up with him and Mia let me know she'd had enough and was ready for some sleepy time. I fed her, and gave her those little things she needs for sleeping... blankie and pacifier (neither of my older 2 used either item for an extended period of time, so Mia using them at 5 months is just so foreign to me!) and I put her down for bed.

Now, I'm alone in a very quiet house and just missing my Chewie. I know, only one more night without him. I can make it. Yes I can!

SO, I forgot the FUNNIEST part of the evening... Wils and Maegan wanted to hug Mia before they went to bed. I let Wils hug her first. I put her down in his crib and he pointed to his pillow, so I laid her down on his pillow and he put his arm around her and laid down beside her... awwwwwwwwww So sweet! So, then after wrestling her out from under Wils arm, I took her to Maegan. I sat down on the bed, Maegan sat up, I leaned Mia forward, Maegan started to lean in... Mia puked right in her crotch. O M G I nearly died laughing. Maegan was screaming. Mia just looked at us like we were nuts. SO, I ran downstairs and got Maegan some clean panties, and got her changed. She hugged Mia. And then it was lights out! LOL

Of Course it would happen this way...

2008-05-18T09:08:00.003-05:00

Mr. Perfect gets picked up by his boss. They leave for the airport. They get to NYC and miss their connecting flight (no fault of their own, it was a delayed plain out of our town that caused this). They stay in NYC for a few hours, catch another flight to Boston. Spend the night checking things out...

Meanwhile back at the ranch...

The house is a disaster area. There aren't dishes in the sink (a blessing!), but nothing else is put away, the kitchen floor needs sweeping, vacuuming and scrubbing. Both bathrooms need maintaining. The kids room is relatively straight, other than some clothes I've pulled out that need to go to Good Will and some good friends who have little boys that can use these adorable duds! I thought the playroom was clean. I walk in and LOW AND BEHOLD, Mr. Perfect had make a packing mess nightmare right in the middle of the playroom! *sigh* Our room is horrible from a tantrum I threw and left clothing strewn about. Mia's room is a mess, because Wils figured out how to open the closet doors and pull everything out of Mia's mini drawers storage! *double sigh* NOW... all of this wouldn't seem SOOOOOOOOOOOO bad, however... *triple sigh* I got a phone call yesterday evening as I'm sitting down relaxing with my cousin, all 3 children snuggly in their beds. It's my agent... "Lisa, someone called tonight and wants to show your house!" WTH!?! We haven't had ANYONE look at this place in 3 weeks! Now, as soon as my helpmate goes out of town on business, someone is dying to see it? I told my agent ... NO WAY, they can come on Monday or Tuesday, but I've already got the kids in bed and there is no way I can get this placed spiffy by tomorrow! I want it sparkling when someone looks at it, and if they came today it would be tidy at best!

It's tremendously frustrating when Mr. Perfect and I both get lazy! Then the work load seems to triple! Thankfully, I've kept on top of the dishes all week and on top of the sweeping in the kitchen... I try and sweep at least once a day, but sometimes it ends up being a few times a day. Mainly the house needs tidying... but I also want the floors scrubbed, mirrors shined, sinks shined, etc. I just like my house to look perfect when people come to view it. I like all the little things tucked away. I just prefer things to look their best... I mean, we are trying to sell the house, gotta put that best foot forward, right?

So, in a few, I'm taking the kids to my parents house, putting the two youngest down for naps, and then I'm coming back here to get down to business. Thank GOODNESS we worked together this week and got the yard mowed! That's one less thing I have to be worried about! My mom told me, whatever I don't get done this afternoon, she'll assist me with this evening once the kids are in bed. It's nice to have a mom who is willing to help. What sucks though, is that her help often comes with a running commentary on what a poor housekeeper I am. I've NEVER claimed to be good at it, and I would LOVE to be able to PAY someone to come once or twice a week to help keep the house always looking in tip top shape! In June, I just might hire someone to come every 2 weeks, since I do not have to pay Maegan's tuition for school or ballet. I'd also LOVE to hire a professional organizer to get in here and help me and Mr. Perfect wade through our junk and get it organized once and for all. I can't stand disorganization! However, when you get overwhelmed it's difficult to figure out where to start. OK, just wish me luck! I'll get it done, and hopefully they'll love the house and we can put a contract back on one of the first houses we put a contract on... since it is still on the market and they've dropped the price BIG TIME! We shall see what is to happen.

He's Traveling AGAIN...

2008-05-13T20:10:00.002-05:00

Yep, that's right. It's time for another business trip. I'm excited for him. He did invite me to go with him on this trip, and I so wish I could, but we just can't afford that luxury right now. He's headed to Boston. I'd SO LOVE to go to Boston! He's going to Fenway! I'm so jealous. Yes, he will do some business stuff in there somewhere... but he'll be having fun, too! He leaves on Saturday morning. I'm not really excited about that, as it means I have to have all three children dressed and ready, in the car before 8am to head to the soccer game. That also means I won't have help at the soccer game! Which sucks. Beyond that, he won't be here Sunday, so I'll probably not tackle church, but rather go to our online campus and watch and interact from home. (FEEL FREE TO JOIN ME!!! www.rcc-impact.com) Tuesday, Maegan does NOT have soccer practice! That's the good news! However, Wednesday, she has recital dress rehearsal... and it falls DURING Wils' afternoon nap, which means I will have to wake up Wils, and pack all three kids in the car, and then some how, get all three out of the car, along with Maegan's costume... then I have to get Maegan dressed, all while keeping the youngest two under control... that would be easy if I had a double stroller... but do I? NO! I have a single stroller. So, I really am not certain as to how this is going to work out. I'd ask my mom for help, but she has choir on Wednesday nights and I know she likes to get rest before that. He'll be home late that night. I just hope he doesn't come to a disaster area and a wife that is bald and passed out with a bottle of wine by her side!

I'll blog while he's gone, so you will all know what's going on here and how we are handling things. I'm not moving in with my mom during this trip. There is NO point, honestly!

Happy FIRST Mother's Day!

2008-05-09T16:28:00.002-05:00

This is a blog, specially dedicated to all of my beautiful friends who are celebrating their First Mother's Day with their baby(ies) on the outside!

My very best friend: Melinda, Happy Mother's Day! I hope the twins will be super wonderful all day Sunday. I hope they provide you with many laughs, smiles, coos, and maybe even a MAMA sound!

The newest new mom in my circle of friends: Pam, Happy Mother's Day! I hope your baby boy brings you nothing but complete joy on your special day! Enjoy every moment, he won't be this little ever again!

One of my dearest friends: Karen, Happy Mother's Day! I hope little miss sunshine brings you happiness all day long. I hope you and Brian will celebrate this very special day in a most memorable way. I hope that you will be filled with peace and joy!

The youngest new mom and one of my dearest friends: Kelly, Happy Mother's Day! I hope Riley brings you a day filled with warmth and love. I hope you and Ryan will enjoy this day to the fullest. You've been so blessed with such an amazing son (my future son-in-law). I want nothing more than the most fabulous mother's day EVER!

And to those expecting mommies: Lindsey, Christine, April, enjoy this mother's day, it's the ONLY mother's day that you are able to celebrate as a MOM but with no children climbing on you or demanding something from you. This is the most peaceful Mother's day you will get for at least the next 18 years if not longer! Make sure your husband's realize what a special day this is for you, and have them pamper you on this day, it's hard work growing a baby and you should be rewarded for it! (Well, we all know the real reward comes on the day of birth!)

And to all mommies everywhere: HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! Thank you for taking on the responsibility of raising one or more of God's children. Give your children extra hugs on Mother's Day. They are a precious gift, and they are what makes Mother's Day Special.

And now, to another friend of mine, only through cyberspace--

Dearest Susan, May Sunday be one of the most wonderful days of your life. May you embrace Artem with all of you. May you feel God's Grace, Love and Mercy upon you, for all that you have gone through and for all that you will go through now. God is SO amazing. Enjoy your first Mother's Day with your new baby boy. The baby you've waited 7 years for, the baby that grew in your heart, the baby that God intended as your own. Happy First Mother's Day with many more to follow.

We are so blessed to be mothers! What an honor it is to be recognized for being a mother.

And, for all of the women out there who want to be a mommy: Don't ever give up on your dream of being a mommy. And don't rule out the possibilities. You may be on a road that you never intended, on a road that you don't want to be on, but stay true to yourself, focus on God and His will for your life, and you WILL be blessed! You may be the only mommy some child ever knows, or you may one day be blessed with three beautiful children of your own, or you may be chosen to be the parent of a baby who's mother is unable to care for him or her. We don't know the path that God has chosen for us, we just need to blindly follow, and know that He knows best and He will provide for all of our needs, and He will never leave us. Love to each of you, and peace to those who struggle on mother's day, you are loved.

She's a SOCCER STAR!

2008-04-19T16:01:00.002-05:00

It seems we have found Maegan's niche! She loves, and is pretty decent at SOCCER! She's so cute out there on the field with the other kids. She's a bit pushy! She loves to kick that ball! And she stays with it until it's in the goal, if she can! Today she scored 2 goals in a matter of moments! I was one screaming mom! The weather was beautiful, the sun was shining. Our friends showed up, the kids babysitter showed up, Gammy and PopPop showed up. Our friend Pamela captured the goals on video! ROCK ON!

It was a rough start (for me) to the morning. Mia went off just before the alarm, so I had to feed her, then once she was back to sleep, I ran up the stairs and as quietly and gently as I could, I lifted Maegan out of bed, and carried her downstairs. (OK she's pushing 50 lbs. that is NOT easy on the knees.) About 1/2 way down the stairs she "woke up" and said "OH I get to wear my new cleats today!" Yes, that's right, she got new PINK umbros. She's thrilled with them, but would like them better if they were purple.

Today was picture day. So, we were actually up at 6:30 am as opposed to our normal game day 7am! Matt got up and took Maegan on to the field for pictures, while I stayed back and readied the rest of the troops. I also stopped and got a light breakfast for us on the way. When we arrived, we found out they'd started the game EARLY! eek!!! I just happened to get there at the same time as our friends and our babysitter. We all parked together and they helped me unload the car.

NO sooner were we on the field and Pamela pulled out the cam... Maegan scored goal #1. Seconds later, in went goal #2! She was so excited! I think soccer has been very good for her self esteem! Much more so than ballet, which she seems to "tolerate" at best. I do believe ballet will be a thing of the past. My girl likes action! I'm hoping I see tennis in her future. And we may take a Mommy and Me tennis clinic in the coming year. FUN!

BUT, for now, she's my soccer superstar and I couldn't be more thrilled with her performance on the field. It's so fun to see her enjoying herself and feeling good about herself!

The Sickies!

2008-04-10T18:24:00.002-05:00

Yup, little miss Mia has the sickies! Poor little angel. She has had a fever since last night. This morning it was 102. I plopped all the kids in the car and we drove to the doctor. We saw Dr. Andrako... he graduated with my father from High School... and I think he's just great. He's so sweet and yet is very to the point. Mia made sure that the nurse and Dr. A knew she was NOT happy with them handling her. As soon as I'd pick her up, she'd quit the fussing.

As high as her fever is, she is still all smiles. Her nights are not so great. She's up around 4 am all distressed. But, her day time naps are much better! She's even napping in her crib rather than the travel lite bassinet next to my bed.

She had to have blood drawn while at the doctor today. I couldn't sit through that with her. I asked if the nurse would sit with her, so I could rescue her when it was done. She screamed bloody murder and it was crushing me to hear it. Then, they came out and handed her to me and she was all smiles for me. She then fell promptly to sleep in my arms.

Tonight, she is still running a fever, even after her tylenol and an excellent nap. But, as I type this, she is sitting in her Daddy's lap, talking up a storm. Maegan and Wils are also cuddled on the sofa with Daddy. NOW, where is the camera when you need it? GRRR it's been missing for about 2 weeks now!!! Frustration!!!

I'll blog more later. Wils pooped... and I guess I should tend to that! (ick)

Karen and Sierra

2008-04-09T07:07:00.002-05:00

I ask you all to please pray for Karen and Sierra Miller. Karen has been in labor with Sierra for over 24 hours now. She's at the birthing center as I type this, for an appointment so that the midwife can figure out why Miss Sierra is taking her dear sweet time. Karen is exhausted and is in need of strength to make it through delivery. Please pray that Sierra will make it into this world soon and that Karen will be able to manage the delivery even through her exhaustion! God is so Good!

Disappointment

2008-04-07T19:17:00.003-05:00

It's all a part of life. Disappointments come and you live through them. Today, I was crushed. Yesterday we looked at the perfect house for our family. I walked in the house and immediately felt at home. I loved the smell of the house, I loved the warmth of the house. I loved the space in the house. I loved the backyard for my children. I loved the neighborhood. It was exactly where I wanted to be. Needless to say, we submitted a contract on the spot. Of course, our house still hasn't sold. So, we have to submit a first right. That just means that the deal is sealed once we get a contract on our home. But, it also means that a better contract can come in, and they can accept that contract and give us a certain amount of time to sell our house or our contract becomes null and void.

I received the call just before 8pm tonight. Our contract was rejected. Another full price offer came in and they had no house to sell. The owners had to go with that one. I fully understand. I would do the same. However, it is still so crushing. My heart is just broken, as I could totally picture my little princesses and prince growing up there. It was across the street from friends of my parents.

I'm not sure what God is trying to tell us. I feel like we need to just take our house off the market. It seems like this is just not "our" time. I really did not want Maegan to start school in the elementary school for our area. There is nothing wrong with it, and it is nearly brand new... but it just isn't where I want her to be. I'm just deflated. I still fully believe that all of the disappointments will be worth it, when we find what it is God has planned for our family. It feels horrible now, but I know it won't feel this way forever, and that when God's plan is revealed these terrible feelings will be far away. I know God knows that even in my disappointment, that I truly want we HE wants for our family. However, keeping the house on the market is stressing me out. I think it's time to just let it go, stop the searching and just be settled for a while.

I'm not sure what else there is to do at this point. Maybe I'll have a party. We just got a new kitchen table. Well, it isn't new... it's actually the dining room table I ate at every Friday night in the 80's. It's the dining room table where I did my homework after school on many occasions. It's the dining room table that belonged to my Maemie and Poppy (Maemie is who Maegan is named for). I now have a piece of my Maemie and Poppy in my possession! This is precious to me. I need to recover the seat cushions. I think it's time to repaint my kitchen and I'm thinking of seeing if I can have a microwave put in above my range. I also want my bathrooms updated. New vanity/cabinet, and cool mirrors and light fixtures. These changes aren't super expensive and they will really change the look in the bathrooms. I'd really like the floors updated to dura-ceramic as well. You know, if we are going to stay here a while, might as well make it something we enjoy living in.

So, this wasn't the house, even if it was perfect for us. God's timing is EVERYTHING, and we just need to let Him tell us when the time is right. I think what I'm feeling the worst about, at the moment, is all the money that our agent has gone to in listing our house, advertising, etc. I hate telling her to take it off the market. I do think that is the right thing for us to do, however.

GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLL

2008-04-06T21:05:00.002-05:00

Our Saturdays will never be the same...

I woke up early on Saturday morning. It was too early, so I fell back to sleep. I woke up a little bit later, and it was later than I thought. I jumped out of bed, threw on some capris and a tank and ran up the stairs to wake Maegan.

I came in her room. Wils looked up at me, "MOMMY!" I picked him up out of the crib and walked over to Maegan. She was snoozing away. I said, "C'mon Maegs, it's time to get ready!"

With that, her eyes opened, and she blinked, looked at me and said, "It's time for my soccer game?" I nodded my head, and she sat up in the bed.

"I don't think I can do this," Maegan said to me. In literal translation, her statement meant: It's too early and I'd really like to go back to sleep!

I prodded her along and she trotted downstairs while I gathered her gear and uniform. She ate breakfast, Wils ate breakfast, and Matt and I hustled to get them all dressed and ready to go out the door. Mia stayed in her jammies.

We were supposed to be on the field at 8am. We were running late, but making better time than I had imagined we would, that early in the morning. Upon arrival at the field, it seemed we were the early birds! Matt said, "You go on and take her to the field, I'm going to get us some breakfast."

Maegan and I headed up to the field... soccer bag, filled with ball, waterbottle and warm pants and the cooler, filled with apple juice, apple slices and cheez-its for team snack. I also had the video camera. Maegan was the first on her field. I offered her the soccer ball and she said, "No Mom! I have to do this first..." she ran out onto the field and ran back and forth between the sidelines. Soon other kids and parents started to arrive.

I talked with one parent. Her daughter had missed the first two practices and was showing up for the game without having met her teammates. This child was so TALL. She looked so much bigger than my Maegan, and they were just a few months apart.

Soon the rest of the team arrived and I sent Maegan to her side of the field. I noticed Matt had gotten back, and I ran to the car to help him with Mia and Wils. On our walk back to the field, my parents showed up. They brought chairs for us. We claimed our space on the sidelines and hunkered down for a game of preschool soccer!

Just before the game, the rain began. Mia was cuddled against me in her sling. Wils was in his stroller. Matt was filming the action. Mom was standing behind me and Daddy was in a chair beside me. We were ready for the games to begin.

Matt filmed Maegan on kick off. After that, Maegan lost interest. Mom declared, "This is not Maegan's thing. She is a dancer, a ballerina!" I said, "Give it time mom! She's got to get into it!"

Well, after the other team scored their first goal and everyone headed back to midfield... Maegan meandered to my chair and said, "Mommy, I'm too tired, I don't want to play." To which, I reminded her, "Your team is counting on you! You are doing great. Keep it up!" Her coach reigned her in and got her ready to go. The rest of the half, she was not too involved, but her interest seemed to pick up.

The tall child, who had missed all of the practices was in group 2 on Maegan's team (Maegan was in group 1). When group 2 took the field, this tall little girl showed everyone who was boss. WOWSA! She could dribble, she could pass and she could score! And she DID score. I was amazed at her skill. I think the coaches were a bit amazed as well!

After half time and apple slices it was time for the 2nd half. Maegan was switched to Group 2. Group 2 started the half. Suddenly, it was as if someone had lit a fire under Maegan. She was very aware of the ball and she got in there and fought for the ball. She and the tall child seemed to have some kind of communication. They seemed to work together.

Suddenly, the ball got caught up between many of the kids. Maegan saw the opportunity and took it, she kicked the ball out of the group and then ran down the ball, stayed with it and took a shot on goal.

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!

Maegan scored her very first goal! We were screaming and cheering. I was crying. Even Wils was yelling "Go Go Go" We were soaked to the bone, but enjoying every moment of it. Maegan was really into the game after that. And she scored another goal... only the second goal she scored was in the wrong goal! Oopsy! We all clapped for her anyway.

Our Saturday mornings will never be the same, but it is so worth it!

I like it this way...

2008-03-27T09:41:00.002-05:00

OK, there is one thing I LOVE about my house being on the market. It has never been cleaner. I love it this way. I actually wake up every morning and, MAKE MY BED! I never used to care, but now I love it made! I HATE HATE HATE a dirty kitchen, yet mine always seems to be a mess. I thought I'd totally cleaned it last night before bed, but when I woke up, I realized I neglected part of my counter. So, first thing this morning, while waiting for my bagel to toast, I got that cleaned up. Now my kitchen looks pretty! I like it this way! I love a clean house, a sweet smelling house, but I'll be the first to admit, I'm the WORLD'S WORST housekeeper. It just is not a talent that I possess, nor do I desire to keep house. I think house work SUCKS! If I had the money, I'd pay someone who enjoys it!

I'm trying to teach my kids about keeping the house clean. Today was a very good teaching point for Little Miss. We were up in the playroom, and I was getting the Little Prince dressed for the day. While Little Miss was playing, she pulled out a toy, then went on to her kitchen to start playing, and I took that moment to remind her to put the first toy away before she continued in the kitchen. I explained, if you finish playing with something, and you put it away before going on to the next thing, then you'll have less mess to clean up when you are all finished in the playroom. Well, it stuck. (at least for right now) She promptly put her toys away and went back to her kitchen. When she was finished in her kitchen, she tidied it up and came down stairs. I asked her to please go make sure everything was picked up. Well, Wils had started throwing toys across the room. So, instead of letting Maegan get angry at him, I asked her to tell him to please pick up his toys, and then to show him how, and sing the clean up song! She was so excited because, IT WORKED! He loves to tidy up, as long as you make it fun for him. Clapping and Singing make him get right to work. He even whistles (dog call) for himself! SO FUNNY!

I really like it this way. I like my beds made (and Little Miss likes hers made, as I've mentioned before). I like the playroom organized (Mr. Perfect says I'm anal.), I like the kitchen clean and tidy. My living room, I can't seem to keep clean for any amount of time, but at least it is neater than it has been in the past. I love magazines, but had to stop receiving them, because it was creating so much clutter in my home. I miss my magazines, and the only one I still receive is the Kraft Foods seasonal magazine, for recipes! See, I love to cook and I love new recipes that are EASY! Anyway, I really do like keeping the house ready for showings. I'm trying to instill a love of chaos free living in my children. I think we get a little better each day. And by the time the littlest princess is walking and playing, her siblings will hopefully have a full grasp of keeping things tidy and will help their sister along the way! When we do eventually move, I'd really like to keep our house in "showing" condition. Especially, if we move into the neighborhood we are hoping to move into. We have many friends in that neighborhood, and we will never know when someone might just pop over for a visit. It would be pretty embarrassing to have our house in shambles! I'm looking forward to a fresh start somewhere.

For now, I like it this way, and I want to keep it this way. And if we stay on top of it everyday, then I really don't need a housekeeper! (But it would still be nice to have one, I really hate doing dishes!)

Oh I'm gonna get him!

2008-03-25T06:50:00.003-05:00

Mr. Perfect got me SICK! Grr! I strongly dislike being sick. I'm not really sure he got me sick OR if allergies have started to kick in... but all I know is my nose is a drippy faucet. GROSS! And my throat hurts and I have a dry painful cough. The littlest princess was having a rough go of it this morning (aka: GAS), and wasn't her usually angelic late morning sleeper. Mr. Perfect got up and rocked her and got her back to sleep, but guess who CAN'T sleep after being woken up? Yup. Me. And with the drippy nose, there wasn't a chance I'd get back to sleep. Today is going to be a long day with Mr. Perfect out of the house early (I should probably go wake him.) and me trying to get the kids ready and out of the house without messing anything up, making sure all beds are made and then trying to make the kids behave at Mom's house!

The good thing is, I don't have to make lunch or dinner. We'll be with Mom. She's got projects around her house that she'd like to tackle. I should probably help with that! I just hope I feel better before heading over there. Little Man usually naps very well at her house, so that will give me a bit of a break. Little Miss Princess Pants should be helpful. She's earning allowance now, so she likes to be put to work doing "extra jobs" (more about this in a moment). And the littlest royal princess, well she's almost always a good little girl, especially at her Gammy's house!

OK, so Little Princess is earning allowance now. She doesn't earn allowance for everyday expected jobs, ie: Making her bed (which I must brag here, she does nearly EVERY morning on her own without any help or prompting!!! that's my girl!!!), picking up her messes, brushing teeth, etc. She earns her allowance by going above and beyond expectations. She offers to feed the beasts (er... cats), she helps pick up messes her brother makes, she helps with the preparation of dinner, she takes diapers to the trash. These sorts of chores are extra helpful, but not expected of her, so when she offers to do them at least a few times during the week (we are trying to work up to at least 1 extra job a day), she earns $1.00 on Saturday nights, to put in her piggy bank. She gets the money in change, and is to set aside $.10 to give to church or a charity of her choice (as her tithe), for God's work to be done. Now, she can have allowance revoked in instances of disobedience and bad decision making. (Our attempt at accountability and consequences for behaviors.) She had her first week revoked. I felt so badly about it, but the lesson was needed. This past weekend, she earned her money, but hasn't received it yet because we weren't home. Yesterday she did TWO extra jobs for Mommy! She will probably earn her money again this week. She's being more obedient this week and her ears seem to be in better working order! I love how she grasps this concept already. Mr. Perfect and I have told her, once her piggy bank is full, we will count out the money and deposit it in her savings account at the bank. She's VERY excited about that. Then she will get to start all over again with filling up her piggy bank! I'm excited that she's enjoying this, and I hope it will instill in her a desire to help. She not only gets allowance, but lots of praise for the extra jobs. I make sure to tell her how much she has helped Mommy and how much I dearly appreciate her help. She is one who loves acceptance (much like her mother). She's constantly asking for reassurance. "Does my hair look pretty?" "I love you, Mommy. Do you love me?" "Did I do this right?" Sometimes I think she's a little lacking on the self esteem which she'd come by naturally as her mommy is the same way. I'm trying to build her up. I, myself, need to work on my "temper temper," because I think that feeds into her insecurity. I dare say, it's improved in recent weeks. It's one of those everyday things where I have to make an effort to remember not to lose my temper because little children listen to everything and mimic everything. When I see Little Princess imitating an action that I know she got from me, I tell her it isn't the best way to handle a situation, and I give her an alternative, and then I tell her, Mommy should do this, too! So that she knows that Mommy is trying to do the right thing, too, and that everyone has to work on being good and handling situations appropriately. She's quite a sponge, so I'm hoping all of these little lessons are soaking in.

I'll end my bloggy post today with a story about my girl. We were laying on my bed one afternoon last week and she says to me, "Mommy, Josh isn't very nice to me!" To which, my reply was, "Why not?" She answered back, "I don't know, Mommy, but I don't like it." Now, Josh is her "boyfriend" and they are going to get "married" one day. So, I said to her, "Honey, if he doesn't treat you like a princess, then you don't want to marry him." Her response was, "Oh, Mommy, I can't find a boy that will treat me like a princess! What am I going to do!?!" The look on her face was priceless and I stifled a giggle, and put my hand on her knee reassuringly and said, "You've got quite a while to find the right one!" She still seemed a little sad, but she hugged me anyway. I truly believe in what I have been telling her. Don't settle for someone who doesn't treat you like a princess! Don't settle for someone who bullies you. Don't settle for someone who doesn't respect you. Don't settle for someone who doesn't love your family (because they are a part of you, no matter how much they annoy you, and it just works better if everyone gets along). Don't settle for someone who won't let you be yourself. Don't settle for someone who doesn't now how to love. Don't settle for someone that doesn't share your faith. My words to her are "Find someone who treats you like a princess. Find someone who treats you like Daddy treats Mommy!" I hope those words will always ring true to her, and that she will always seek someone who loves the Lord like her Daddy does, and someone that respects and honors her the way her Daddy respects and honors me. I love that she's already learning to use her filters. I love that she's already seeking out genuine friendships and that she's not settling for being treated poorly. If I can only keep these little seeds growing in her, I have a feeling she will grow into a young woman who respects herself and will seek God's will in her life. She's so amazing, already. NOW, if I could get her to respect her parents a little more and tone down that 4 year old know it all attitude! ;)

No cookies tonight...

2008-03-24T22:45:00.003-05:00

4 of us showed for bible study tonight. I got a phone call around 5pm. It was my realtor. She informed us that she'd just received a call and someone is coming to view our house tomorrow at 3:30! We haven't had anyone look at it in 3 weeks! (well, there abouts) We looked at a house today and are contemplating putting a contract on it in the coming days. So, anyway, we ordered pizza for dinner and I did not make cookies. I was not about to dirty up my kitchen before tomorrow! No thanks! AND, guess what!?! Tomorrow is RECYCLE day... so all of the recycle articles in the utility room will be GONE GONE GONE for the showing! Yahoo!!! Mr. Perfect has a meeting at work tomorrow morning, so he'll be out of here bright and early. He's coming home at lunch time to help do last minute straightening. *whew* My mom is on Spring Break this week. I'll be taking the kids to her when Mr. Perfect gets home at lunchtime. Then I can come back and make sure the carpets are vacuumed, the potties are sparkling and there are no clothes out of place!

I really don't recommend selling a home with 3 children under the age of 5! One is always crying, one is always pulling everything out, and one is always following at my heels. I love my babies with all of my being, but I hate selling a house with them around. I hate it because I feel like I'm constantly on their little butts about keeping this place clean, and really at 4, 1.5 and 3 months, they really don't get it.

It's late, and I should be asleep. Tomorrow is going to be a long day. I hope I can relax during the showing. I get very nervous and my stomach gets all sick thinking of people picking apart the things that are wrong with my house.

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T22:17:00.002-05:00

HE IS RISEN!!!
I hope you all had a wonderful Easter.
Let me say, I'm one tired mommy. I should be in bed. The kids actually slept until nearly 8am this morning. (YAHOO!) However, we stayed up entirely too late last night. I'm so thankful Mr. Perfect has the day off tomorrow. We are planning to straighten the house (we've kind of let it go recently... oopsy), and possibly go look at a few houses. I know I know, why look if no one is looking at our house... but honestly, why not look? Specifically, there is one house that has been on the market for quite some time, and well we've looked at it, and it isn't our favorite house, but it's in a great neighborhood for the children. And the price? Well, it's TOO good to just forget about. So, we should look at it one more time and really think about it. I already know that they will take a first right. The price is basically stealing a house in this neighborhood, and there is SO much to offer in the neighborhood. My best friend lives in the neighborhood. There are pools and playgrounds, exercise rooms, club house, etc. So, anyway, we might go look at it tomorrow. We'll see.

Tomorrow night, we are hosting bible study at our house. Messy Spirituality is the book we are reading. It's really quite interesting. I missed the first 3 weeks. However, I have the book so I can read it on my own time. No one ever responded about dinner tomorrow night, so I'm guessing we will not be having dinner for the group. BUT, I do hope to make some homemade peanut butter cookies.

Let me share my EASY recipe!
1 cup peanut butter
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 egg

mix, drop by spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet, bake in a preheated oven (350) until edges of cookies are slightly brown. Before you bake, you can take a fork and press down the cookies and then sprinkle a little granulated sugar on them... pretty. SO, how's that for easy??? My kids and I love them!

Well, I think I'm going to drag Mr. Perfect to bed. He's on a hunt for some new music (we've got quite a few iTunes gift cards hanging around). I sincerely hope you all had a wonderful Easter. How blessed are we that He gave His Son to save us? WOW, that's just amazing, and I know, I for one am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO not deserving.

I've been made NEWWWWWWWWWW!

2008-03-21T14:46:00.003-05:00

NO, not in the Biblical sense... well, yes in that sense as I am made new whenever I ask forgiveness... BUT today, I stepped out and had a day to myself. Let me stop right here and give a GIGANTIC "Thank You!" To my big sister for watching all of the kiddos! I only went two places... Chick Fil A, because God Bless them, they give me free LARGE water! And then from there, I went to Carytown In Style Salon, and had a wonderful time catching up with my stylist, getting my hair cut and colored and getting my brows waxed! WooHoo! I'm a new woman. It's been forever since I had any pampering done! I think, tomorrow, I may even step out and have a manicure and pedicure (gift from my husband from Christmas that I've not used yet). And, if I were able to pull it off (maybe next week)... I've been thinking about heading back to the Red Door Spa and getting another facial. Those make me feel SO good! Sometimes, it's so fun to be a woman! Granted, sometime next week, I'll probably be shouting about the curses put upon us because of Old Eve and her inability to obey... but for now, I'm singing praises about being a woman! I can't wait for Mr. Perfect to get home and see his new wife. *insert big cheesy grin here* I think my sister and I are going to go ahead and decork my vintage bottle of wine (from my 5 year anniversary, that has never been touched) and have us a little drink with some crackers and cheese. Yum! We were also thinking of maybe (if Mr. Perfect gives the OK or the grandparents feel like babysitting once the kids are asleep so Mr. Perfect can join us) going to CousCous for some delicious tapas. My sister and I are working on a new venture... not a money making venture, but more of a mission, similar to Pay It Forward. Soon, I'll have our blog up and you can read all about what we are doing. It's called Drop the Penny Ministries. So, we thought if we went out tonight we could work on it, and come up on our first blog post together. Bless her heart, she thought I was going to create a blog for it, and it just me my blog... and I said, NO it's your idea, the blog will be by US, not ME! I just happen to be the one who loves to write, so I'll probably do the majority of the posts.

Anyway, new hair, new brows, new woman, I need a night out. I can hardly wait. More than likely, we'll all get tired while putting the little ones down for bed, and then we won't go, but at least we are thinking about it!

Oh and last but not least... have I ever told you how wonderful my children are? Well, they are! Today, those little precious angels... they let mom SLEEP IN! That's right. 8am was the first I heard one of them (the early bird is the little prince, little man doesn't usually sleep late for anything), about 10 minutes later, I heard from Little Princess, talking to her brother in the sweetest way, they were getting along great. 8:37 I hear, "DADDY COME WIPE ME, I POOPED!" So, I pushed Mr. Perfect out of bed and said... "Hey they let you sleep until 8:30, you should be happy!" Then I rolled over and happily lazed in bed whilst listening to the wee ones with their father, playing and chatting upstairs. I popped my head up and took a peak in the littlest princess' sleeping quarters and she was snoozing away. I lay in my bed until 9:30 when she beckoned for some breakfast, but what a lovely day it has been! I love my babies!

Who's a nervous mom? Me? NO!

2008-03-18T15:26:00.002-05:00

OK, so YES, I am a nervous mom. Here I am, a nervous mom and a procrastinating one as well! The little Princess has her FIRST soccer practice tonight. It starts at 6pm, I have to have her on the field by 5:45. When does Mr. Perfect get home from work... let's see... that would be, at the earliest, 5:45 on any given night, but most often is more like 6:30. This means that I, yours truly, will be headed to a place I've never been before, with THREE children in tow. Normally, I'd ask my mother if she'd be willing to watch the younger two until Matt could get home. However, today, she has a personnel committee engagement at her church. SO, yes, me and all three children will be headed to some church I've never been to before, and I will have to locate the fields behind the church and then locate the actual field that her little "Badgers" team is practicing on. Now, what am I supposed to do with kid #2 and kid #3? Kid #2 can walk... and he can RUN, and well, that is frightening to me, because I've got to get kid #1 to the right field and I don't have time to chase kid #2. So, stroller? OK, so I only have a single stroller, no double stroller here (*reminder, check craigs list for double stroller prior to soccer game season opener*). So, what to do with kid #3? Well, I guess, I'll put her in a sling and carry her. SO, that leaves kid #1 who is seriously lacking in the "listening ears" department. She will be carrying her soccer ball. I wonder if I can get her to hold onto the stroller while I attempt to locate her practice field. This should be an interesting evening. Mr. Perfect is supposed to meet us at the field. I have a feeling, when he gets there, I'm going to bring Kids #2 and #3 home. And when I get home, I'd love to have a nice glass of white wine waiting for me, and some nice Godiva chocolate truffles. OH SNAP OUT OF IT! #1 you are nursing and you get no wine Missy! and #2 Mr. Perfect hasn't picked up on the hint that you want some Godiva chocolates, so you don't have any. **My Bad, I was talking to myself there. Do forgive!** OK, I guess I've procrastinated long enough. Scrambled Eggs with cheese, coming right up!

And the little man keeps entertaining!

2008-03-16T20:14:00.002-05:00

So, that sweet little man of mine, I swear he's the cutest little man on earth! (I can say that, I'm his mother!) So, this week he's been keeping the laughs coming. The day after his escape from behind the bars, I heard him awake in his crib. I heard him playing, singing, and just chillin. Then he got quiet. REALLY quiet. I thought he'd gone back to sleep. So, I fell back to sleep. When I woke up, he was still quiet, but I could hear him moving around, so I ran up to get him. When I open his bedroom door, all I can do is LAUGH! And laugh a lot! He was TOTALLY naked! Standing in his crib looking at me as if to say "BUSTED!" I just laughed and said "What are you doing?" I walked over towards his crib where I encountered NOT a pretty sight. When I say the kid was naked, I mean, diaper overboard. Upon closer inspection and the rank stench in the air, I realized, in deed, he threw a POOPY diaper overboard! He smiled at me as I got closer. I picked up the goods (luckily, no poo escaped in the toss), wrapped up the diaper, and looked at my little man. His smile got bigger, and he said "MOMMY" I'm trying not to puke from the smell, and not to pass out from holding my breath all while laughing. Then I feel around on his mattress to make sure there is no pee. SCORE! No pee on the bed. However, as I look at his pillow, I realize, he'd sat on his pillow with his POO BUTT! EWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!
Now, why, why would he sit his little stinky bottom on his pillow??? And I'm cursing myself for buying Pottery Barn Kids bedding! And I'm praying that SHOUT! will get the poo out of the pillowcase. I undress his pillowcase and grab the little man up, football hold style under my right arm, and I march us downstairs. By the way, I'm STILL laughing! I think this was the nastiest and FUNNIEST thing I've ever had one of my children do!

Well, fast forward to today. I tell Mr. Perfect that Little Man needs a new diaper. He says, NO I've changed him twice since you got here. I said, well, he needs another one. SO, I get up and take his diaper off of him, and I run to the littlest Princess' room and get him another diaper. And as I'm headed back out of her door I hear, "NO NO NO, don't do it, NO, you did not just do that! OH NO, I need HELP." No doubt, I knew exactly what had just taken place. I ask Mr. Perfect, "Did he pee?" Mr. Perfect replies, while laughing, "YES! He just squatted in the floor and peed!" HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! So, Mr. Perfect says, "We peepee on the POTTY!" BUT, what Mr. Perfect does is MUCH more hilarious than what Little Man had done. Mr. Perfect, picks up the little man and carries him to the potty, stands him up on a stool and says, "We peepee in the POTTY!" At this point, I'm ROLLING laughing, because a 20 month old child, does not know how to point his little penis into the potty. duh! So, I said, NO you have to put him ON the potty... Mr. Perfect attempts to put him directly onto the cold potty! I said NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, you have to put the seat down first. By now Little Man is franticly crying. I'm thinking that we've scarred him for life and he may not use the potty until he's in his 40's!

Oh man, he's the greatest little man ever! I'll never trade him, not even when he's throwing one of his SUPER SIZED tantrums! His funniest moments heavily outweigh his nasty toddler trantrums!

Speaking of funny moments.... check back soon, I hope to have a link to one extremely hilarious (going to be entered in america's funniest videos) video of Little Man LEVITATING... yup that's right, he levitated and it will make you pee your pants laughing!

And it happened one day...

2008-03-11T21:39:00.002-05:00

And it actually was TODAY.

This morning we were beckoned by Little Miss, to come up to her room, she had "GOOD NEWS!" So, off we trotted up the stairs to find out what was going on. I already knew, because I heard it on the monitor before hand, but didn't let on. We walked in to the room of the Prince and Princess. Little Miss was laying in her bed, grinning from ear to ear and her 19 month old brother... well, he was STANDING BESIDE HER! Yes, that's right, he was on the outside of jail. He'd escaped the bars. He was free from his prison, aka: The Crib. I honestly thought we had more time than this! You know, at least until he was 2, right? I mean, c'mon!

He is one determined little boy. So, tonight, Mr. Perfect put the kids to bed while I was at the grocery store. When I got home, I asked if Little Man had stayed in his crib tonight. And he started laughing. See, Little Man has a stuffed football in his bed. Cutest thing EVER! So, he has this football in his bed, and apparently, that is his tool for escape. Mr. Perfect confiscated the football. He confessed that Little Man was none to happy with him. But, I must say, when I got home from the store, all was quiet in the house. So, he must have adapted to losing his football.

So, now the fun begins. I'm not ready for him to have his own bed, not yet. Not with them being on the second floor and us being downstairs. The thought of him getting up at night and possibly falling down the stairs in the dark is freaking me out! I guess we've got to get a gate for the top of the stairs. I'd get one for their room, but we've got to have easy access for Little Miss to get to the potty in the middle of the night.

Isn't life fun? :D

Sad News

2008-02-26T20:49:00.001-05:00

The link will tell you. I know nothing more than what is indicated on the site.

I'm SO not handling this well.

2008-02-21T18:18:00.002-05:00

Matt leaves in the AM for Thailand. I'm sick (probably the flu, but I've not been to the doc to have my nose swabbed). Maegan feels like she has to throw up. We are supposed to be staying at my parents house for the week, so that I won't go insane attempting to keep my house clean for prospective buyers, and so I won't go insane not speaking to adults for an entire week. BUT, now I don't feel comfortable taking a puking Maegan to Mom's and if I have the flu, I don't want to get them sick again (they just both are getting over the flu). He wants to know if I want the pack n play packed up for Mia. I just about took his head off. I told him I'm not going anywhere and I'm canceling the open house for Sunday. He looked at me as if I grew 7 heads. We have a prospective buyer coming to the open house on Sunday, and he's so freaking gung ho about selling this house RIGHT NOW, that he could give a crap that I and the kids are sick. Hell, he'll be in Thailand what f*** does he care if we are home sick? And if we are sick, well, you only have to leave the house for 2.5 hours for the open house... I guess he figures we could just drive around for a while.

Not to mention, he's not packed ANYTHING yet for his trip!?! What's that about? I washed his clothes 3 days ago and he's done NOTHING with them. I just don't get it. Our house is trashed. I'm too sick to do anything about it (thus why it is trashed presently). I'm just really not handling his leaving well. I knew it wouldn't be easy, and basically I just feel a mass of anger towards him right now. I just want him to get the hell out and GO already.

I bought him some candy and gum, and had the kids make him a card. My best friend gave him a phone card... but I think I'll do better if he just doesn't call. I hate this. I know in the grand scheme of things this is nothing... but I'm not used to it and I DO NOT enjoy it!

Maegan never did throw up.

You know, my friend ran away to the Bahama's last weekend for a long weekend... I'm thinking, WOW I wish I could do that. OK, Mia needs to be fed.

And just like that...

2008-02-16T22:28:00.002-05:00

POOF, it's gone! The house got another contract, and as of tonight, our contract was null & void. So long new house, hello home search engine... It's been a crappy weekend. Check out my other blog for more info. (ramblings of the beachgirl, link is on the left of this page!)

We could use your prayers...

2008-02-12T16:46:00.000-05:00

Hello Blog Friends!
We could use some prayers right now. As you know, we have a contract on the house that I posted a while back. However, in order for things to work out, our house has to sell. Our house has been on the market a week and has been shown 3 times. So far, no interest. Could you please pray that if it is God's Will, that He will lead the right person to this house for a quick sale, so that we can remove the contingency off of the new house. Also, say a prayer that all of our finances work out when it's time to close. We are really pushing our limits with the new house. Normally we would not do this, but the house has so much equity built in, that it would be stupid to pass up the opportunity. So, please, pray for us and the sale of our home and the purchase of our new home. I really appreciate it!

PICTURES!

2008-02-10T20:20:00.000-05:00

We have pictures of the kids! :D

Possible New Home

2008-01-30T23:30:00.001-05:00

This is the home Matt is putting a contract on at 12:00 pm January 31st:
Photobucket Album

I Love My Children

2008-01-28T11:15:00.000-05:00

Today, we are home. Me, and all three little ones. The oldest princess has told me she'd like to go out today. I asked where, she said, "Gammy's house." I said, "No, Gammy needs a break." Then she said, "Well, we can go to the park." "No, it's too cold and you and Wils have runny noses." SO, then she said, "Well, we can just go outside then." I didn't have an answer, but I think I do have an answer now. ABSOLUTELY! After lunch, once I get Wils down for his nap, I think we will grab the monitor, put Mia down for a nap as well, and Maegan and I will go play in the backyard. We can't get anyone else sick, and if we get cold, we can run back in the house at anytime, AND we can be with in ear shot of sleeping babies, should they need us.

So, right now, my house is very quiet. I am downstairs with Mia. Maegan and Wils went back upstairs. I called up to them, "Are you OK?" My oldest princess replies with, "Yes, Mommy, we are just reading our books that Santa brought us for Christmas." With that, the little Prince yells down the stairs in his own language, something that I was unable to understand, but I'm sure it was pretty much what his big sister said. It's so nice to hear them getting along. Mia is resting in her swing. Mommy got some computer time! WOOT!

Maegan has just reported that brother is making a mess with the books (pulling them off the shelf)... no worries, we will just pick them up before nap time and be done with it! Maegan has taken to keeping her room clean. She gets very upset when things are out of place. This is VERY new, but I PRAY it keeps up! It's nice going up to their room and seeing it so clean!

We've been looking at a new house. We have pretty much fallen in love with it... and now it looks like it might not happen for us. We are trying to keep our chin up... we know HE knows where He wants us to be and we want His will for our family, so we are trying not to be discouraged. Matt was saying last night... "Lisa, the laundry in that house is directly across from the bathroom! I can see it now, I put the kids in the tub and throw the clothes right into the wash!" Oh yes, I can see this too, and I like it. I have a feeling, if we got that house, our whole night routine would change. We'd finish dinner. Clean up from dinner, everyone would go upstairs together. Matt would do bath time, I would do laundry. We'd work together getting jammies on. We'd read books in the "big bed", then brush teeth and potty time on the way to their bedrooms. We'd go our separate ways putting the little ones to bed, saying prayers and turning lights out. Then, instead of heading back downstairs, I have a feeling, we'd go to our room, watch tv (sitting area in our room), and then head to bed when we felt like it. Of course, some nights, I'm sure we'd go back downstairs, if friends were coming over, or if one of us wanted to watching something different than the other. I'd personally like to get an elliptical trainer for the bedroom, so I could do a workout in the morning and one at night, while watching whatever was on the tv. Oh well... no reason to think too much on it. At least not until we know if it is going to workout or not. They want $7500 as "good faith $$" and well... that's just not going to happen. We have ONE income, and THREE children, and coming up with a spare $7500 is just not something we have lying about all the time. 2 years ago, YES, this year, NO. We are supposed to hear if they will waive this amount, at some point today. We have yet to hear anything. We've been approved for the house by our mortgage lender and they are wanting to get this house sold (they the builders), because they are moving on to another neighborhood... but they are the ones holding up the sale. Of course, our house has to sell as well... and if it doesn't then we can't have that house anyway... SO, it's all up to HIM and if it is HIS will for us. We'll just sit back and see what happens.

Now all three of the babies are in here with Mommy! :) I love my kids! I'm going to go make them some yummy lunch and then Mr. Wils is going to help me CLEAN his room and then go down for his nap! Yahoo!!! And Miss Maegs is going out to play on her swingset!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST, My friend has been kidnapped!

2008-01-27T09:58:00.000-05:00

My friend and former co-worker, CYD MIZELL, has been kidnapped in Kandahar, Afghanistan. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE pray for she and her driver. They were kidnapped early Saturday morning. No one has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. Cyd and I worked together for 5 years. She always has a smile on her face. I just pray for peace over her now and pray for their safe return! PLEASE extend this prayer request to your churches, bible study groups, MOP groups and everyone you know that will lift a prayer for Cyd and her driver. Her driver has 5 children. Cyd will turn 50 next month. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE pray for my friend! You should hear this woman sing and play the piano... she's like an angel!

I really appreciate your prayers! Thank you!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-10T22:53:00.001-05:00

I know I'm a bit late... so. I've been a little busy, maybe. Today, Mia turned 4 weeks old! I just can't believe how fast time is flying by! She's such a little sweetie pie! She's been sick with a cold for 2 weeks. Poor little angel. She seems to be getting over it now, breathing much better. She's beginning to grow out of her newborn clothes and has been out of newborn diapers for a while now. She's an absolute pleasure.

Maegan has been back at school for 2 weeks now. And guess what??? She has learned and memorized her address and recited it at school. She was given a certificate of recognition for knowing her address and she was allowed to put a house up on the wall in her classroom at school. She told me that she chose a house with a purple door on it... because that is her favorite color. That's my princess! :D She started back at ballet today and will be signed up for Spring Soccer soon. She's a busy little girl!

Then my little prince... he's just so sweet. I've started picking him up, even though I'm not supposed to be holding him yet... I can't not hold him. He looks at me with those gigantic baby blue eyes and I melt. I completely fold. And then he opens his mouth and says "Up, peas" (up, please)... and well, who can resist that??? huh? Tell me!? Could YOU resist that? NO, you couldn't, seriously... you couldn't. It's just something about his little voice and big eyes... you just have to pick him up!

So, I've done a few days all by myself now. It's not too bad. And when we go places... I do alright! It's not super easy, because Wils is still so little, but he's very independent so it helps! I love having my three babies. I wouldn't mind having one more added to the mix... but that remains to be seen.

Next month Mr. Perfect heads out for an 8 day trip to Thailand. I'm a little nervous about that. His mom said she was going to come out and help me while he was gone. It would be her first time meeting Mia. I was actually beginning to look forward to it. And then... I sent her an email and got NO response... which leads me to believe she has changed her mind. I don't think we have even heard from Mr. Perfect's parents since New Year's Eve! hmm... that's interesting. His brother called tonight, and I just realized I forgot to tell him. I was putting the kids to bed when he called, so I didn't talk to him, and he didn't leave a message... Just saw his number on the caller id. Anyway, so my parents have said for me to bring the babies to their house and live with them while he is away on his trip. *sigh* I LOVE being with my parents, but their house isn't so great for the kids, it drives my mom crazy when they make the house messy (which they always do)... I'd rather be at my own home... but honestly, by night time, I need another adult around or I go out of my mind... SO it looks like I'll be moving in to their house for a week. Gotta do what we gotta do! And I will be so appreciative of their help at night. I'm NOT looking forward to him going on this trip. He has to fly 17 hours by himself, he hates flying. I'd feel sorry for him, but he's going to Thailand... that's the region that I used to work with, and I've never been and now HE gets to go??? I'm envious, except not of the plane ride... Have fun with that... HA! Flying sucks.

Well, Miss Mia is ready for late night snack and bed! Woohoo! Good night all, sleep tight!

Pictures of Mia!

2007-12-30T16:16:00.000-05:00

OK... these are JUST IN! New Pictures of MIA!
ERIKA SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BLOG
These are Miss Mia's first PROFESSIONAL portraits! This is just a small sampling!

She's sick AGAIN!

2007-12-29T00:13:00.000-05:00

The Princess is sick again! Bless her heart. Her asthma is back in high gear. We took she and her baby sister to the doctor yesterday at 4pm. We got home at 8pm! Mia was GREAT. She had a weight check up and had gained 9 oz in 7 days! The Dr. told us that she is PERFECT! :) Her sister, on the other hand, not so good. She had to have TWO breathing treatments while we were at the office. I thought he was going to end up sending us to the hospital, but thankfully, he allowed us to go home as long as we promised to take her to the hospital if she got worse. She had a good night last night. She had a good day today. Tonight... not so good. :( Not bad enough to go to the hospital but bad enough that she puked from coughing! Poor baby girl. The baby boy is sick too, but seems to be much better than his big sister. He seems to handle it much better and has no wheezing, which is interesting to me, because at birth, he was the one who had breathing problems. Hopefully, MiMi won't get it, and Little Man will feel better soon, and the Princess will recover and be back to her normal self before school starts next week!

Introducing the newest Princess!

2007-12-17T14:07:00.001-05:00

Mia Juliet
8 lbs 6 oz
20 1/2 inches long
Born 12/13/2007 1:42 pm

Pre Op went well..

2007-12-12T16:10:00.000-05:00

On to the hospital at 10:30 tomorrow morning and I should be holding a baby soon after 1pm.

It's the Final Countdown

2007-12-03T20:16:00.000-05:00

Yep, that's right... 10 days until delivery... unless I go sooner... which I highly doubt. I don't even know that I've dilated at all. We haven't checked, because of my scheduled c/s. I'm wondering if she'll check this week. It's my final appointment on Thursday. CRAZY, eh? :) Time is flying, and I still have a nursery to put together, clothes to find and launder, a suitcase to finish packing, Christmas presents to finish purchasing AND wrapping, and tons of baking and candy making to get done. I might actually go to my mom's in a few moments and make some of the candy I need to make. I'm making candied popcorn. It's SO yummy and so easy! I figure I'll head to the dollar store or Target or Walmart to find some goodie bags, and I'll give that to the nurses and doctors next week at the hospital. I'm needing to make chocolate dipped oreos as well. I also want to make this really cool sweet cereal mix my mom makes, everyone LOVES it... and I'd like to make some for my child's teachers and the head room mom. I have to make molasses cookies and reese cup cookies for some cookie exchanges I have on Sunday and Monday.

On a good note... I did start packing my hospital bag! (GO ME!) AND I got the cookies baked for Snack with Santa at the Princess' school this Thursday. I even got some laundry done! (BIG accomplishment for me lately.) I also got all the beds made this morning... I usually have the princess straighten her bed, but she and Mr. Perfect headed downstairs before I could bark the order!

SO, that's about it around these parts. If you are bored next Friday... Matt has to work and so does my mom... but you are welcome to come visit me in the hospital!!! I like company! Um, but wait until after 1pm, because I have to get up and get a shower and they have to remove all the stuff out of me.

37 weeks and 1 day

2007-11-25T19:47:00.000-05:00

That is where I am now. 37 weeks and 1 day pregnant. WOW! Time is flying by! It's just amazing that I have known since Easter night, that I was pregnant, here we are just past Thanksgiving, and I still feel like it wasn't long ago I was finding out I am pregnant.

I'm so sore. It hurts to move. My tail bone feels crushed. My pubic bone feels crushed. Sitting hurts, standing hurts. Both, the doctor and myself, think this is going to be my biggest baby yet. She's not willing to say over 8 lbs... but I am thinking maybe so! I'm still kind of active. I go to the grocery store, I went to the mountains on our annual family trip this past Friday. I would have made it to church this morning, but I fell back to sleep after my shower (which felt like I'd run a mini-marathon). I even started putting up some Christmas decorations today. Not that I feel very Christmassy, but I'm doing it for my babies. I did some Christmas Shopping last week, and some online this weekend. I've still got a mountain of things to accomplish PRIOR to the arrival of LLBEAN.

So, as it stands right now, I'm scheduled to deliver at 12:30 noon on December 13, 2007. I will be 39 weeks and 5 days at that point. SO, if we are counting down... that's 2 weeks and 4 days from now! That will be the longest I've ever been pregnant. I delivered the Prince at 38 weeks exactly, and the Princess at just about 39 weeks. The princess was 7 lbs 5 oz., the prince was 7 lbs 7 oz. I gained 16 lbs with the Princess and 20 lbs with the Prince. This pregnancy? I've gained 6.5 lbs, thus far. I'm excited to see how big this baby will be. I'm also excited to find out, who has been calling my tummy home!

I'm awfully nervous this go round. I'm worried about the Prince and his reaction. I'm worried about Matt's ski trip, so soon after the birth and my surgery. I'm worried about the epidural. I'm worried about my recovery. I'm worried about making sure Christmas is good to go! I know I need to let go of the worry. It doesn't help at all. SO, I'm going to try and concentrate on letting go of the worry this week, and just getting things accomplished!

This week, Matthew and I go see Sister Hazel on Thursday night. I'm looking forward to it, but am a little apprehensive, because the venue does not have chairs/seats anywhere... and I don't know if I can handle 2 hours of straight standing. If I get near the stage, hopefully they'll have a fence or gate or something up, that I can lean on. Just say a little prayer that my water does NOT break while we are at the show!!! It's 2 hours away from home... and that's if there is no traffic!!!

Wednesday is a non stress test, ultrasound and doctor's appointment. Let's hop all goes well! :)

I've changed my mind!

2007-11-19T14:09:00.000-05:00

See, pregnant women, we like to do that. And the thing is, WE CAN do that! So, I've done just that! :) I can't wait to tell my sister. I've decided to change the name of the little girl, if we should happen to have a girl... we won't though because every known gender predictor test says I'm having a BOY, except one.. and that one said that Wils was going to be a girl... so I don't count that one.

SO, no more Lily Marie ... it will either be Mia Juliet or Lily Juliet... depending on what she looks like a birth... a Lily or a Mia! BUT Juliet is sticking. It's Matt's paternal grandmother's middle name... and I like how it sounds with our last name.

Matt's mom has said all along, if we use Marie we need a first name with double "n's" and we never could come to an agreement on a name with double "n's" SO, fine, we just won't use Marie... we'll drop that and go with Juliet, as it was a name that was HIGH on our list of middle names for a girl! Mia and Lily both go nicely with Juliet... so I think if it is a she and her hair is dark, she'll be Mia and if she comes out and is fair haired... her name will be Lily.

BUT more than likely... it's Luke and he can have dark hair OR light hair... he's still Luke! :)

Surprise Surprise Surprise

2007-11-17T16:40:00.000-05:00

My cousin called me about 2 weeks ago, and let me know that I would need to be ready at 1pm today. She was going to take me out for a belated birthday celebration. She said, I am going to blind fold you and take you somewhere very special.

So, true to her word. 1pm, she showed up at my house. We got ready and headed out the door. I said, "I'll just put my mascara on when we get there!" She said, "No, go ahead and do it now, we will wait until it dries and then we will put on the blindfold." SO, we get on the interstate and she hands me my blindfold. I put it on and put my sunglasses over it. It didn't take too long, but soon we were at our destination. She told me to keep my blindfold on and she'd lead me to the destination. I could hear someone talking. And I said, "OH MY GOD, people can see me!" She said, no they are far away. Then I heard a click of a camera! I said, OK Jeni, why is someone taking pictures?" This whole time I'm timidly taking steps at her direction. Then we enter a building and I hear meowing and barking. I thought... we must be in someone's house. Then she says, "OK, take off your blindfold." I took it off, and looked around the room, and saw Olivia... a beautiful little girl that I babysit (or used to, she's all grown up now)... and I burst into tears as they yelled SURPRISE!

It wasn't a birthday celebration at all! It was a baby shower, for the new baby... which we've determined is LUKE and not Lily, based on all the old wives tales. I was so surprised, and it took me a very long time to stop crying. After having a very stress filled week and really being miserable about things that are happening outside of my control... it was so amazing to see a few of my closest girl friends and my mom's family sitting in this room celebrating my new baby. I was overwhelmed with happiness.

We were at a new tea room that opened not long ago, down the street from my parents neighborhood. It was so quaint and beautiful, but not pretentious! We had SCONES, my favorite! I had a chocolate chip scone and an Orange Ginger scone. I had the house blend tea, which was caffeine free, and delicious!

They really went all out for my new one! And my friend, Pamela, has been trying to keep me from buying the crib, because she knew about the shower, and didn't want me to by the crib before seeing what I got... I'm so glad she did! Now I can spend what I would have spent on a crib at Walmart, on a the REAL crib I wanted from Babies R Us! How exciting is that!?! I'm so excited about getting this for the baby. I also got enough to get the bedding I wanted from Target! OR, I might spend that money on the dresser/changing table that matches the crib and then go with an inexpensive but VERY adorable set from Walmart for the crib bedding.

I am amazed at how precious my friends and family are. They just are so selfless and giving. What a blessing, on a week when I was feeling so down in the dumps. God is Good... even when we are at the end of our whits. He knows what we need and WHEN we need it. Amazing, for sure, that's Him!

SO, THANK YOU JENI MAY, for such an awesome party, for such a fun surprise, and for being such a precious person and cousin! I LOVE YOU!

11 years... call me petty...

2007-11-14T07:47:00.000-05:00

This NYE would be our 12th New Years Eve together... Me and Mr. Perfect, that is. BUT, we won't be spending this one together. It will be our third child's 1st NYE. I'm bummed. That's putting it mildly. Call me PETTY I don't care. I'm hormonal, I have an excuse. I'm 9 months pregnant. See, I have an excuse. I'm sentimental. ANOTHER excuse. I just wonder what he'll be doing on NYE. Will everyone be drunk? Will the Princess be allowed to be awake until midnight? Will anyone be paying attention to her? Will people be smoking around her? Will she be missing her mommy? Will they have even made it through the mountain passages to get to the ski resort? Will I even speak to them? (Probably not, don't want to cry for NYE) Will they be safe?

I hate this plan. I was OK with it up until I realized how young the new baby will be, and how expensive the plane tickets are when we can't even afford a crib and dresser for the new baby. The idea sounded a lot better when they were flying INTO Montana... but now they are flying into Washington, and then driving from Idaho to Montana... yes, that means they will be DRIVING THROUGH THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS DURING WINTER... my sweet beautiful baby girl will be in the care of someone else driving through what could be dangerous mountain passages. And not only are they driving OUT to Montana, but then they have to drive BACK again. I'm just thinking this is NOT a good idea... but who am I to say anything. Just a wife and a parent, new mother to a newborn, a woman recovering from major surgery. Call me selfish, petty, whatever you want. These are just my feelings and I a entitled.

Mr. Perfect will be taking a 2 week business trip to Thailand at the end of February. I guess new baby just should realize that when you come third, it's just not as important. You know, it's old hat now... newborns and all. Seen one, seen them all, I guess. (not my mentality, but seems to be the mentality of some I know) NOW, I can understand the business trip, you know, you want to keep your job so that the family can be cared for... but the other trip is just a frivolity at this point, especially when we are driving out to see the family in June.

Then again, I get to see my family almost everyday... so maybe I take it for granted. But I would hope my family, if in the same situation, would tell me, You need to be home with your family and new baby at the holidays. I would hope they'd understand the financial hardship. AND I would hope they would realize that taking this trip, could jeopardize the trip later in the year, due to finances. OH well... Maybe I just don't understand. But I'm still not happy about it!

My guilty pleasure...

2007-11-12T22:07:00.000-05:00

OMG, I love watching THE HILLS! Hahaha, I can't believe that I actually allow myself to watch it. BUT I'm fascinated by it, honestly! It just amazes me how petty their lives are, and yet how amazing their lives are at the same time. I'm just wondering HOW Heidi has the job she has, she seems like such a ditz... and what's up with Spencer? He seems to really want to alienate Heidi and she just allows it. I'm almost sad for her. She apparently doesn't think enough about herself to realize that he's treating her like crap. And that guy, Justin Bobby, does anyone else think he's on some major drugs? WOW! Spaced out would be the only way to describe him.

Anyway, I just love the fashion and the trips to NYC and VEGAS, and the music scene and all that good stuff... in antoher life, I'd have been part of all of that scene. Hahaha!

SO, anyone else have a guilty pleasure?

Random Calendar as it pops in my head...

2007-11-09T09:19:00.000-05:00

I'm just trying to get my head about me, for what's to come in the next few weeks, so pardon me while I randomly go through my calendar of events up until the birth of the baby.

11/9 Daddy's birthday/Dinner
11/10 Kelly's baby shower
11/11 Bethlehem Baptist to hear Adam play
Maegan and Matt to Gingerbread Festival
11/13-15 Snack for Maegan's class
Maegan's ballet class
11/16 together with Court and Dani
11/17 outing with Jeni
11/18 Grandma's 80th birthday party
11/19 Grandma's birthday
11/20 13 items to "taste" for Maegan's class
11/21 Maegan's Thanksgiving Feast at school
NST-Dr. Appointment
11/22 Thanksgiving
11/23 Annual Trip to the mountains
11/24-25 Rearrange house, set up nursery
11/27-29 Maegan School
11/28 Ultrasound/Dr. Appointment
11/29 Maegan Ballet (need to find a ride to and from)
Sister Hazel Concert in DC
11/30 I know something is planned, just can't remember
12/1 Christmas Parade!!!
12/4-6 Maegan School (12/6 Santa Tea)
12/6 NST and Dr. Appointment
12/8 Christmas Open House at our house
12/9 Christmas Music at Derbyshire
12/11-13 Maegan School (12/13 Maegan Xmas party and Ballet open house)
12/12- pre-op appointment
12/13- C/S @ 12:30 Debby and Matt to be in OR

OK, do you see how LITTLE time I have to get CHRISTMAS SHOPPING DONE??? When am I supposed to wrap everything? OK, I'm feeling just a smidge overwhelmed at the moment. Holy crap. I know it will all get one, I just need to get down to business. I am working today, and I need to fit at least one more work day in before this child is born! WOW, it's just REALLY overwhelming!!! Five weeks goes by FAST when nearly everyday there is SOMETHING going on! And after the baby comes, you can forget me getting ANYTHING for Christmas Accomplished!!! OH and I have to find a day/night to get dozens of cookies made for Maegan's school and for the doctors and nurses AND to put in the freezer so I'll have something to contribute on Christmas Eve at my mom's house!

Thankfully, their Christmas Outfits will be ordered TOMORROW, so that is one worry off of my chest. I'm so excited about their little outfits. They are all getting matching outfits from Strasburg Children! OH and right now, spend $50 and get FREE SHIPPING, OK I'm ALL over that!

OK, now that I'm overwhelmed, I need to get ready for work! Have a good one! :D

Five Weeks

2007-11-08T20:22:00.000-05:00

This time, five weeks from now, I'll be holding my newest little bundle. I can't believe it is happening so fast. This pregnancy has seemed to FLY by! We still have to buy furniture, fix up the nursery, move our furniture down to our old bedroom, move the playroom and office furniture up to what is our current bedroom. Not only that, but I haven't packed my bag. I still have to DO ALL OF MY CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AND WRAPPING! Yes, I want that done PRIOR to having the baby.

Today I had a non-stress test. The baby was SUPER active. S/He was trying to kick the monitors off of my belly. I got permission to go to the DC Sister Hazel concert at the end of November... and my doctor said that I should use that as a time for Matt and I just to enjoy a date before the baby comes. I set up all of the rest of my appointments prior to the baby being born. AND I got some very exciting news. While not set in stone... my doctor has given her permission for my mother to be in the OR along with Matt and myself, during the c/section. And more than that... Dr. D is going to let my MOM cut the cord! :) Mr. Perfect isn't all about that part of the birth, he likes sitting by my head and keeping my puke bucket in place! BUT, he gets the privi of announcing WHO has come out of me... Luke or Lily! SO they each get a HUGE part in the delivery of the baby. Now I'm just getting so excited. Of course, I'm scared to death about the epidural and the IV but that's normal for me. And I dread the recovery... but I'll get through it.

OH and I've been having lots of contractions! The doctor says I need to drink more water. I know she's right! SO, anyway... that's my Thursday news! Hope everyone is having a great week.

Tomorrow is Daddy's 59th birthday! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DADDY!!!

Here I am...

2007-11-05T20:45:00.000-05:00

I know I haven't posted in a while. Sorry about that! :) Life gets in the way sometimes, OR I'm just too lazy to write. Right now, I'm procrastinating folding laundry. Matt has apparently fallen asleep with Maegan. And it would seem that my mom must have fallen asleep, because she hasn't called to go to the store, which is actually a good thing, because I really can't spend money right now.

Anyway, my fantasy football team is winning this weekend, and that is just a nice relief! :) I like seeing a winning score up there. I'm pretty competitive, and I have some really sucky players, so I have to be pretty creative week to week to figure out who to put in and who to take out, based on who they are playing, so that I might actually have a chance at winning a game! It's pretty fun and challenging. I love it. And I love to analyze the other teams as well.

I'm enjoying (ha) a second night in a row of constant cramps. No contractions yet tonight, but the cramps are in FULL force! Fun Fun Fun. The baby is SO LOW that I'm usually pretty uncomfortable, but you know, it is worth it.

AND tonight is Monday night, so not only is there football... but my little indulgence as well... THE HILLS! lol I love that show, for whatever reason! Can't wait to see the new one tonight! I'd really like some pumpkin pie right about now. Do you think I could just make the pie filling and bake it in a pie plate with no crust? Would that work? Hmm... it's worth thinking about. OH, or I have whipped topping, I wonder if I put the pumpkin in the whipped topping, if it would be yummy. I could add some cinnamon to it... Seriously, I might have to go to DQ and get a pumpkin pie blizzard... I think it's calling my name. I'm going to gain 100 lbs by Christmas. This is sad!

HAPPY WEEKEND!

2007-10-27T21:00:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! We are taking our house off the market tomorrow. I'm SO happy about it. Time to focus on the new baby!!! By the way, that picture is my view when I look down... LOOK MA! No FEET!

We went to Grandma's house today. Mom and Dad were already there, my aunt came, and then my sister and her son were there. We had a great time. The kids had so much fun running in the front yard. My Grandma live on 10 acres in the country. Plenty of space for the kids to run and get all their energy OUT! We stayed outside most of the day. I rocked in a rocking chair and just relaxed for the most part. It was a glorious day. Perfect temperature. The trees with their changing leaves... OMG just beautiful!

Tomorrow is FOOTBALL!!! I have invited my parents over to watch the game in Hi-Def... since they don't have furniture at the moment, and they need to come get the shampooer for their carpet. Grandma sent us home with a lot of bean soup, so I figure mom and dad can help us eat it. I'm probably going to make a beer bread to go with it.

Only 6 weeks and 5 days until the new little one arrives. It just seems SO close. And I've done NO Christmas shopping... Ha! This Christmas may be a bust for our family and friends... SORRY GUYS!!! Poor planning (or lack of planning) on my part!

Well, enjoy the rest of your weekend!

So much fun...

2007-10-25T21:30:00.000-05:00

Last Friday night, me and some of my favorite girl friends, went out to dinner to celebrate my 32nd birthday. Let me just tell you, I had a ball!!! I don't do too many "Girls Only" events. This one was well worth it. I discovered that one of my girl friends is PREGNANT! What an awesome way to add to the celebration. Then we got to hear a hilarious story about a WELL KNOWN college football coach, by a friend who happens to work for the assistant coaches at that particular university. We laughed a lot. We ate, a lot. We had so much fun!

I ran into an old old friend. We'd gone to kindergarten together, and then we ended up going to college together and I ended up being the manager of the baseball team and he was one of the players. I hadn't seen him since a few months after I quit school there. He looks exactly the same. We showed off our kids and chatted for a bit. He played pro-ball for 2 seasons, but now is a college coach. It was great seeing him and knowing that he is doing so well. He and his wife are expecting their 2nd child in APRIL... LOL everyone is due in April... well, except me... 7 weeks from today.

Anyway, I made the perfect plans for celebrating my birthday this year. It was wonderful. I couldn't have asked for a better night. HOWEVER, I now know, you do NOT eat dinner at Maggiano's on a Friday night, because they are out of EVERYTHING!!!

Thanks girlies, I had a blast. It was wonderful celebrating my 32 years with just the girls! :D

It's funny now, but it wasn't funny when it happened...

2007-10-09T20:54:00.000-05:00

I FELL this morning... hard, on my living room floor. It is pretty comical how it happened, but the injury is NOT fun at ALL! OUCH!!! Basically, I was sitting in the video rocker checking email and the Little Man was running all around the room being crazy. Then I saw him headed for the stairs. Well, little did I know, my left foot had fallen asleep. Well, I hoist myself up out of the chair and I tried to RUN after Little Man... Well, I failed to mention, I had on platform flip flops at the time. SO, I guess you can imagine what happened... Here, imagine in slow motion, an 8 month pregnant woman attempting to run across a living room floor, then imagine she realizes her left foot is asleep and she can't feel it, but knows it is rolling up under her... She rights herself but continues to TRY to run... and the foot gives way completely... down down down she goes... somehow she lands on her right elbow, which skids across the hardwood floor... That's basically how it happened. I burnt the skin off of my right elbow... and I completely killed my left foot. My father (an old Football/Basketball coach) looked at it and wrapped it tonight. He said it looks like a bad sprain, but if it doesn't start feeling better in a day or two that I need to go in and have it xrayed. I've been icing it and keeping it elevated. Hopefully, it will go away quickly. This is just one more thing I DO NOT need in this pregnancy! Oh well, at least it is a funny story for me to look back on... I just feel like the biggest DORK! hahaha

How exciting!!!

2007-10-07T19:33:00.000-05:00

OK, as most of you know, my friend Val has her own photography business in Illinois. Well, I live a FAIR ways from Illinois, so I don't get the privi of having her do my children's portraits. But, I'll forever plug Val, because she's amazing talented and ANYONE that has a chance to use her services should hop right on it, and consider themselves BLESSED to have an amazing photographer capturing their memories!

THAT SAID... here where I live, I have this adorable acquaintance, Erika Smith. She used to work with my sister, she actually went on a date with my brother (bless her heart) back in high school, and she used to work at my aunt's Cakery (Weddding/birthday/special occassion cake bakery, called Kalico Kitchen)... SO, I've known Erika for quite a while. Last year, we had a mutual friend get married, and Erika was in the wedding, and so was my Little Princess! Erika adores taking photographs, and she's really good at it. She took several snapshots the day of the wedding. Well, I ran into her last Friday morning before work. She stopped me and told me she has started her OWN photography business. She lives literally five minutes from me! AND then she went on to tell me that she has a website (it's actually a BLOG)... and my Princess is ON IT!!!

PLEASE check out her blog @ http://www.erikasmithphotography.blogspot.com
I am so excited for her, and she wants to do the newborn pictures of our newest baby, who will be arriving shortly before Christmas. We normally have our portraits done by this amazing photography studio (Hayes and Fisk, The Art of Photography) ... but the baby is being born so close to Christmas (December 13th)... that I know they won't be able to work with us at that point... so Erika is going to do our children's Christmas portraits with Santa. Santa makes a special trip with us to the photographer's studio, but Erika is going to capture pictures of Santa with our children at my parents house in front of THEIR Christmas Tree!!! I can hardly wait. I'm so excited that she is willing to do this. I will probably have her do our announcement photograph as well! :) I'm so thrilled to know that she has started doing this!

Alive, barely

2007-09-28T19:02:00.000-05:00

Wondered where I've been? Been missing my posts? Thought I was missing in action? Well, no matter what your answer is to those questions, I'm going to give you the short of where I've been, as I don't have enough stamina to type it all out right now.

Monday I woke up burning up with fever. I took myself and Little Man over to my parents house, so Mr. Perfect and the Princess could get things done at the house. Little Man and I could get rest with out noise. I didn't make it home from my parents house until Wednesday night. I was running a fever of over 103. Mr. Perfect took charge of everything at home, and my mother took charge of me and my care. Monday night we nearly ended up in the ER, the only reason we didn't is because I did not have the strength to wake up my parents and let them know I needed to go. Then we nearly went on Tuesday, but my doc decided that as long as my mom would care for me and I wouldn't have to do anything but rest, then she'd release me to my parents house. Wednesday I woke up less sick. I went home that night. I didn't have the fevers on Thursday, but the puking came back. I'm listless. Walking down the stairs takes all of my energy. I'm pretty much useless where the kids are concerned. And I can tell you, when I finish this email, I'll be laying down on the sofa and will probably take t minus 2 minutes to fall asleep. This reminds me so much of when I had mono. ALL OF THIS and we are holding our house open on Sunday. Our Agent will just have to apologize for our lack of perfection in the cleaning department, as I just can not do it, and Matt needs to focus on the painting. So, the dusting and vacuuming will be done, but the windows may have finger prints and the floorboards and doors probably need a little Magic Eraser action, but it will just have to wait for now.

OK, this is all I can manage for now. I'm beat. OH and I passed the glucose test (THANKS, CHEL!)

Here I go...

2007-09-21T06:55:00.000-05:00

I'm in the process of drinking that DISGUSTING glucose drink. It's worse than the ones I've had before. AND the directions on the bottle do NOT include pregnant women dosage, so I hope I'm doing the right thing. The last thing I need is a false positive. It would suck to have to sit in the doctor's office for 3 hours for the GTT!

Now, add to this, that last night I pulled 2 muscles! One in the collarbone area and the other, over top of my right rib cage. I've had basically no sleep because I could not get comfortable, breathing was very difficult. It still is... I can't take any deep breaths. Sneezing, hiccups, laughing, it all hurts, badly. And now I have to get up, shower, get dressed and drive myself to the doctor for a finger prick at 9!

And Maegan was puking all day yesterday, so I was cleaning up THE PUKIES! UGH, so so so not fun at all! I don't even want to step foot in my car for fear of smelling it. I'm so close to puking right this second, after finishing my drink. If I cough right now, I will throw up. I'm waiting for it to pass.

It will be a better day... yes it will, I have faith.

Was it the wrong house???

2007-09-20T10:04:00.000-05:00

I'm not convinced this wasn't the right one, actually... I got a little sense of peace this morning, thinking that God is just giving us the extra time we need to get this house ready. We are probably still going to put it on the market, and just see what happens. They have NO other contracts on their house. The thing they rejected was our first right of refusal. They feel that other agents won't SHOW the house if there is a First Right. Which really irritates me, because my next door neighbors accepted a first right, and their house was shown almost daily following that contract being accepted. SO, now we just have an extra week to get our house ready and it will be held open on September 30. It's good for Matthew and I, because now I do not feel an overwhelming sense of urgency. I want it done, but I know I have 10 days to finish the projects we've begun.

We purchased the house we are in using a first right, they accepted it, we put our house on the market 2 days after our contract was accepted, and our house sold a day later. SO, when God is involved, anything can happen. I feel that He just knows we were feeling overwhelmed and he bought us some extra time. AND, in the meantime, if they get a contract, then we just don't put ours on the market. We will probably get a sign in the yard this week, and then advertise with first showing September 30 at the Open House, this should at least generate some interest before the 30th.

SO, that's the long of it. I was too tired to type it all out last night.

SO, if anyone wants to come help, it'd be very much appreciated! I know no one enjoys painting... but if you could find it in your heart to lend a little bit of time, even if it is to just PLAY with my kids, so I can get stuff done, I'd MORE than appreciate it. We have a GREAT playground in the backyard!

It's just so difficult to get things done when two little ones are constantly tagging along behind wanting this and that, and undoing what was just done. And you can forget painting with children in the house. It is what I'd refer to as disastrous!

SO, we aren't out of the game just yet... We've been given a "grace period" so to speak! :D

Back to normal...

2007-09-19T22:03:00.000-05:00

They rejected our offer on the house.

Santa's Playlist

2007-09-18T06:14:00.000-05:00

OK, you see new links on the side of my blog. WELL CLICK ON THEM! You'll be glad you did, ESPECIALLY if you love Christmas music as much as I do. Santa's Playlist is on MY wishlist this year! I'm hoping I find it all wrapped up for me on my Birthday next month. Then I'll commence to playing IT as well as all of my other albums from Halloween on till Christmas. I even plan on having a cd player in the room with me at the hospital, so that I might be able to enjoy Christmas Music with my new baby. Nothing like starting my child early as a Sister Hazel fan AND a Christmas music fan, right?! :D Woohoo!!! So, seriously, check out the preview and then go pre-order a copy today! The price is GREAT and it comes with a FREE Christmas Ornament, IF YOU order today. I hate to sound like a Sister Hazel ad, because really, they don't need any advertising, one live concert of Sister Hazel, and you are pretty much HOOKED!

UPDATE...

2007-09-17T21:34:00.000-05:00

We were APPROVED for our home loan!!! Now we just have to resubmit our contract and get our house show ready by SUNDAY!!! Yikes! Pray for us, and come help us paint and organize!!! :)

Pictures from Sunday

2007-09-17T11:41:00.001-05:00

It was one of THOSE weekends...

2007-09-17T10:27:00.000-05:00

You know THOSE weekends. You are planned from second one, until the very last second of the weekend. Every moment will be consumed by SOMETHING.

Well, it all started on Friday morning. I was helping my mom out with a little something she needed. Then, my friend Amber and her son were coming over to play. We went to chick-fil-A and got some lunch. We came back to my house, where we were going to have a picnic on my deck, but the yellow jackets decided that we should share our food with them, so the party was moved to my kitchen. After our lunch, we went outside and played on the play set that Matt's parents helped him build. The kids had SO much fun. Once they left, then we went back to my parents house to put Little Man down for a nap. The Princess was in a wedding this weekend, so I left my mom with Little Man and we headed down to the rehearsal. Princess was a ball of energy the entire time. I had hoped she'd fall asleep on the way down, but no dice. We got there on time but the rehearsal was running late. Finally, it got started and my nephew showed up in time to rehearse once. Afterwards they had a delicious dinner for us. My nephew doesn't eat anything but chicken nuggets, fries, and yo baby yogurt... and cereal and maybe a few other minor things here and there... so they left to take him to get food. We left not to long after, so that the Princess could get some rest before the big day.

Saturday morning the kids were up at 7. Mr. Perfect let me sleep in for a bit, and then I got up and headed out on a mission for shoes for the Princess and a dress for myself. Target had the dress (way more colorful than I'd ever normally pick, but it FIT and at that point, that's what mattered. Payless had shoes for the Princess. THEN I was on my way to get my Princess and take her to the salon. This was her first time in a salon, and she was NOT very excited about it. I'd say she was fearing for her life. They dolled up her hair, and she cried saying she missed her daddy! Bless her heart. Then we went on down to the location of the wedding. She got to eat lunch with all the girls, and just hang out for a while. Before long my nephew showed up and off Maegan went, to play football with the boys on the front lawn. My sister finally reigned her in and did some quick fixin on the hair! Soon we all started getting dressed. Before we knew it, it was time to walk down the aisle. My sister and I stayed in the house and assisted in getting everyone into place and making sure our children were where they were supposed to be. They looked so beautiful. I hope to have pictures to add SOON! The wedding went off without a hitch and the kids did an awesome job. :)

After the wedding was pictures... WOW that took forever. The Princess was a pure HAM for the photos. Everyone was laughing and saying how precious she was and how photo ready she was. She'd plaster on a smile and tilt her little head, hands on her hips, etc. She was all sass! Then we headed over for DANCING under the tent. Little Man and the Princess cut up the floor! The videographer had a ball video taping the kids dancing. The Princess stayed on the dance floor MOST of the night. She danced with complete strangers, and stole many hearts. So many men (young men) asked to dance with her. She was SO funny with them. (Always with mommy or daddy right along side.) The reception was pure fun! My father even gave my cousin's new husband a LAP DANCE! OMG, I thought I might seriously pee my pants from laughing. I'm not sure if my Dad had been drinking, but I'm willing to bet he had a couple in him at that point. It's all on video! We will never let the man live it down! We danced and danced until finally, the princess came to us and she was wheezing. It was past sundown and the air was damp and chilly... so we knew it was time to go.

We loaded up the car, headed home, both kids completely sacked in their car seats. We packed up our car and headed up to my sister's house to spend the night. Of course both children woke up when we got there. The Princess was easy to get back to sleep, but Little Man ended up only sleeping on Mr. Perfect's chest while they laid on the sofa. Not a super comfy night for Mr. Perfect, but all in all, not terrible.

Sunday morning we woke up and my sister made us homemade waffles and scrambled eggs and sausage. Then we all got ready for our trip to Gaithersburg, MD. We were headed to the Celebrate Gaithersburg Festival. It was being headlined by SISTER HAZEL!!! I'm sure you all realize they are my favorite band. My Princess is a huge fan of Sister Hazel as well. Yesterday was my 6th show. It was the first show for my kids and my sister and my nephew. We had a BALL! We got there just before Sister Hazel took the stage! After the show, they announced they'd be over beside the stage to sign autographs and hang out. SO, we took full advantage. The Princess was getting to meet the guys that sing 2 of her all time favorite songs!

We finally got home around 10:30 last night. The kids were so asleep they never woke up from the car to the house. It was one of the best weekends ever! If only ALL weekends could be this much fun!

How did I get SO blessed

2007-09-13T08:58:00.000-05:00

OK, if my digi cam batteries were working at the moment, I'd be snapping pictures and uploading them! My little man is in his yellow polo and his Kelly's Kids plaid shortall. He's dancing in the middle of the room. He's SO beautiful. I know he's a boy, but it's OK, boys can be beautiful... and HE IS! I'm a proud mommy. When he flashes me that toothy grin, I melt.

I must be the luckiest mother in the world, because not only is HE beautiful... his SISTER is amazingly beautiful as well. OF course, they are my children, so I'm allowed to think this about my babies.

I just look at these two precious individuals and wonder, HOW did I get SO blessed? ME? What did I do to deserve such beautiful and precious children? They are beautiful on the inside as well. Maegan has such a compassionate heart. She always looks out for the people who don't seem to be having fun. She will go to them and comfort them and stay with them until they smile again. She loves giving hugs and kisses. Wils seems to be a cuddly one as well. They are just so amazing to me. I hate watching them get older and more independent, but I LOVE watching them becoming individuals. I love seeing what they are becoming. What blessings they are.

Do you remember that commercial for Kibbles and Bits? Where the big bull dog is walking around saying "Lucky dog, lucky dog, I'm a lucky dog?" Well, that's what is running through my head now... "Lucky mom, lucky mom, I'm a lucky mom!"

This is a 2 part entry...

2007-09-12T06:47:00.000-05:00

First of all... I just want to WELCOME Tori and Michelle to my blog. I love having new readers! :) My MySpace Blog has lots of fun readers, but not everyone can post, unless they have MySpace profiles, so that is frustrating, hence why I started blogging here. So, Val and Alexis could weigh in on subjects. AND NOW you two are weighing in and I love it! THANK YOU!!!

Secondly... It's the morning of the 2nd day of school. Maegan is super excited about going back to school. Her teacher called last night. She said Maegan had a great day, but is a real talker. I told her that is her personality and I hope it will get better. She also said that Maegan just adored exploring everything at school, in the classroom and on the playground.

Maegan told me all about her day and how she got to be the paper helper (meaning she got to pass out the coloring sheets). She explained that she colored pictures, and played on the playground, and has a new friend named Meagan. She was SO excited to tell me... "Mommy, I get to go for THREE DAYS!"

I'm looking forward to taking her back to school today. I like that she is so excited about school. I'm thankful she had a good first day. I'm excited about everything she is learning at school. Tomorrow, she only has a half day, but she has to wear patriotic colors... EEK! I'll have to really put my thinking cap on for that one. The only thing I know she has is a red and white halter dress... and I just don't think it is appropriate for school. I might have to get creative.

The princess and the little man were both up at 7 am this morning. Of course, Mr. Perfect did not help her make her bed, so I'll have to go do that before I put the little man down for his morning nap. He gets the kids up while I come down and make breakfast. Today, I made orange rolls (just from a can, nothing special) for a treat for Maegan. She doesn't eat but half of one, but she gets so excited when I make them. I like to send her off in a GREAT mood!

Well, time to pull the clothes from the dryer and get her ready for her second day!

OH and Val... I DID get pics of her first day, but on FILM not digi! I'll get a disc when I get them developed and I'll share them at that point.

It seems so strange...

2007-09-11T08:54:00.001-05:00

My house is so quiet. Wils is playing quietly by himself. I'm sitting here on the sofa with my laptop watching my boy. There is definitely something missing. It's my baby girl. I hear no shrieking. I hear no "STOP IT WILS THAT'S MINE" I hear no "I love you, Mommy." It's just quiet. I wonder what she is doing right now, and what her job for today is. I wonder if she is using her manners and making new friends. I wonder if she is behaving. I wonder if she is having fun. I wonder if she misses me, like I am missing her. I wonder if she cried when I drove away, like I did. I wonder if she will be as excited to see me this afternoon as I will be to see her.

Today was Maegan's first day of preK. She went to preK last year (for three year olds), but it was at a different school. She did very well there. I'm pretty sure I cried last year, too. She's at a new school this year, and several of her classmates have parents that I went to school with. I know many of the teachers at this school. I live in the house that used to be occupied by the director of her new school. I should feel perfectly at ease. But it was not easy. Not at all. I made a big mistake by turning around and watching her walk into the school building. She was sporting sunglasses and had her tote bag on her shoulder. Her long blonde hair was just blowing in the breeze. She looked cool as a cucumber. She looked so grown up. She doesn't need me as much anymore... and that is a very difficult concept for this mommy. I like being needed and wanted.

I'm so proud of my baby girl. She's so smart. She's so funny. She's very personable. She's very upbeat. She's very enthusiastic. She's very thankful. She's very Maegan. There is no one on earth like my baby girl. She my first baby that made it into this world kicking and screaming. She is my pride and joy. She is a huge blessing in my life.

It's funny, as I type this, baby 3.0 is kicking away inside of me, as if to remind me that I have other children to be thankful for as well... and OH I am SO thankful for my babies. But Maegan will always be my first born. She will always have that special and unique position. Sometimes I wish she would slow down a little. Life moves so quickly. I don't want to miss a minute of her childhood.

I hope she is having a ball with her new class, teacher, and friends. She has turtles in her classroom. Maegan loves turtles. I know if she ever gets down, looking at those turtles should cheer her right up. I can't wait to go pick her up and find out how her day went. Only 2 hours to go!

Is it just me being hormonal...

2007-09-10T16:51:00.000-05:00

Suddenly, I'm feeling picked on. By EVERYONE... even Mr. Perfect, and he's wonderful. But, I just feel like everyone is picking on me lately, online, in my family, everywhere. I think it's just me being overly sensitive. This is one of the things about pregnancy that I don't like. I suddenly get really hyper sensitive. I'm a sensitive person to begin with... but sheesh, right now, looking at me the wrong way can get me to tears in seconds flat. If Mr. Perfect doesn't call when he says he is... out pour the tears. If my kids don't get along, suddenly I feel it's all my fault. OK, so this feeling needs to PASS!

In other news... The Princess is cracking my buns up at the moment. She's playing, and her playing is much like reading a novel. Oh my heavens, she is so funny! Oh and now she has come in the room and is growling at me with a very stern look on her face. I wonder if I should ask... She said "I'm sorry, that was just a mean dragon, that turns into a mean girl." I'll save the rest of my questions, she's deeply involved in her "story."

The little man is snoozing, but I need to wake him up. I think Mr. Perfect is going to treat us to dinner at a brand new mexican palce. I just pray no one is getting fajitas or else I won't be able to eat. That's one thing about this pregnancy, I can not stand the smell of fajitas on a sizzling platter.

OH MY, and watching the news just now, a car wrecked downtown, and this is the most interesting wreck I've ever seen! I'll see if I can find a link so you can see the pictures! OK the car climbed a light pole, or so it seems! That's just crazy!

OK Mr. Perfect just called, and it's time to dress the kiddos. Dinner is out tonight, no cooking for MOMMA! YES!

We had some feedback...

2007-09-02T20:19:00.000-05:00

I got a call from our agent today. She spoke with the sellers agent. He hadn't seen our bid yet, but asked her if she'd tell him the details. SO, she did and he was positive. He didn't say that they'd jump on it, but he didn't say they'd reject it either. He said, their hope is to close in 60 days. With me having a baby on the way... I'll be honest, I'd LOVE to close in 60 days. That would give me just over a month to have the nursery ready and the kids settled in their new rooms. Knowing my mom, she'll have my kitchen done the day we move in. (She's good like that!) SO, all in all, it's still a possibility at this point.

Of course, that means our house will go on the market, ready or not, on Saturday. SO, we will wait to hear on Tuesday, what our broker has to tell us about financing and what the sellers thing of our proposal.

I'm still not nervous, because I KNOW GOD is in control and if it is in His will for us, then there is nothing for us to worry about. SO, I'll keep you posted! This is further than we've gotten on any contract we've submitted this year!

We did it again...

2007-09-01T21:20:00.000-05:00

Well, we put a contract on a house today. Now we just sit and wait to see what will happen. I'm not discouraged or over excited. I know if it is meant to be, it will happen, and if it isn't meant to be, then something better will come along. It's a great house for us, in an area where we want to be (excellent schools, and a new high school opening in 2-3 years)... 4 bedrooms on one floor, more entertaining space. The kitchen is not exactly what I had in mind, but it is not terribly bad and has some redeeming qualities. We also have friends who are carpenters and who could make something gorgeous out of what these folks attempted to create in their kitchen, but didn't quite succeed. It's a beautiful home and yet it isn't in perfect condition, which leaves room for us to make improvements before we go and build our dream home (when our kids are older)... SO, we shall see. I say, nothing ventured, nothing gained!

Of course, this means that if they accept our contract, we have to put our house on the market. That is frightening to think about, however... It's in God's hands, and if this is His will, then it will all work out.

We have asked for an answer to our bid by 6pm on Tuesday. I hope we'll hear something prior to that, but if not, not a big deal, we'll just be busy cleaning out our home and moving boxes from our house to my mom's attic, to get clutter out of our home and get it ready for staging. We also need to paint our bedroom and our kitchen ceiling, and get the faucets fixed in the bathrooms (minor)... once those things are done, I am hoping to be allowed to hire Merry Maids or something similar, to come HELP US DEEP CLEAN! The cleaner the house the quicker the sale!

Sooooooo.... here we go again!

He comes home today, He comes home today!!!

2007-08-29T10:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Day, Happy Day, my husband comes home today! :D 2 hours and 20 minutes until I pick him up. I can hardly wait!!! I'm giving HIM the afternoon with the kids and I am going to the hospital to spend time with my best friend who had her twins yesterday! :) Then, tonight, once the kids are in bed, I can finally enjoy some time with Mr. Perfect!!! I've missed him like CRAZY! I hate it when he goes away. Even on short trips like this one. SOON and very soon I'll get to kiss his precious face! I can't wait!

It's only been a few hours...

2007-08-26T11:11:00.000-05:00

But I'm going CRAZY! Mr. Perfect left today for a trip to good old Chicago. Second trip this summer. First was with church, this one is with work. This time he's alone in the big city. I sure wish Val and Neil could get up there to see him, I know he'd enjoy that, HOWEVER, I know they are busy bees! I hate it when he goes. It sucks. My kids seem to KNOW that he's leaving too, and their behavior changes. My sister stayed with the children this morning while I took him to the airport. My sister and I got in a little before 3am from a bachelorette party. He had to be at the airport by 5:30. *YAWN* As we are about to leave, I hear the Princess say... "DADDY?" then we heard nothing more, so I went to my sister's room and said, DEE, listen out for Maegs I think she is waking up. SO, I get home from the airport, and I hear Little Man screaming and the Princess is talking away. So I go up to my room and all three are laying in my bed. My sister tells me that the Princess came into my room looking for Matt and I and when she couldn't find us, started SCREAMING, thus waking up the Little Man. So, it was not even 6am, and everyone in my house was AWAKE.

Little Man screamed until nearly 7am. At this point, I finally fell asleep on the sofa for a bit, while Little Man played quietly in the living room. When I woke up, he was fussy again, so I put him down for an early nap. I decided to take a nap as well. The Princess was watching a video with her sleeping Aunt DeeDee. I snoozed hard, and then I heard it. The Princess was wailing! She woke up Little Man... again. Only this time, it was because she couldn't get the dvd player to do what she wanted it to do. I'm just about to throw the dvd player out the window. Dee and I get it working again and I run up to get Little Man. He wants to play in his room, so I go lay on the bed and let him play. He brings me toys and talks to me, and then sits down to read some books to himself, and I fell slam asleep.

I am woken up by my sister telling me she is heading on. She has to get back to her home 2 hours away and find child care for her son, because she goes back to work tomorrow. Nothing like waiting until last minute to find child care in the big city! I hope she has an arm and a leg to spare!

Little Man and I head downstairs and I check on Mr. Perfect's flights, he's arrived. I haven't heard from him... wanna know why? I'll tell you... #1, he probably hasn't tried to call yet... he's not so Perfect on that angle. He loses track of time so easily, and the phone just never seems to occur to him. and #2, if he HAS tried to call, he can't get me. Why? Oh, well, I was a little grumpy with no sleep at 6 o'clock this morning, and when I tried to call his cell, he didn't answer, so what do you do when your husband doesn't answer his phone when you think he should? YOU CHUCK YOUR PHONE ACROSS THE ROOM INTO THE COFFEE TABLE... oh yes, temper temper! My phone broke into several small pieces. I've fitted most of them back together, but one piece is still missing. Once I find that, we'll see if the phone will work. If not, then I'm screwed as that is also our home phone.

So, I'm pretty miserable. I just wish he wasn't gone. I hate it when he travels. I'm thankful it isn't any longer than it is... but I sure wish they could get him home on Tuesday night, Wednesday just seems so far away. I know I'm fortunate, his trips are usually short, but I still hate it. I don't like being away from him.

He and Princess will be traveling the day after Christmas. That is 20 days after the birth of our new baby. Little Man, LLBEAN and I will be moving in with my parents on Christmas Eve, because I will still not be able to lift Little Man. Princess and Mr. Perfect are headed out to MT to go skiing with my in laws. They will be gone nearly 2 weeks. I am glad I will have my parents with me, but at the same time, I'll be miserable without my Princess and Mr. Perfect. It will be the first New Years Eve in 11 years that we have not spent together. I'm trying not to be bitter and sad... but who knows how I'll be at the time with the post pardom hormones raging.

I much prefer family travel. I wish I could have gone on this trip with him... but, no could do, not with the new baby coming and finances being what they are because of our stupid heat pump problem and the electric bills that caused. $1500 this summer in cooling (or not actually, but trying to cool) and then in repairs... That's more than the crib, mattress, and new dresser would have cost. *sigh* At least it is fixed, right?

OK, I'm ready for Wednesday to get here!

Still waiting!

2007-08-25T07:26:00.000-05:00

Well, the babies have made it to 34.5 weeks now! :) They were almost evicted on Friday, but things got better, so they bought themselves 4 extra days in the womb! She will go see the doc for some tests on Monday and then an ultrasound on Tuesday, and depending on how those things go, we may have twins next week, OR they could make it to 36 weeks!!! I'm so proud of her for making it this far. I can't wait to meet the babies, but I hope they come when it is safest for all involved!

I'm now 24 weeks along. Time seems to be moving SO fast. There is so much we need to do and get done for the new baby and to rearrange our house. I have an appointment this week. I'm meeting a doc I haven't met before, but her father delivered my brother, back in 1974. My doc is on maternity leave until the beginning of October.

Well, that's all for now. I hope to be back tomorrow to report on my completely and totally sober experience at my cousin's bachelorette party tonight. I hope the other preggo shows up, so I'll have someone to talk to that isn't completely intoxicated. My sister plans on getting smashed since we are riding a bus. I may hang out on the bus, because I'm tired! LOL Just call me Party Pooper!

Just a recipe for those that enjoy cooking...

2007-08-20T16:16:00.000-05:00

Turkey Veggie Baked Spaghetti

1 lb thin spaghetti (or whatever long pasta you prefer)
1 jar of Preggo Traditional Sauce
1 lb of ground turkey breast
1 pint of sliced mushrooms
1 small onion sliced into thin slices
1 green pepper chopped
1 yellow squash (optional)
1 zucchini squash (optional)
2 cups mozzarella cheese
favorite table wine (optional, and just splash or two)

Prepare sauce first! Saute mushrooms and onions in their own juices in a heavy sauce pan. In a small frying pan, brown ground turkey. Add chopped green pepper (and optional squash) to onions and mushrooms, cook for 2 minutes on medium, then add preggo sauce. Once turkey is fully cooked, transfer into sauce pan. Allow sauce to cook on simmer and begin boiling water for pasta. Take a 9x13 baking dish and ladle a spoonful of sauce in the bottom of dish. Add cooked pasta, top with sauce and stir to make sure sauce is evenly distributed. Top with Mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes, and broil for the last 2 minutes if you prefer your cheese a bit brown.

You can serve this with Parmesan Garlic bread if you wish. Use a loaf of french or italian bread from the bakery. Slice in half length wise. Place both halves center up on a cookie sheet or bar pan. Melt a stick of butter with minced garlic (you must decide on amount of garlic, it depends on the person)... top halves of bread w/ garlic butter. Then evenly top both halves with shredded parm. Place in the over to bake with spaghetti, and then broil for a moment or two before removing from oven, to crisp up the bread.

It won't be long now!

2007-08-16T11:42:00.000-05:00

My best friend went to see her OB today! Her bp was 148/90, which is higher than Monday's (130/90). Doc said he was not worried about the top number, only the bottom one. SO, she is still on bed rest. The babies are doing just fine, moving all around and cozy as can be. He did tell her that he thinks in the next 2 weeks she could be holding her babies!

OMG!!!!!! I'm so excited. I cried when she told me. (pregnancy hormones, I cry all the time now) We've waited so long for her to have a baby. We always said, as kids, that we would have children together. Then I had the Princess followed by the little man, and she was having no luck. Then we found out in January that her luck had changed and she was having TWINS! I said ot her, that she was on her own, but I was excited for her. Then, Low and Behold, on Easter Sunday, we found out I, too, was expecting. (Super Shocking, since Little man was not even 9 months old) So, her having these babies is a dream come true.

They should be close to 5 lbs if not MORE than 5 lbs if delivered in the next 2 weeks. Hopefully, their time in the hospital will be short and sweet. I can not wait to hold them and tell them how much I love them.

What is it with me?!?

2007-08-14T07:16:00.000-05:00

Why don't I want regular food at meal time? I normally LOVE a good salad. A sandwich is always a good lunch option. A platter of chicken and rice and veggies is a staple. Turkey burgers, coleslaw, baked beans and corn is another great option. DO I want any of that??? NO! What do I want? Salt and Vinegar chips, ice cream, slurpees, bagels w/ cream cheese, tomato and red onion, soda, cookie dough, yogurt covered raisins, dried fruit, honey mustard chicken snack wraps from McD's (I normally HATE McD's), Chicken biscuit from McD's, and honestly, there is not much more that appeals to me. Seriously, an Italian Water Ice would be so delicious right now. I'll force myself to eat some cereal here in a few moments, even though I don't want it. I need the vitamins in it. Maybe for lunch I'll treat myself to a snack wrap. We'll see. I'll force myself to eat salad for dinner tonight. I think we might have to go to Costco tonight, so I can get a rotisserie chicken... and I can shred that and put it over a salad... and while that does NOT sound good to me in the least, I know that I'll enjoy it once it is on my plate. And my kids will enjoy that and some stuffing and veggies (well Wils will, Maegan hates stuffing).

I don't even enjoy sitting at the table to eat. I can't stand seeing other people eating. I've never been like this. It's so bizarre. Friday night, we are going out with Mr. Perfect's parents. We are celebrating the Princess' 4th birthday. I can't believe it! Anyway, I think we are going to Famous Daves, and I have NO IDEA what I will attempt to eat while there. Just thinking about it makes my stomach turn.

Junk food sounds delicious right about now. Actually, right this second, I'd LOVE some yummy hot peach tea with a scone of any sort! Oh that sounds divine! mmmmmm Why don't we have a freaking DRIVE THROUGH STARBUCKS!?! Is that really too much to ask? They have them everywhere, but in my town! Grrrrrrrrrrrr... I should have asked Mr. Perfect to run by there and get me some tea and a scone. Duh! Why don't I think of these things until he's left for the day?

I wonder if I could get my Dad over here to watch Maegan while Wils naps and I could run and get something! Probably wishful thinking. He's probably up to his eyeballs trying to do something.

I just wish I liked normal foods again. And that I enjoyed meal time with my family. I sit at the table and feed Wils, but I can't eat while I feed him, it just makes me ill. Last night I had to eat while standing up looking out the window. This seems so odd to me. I was not like this with the last two. If anything, we'd go out to dinner and I'd order EVERYTHING on the menu. I wouldn't eat it (I'd give it to Mr. Perfect)... but at least I wanted to eat good foods, and not just junk.

Someone pass the cheddar puff corn!

I stand corrected...

2007-08-14T07:08:00.000-05:00

There are two beautiful women that read my blog! Thanks, Alexis! :) It's good to know SOMEONE is out there reading what I write!