tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33281888095614123112024-03-05T20:52:57.112-05:00Mouthy MotherKeepin' it real in the (mother) 'hood.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.comBlogger430125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-57875530437778803152016-01-25T11:01:00.000-05:002016-01-25T21:19:48.279-05:00#sorrynotsorry: An Open Letter to Karen Schwartzkopf<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Karen,<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Judging by the fact that you’ve deleted your twitter account and locked down the Richmond Family Magazine page on Facebook so no comments or reviews can be posted, I think it’s safe to say you know you stepped in it. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf7oOBMrSF28PG3S3JSJ3r1_e_MH8TANzYPUZgLBPzpZAgsKZHlhl4Tm-08LveesKXLBtzwFTiCSENll5rSF697cODWl9zVA1W2WlPl02NFCPrtU8YWW-ePXAtnn0e_oqoMIWSR88LECp/s1600/12644807_10102958096837276_6069010569111461258_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf7oOBMrSF28PG3S3JSJ3r1_e_MH8TANzYPUZgLBPzpZAgsKZHlhl4Tm-08LveesKXLBtzwFTiCSENll5rSF697cODWl9zVA1W2WlPl02NFCPrtU8YWW-ePXAtnn0e_oqoMIWSR88LECp/s640/12644807_10102958096837276_6069010569111461258_n.jpg" width="356" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your original tweet about how annoying it is to see teachers excited about a snow day was not well thought out and as a result, very poorly received. Most parents (working full time or staying home) probably understood the meaning behind it, but there was certainly a better way to phrase it. I think you knew this before you clicked “post”. How? By the use of the ridiculous hashtag, #sorrynotsorry. In my experience, when I see this hashtag on a post, it means the writer knows what they’ve said will not be well received. My question is this: if that’s the case, why post it at all? I mean, I’m sure your comment would have gone over big with your mom friends over a cup of coffee. If you had kept it offline, you wouldn’t be dealing with letters like this today. Think about that next time you want to be coy, sarcastic, or witty online for the sake of getting likes or re-posts. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By now you’ve probably received more communications telling you just how insensitive that post was than you can count. Well, here is another to add to the growing pile. First, let me say this; I am not a teacher. I am just a simple mother of four that is glad teachers exist because without them, my kids would be Neanderthals. I love my kids, and I nurture them well, but I have never claimed to be a teacher. I am not the mom who buys out the local Lakeshore Learning store in order to set up the perfect at home classroom. I rely on teachers, and they know it. How do they know it? Because I tell them. I write them thank you notes, and help in the classroom whenever I can. I buy supplies off their wish lists, cut large amounts of laminated papers, and have my kids write thank you notes to them as well. Everyone deserves to hear they are doing a good job, and teachers are one step above parents when it comes to never getting recognition for their work.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have friends and family that are teachers and I have seen them work tirelessly to help kids who have learning disabilities that the parents and the school system refuse to recognize. I have watched them do their best to help students who need it, all while trying to keep their class' test scores as high as possible so they do not get in trouble with the principal. I have watched them spend endless amounts of their own time and money to keep their classrooms stocked and their students on the right path. I have watched parents berate them for suggesting ‘little johnny” isn’t well behaved, or needs the special reading class, or may benefit from an outside evaluation. Yeah, sure, they have the summer off, but do they really? Some work a second job, or they work on lesson plans, go to training, and read up on the new teaching methods being forced upon them in the coming year. Then they head to school weeks in advance to prep their rooms, adding just the right touch to make their new students feel welcome on the first day of school. Teachers work harder than most for a shockingly small amount of money (of which they turn around and use on their students!). So yeah, a snow day for them is pretty awesome.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, let’s not forget that some teachers are also parents. Parents of kids who usually do not see them half as often as your kids do. Parents that feel like they are failing their own children because they are tired and over it by the time they get home. Parents that want to spend more quality time with the kids they brought into the world, but can’t because the kids we brought into this world are falling behind and need their help. So, having a snow day to spend with their own kids is a precious thing. I think parents of their students could learn something from the joy these teachers feel being able to stay home with their kids to play in the snow<br />
.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I did see you posted a retraction and that you apologized for your comment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpCCTX0c_KRmU8DL8W9-kbLkUApypEfwQ9agNVesDx4OosQk1aasJMm9wF_1crO7e0LuwLTircwmtr-oh9iQDwSxO06eCNfCITIdYHjIlXbxeIVSCyXJDezuKADRbYdfkaJFkqqrDXwtS/s1600/12549119_10206870375212253_2791019555847823368_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpCCTX0c_KRmU8DL8W9-kbLkUApypEfwQ9agNVesDx4OosQk1aasJMm9wF_1crO7e0LuwLTircwmtr-oh9iQDwSxO06eCNfCITIdYHjIlXbxeIVSCyXJDezuKADRbYdfkaJFkqqrDXwtS/s640/12549119_10206870375212253_2791019555847823368_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
I read it. It was lame. Instead of a sincere apology, you made an excuse for why you said it. Let’s be honest here, when someone apologizes and then says, “but,” they don’t mean it. “I’m sorry that hurt your feelings, <b><i>but</i></b> this is what I really think and feel.” See how that doesn’t sound very sincere? Saying you’re sorry and have the utmost respect for teachers and then adding how hard it is to do your work-from –home job when your kids are around is simply insulting. How difficult it must be for them to do their job with 18+ students coming at them from all angles…EVERYDAY. Also, no parent, working from home, out of the home, or whose job is to be at home gets a snow day. None of us. Being a parent is 24/7. How you chose to spend the time you have with your kids, well, that is really up to you. I mean really, why did you even have to add that? Oh, boo hoo, you can’t write your latest article for your magazine because your kids keeps asking for lunch, and help getting dressed for the snow, and a movie to watch, and for you to play with them? Do you see how ridiculous that sounds now? <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Karen, I wrote for a local magazine myself. Believe me, I know how hard it is to complete a thought, let alone a written sentence with four kids at home all the time (yes, I have four kids), but I managed to do it. Some advice, the night time is the right time! When they are sleeping, they don’t ask for as much. Which brings me to my next and last point. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Associating your post to the magazine you write for was probably the worst thing you could have done. Not only are people angry at you, but they are also angry at the magazine for employing a parent that clearly hates being with her kids. Oh, that’s not what you meant? You actually like being with your kids? Of course you do! I am sure you do, but take a look at the comments people have…they didn’t see it that way. A magazine with “family” in the title and you bash the teachers in your area for being lazy? For being excited for a day off? An editor even, someone who is reviewing the content of a magazine that boasts knowing what private schools to pick and which summer camps to sign up for? How can your readers trust you? How do they not know you’re just picking the camps that are giving you a free week for writing about them? <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You’ve ruined your integrity and the integrity of your publication. Karen, until you apologize without excuses, and until your publication addresses your comments, please do not expect any sympathy from me, or any teacher out there. I know there are working mothers out there who are with you, who get why you posted what you did. Who freaked about school being closed and having to find alternate child care because their offices weren’t. Hell, I even got your sentiment about how hard it is to be trapped by the weather, but you really do need to think about your word choices in the future.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Enjoy being snowed in up in Richmond. Looks like you’ll be stuck with the kids for a long while. Me, I am in South Carolina. We had a two hour delay and now the kids are back at school, which is great, because it gave me time to write this. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sincerely,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Beth Young<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mother of four, writer, editor, and tireless teacher’s advocate. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com94tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-29111571260821723712013-07-31T16:02:00.002-04:002013-08-01T13:07:54.086-04:00I'm an American Girl. Me, not you, crazy Ginger Ke$ha<br />
You know that meme that goes around every now and then with Beyonce and Freddy Mercury? Here it is for your viewing pleasure:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGLvi5ds1SezFenNq4t2bA2CfzORj2XnpmFjLFqeMO0P8eHKDiirqu2G23YUBn4bY0xlEASj5roOrr7MJNvuXYsBA-8xQV-cdYM31NTZIQfuNK7BeWfgG8rEp3xKKpYgmWWrgqv4d38Yxe/s1600/beyonce-freddie-mercury-mem_jpg_630x640_q85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGLvi5ds1SezFenNq4t2bA2CfzORj2XnpmFjLFqeMO0P8eHKDiirqu2G23YUBn4bY0xlEASj5roOrr7MJNvuXYsBA-8xQV-cdYM31NTZIQfuNK7BeWfgG8rEp3xKKpYgmWWrgqv4d38Yxe/s400/beyonce-freddie-mercury-mem_jpg_630x640_q85.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anyway, I often feel this way when I hear the lyrics to today's songs. One in particular that has a catchy beat, but the lyrics make me insane, is called "American Girl". Its performed (and written) by Bonnie McKee (someone I have dubbed, the ginger version for Ke$ha...aka, hot mess with red hair). Maybe its a look, since she is nearly 30, and I would think she knows better. Then again maybe I'm just getting old and crotchety. I also haven't overlooked that maybe its a song making fun of the Ke$ha's of the world, but seriously, the fact that this woman is getting paid big money to rhyme "la" with "fa" BLOWS my mind. This is in reference to all the songs she has co-written. She helped co-write "Dynamite" performed by Tao Cruz. Really? a 5th grader could write that song (and don't get all, "well why don't you write a song if its so easy" with me. I am not claiming to have any lyrical ability, I just feel like they could be a bit more...I don't know...thoughtful?). Anyway, The song in question has the following lyrics (my notes in <b style="color: #cc0000;">Red</b>):<br />
<br />
<b>I fell in love in a 7/11 parking lot <span style="color: #cc0000;">(pure Klass with a "k" right there)</span></b><br />
<b>Sat on the curb drinking slurpees we mixed with alcohol <span style="color: #cc0000;">(OK, maybe that's a thing I would do, but I have a car and I would drive back to my house before mixing them up)</span></b><br />
<b>We talked about all our dreams and how we would show 'em all (whoa oh oh oh) <span style="color: #cc0000;">(How many of us have actually made the "big dreams" we come up with while sitting in a 7-11 parking lot, drunk on sugar and alcohol (rubbing, bourbon, vodka, she isn't specific) come true? I mean really?)</span></b><br />
<b>I told him I got a plan and I'm gonna dominate <span style="color: #cc0000;">(this "he" is probably thinking about some pretty kinky mess and </span></b><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">getting pretty excited at this point</span></b><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">)</span></b><br />
<b>And I don't need any man to be getting in my way <span style="color: #cc0000;">(total buzz kill for "he" at this point. He should bail)</span></b><br />
<b>But if you talk with your hands then we can negotiate (whoa oh oh oh) <span style="color: #cc0000;">(you're sending "he" mixed signals at best. Do you want him to feel you up, or are you going to do that on your own?)</span></b><br />
<b>I just keep moving my body (yeah) <span style="color: #cc0000;">(probably to keep warm because you're living in a 7-11 parking lot and who knows what season it is. get a cardboard box at least).</span></b><br />
<b>I'm always ready to party (yeah) <span style="color: #cc0000;">(who wouldn't be, with a big gulp sized slurpee mixed with alcohol? Mobile party right there.)</span></b><br />
<b>No I don't listen to mommy (yeah) <span style="color: #cc0000;">(Obviously, or you would have stayed in school and been drinking a real drink at a real bar, not in the parking lot of 7-11. )</span></b><br />
<b>And I'll never say that I'm sorry. <span style="color: #cc0000;">(Rude.)</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Oh I'm an American girl <span style="color: #cc0000;">(are you saying this is what all American girls are like? if so, I take issue. I am an American girl and I don't drink in the parking lot of my local gas station.)</span></b><br />
<b>Hot blooded and I'm ready to go <span style="color: #cc0000;">(most of us are hot blooded, unless you're part of the X-men crew, then you have other issues)</span> I'm loving taking over the world (<span style="color: #cc0000;">How exactly are you doing this while getting drunk in a 7-11 parking lot?)</span></b><br />
<b>Hot blooded, all american girl (Whoa) <span style="color: #cc0000;">(thanks for the second "hotblooded" reference. I was all, "are you sure you're hot blooded? You can never be too sure." and when you re-sang it, I thought, "yeah, she's totally hotblooded, she said it twice.")</span> I was raised by a television <span style="color: #cc0000;">(no argument here.)</span></b><br />
<b>Every day is a competition <span style="color: #cc0000;">(Who are you competing against? the hobo in the opposite corner of the parking lot? If so, give up, that guy is a pro).</span> Put the key in my ignition (Oh-way-oh) <span style="color: #cc0000;">(a. you don't have a car, and b. I'm pretty sure you're just being a ho-bag when you say that, not actually asking someone to start a car for you, because really, I doubt you have one).</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></b>
That's pretty much the gist. besides repeating most of the above, she goes on about getting drunk and partying. I believe there's a mad-libs out there for writing songs these days. just add your own noun, adjectives, verbs, and pro-nouns and you have a hit! You can pick it up at Old Navy in the "impulse buy" area of the line next to the Dora coloring book and the fake mustaches.<br />
<br />
Although I will fully admit to listening to pop hits today and liking them because I am a nerd that likes a good beat, I couldn't let this one slide. I'm off to listen to some Rock for a bit to cleanse my brain.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-51932142847533207112013-03-10T11:38:00.000-04:002013-03-10T11:41:37.968-04:00Naked Babies and Va-Jay-JaysLife has contined to move along in our household, even if I never update this site. You'll notice a new title, which is to tie this blog into a local radio show I may be getting in the near future. Nothing fancy, but still exciting. We'll see if it pans out. Either way, I like the new title, because that is who I am. I am an open book and I tell it like it is. Welcome to Mouthy Mother.<br />
<br />
After having four kids, my ability to "hold it" is pretty low. in fact, its become quite a pain, especially when I have a cold, or allergies. One cough or sneeze and I am off to my room to change my pants. Yes, yes, gross, but come on, who reading this isn't going through the same thing? If your'e not, then good for you. I've had this issue since having my first kid, and after a particularly embarrassing moment at a cross training class at the gym, I asked my OB what I could do about it. He told me about the surgerys that could help, but suggested I get all my kids out of the way before doing it.<br />
<br />
Well, the last kid was born almost 2 years ago and at my last OB appointment the doc asked me if I had any other concerns and I said, "yeah, I'm tired of peeing on myself." She said, "Oh, we can help with that!" and before I knew it, I was in physical therapy for my vag and scheduling a urethra sling procedure. The surgery was done this past week and I was pretty nervous. Not only because I would have to wear (wear?...is that right?) a catheter home, but because after four kids, I am tired of my lady bits being messed with. I didn't know what to expect pain wise. The surgery took about 20 minutes, which sucked, because I would have liked a longer sleep! I also begged them to let me stay at the hopsital, but they refused. They kept asking why I would want to stay at a dirty hospital and risk infection. Aparently having four crumbgrabbers at home wasn't reason enough. <br />
<br />
I'll admit, having the catheter in SUCKED. My husband was a champ though and he took care of everything for me. What a guy. "Do you take this woman to be your wife, to have and to hold, to empty her catheter when its full?"..."I DO". anyway, The next day the packing (yes, sorry, forgot to mention they packed up the vaj for a 14 week stay at the met) and the catheter came out. Taking the packing out felt like they were taking my intestines out. I swear he packed a king size sheet in there, which doesn't surprise me..hello, four kids. I have room. Once the catheter came out, I was a new person. Things have gone well, I have no pain and the only down is that I can't life more than 4 lbs for six weeks, which is nearly impossible, but I am trying my best because I don't want to screw this up. Not peeing on myself when I run bases during kickball...LIFE CHANGING I tell ya!<br />
<br />
Thankfully our littlest bundle (who will be 2 in April) is in a bed now. Well, he isn't in the crib. We put him in a bed, but he usually ends up someplace else between the time we put him to bed and check on him. The other night, I went to check on him and found this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3MgZvciIzxwMwM_npRJFnJJqQgFAUYAcNQrSG_9a7UOG3yehbYXiKDaf25GCTLZ-CfuRDBEXAclsLqimIHBMIRFQzWy1s59r1OeWD-kD9M2061upqNTV4NsbzVlKfkOySY4PX6m9EmlU/s1600/WP_20130308_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3MgZvciIzxwMwM_npRJFnJJqQgFAUYAcNQrSG_9a7UOG3yehbYXiKDaf25GCTLZ-CfuRDBEXAclsLqimIHBMIRFQzWy1s59r1OeWD-kD9M2061upqNTV4NsbzVlKfkOySY4PX6m9EmlU/s400/WP_20130308_001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I usually put zipper jammies on him backwards so that he can't strip, but none were clean, so I had to make due with regular tops and bottoms. I came into the room and noticed three areas where he had peed, then looked up to find him sleeping on the ottomen like this. It doesn't even look comfortable! Why do kids hate sleep so much. He has a nice bed with warm blankets and instead of drifting off into sweet slumber, he gets up, strips, pisses on the floor, then falls asleep half hanging off this tiny ottoman. seriously.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-12996207119875027792013-01-14T10:22:00.002-05:002013-01-14T10:22:14.011-05:00Happy New Year (I guess)2013 has begun, and we are all still here. Come on, who out there thought the world would end in December? Raise your hands, you know you're out there and secretly spent the day going through moments of pure panic while you waited for that blast, or rush of silence to signal the end. How did you feel when it didn't happen? <br />
<br />
Well, the world is still spinning, and according to the show, "How the Universe Works", will be for a few more million or billion years. That said, its time to move on and begin the new year, which is getting harder to do each year. I mean, its fun to have a new year to look forward to. I always think about how each of my kids will be a year older and how fast they are growing up. Then I think about how I will be a year older and how fast I am "GROWING". Seriously. <br />
<br />
I have posted about this to no end, I know, I know. I used to be in excellent shape before kids, I tried losing the baby weight, blahblahblahblah. Here in the south, it seems I am surrounded by a plethora of blond bombshell housewives with 3, 4, 6 kids that are toothpicks, and I really have no idea how they do it short of starving themselves thin. I have four kids, and have been over 200 lbs for 3 years. It sucks nuts. <br />
<br />
I could blame a few things, the number one thing being my inability to make working out and eating right a priority in my daily routine. Then there are the meds that keep me from going off the deep end. Those tend to cause weight gain, but one actually promotes weight loss, so maybe between the two of them, I am breaking even. I am old(er). I keep hearing after 35, losing weight is nearly impossible, so what the damn point, right? <br />
<br />
Recently, I tried to train for a half marathon. I was doing well, then got sick and just bagged it all together. Truth is, I hate to run and have done a half before, so I convinced myself there was really no reason to continue doing something I really hated. With the end of my training, went the end of going to the gym or working out all together. I was exhausted from training, and needed a "break". That break lasted from August until now, today, where it will continue. Sure, I work around the house and keep up with four kids, that's hard stuff, but its not a zumba class, or a short walk on a treadmill. I've decided to think about training for a triathlon. Those are more fun for this ADD mama. We'll see if I stick with it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwO3FITS1WJozcT5V29VgVJDNI6nThZ7e0V9HK5bWX7YezPSgY3Wl8cQTU63GHs-SeZGCCCat9ROmMx14O_WHxfiTKv-QIsZrwLlgZt6h8mjHQokvJ6Zk5nPuHXPhc_Vx8oPXpK85KUWU/s1600/parties+108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwO3FITS1WJozcT5V29VgVJDNI6nThZ7e0V9HK5bWX7YezPSgY3Wl8cQTU63GHs-SeZGCCCat9ROmMx14O_WHxfiTKv-QIsZrwLlgZt6h8mjHQokvJ6Zk5nPuHXPhc_Vx8oPXpK85KUWU/s320/parties+108.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
But, alas, life is what it is. I will see friends and family this year at the same weight I was a year ago, even though a year ago I vowed to change before the next meeting. I wonder what makes folks like me continue to just give up and not really follow through. There are plenty of things I do follow through with at home, maybe those are more important. Who knows. One thing is for sure, I wouldn't mind having this ass again (orange shorts)!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-35046008499639648832012-10-03T08:57:00.000-04:002012-10-03T08:58:06.796-04:00You're WelcomeDo you like Rock and Roll? Do you have kids that talk back? If you answered yes to both, then this song is for you.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZRV6R2PRfTA" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
Recently, I discovered Pearl Jams cover of this great Clash song while listening to their Sirius XM channel (yes, I am huge nerd for Pearl Jam). It fits my life perfectly.<br />
<br />
When the kids start to talk back, I turn my life into a Glee episode and break into this song and sing it right to their faces. It either startles them enough to shut 'em up, or makes them laugh and move on from whatever they've been fighting me on.<br />
<br />
DON'T GIMME NO LIP!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-56970129926469607602012-10-02T08:23:00.002-04:002012-10-02T08:24:41.258-04:00Pottery Barn Can Suck It<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPixE1J_yBMzxoYSQaKE-NWPaU7arku84euj1ESpsuPHwmrY755n1pCWr9nLIXGo42ZFWcT6U5Gd-oUbVeXzlSYRgLSEwfT2GfHGuLp7shWdI2kQ-nEhiEXouTZLmgJgdaXSkC7u9_29U2/s1600/548768_10151113125818473_514251396_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPixE1J_yBMzxoYSQaKE-NWPaU7arku84euj1ESpsuPHwmrY755n1pCWr9nLIXGo42ZFWcT6U5Gd-oUbVeXzlSYRgLSEwfT2GfHGuLp7shWdI2kQ-nEhiEXouTZLmgJgdaXSkC7u9_29U2/s320/548768_10151113125818473_514251396_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>I don't know why I did it, but I "liked" Pottery Barn Kid's page on Facebook. They don't share photos often, but when they do, it makes me feel like a shit head of a mom/home maker. I mean really...Is this really what I can expect from a well organized home? Is this realistic in someone's house? Of COURSE I want a makeshift manger for my baby Jesus kids, but who has time for this? Not to mention, WHOSE KID IS THIS NEAT?????<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3-sHNwoFa62CYjP-1GRAnFW2mYzjhMO1JjZ7aUGEHF_OnuzkCTZuXO-sxrM7p9a2d5kiYDJXH4cg8LlA56WeArknL8SUqeyNXP2rwECFu9WpDdQbCovivN7QHMUg5abF99gae47rsZzn/s1600/36328_10151106684113473_975408985_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3-sHNwoFa62CYjP-1GRAnFW2mYzjhMO1JjZ7aUGEHF_OnuzkCTZuXO-sxrM7p9a2d5kiYDJXH4cg8LlA56WeArknL8SUqeyNXP2rwECFu9WpDdQbCovivN7QHMUg5abF99gae47rsZzn/s320/36328_10151106684113473_975408985_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Then there is this Gem. I have one daughter, and she is a princess. A princess ninja with three brothers. Having a room this girly may never be an option for her, but oh, how I wish it were. Fluffy bedding, wispy curtains draped on a canopy bed, all with matching bedding and enough pillows to make the Duchess jealous. Of course, only the Duchess can afford this!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibx-QkuwKrEEurKM-1ZYj2d0vTHNGNhZg6WJ1aHR_DJGRdfdnoEXFvr_Uo4GLaRJuxGU7shkrHadn3H1tL0SqQWBDjBqGG7HL9jBp0Q69xpQ-qWLmEpzZ4Acrf_63ouhIN-T7blAR9TNt7/s1600/310679_10151091043723473_833425685_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibx-QkuwKrEEurKM-1ZYj2d0vTHNGNhZg6WJ1aHR_DJGRdfdnoEXFvr_Uo4GLaRJuxGU7shkrHadn3H1tL0SqQWBDjBqGG7HL9jBp0Q69xpQ-qWLmEpzZ4Acrf_63ouhIN-T7blAR9TNt7/s400/310679_10151091043723473_833425685_n.jpg" width="400" /></a>Lets not forget the boys!! First up is this lovely Star Wars themed room. Complete with the galaxy on the wall with constellations outlined (because we all have that kind of time.). Please note that every throw pillow from the collection must be purchased to make this room perfect. I mean, my kids will just end up tossing these pillows on the floor, where they will spill water/juice/food...etc all over them. But oh how I wish I could get the beds made like this! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyrF3rQlINkTnZplerjbPo7bKzTljEB0nprSlSdjYjTOzU9dsNrSJkf_TWQzw5a12X_K-mGS7IyOMwiqwJG4S0JUay2lYMvUydbg5xYux5evTpKpJ3zS_jWxKDGW4JWeCrqIeweQ_Voor/s1600/564698_10151096554183473_836182137_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyrF3rQlINkTnZplerjbPo7bKzTljEB0nprSlSdjYjTOzU9dsNrSJkf_TWQzw5a12X_K-mGS7IyOMwiqwJG4S0JUay2lYMvUydbg5xYux5evTpKpJ3zS_jWxKDGW4JWeCrqIeweQ_Voor/s320/564698_10151096554183473_836182137_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
This last picture is my secret favorite (not a secret anymore). Not only would I need to purchase a new home to get these windows in the right place, but I would also need to purchase said home in the mountains to complete the "look". Obviously a log cabin would work. This is a look I would like to have in my boys rooms. I love the bunk beds, as they add a lot of extra floor space for the Lego explosion, but having the "my three sons" looking bedroom. I adore it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Sadly, it is my lot in life... to just be happy to have beds for my children that are covered with mismatched blankets and pillows. It doesn't even look "shabby chic" it just look shabby, but they don't care. I don't think any kid really looks at a potter barn kids catalog and says, "ohhh, I love that look!" I do have one confession to make. I did buy matching sheets and blankets ONCE (JUST ONCE) from Pottery Barn kids and use them on the regular in our boys rooms. Maybe once day when they are old enough to care (if that happens, it may for my daughter, but my boys...probably not), I will have the time to put something together for them.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-13596592390133479262012-09-06T11:05:00.003-04:002012-09-06T11:08:44.751-04:00Citizen Dick<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQO0blrVPNb9-ijcytIY3D6FLjZQuaZ6aB_1vwuN2pIyTKffWJcUFfuSq26-1AhrLiFgY4Csk_4EV4NMiGIGNPccAbk5-WDzgmaiQY2CrsnvcFkBn6UdG32ZU6dqWVJ7mceuBICVUScwV/s1600/23923865_040_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQO0blrVPNb9-ijcytIY3D6FLjZQuaZ6aB_1vwuN2pIyTKffWJcUFfuSq26-1AhrLiFgY4Csk_4EV4NMiGIGNPccAbk5-WDzgmaiQY2CrsnvcFkBn6UdG32ZU6dqWVJ7mceuBICVUScwV/s320/23923865_040_b.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't believe this was ever cool</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A friend of mine started a post on facebook about some trends that are coming back into style from when we were in middle and high school. Namely the urban outfitters acid wash denim back pack. This lead to a flurry of posts about the fashions of our yester years, including the acid wash skinny jeans with the zipper at the ankle, acid wash pleated jeans with the fold down top, and the grunge look.<br />
<br />
That last one holds a special place in my heart, as it was my style. Of course, I never actually dressed to much like that because my parents would not have allowed it, but I did wear my black, and flannel, and listened to Pearl Jam, Sound Garden, and Nirvana ad nauseum. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6Os8HBcL5fjLOSeJ6bvC46IE-CEy8i74nF-g0llp5-zEb3k91ifGIl7dpdzuOiHr0Wk7t3uGuyFsw-N73ctAkOaTYCVgXliOQIQ4HzKlPLXkm9qlofG-xnK8gXIvNW82vJ1QqjbxcuFa/s1600/my-so-called-life-my-so-called-life-4617719-1497-2300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6Os8HBcL5fjLOSeJ6bvC46IE-CEy8i74nF-g0llp5-zEb3k91ifGIl7dpdzuOiHr0Wk7t3uGuyFsw-N73ctAkOaTYCVgXliOQIQ4HzKlPLXkm9qlofG-xnK8gXIvNW82vJ1QqjbxcuFa/s320/my-so-called-life-my-so-called-life-4617719-1497-2300.jpg" width="208" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The usual outfits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You really can not even imagine just how much living in Seattle was like a dream come true. That place was in my blood way before I ever stepped foot on its soil. Sure, it rains a ridiculous amount and is gray 9 out of 12 months of the year, but the people, the fashion, the culture...they are all me. I found myself living there, and I will never forget my friends, who quickly became my family. Friends that grew up in the NW and slowly taught this girl from the south the ways of the North Westerner. Wool socks with Tevas because you never know how cold it will get, recycling like my life depended on it (because to them, it truly did), being kind, being open, being helpful, loving everyone. Letting go of trying to be what others wanted and, instead, being what I wanted. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAzjdHsUAh_rK5haEGyOHDjjz31f0Y-_BYgDnQMQ_wqYrDcwjpO7kuLtV0LmI7khkYpZGxd_3eNJnSLRWbwEq5vR3Yos2TCWLk0GTtYlhvT_qwqXsobF0QvaPToSMoWhD_j9wkm7VksLI/s1600/IMG_4627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAzjdHsUAh_rK5haEGyOHDjjz31f0Y-_BYgDnQMQ_wqYrDcwjpO7kuLtV0LmI7khkYpZGxd_3eNJnSLRWbwEq5vR3Yos2TCWLk0GTtYlhvT_qwqXsobF0QvaPToSMoWhD_j9wkm7VksLI/s320/IMG_4627.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oldest at 2.5.<br />
He will be a Seattlite for life.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was hard to be so far from my family, but it was worth the experience and the life lessons. It was worth it to find myself and be around people that kept me true to myself. Some days, I find it hard to be away from them, from my city. <br />
<br />
In honor of Seattle, and those that inspired me, I am declaring today, "Citizen Dick" day in my house and will be listening to all those bands that kept me rocking in high school and keep me rocking today! (only a few weeks until I see Pearl Jam in Atlanta!!!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/s-j31YoEeRU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-40309705176760113682012-09-04T21:03:00.001-04:002012-09-04T22:39:25.918-04:00Glitter SmurfOh the joys of shopping with kids in tow. Today my husband, Baby Girl, Youngest, and myself went out for our weekly shopping trip. One of the items on my list was a set of chalk markers (markers that look like chalk when used, but don't smear, and wipe off with water). During our visit to the second craft store, Youngest decided to show us his new ninja like stealth moves!<br />
<br />
While scouring the walls of the craft paint isle for these markers (which don't seem to exist), Youngest picked up and bottle of Smurf blue paint without my noticing. He then proceeded to unscrew the cap (another new skill) and dump it all over himself. Again, this happened without my knowledge. Yes, he was in the cart that I was pushing, but I had my eye on the prize. I was going to find these damn markers if it killed me. I walked all over the store oblivious to the mess I was making until I heard my husband say, "hey Beth, watch out for the pain...oh God, look at Youngest". I looked, and what I saw was a toddler grinning from ear to ear with an empty craft paint bottle in one hand and the cap in the other, his legs covered in paint (as we're his hands, feet, and clothes by this point). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsJRVg9BUUkDmSoKU0golG10MauCgkc1XTF8BwWCkg1b4jspJ5UXzbXjAVnqQFjRQrBAGgIkJOdz2udM37aPF6OaGCXrA1SL-7hT3B5hekreo1DpA_xy3r_JdBkd4yFgMabSMhyphenhyphenZ_j4CM/s500/Photo%252520Sep%2525204%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="316" id="blogsy-1346806906735.8564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsJRVg9BUUkDmSoKU0golG10MauCgkc1XTF8BwWCkg1b4jspJ5UXzbXjAVnqQFjRQrBAGgIkJOdz2udM37aPF6OaGCXrA1SL-7hT3B5hekreo1DpA_xy3r_JdBkd4yFgMabSMhyphenhyphenZ_j4CM/s500/Photo%252520Sep%2525204%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Husband grabbed Youngest and held him away from his body body like he was radioactive while keeping Baby Girl within reach and took them to the Car. I went to the checkout lane with the empty bottle and told them there was a clean up on isle...well, all the isles. They were nice about it. <br />
<br />
I took some paper towels to the car (because this mother of four lives on the edge and doesn't travel with wipes anymore) and assessed the damage. Turns out, a mat Smurf blue wasn't good enough for Youngest. He picked up the one that had GLITTER in it, I wiped away as much paint as I could, but the paper towels did nothing for the glitter. When I was done, my toddler looked like a baby vampire that went out in the sun crossed with an avatar, <br />
<br />
Oh well, life goes on, we took the kids to lunch (where I cleaned him up a little more), then finished our shopping at WAl-mart. And yes, while I was stuffing half a roll of paper towels into my hands at the craft store, I asked the check out lady about the chalk markers. Turns out they don't carry them. Figures.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div id="blogsy_footer" style="clear: both; font-size: small; text-align: right;">
<a href="http://blogsyapp.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Posted with Blogsy" height="20" src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" style="margin-right: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-86392507348215458412012-08-31T09:11:00.002-04:002012-08-31T14:36:25.779-04:00The Honeymoon is OverIt was bound to happen, but he fooled me into thinking it wouldn't. He made me think we were on a good path, then this morning happened. The "he" I speak of is Middle. This morning he, a) wasn't up ready for school before me, and b) refused to get on the bus. <br />
<br />
You know, I never had this problem with Oldest. He was on the bus from the beginning and never once did her cry about it. I knew Middle would be a little more tender, but having big brother there to help would certainly make things easier...wrong.<br />
<br />
Even the promise of being able to sit with Oldest and his friend this morning wasn't enough to get him on the bus. So, as the bus pulled away, I was left walking him back to the house in tears (him, not me, although I wanted to cry, I had things to do...like go back to SLEEP!). When we got home, Dad gave him a stern talk about how he is a big boy now and should always get on the bus and not give mom a hard time. He looked on with sad eyes, but agreed that was a better choice for future mornings. Then I talked to him about school.<br />
<br />
He said, "I don't like school. We never get to play!" Surely that isn't true. I mean, they do have recess! But after being in preschool for two years where playing was how they learned, Kindergarten may seem like a boring place where rule following is the norm. I assured him that he would be playing at school, especially on a Friday before a holiday and reminded him that he would miss out on buying lunch. That last bit got to him. He loves to buy his lunch and so off we went in the fambulance. He got out without any issue and walked into the school like a big kid.<br />
<br />
Two things: 1. Rob is worried that Logan will cry again thinking it will get him a personal ride to school each AM. He has a right to be concerned, Logan is a manipulator, but I won't let it happen. He got his one pass today, and I won't be doing it again. He'll get on that bus even if I have to hop in the car and track it down in the neighborhood. 2. When did Kindergarten get so serious?<br />
<br />
My neighbor and I talked about it on the way home from the stop (with Middle sniffling next to us). Kindergarten should be all about playing and having fun while adjusting to the new schedule. Yes, learning is a big deal in Kindergarten, but make it fun! It was fun when I was in Kindergarten and when my neighbor was in Kindergarten. Now it seems like they are jumping right into the serious stuff. Of course, I could be wrong. I am going off the word of a 5 year old. <br />
<br />
Ugh, only 8 days into the 180 day school year. It will be a long year if they both give me lip about getting up in the AM. I can see using my mom and dads old technique of switching the light on and off a few times, then leaving it on to get them moving in the morning. I love it when Oldest says, "I am still tired, I want more sleep." Today I finally said what I have always been thinking, "yeah, well, so do I, but life isn't fair." hahaha. <br />
<br />
UPDATE*******<br />
I got a call from the teacher telling me that he was not behaving and she wanted to see if talking to me would help. I gave him instructions to listen, or he would lose his privileges at home, and if he didn't stop misbehaving he would be sent to the principals office. Guess what? HE GOT SENT TO THE DAMN PRINCIPALS OFFICE!!!!! GAH!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-61198391140483086972012-08-22T09:23:00.001-04:002012-08-31T09:46:20.823-04:00School Daze!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6gF8-_3eNGE78MQTt7uqgXCFpq4RxW-PFlgK_0ZVyLwlS7lDZZXQZlml7VkHgWAIGbfC2WMxeyZTnohZpuu6kXMCqwbG06pfxH4nv2Ie7pWeEknqa1vlO_mMyoZi1JjRKfN1cdrLMJdg/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6gF8-_3eNGE78MQTt7uqgXCFpq4RxW-PFlgK_0ZVyLwlS7lDZZXQZlml7VkHgWAIGbfC2WMxeyZTnohZpuu6kXMCqwbG06pfxH4nv2Ie7pWeEknqa1vlO_mMyoZi1JjRKfN1cdrLMJdg/s400/Slide1.jpg" width="395" /></a></div>
Today Middle son starts the big K. Oldest is in 2nd grade and, really, we never worried about him. We put him on the bus the first day of school without any trouble from him or us. But Middle is not the same kid. He is a mama's boy through and through, and had been asking me since school ended last year if I would be attending kindergarten with him. <br />
<br />
Because of this, we were a little worried about what would happen today. Even his teacher remembered how upset he was about being taken away from me during registration (and in the end, he got what he wanted, I went with him for the teacher eval). Rob and I decided we would drive both boys to school the first day and we also decided that Rob would do the drop off, since there would be less chance of tears. Well, we were pleasently surprised this AM when Middle got up excited, ate breakfast excited, and got in the car excited! He kept that excitement with him throughout the ride and was happy to take his place in line outside his class without the slightest whimper. He smiled for a picture and Rob told him to have a good day and left. No tears, no tugging on clothes, nothing. <br />
<br />
What a big kid. He grew so much in the last few weeks of summer. First he began back to Tae Kwon Do and quickly fell into line and earned a new belt. Then he started helping out more at home and taught himself how to ride a two wheeler. Now he is off to school without any trouble. <br />
<br />
Its funny, I have been waiting since this one was born for this day. Middle has always been my stubborn, persistent never ending talker. I struggle daily to keep him busy, entertained, and out of my hair (and most days it doesn't work well). I couldn't wait to be without him for a full day of school. However, even though it has been blissfully quiet in the house this morning, I can't help but this back to when he was a little chunk and how quickly they grow. Luckily, I have two more to get through to this stage, so I am not an "empty nester" just yet, but I know it will happen in a blink of an eye. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYaspez-uKVORMzX6HczHJvKBtLZ2mGJ8XHpBBVaQdpcEaNsV_Y9i4yV98W686h4q_q8BESWEG058cGkZFIQd3n-KhWrvczGa2ysXCyPAwV8EdZ7NVPE08W7jUnXi5Ir6co6xuKw9inFq/s1600/557342_10151089042983991_609417752_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYaspez-uKVORMzX6HczHJvKBtLZ2mGJ8XHpBBVaQdpcEaNsV_Y9i4yV98W686h4q_q8BESWEG058cGkZFIQd3n-KhWrvczGa2ysXCyPAwV8EdZ7NVPE08W7jUnXi5Ir6co6xuKw9inFq/s640/557342_10151089042983991_609417752_n.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
Today, my little men began their school year in proper Nintendo fanboy fashion. Makes this Nintendo veteran proud :)<br />
<br />
I have about five hours until they get home, and will pass the time playing with the other two and getting some errands done. Who knew having two kids at home could be so relaxing. hahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaaa!<br />
<br />
Happy first day of school, everyone!!!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-1780775459433046012012-08-11T12:05:00.000-04:002012-08-11T21:38:43.166-04:00Salesmen Beware!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBObogVyMSmAzlz9IYem2u3LVaPz8OApFQhyrpTyumPYJXpA41FQ9W95qDBQJKvb79OU2e8jimVrpaQUZTxF6S2hpzHxdLWU2zJN9Tr79ZaDMeJ93hSyELo71qTMM9Cci7td4WZWAtROM8/s1600/395952_10151063885348991_1350778284_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBObogVyMSmAzlz9IYem2u3LVaPz8OApFQhyrpTyumPYJXpA41FQ9W95qDBQJKvb79OU2e8jimVrpaQUZTxF6S2hpzHxdLWU2zJN9Tr79ZaDMeJ93hSyELo71qTMM9Cci7td4WZWAtROM8/s400/395952_10151063885348991_1350778284_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Seriously, I am SOOOO over people coming to my door at all hours either telling me how Jesus will save me or how I should help them back on their feet by buying magazine, or how I need to get the latest educational books and software, least I want my kids to be neanderthals.<br />
<br />
In one week I had all of the above at my door, and luckily for them (unluckily for my wallet and myself) I am a sucker for these people. I can't shut the door in their face, because its rude, and I can't say no, because I want their twin children to eat more than canned green beans the rest of their lives. I mean, he is trying to better himself by going door to door selling magazines that I don't need. At least he's not sitting around doing nothing, right? I got some children's magazines. Go ahead, shake your head and tell me how gullible I am. Talk about how I am a sales person's dream come true. Tell me how, without me, the economy would be even more in the tank. <br />
<br />
Truth is, this is how I was raised. My sisters and I joke about how we seem to attract those that are, shall we say, social misfits. Why you ask? Because we're not assholes. We accept everyone and believe everyone deserves a friend, and at times, this is at our own expense. But there could be worse ways to be, right? I don't WANT to be an asshole, but I also don't want to be door mat, so I need to figure out a way to be more assertive and put my needs ahead of those selling me a pest control program. <br />
<br />
I swear, these people will stop me while I am getting four kids out of the van, in the boiling heat and talk my ear off. They will come to the door and see my children going ape shit bananas and continue to tell me how my neighbor signed up for a monthly weeding, so I should too. What the heck!? <br />
<br />
So, last night I made the above sign and hung it on my door. I know a lot of people put little printed signs in their windows, but those are easily ignored. This one is big, colorful and threatening. Our dog would just lick them to death if he really did get "released", but when the bell rings or someone knocks, he sounds like a vicious attack dog, so I am hoping that will get the point across. <br />
<br />
As other "no soliciting" signs say, I know all about Jesus, I like my Dyson, I don't need any bug control (we keep them as pets, I have three boys), I don't need more magazines (although, I am quite in love with all of them...its an addiction), and my kids get plenty of learning from NickJr. <br />
<br />
As our neighbor in NY said when we were kids, "GET OFF MY LAWN!"Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-27198996860576850022012-07-29T16:09:00.001-04:002012-07-29T16:09:41.174-04:00My Lego Master My oldest son is amazing. I mean, who doesn't think their own child is amazing, right? But really, he is pretty great. Being the oldest, means he has his moments where having all that responsibility gets to him, but for the most part, he is helpful, kind, and quite the Tae Kwon Do master! <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzOzRZwc1QuSgo3vUJi2vKbZmGtCz6g8gJvEhVK1InVm5yR39q8PyZ2SZOZvTd9JuI4-a7oiAMNpUFX0LIpsB_UepE5SSU044UZVSK3G0cHeVGs9HZQyjINV7sJIC7C8eUJhrZFBTAqbR/s539/Photo%252520Jul%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525203%25253A54%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzOzRZwc1QuSgo3vUJi2vKbZmGtCz6g8gJvEhVK1InVm5yR39q8PyZ2SZOZvTd9JuI4-a7oiAMNpUFX0LIpsB_UepE5SSU044UZVSK3G0cHeVGs9HZQyjINV7sJIC7C8eUJhrZFBTAqbR/s311/Photo%252520Jul%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525203%25253A54%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1343592531171.948" class="alignleft" alt="" width="311" height="415"></a></div> But what has amazed my husband and I the most is his ability to use his imagination with Legos. Those tiny bricks that cut right into the bottom of your foot when you are walking along a hallway in the dark. Those tiny bricks that are probably pennies to make but hundreds of dollars to buy. Star wars, Indiana jones, knights, power miners, toy story, Lego city, etc....you name it, we have a set, but that isn't the cool part. I mean, sure, it's pretty great that he has been reading the directions and building things on his own since he was five, but what I love is how he thinks up his own designs and goes for it. He has built some interesting and mind blowing things. <br/><br/>Today, he came downstairs and showed me his Mario and Luigi. We are big fans of those super Mario Bros. here! <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Hzxd3D76QvveFr1EYC-N_3y5V8Ux6SLMV5wl3IBqCn_Yjaaa6uGxC023dN75C5cVjOup4BEt0o6rgUNSvOVP-WXu0JA0aQAClkk-giyiET26OXds61_Sr1nfzBxAK5pthzAvADXKse1T/s539/Photo%252520Jul%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525203%25253A54%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Hzxd3D76QvveFr1EYC-N_3y5V8Ux6SLMV5wl3IBqCn_Yjaaa6uGxC023dN75C5cVjOup4BEt0o6rgUNSvOVP-WXu0JA0aQAClkk-giyiET26OXds61_Sr1nfzBxAK5pthzAvADXKse1T/s650/Photo%252520Jul%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525203%25253A54%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1343592531221.6646" class="alignright" alt="" width="650" height="867"></a></div> I love his imagination. I love that he does this on his own, and I just love him. Did I mention that he is also reading The Hobbit? He is. <br/><br/> <br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-10139526612158253452012-07-25T11:10:00.000-04:002012-07-25T11:10:26.685-04:00Mama Drama<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQfLd3qCI5335o8br6v_juVjwd7S8PuwVlWnC663NFkYObgjWOmoEKTnnEiNd68fzWnE-3pXBfHWfW6ABKj34Ngvac2IFD7-HDyVZat2thAk0WkJ4AlzRJbSA9TKsZGxLg27T9uruRicY/s1600/599863_446103518763997_2100791543_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQfLd3qCI5335o8br6v_juVjwd7S8PuwVlWnC663NFkYObgjWOmoEKTnnEiNd68fzWnE-3pXBfHWfW6ABKj34Ngvac2IFD7-HDyVZat2thAk0WkJ4AlzRJbSA9TKsZGxLg27T9uruRicY/s640/599863_446103518763997_2100791543_n.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
I saw this image on Facebook this morning and really loved it. I have always felt like Moms were each others worst enemy. From the beginning we are competing with each other. Do we breast feed? Do we stay at home? Do we enjoy every waking moment of this job? <br />
<br />
I can't tell you how many times I've read or heard very judgmental comments about other mothers and their choices, then seen those judgey moms do something just as stupid. Case in point, "I can't believe she gave her 3 month old a taste of ice cream, it could KILL them!" (um, no, it won't). at a year, "haha, isn't this picture of my son drinking a tall frapp from Starbucks hilarious? He loves it! Don't worry its decaf." (Sorry, it still has way too much sugar in it for a one year old...idiot). <br />
<br />
Or, my favorite is when moms gang up on someone who has stated their crazy kids antics and tell this mother that she obviously is lazy and not watching her kids enough if they are getting out of hand. Only to later post, "I gave my kids cake for breakfast, don't judge me!" It amazes me how much energy other mothers can put into degrading, and dismissing another mom, all while their children are probably going ape shit in the background. Most of the worst offenders are posting in online groups and chat rooms. Anonymity is such a blissful thing for people that just can't seem to keep their opinion to themselves. <br />
<br />
However, I've experienced the stink eye first hand when out with my four kids. Yes, there are days where I have to take all four with me to the store. Do these women really think I WANT to do this? That I ENJOY it? Women walking through the store with their one (or maybe two) children in the "car" cart often hate when I am passing them with my kids who are talking, or begging, or yelling at me. I ignore the kids, I have gotten VERY good at ignoring them and just plowing through the errand so we can leave the store as fast as possible. But obviously, these women have never had kids that act up in stores, and feel like their awesome grocery experience has been ruined by the crazy lady that had to bring her brood to the store. With their eyes, they say, "why did you have so many children if you can't keep a handle on them?", or "can't you just shop online?", or "what horrible manners, my kids never act out." A few women actually send out words of encouragement or support. They give me the "I've been there stay strong" look, or just acknowledge that my hands are full. (I hate that by the say, "you've got your hands full!" no shit.). <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXF1MfnRtlCmaqS1frw6IrEsdk2P49dzXbDg2jW7jOxOX1WAxgoqzWBslj7xvmSi8QMjLsPGh1GaYu8-2QUwGlWDKwpGADghJPRLDusBs716un9XMjM4RPGBwTVqvb8jH-kanI3oGgF3CK/s1600/WP_000244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXF1MfnRtlCmaqS1frw6IrEsdk2P49dzXbDg2jW7jOxOX1WAxgoqzWBslj7xvmSi8QMjLsPGh1GaYu8-2QUwGlWDKwpGADghJPRLDusBs716un9XMjM4RPGBwTVqvb8jH-kanI3oGgF3CK/s320/WP_000244.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
I've made it my life's mission to help mothers that need it when I'm out. I will do this when I have the kids, or when I don't. If you look like you need a hand, I'll lend it. What, I already have four kids to deal with? Well, one more won't be that big a deal, go to the bathroom on your own! <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTihyphenhyphen9Vv9NeB-4wj4781LMy_67AA8X0Frza75K7k_LbqVQpvbQGtMo0DxOFNyih3cM-epjNs3k1bn7qsxSs84e2BEQx0UbT65on6OrmiTzObNjTwfQEY7JZUNrbZYzGFMasQOR74cAi6_/s1600/WP_000073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTihyphenhyphen9Vv9NeB-4wj4781LMy_67AA8X0Frza75K7k_LbqVQpvbQGtMo0DxOFNyih3cM-epjNs3k1bn7qsxSs84e2BEQx0UbT65on6OrmiTzObNjTwfQEY7JZUNrbZYzGFMasQOR74cAi6_/s320/WP_000073.jpg" width="320" /></a>But, what I like about this picture/quote the best, is that it validates that how I parent is between me and my kids. Not me and my friends, my neighbors, my fellow shoppers, or those women online. My kids are happy, they are curious and they make one hell of a mess, but I get things done while they make those messes, and its worth it to me to have a moments peace while Youngest destroys my Tupperware cabinet, or Baby Girl plays with a chapstick, or Middle rides his bike, or Oldest captures spiders in the backyard. What I do is my business and if it works for me, then bugger off. If I want advice, I'll ask for it. I may not agree with how you do things, but I do my best to just stay out of it. As you can see, I have my own kids to worry about!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0Fort Mill, SC, USA35.0073697 -80.945075934.9033237 -81.1030044 35.111415699999995 -80.787147400000009tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-72301037237328517732012-03-14T09:23:00.000-04:002012-03-14T09:23:45.194-04:00Potty Training and other hellsI'm back. I have been lending my writing skills (cough, cough) to some local publications, which has been so much fun and extremly rewarding, but I've missed sounding off on my own site.*<br />
<br />
*I started this post a week ago, and now I am finally finishing up, such is the life of a mother of four...lord.<br />
<br />
So, same shit, different flies around here. We're enjoying an early spring and the kids keep asking me if we can go to the pool. This post is starting off boring. blah blah blah.<br />
<br />
OK, so I am in the midst of potty training baby girl, and a year ago my husband and I were talking about how much easier it will be with her than the boys because she's whip smart and will just get it. We were wrong. She is still whip smart, she just doesn't care about using the bathroom. The girl will hide under the table and crap in her pants before she just goes to the potty. She can have a clean/dry pull up throughout errands, and the moment we walk in the door, she'll stand in the corner and pee in her pants. I ask her to go potty and I may as well be asking her to chew off one of her arms. She screams and fights and although I know these are signs to not push her into doing it, I can't help myself and I force her into the bathroom. If my husband asks her to go, she hops up and goes, if I ask her, we're back to chewing limbs off. its not fair. <br />
<br />
Potty training is one of those things I wish there was a sleep away camp for. As a parent, you get used to having the diapers and get used to the kids that are trained, then you start to train a child and everything gets tossed out of whack. You can't just pick and go to the store/gym/anywhere, because you don't want to disrupt potty training. You can't put them in underwear (or you fear doing it) because of accidents, so you get the pull up on, and of course they use it, so that's a good days work down the drain. Those that potty train in a weekend make me sick. I have NEVER had a potty trained child in a weekend, my like four to six months. Once they are trained, its awesome, but getting them there is hell on earth. <br />
<br />
Speaking of sleep away camps (a paragraph ago), I am thinking of sending Oldest Son to sleep away camp this summer. The YMCA offers one and they have a first time campers week that is a few days shorter than the usual week and everyone there is a first timer. I think I am more nervous than my son. I asked him if he would like to go and he said "yeah!" and I was ready for him to resist it. We are trying to get him out of his little shell, and what better way to do it then to toss him into overnight camp? Ideally, we would like him to go with a friend, but that is unlikely, so he'll be tossed in on his own, and will have to make new friends (GULP!). Again, I am more worried than him. Its not hard to think about what could go wrong, but he'll be 8 this year, I think he's old enough to experience something like this. Who knows, he may just love it! <br />
<br />
Middle Son started soccer this week and he did OK, but needed me by his side most of the time. The other times he was crying and needed big hugs and promises to get ice cream to go back and play like a big boy. For a kid that is so social, he sure is a mama's boy when he gets into it! My friends husband watched us together on the sideline where I talked to him about ice cream and hugged him and sent him back onto the field. He said I needed video of that, so when he becomes a sports star, I can show him how he once needed a hug from his mommy to get him going. :) What a cute idea, he would HATE that when he was in high school! Then again, if things don't change, I may be sitting on the sidelines with open arms when he's playing in high school, who knows. I do know that dropping him off for kindergarten next year will be harder than it was for Oldest son. Oldest son rode the bus the first day, he didn't even car. Youngest, well, I think I'll drive him and Oldest the first day. Oldest is very excited to walk him to his classroom, but I don't think he'll enjoy leaving his brother hysterical in the hallway when he has to leave. No, I won't put that on my 8 year old. We'll see how it goes. Maybe I'll send the husband, Middle is better at detaching from him than me. <br />
<br />
Baby Boy is growing like a weed. He's big, chunky, and all smiles. Such a happy baby. He likes to scrap with his sister and furniture when possible, and will eat (or try) anything you put in front of him. One more month, and we hit the 12 month stage...no more formula (YAY!), and real real food (although I have been giving him PB&J for a while now. What can I say, he's the fourth kid. I am less necrotic.<br />
<br />
OK, time to get back to work. blah.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-75243658061166021542011-12-20T12:10:00.000-05:002011-12-20T12:10:34.308-05:00Love for LibbySo, through the month of December, my wonderful husband, along with a few great men from the Fort Mill area have been growing mustaches to raise money for a local girl who has cancer. Last night they had their final meeting and presented the family with a check for $13,717...and donations are still coming in. This has been such an amazing event to be part of. The Kern family and their daughter Libby are wonderful, as are their friends within the community that organized this and other events to raise money for this little girl. <br />
<br />
Last night the men had a pagent of sorts for their mustaches and it was hilarious. They were asked how their mustaches could solve the crisis in the Middle East, and had a competition to see whose lip sweater could hold the most beer foam. <br />
<br />
My husband being the ham that he is, decided to grow a handle bar mustache and showed up last night wearing his coveted <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20width=%22560%22%20height=%22315%22%20src=%22http://www.youtube.com/embed/QPB45AUmchM%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20allowfullscreen%3E%3C/iframe%3E">Three Wolf Moon t-shirt</a>. He looked the part, that's for sure, but in the end, it was the pirate that won the award for most awesome Mustache. We'll get 'em next year babe! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXnyZQvwSB1Ol446lFncd6xlcoQJ-Lw5q96TwFxRjS6_-mRKvUV8yJq6YQL4EtCnNtTOgLPkhIREDka7lPHjQ0LhI2KjjE-DnJ3xV9S1Dyaz0E_JDsI-XRP0zWEUMPyx29AvP7_N9k0JJ0/s1600/317854_222945634440349_210385245696388_503333_548066082_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXnyZQvwSB1Ol446lFncd6xlcoQJ-Lw5q96TwFxRjS6_-mRKvUV8yJq6YQL4EtCnNtTOgLPkhIREDka7lPHjQ0LhI2KjjE-DnJ3xV9S1Dyaz0E_JDsI-XRP0zWEUMPyx29AvP7_N9k0JJ0/s400/317854_222945634440349_210385245696388_503333_548066082_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Meeting<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUdWrUjETBUMmusJ5Y-DtcJ2Ta6dvx5s1LCx6o6AeoZbPXHlvN4nFGMNEGVL6i4n6XESufaKuKgKQSrVrfrX4nGzCb8Lm4nSku56IMszKIgf58eU5-IXRCYznBM8bagWFjZd_r7oHgBNg/s1600/group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUdWrUjETBUMmusJ5Y-DtcJ2Ta6dvx5s1LCx6o6AeoZbPXHlvN4nFGMNEGVL6i4n6XESufaKuKgKQSrVrfrX4nGzCb8Lm4nSku56IMszKIgf58eU5-IXRCYznBM8bagWFjZd_r7oHgBNg/s400/group.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last Meeting</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgaYgXZpuQB6GZwIl-e539qBsivxL9uaet5DglfcRI0fSACjiTndr7b3qKAKBu2q19zhOepWbfYdFVeLrA1ouidZqlvLqjOTeS8PKm9xeyiPeFR_HNuDXq3EuaynwelGdWGt0t3BPAM0V/s1600/reveal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgaYgXZpuQB6GZwIl-e539qBsivxL9uaet5DglfcRI0fSACjiTndr7b3qKAKBu2q19zhOepWbfYdFVeLrA1ouidZqlvLqjOTeS8PKm9xeyiPeFR_HNuDXq3EuaynwelGdWGt0t3BPAM0V/s400/reveal.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Reveal</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRvvYrf_B4nDpqpUwvEXPsK6tU7ifBz_3kISCxMxsARIEmtl6TN5vICQ1wZqIj1rdV74y2TfJbjqss9juBsLUi2777rsg6fMBgoj9vGjoUjMHaqj__gfJ6PXx2RqKCf0ANBuM57MJX3cXr/s1600/Rob+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRvvYrf_B4nDpqpUwvEXPsK6tU7ifBz_3kISCxMxsARIEmtl6TN5vICQ1wZqIj1rdV74y2TfJbjqss9juBsLUi2777rsg6fMBgoj9vGjoUjMHaqj__gfJ6PXx2RqKCf0ANBuM57MJX3cXr/s400/Rob+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob wins the foam contest</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdjiYoC39XEZ3za9EP1YD6eFf3Wo-5SOH0gGUfU34V0aPuAcKRpBF9wF02dpWOqKlKIfAWqRQCkD4YtsE_l1wMpRCY78GRSKcL2F-Enjb5bTmYn_PLNYZNGVhhlcPr-D1zBJaBJRdl-RW/s1600/Rob+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdjiYoC39XEZ3za9EP1YD6eFf3Wo-5SOH0gGUfU34V0aPuAcKRpBF9wF02dpWOqKlKIfAWqRQCkD4YtsE_l1wMpRCY78GRSKcL2F-Enjb5bTmYn_PLNYZNGVhhlcPr-D1zBJaBJRdl-RW/s400/Rob+3.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's HOT </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cH8gmt8ajJ7XMjGP2paWHkOpiSC4862UKNKnXo_SE1WoNWvDMRp0AeLomOV_4FJ2z2Pf3A9Dcuxj9YIBhciwjIJ8UfzZ6DxEey54FoQAGJLA4-xKPEYNnjDFp1kbnvNRZCSYXN2psApP/s1600/Rob.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cH8gmt8ajJ7XMjGP2paWHkOpiSC4862UKNKnXo_SE1WoNWvDMRp0AeLomOV_4FJ2z2Pf3A9Dcuxj9YIBhciwjIJ8UfzZ6DxEey54FoQAGJLA4-xKPEYNnjDFp1kbnvNRZCSYXN2psApP/s400/Rob.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Explaining why he should win</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-24047259809485386362011-12-20T11:37:00.000-05:002011-12-20T11:37:13.863-05:00Time to Write Again!Over the past few months I have been so busy with my Dad's blog that I have neglected mine, but it was worth it. For those of you that didn't also follow that blog, he walked the Appalachian Trail this year. GA-ME, over 2,000 miles in 6 months and a week (or was it two?). Amazing stuff!<br />
<br />
So, now that he's done, that work is done, and I can come back to enrich your lives with my crazy kids stories and rants about overachieving mothers.<br />
<br />
Speaking of which, have any of you read this piece: <a href="http://peopleiwanttopunchinthethroat.blogspot.com/2011/12/over-achieving-elf-on-shelf-mommies.html">Elf Overachievers</a>? Its hilarious, and those of us with Elves in our houses right now that are lazy and never move will appreciate it. Our elf Scout has been a little more active this year thanks to these moms and their posts on facebook (now, some of them are my dear friends and I love them, despite their time to prepare elf shenanigans at night). Just last night he brought each of the kids a Christmas blanket to snuggle up with. Then, today he fell from his perch on our light and the kids stood around him as if at a crime scene. They knew full well that they couldn't touch him, but he looked so helpless laying face down on the floor, so I told them that it was OK for Mommies to pick up the Elf in times of crisis such as this, and I put him safely on my desk (and will sew some velcro to his hands so that doesn't happen again!).<br />
<br />
We did our yearly Polar Express party last week. We had 28 kids in our media room and it was about 100 degrees in there. It still smells like kids and candy. Either because of the heat, or because they've seen the movie 100 times, the kids were over it around the time they meet the hobo on the top, and ended up playing instead. After a few minutes it was clear that anarchy was breaking lose in the basement, and all adults retreated to the upstairs where there was booze. The most magical part of the night was when Santa came down our street and stopped in front of the house for all the kids to see! We managed to get through the night with minor scuffles among the kids, no injuries, and only one cup of spilled hot chocolate. It was a total success!<br />
<br />
Now, we wait for the big man to visit our house. This year we told Santa that wrapping wasn't necessary. Instead, we asked him to just put everything together first, to minimize garbage and wait time for playing. Of course, Grandma and Grandpas didn't get this memo, but it wouldn't be Christmas without some wrapping paper to clean up. I've enjoyed seeing everyone's holiday cards as they come in the mail, and each time I get one I get a pain of guilt. You see, I thought I ordered enough cards, but I didn't. What's more, I didn't even get the right amount of envelopes with my cards, so it was a big of an epic fail this year. I even ordered the damn things in October!! oh well. I posted a photo of it on Facebook and called it good.<br />
<br />
The new year is upon us! 2012, the year we've all been waiting for, right? How many specials on the end of the world do you think they play on the history channel and Discovery before December 23rd? I hate those shows. Truthfully, my theory is that the Myan creating this calendar figured going up to 2012 was far enough and then went on vacation. Little did her know the controversy it would cause. Speaking of Calendars, at Wal-Mart yesterday I got a notebook calendar for myself to write things down in. You see, I'm becoming quite the journalist for My Carolina Town and am meeting with more and more people and since I can't remember jack and don't really pay attention to alerts on my phone, I decided to needs a hard copy calendar for my purse. Let's hope this helps me and I actually use it and didn't waste $10 of it yesterday.<br />
<br />
Lastly, with the new year coming up, we all have new resolutions. I usually don't make any, but I really want this to be the year that I lose this damn baby weight! I'm not having anymore kids and I need to keep up my energy level to keep up with them...its time. we'll see how that goes for me. I signed up to run the Rock and Roll half marathon in November, and along with that goal, my mental goal is to fit into JCrew's fall line. Wish me luck! I gotta stop buying Pizza Rolls.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-5914420956506699532011-11-28T09:29:00.000-05:002011-11-28T09:29:15.801-05:00ThanksgivingSome may remember when we moved to SC, that I had a bit of a problem with this move. I missed my friends in Seattle so very much and often wondered if we made the right choice. Well, 2 year later, I can honestly say that we did. This past week I had my parents, my brothers family, and my sisters family at our house for Thanksgiving and it was amazing. That would never happen out in Seattle (not to say that our Thanksgiving with Cool Aunt Ronnie weren't amazing, because they were, we love you CAR!).<br />
<br />
This was the first time I've seen dad since his Appalachian Trail Hike began in March (and ended in October at the top of Mt. Katahdin). He looked great...but older. He was pretty skinny, and was a little hunched over from being stiff from the walk. Then he has cataracts now and can't see well, so in general, he seemed older than usual, but he'll get those pesky eyes fixed next week, and I know that will help a lot! He played legos with the kids and took them on walks with my mom. They were so happy to see both their grandparents!<br />
<br />
My brother has never come to visit before. Seattle was to far, and stopping by just never worked out, but he came for Thanksgiving and it was awesome. The girls and my sons were so happy playing together and there were a lot of laughs. Watching Jimmy play Dance Central was the highlight of the vacation. I wish I could post a video of it! <br />
<br />
MaryLou and he husband and daughter were here, which is always a treat. We talked babies (she's due in March), and drank while she ate :) My Middle has a special love for Uncle Scott, he was so excited to see him. and Baby Girl and Bailey are the same age and enjoyed loving each other, then fighting with each other. Gotta love that age.<br />
<br />
On Black Friday mom said she would watch the kids while all us adults went out to shop and before she finished her sentence we were screeching out of the driveway! We went to Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Target, and Home Depot...then to lunch. It was so much fun! While at Home Depot I purchased a fire pit and that evening we had a wonderful fire with s'mores and laughter. <br />
<br />
Saturday we hit up Anne Springs Greenway and the women enjoyed the craft show while the men took the kids into the woods for an adventure. The afternoon everyone left for home, and that evening my 7 year old was in tears because he missed everyone so much. It was such a great visit.<br />
<br />
Now the Christmas season starts! Usually we are decorated the day after Thanksgiving, but we were to busy to put everything up. Next weekend we'll celebrate Sara's 21st (YES 21st!) birthday by decorating the tree and putting up lights. She can't wait :) Of course, today its pretty nice out, maybe I could get a few up outside before it starts to rain....hmmmm...maybe I should go grocery shopping first. We can't eat Christmas lights (although I am sure the kids would be amused by the challenge.).<br />
<br />
Happy Holidays!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-25364901516885816392011-11-03T21:30:00.001-04:002011-11-03T21:30:54.218-04:00New bedding makes me happy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://boldprepaid.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/target_frame.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://boldprepaid.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/target_frame.jpg" id="blogsy-1320370220549.3572" class="alignleft" alt="" width="257" height="184"></a></div><p>It's the small things in life, right? I am a big proponent of retail therapy, much to my husbands dismay, and while browsing through Target the other day I decided that it was time we got new sheets for our bed. The store had all their flannel sheets out, and using the design tips I have gotten from pintrest, I bought some! The sheets are white with silvery gray snowflakes, so I got two plain gray pillow cases to go with them, and then I bought a purple (real deep) blanket to go with it. It's one of those blankets that is ridiculously soft. The kid of soft that used to be only available to babies!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/boston/12_12_GQ1.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://i-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/boston/12_12_GQ1.jpg" id="blogsy-1320370220632.447" class="alignright" alt="Not my bed...but you get the idea" width="195" height="225"></a></div><p style="text-align:right;"><em>not my bed, but you get the idea</em></p><p>When I put the freshly laundered sheets and blanket on my bed, I was so ready to curl up in it! Alas, it was only 2:00 pm, so that would have to wait. The kids were forbidden from even thinking of going into my room. No way, the only one getting food on this new bedding is ME! When the opportunity came to go to bed, I was thrilled. I copied up and got my book out and was in heaven! </p><p>Yes, getting new sheets has been inspiring (as dumb as that sounds), and I am now on a mission to make my home as cozy as my bed. It will take just short of forever with these four crumb-grabbers under my feet, but it will happen! a throw blanket here, a pillow there, and before you know it, cozy town!</p><p>One thing I will be doing is buying flannel sheets for the rest of the house. I can't be greedy and save all this comfort for Rob and I!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-37286357040566758952011-11-03T10:00:00.000-04:002011-11-03T10:04:06.296-04:00An interview with Anna DeskinsAnna Deskins is the author of the Children's book, "The Adventures of Smitty." <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD6t_LfM-snfMw6uxXbr3tJ89sAjgtI3JEnPW-NLa8FZHbnlaIf9-SG3XCqNiPHXXaSgNHaWiWNpCKLsuIoSnc9U2h65uTH7gL_KAvrirpHLhuQnLfhEauJpM8fslCNe93y-4RLTwzA9fH/s1600/Smitty-Book-Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD6t_LfM-snfMw6uxXbr3tJ89sAjgtI3JEnPW-NLa8FZHbnlaIf9-SG3XCqNiPHXXaSgNHaWiWNpCKLsuIoSnc9U2h65uTH7gL_KAvrirpHLhuQnLfhEauJpM8fslCNe93y-4RLTwzA9fH/s400/Smitty-Book-Cover.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
Below is an interview with her about her and her book. Enjoy!!<br />
<br />
<b>Your children's book, The Adventures of Smitty looks magically. Tell us about it.<i>
</i></b><i>It's the story of a magical island of little creatures called Smilies and the mischievous little main character, Smitty. He's such a naughty boy. Haha! All the moms and kids I've shared it with have been giving me such a wonderful reaction. I cannot believe it. I have to tell you how excited I am to finally have a life-long dream come true. Writing The Adventures of Smitty was really about finding a story that I would want to read to my children at night. It has to be exciting but not scary so that my two daughters can go to sleep. Basically, I was looking for that perfect blend to read to my kids at night and decided, "Why not try writing my own?"
We've had a lot of changes in our life recently, so I want to make sure that when I put my daughters to sleep that they feel safe. I have short chapters because I know how busy we moms are but if you can just sacrifice 5 minutes at night reading to your kids, it makes a world of difference. Your kids will never forget it. And although we're running around the whirlwind of life, our kids grow up so fast, and that time that we'd rather finish watching what happened in our favorite soap opera instead of reading to our kids will never come again. I hope that The Adventures of Smitty and books like it help moms do exactly that.
</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyW8Uf8iPVWnw0deX6GprwG5EbQI0x2GD9RajjQKrugk2R-hbvcSmoWZwsUOp8cGklk-nTDDueUCrKoeYlphb07lER9iS0X4aFWz_kW8D3J-YNNeLFnfF3dDkGwdM3PFr8XZu9nFjLAV7Y/s1600/Author-Anna-Deskins-with-Kids---The-Adven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyW8Uf8iPVWnw0deX6GprwG5EbQI0x2GD9RajjQKrugk2R-hbvcSmoWZwsUOp8cGklk-nTDDueUCrKoeYlphb07lER9iS0X4aFWz_kW8D3J-YNNeLFnfF3dDkGwdM3PFr8XZu9nFjLAV7Y/s400/Author-Anna-Deskins-with-Kids---The-Adven.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>And it's only 99 cents this week. That's what I love about it. Now, You are recently divorced. How have you been able to continue writing when going through such a change?</b>
<i>Yes, it is by far one of the most challenging points in my life. To see a marriage you thought would last forever to not last forever was difficult for the two of us. I really learned a lot about myself and most importantly, it's brought me closer to my daughters. I think that's what really motivated me to finish this children's book no matter what. When you're going through changes in your life like this, you need something to hold on to. There's a part of you that wants to prove that you can make it, that you will be a success even if it's not with the partner you originally imagined building a life with. I had to keep writing, for my kids. I want to show them that they have to keep strong, no matter what.
We as women, as moms really need to stick together to support each other and our dreams. We're living in an age when I think we're finally realizing, although we want love, the men in our life aren't the answer to everything. We have to stand up on our own two feet and keep going. True love will happen, but until then, we have to keep moving forward. Our children depend on us and we depend on us.</i><br />
<br />
<b>In addition to being a children's book author, you're also a small business owner. How do you juggle taking care of two daughters and at the same time running a business?
</b><i>Yes, I am a fashion designer and have a retail store. Any type of creativity is what I'm passionate about. That's why writing The Adventures of Smitty was so important to me. Let me tell you, running a small business in today's economy isn't easy especially when raising two girls at the same time. But somehow, it seems someone's watching over me because my dreams are coming true no matter what. To have that many moms glowing about my children's book, means so much to me. And I know my girls are proud.</i><br />
<br />
<b>
When do you ever have time to write?</b><i>
You mean, in between laundry, running a business, chasing my girls around the house, cleaning the house, and flying back and forth fromMiami to New York? Haha? That's one thing I've learned, when you really want to do something, you find a way. Things fall into place if you just go for it and that's what I want to encourage all the moms who are reading this right now. Whatever your goal is, you can do it. Don't let the challenges in your personal life stop you from going for your dreams. Just go for it and it's almost magical how things fall into place.</i><br />
<br />
<b>
Where can we get a copy of "The Adventures of Smitty"?</b>
<i>Right now, it's available online by going to: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/94655 You can also visit my website:http://www.AnnaDeskins.com where you can read more about my writing process, my recommendations for other books and my own adventures in Mommyhood.
I'm so grateful for your support and the support I'm getting from so many wonderful moms who dream of writing children's books one day too. Writing The Adventures of Smitty has been such an emotional experience for me, a true journey as I was going through so many changes while writing it. It's truly been a blessing in my life. It, along with my daughters, and that guy upstairs have really pulled me through a challenging time. </i><br />
<br />
Thanks for the interview, Anna! And let's go out and support a fellow mom by getting a copy of The Adventures of Smitty today. I know I will!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-51663223844142131202011-08-18T10:19:00.000-04:002011-08-18T10:19:46.008-04:00The Last Lazy Days of SummerOur summer has come to a close, and I haven't told you all very much about it! Oh well, I have four kids 7 and under...writing time has alluded me while getting used to this :)<br />
<br />
Anyway, After our beach trip in June, July came in feirce and furious. First we went to visit Rob's parents in Richmond. They had not met Youngest yet, and had not seen Baby Girl in a long while. Needless to say, after having us there for three days (ALL OF US), they were ready for a nap, but it was a wonderful visit. On our way home we stopped by my sisters lake house on Lake Gaston (in VA), and swam and played for a couple hours before getting back home. We would have stayed the night, but trying to figure out how to fit a family of 6 in a small space was giving me a panic attack! I made the executive decision to drive back home after our fun. Of course, Mother Nature punished me with a wicked storm that lasted about half the drive!<br />
<br />
After Virginia, came St. Thomas!! Holla! I went with my best friend, and college roommate, Ann for our friends wedding. What an awesome trip. Sun, fun, and plenty of sleep. Karaoke was definately the high light (besides the actual wedding of course!). When I got back, I had one day to prepare my family for our 3 day road trip to Vermont!<br />
<br />
We left bright and early with a Van full of 4 kids, 2 adults, and a dog. The trip up was great. We stopped at my moms place (which we had to ourselves because she is in the NE waiting for my dad to finish the Appalachian Trail), then at my Aunt Terri's house in CT, which is always a fun time! We met up with my mom there and the next day she rode with me and the kids while Rob and the dog took her car.<br />
<br />
Vermont was awesome (as usual). Seeing my cousin Karen's baby for the first time was amazing, and he and Youngest are only a few weeks apart. I am hoping we can make our little trip together each year so they can have the same close cousin bond as the rest of us have. Seeing Christine and her family was also a total hoot. We knew it would be after the fun everyone had last summer. Eldest and her oldest had a great time playing together while other kids napped, and the girls swam across the lake once again. I also got to see my cousin Sean and his fiance Rachel. I am so happy for them! Bon fires, S'mores, bourbon, beer and your cousins. It doesn't get better than that.<br />
<br />
Vermont rounded out the month of July and then we were into August. Here in SC, school starts in August and we had 17 days to play and have fun before that happened. we hit the pool more in those 17 days than we did the rest of the summer, and I am proud to say that Middle and Baby Girl are both super good around the water and Eldest continues to be my fish. Middle also made excellent friends with our neighbors son, who is just a few months younger. They spend most of the day playing between our houses, which has been a true blessing, since its Middle that makes me the most crazy. Turns out it is a blessing for both me and his friends mother, since she can get some work done while they play! Its a win win!<br />
<br />
Finally, school was upon us. Edlest started first grade yesterday (Aug. 17th), and from what I gathered from him, it was a good day, albeit pretty hot (especially on the bus). One thing that helped me organize for the school year was discovering that my window crayons work on my black fridge! It looks pretty smart and I am happy to finally just write on the fridge, instead of wasting money on magnetic white boards. I will no longer have chalk board fridge envy :) Best part is, it all comes off with a little spray of windex.<br />
<br />
A new school year has begun, which means new ways to organize myself. As the kids get older, more is expected of them (homework!), and we also signed Eldest up for Soccer this fall, which means organizing one more activity each week. Luckily, my favorite store on the planet opened in Charlotte...THE CONTAINER STORE! Oh my gosh, I was so stoked when I hear. I live and breath this store and could do some serious damage if I had no moral code. The boxes, the containers, the gadgets...oh lord! When my dad gets back from his trip, we are going to spend a whole day there. He's never been to one of their stores before and I think he'll be just as happy as me when we step in! <br />
<br />
So, there's an update for you. Oh and I started writing a book. It will probably take me forever, but I'm happy that I started. Look for it to be published in 2020!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr_70gvtjtgvZFAhNTkoYn5N5XuWwX04imSefYQBSkiSA-ukIHYEhB_dwb9X6-JgFrs4JkggX5gHt5QcRKXB2jzitaN9RDrKMMCdD_UnW38Bv0Y47bYFLVb6sKAIvkVeq4Z6CUbN09c-WV/s1600/263175_10150240937623991_671748990_7091133_410762_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr_70gvtjtgvZFAhNTkoYn5N5XuWwX04imSefYQBSkiSA-ukIHYEhB_dwb9X6-JgFrs4JkggX5gHt5QcRKXB2jzitaN9RDrKMMCdD_UnW38Bv0Y47bYFLVb6sKAIvkVeq4Z6CUbN09c-WV/s400/263175_10150240937623991_671748990_7091133_410762_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa Young and Youngest</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZoOzGkIm-suTFWfL0KfH-X-Bo74-lzQ5xxJTNneae-0dK3s-99e-3OsJmYXcqhh4ZtLgfzMpfsbOiBXlsLn5SwF7rGquW_Hl32hl89OJnTILV-yR946v6pXWYAvPjiChCaSwhGPrVT1mo/s1600/270383_10150243174003991_671748990_7110370_4858138_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZoOzGkIm-suTFWfL0KfH-X-Bo74-lzQ5xxJTNneae-0dK3s-99e-3OsJmYXcqhh4ZtLgfzMpfsbOiBXlsLn5SwF7rGquW_Hl32hl89OJnTILV-yR946v6pXWYAvPjiChCaSwhGPrVT1mo/s400/270383_10150243174003991_671748990_7110370_4858138_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grammy Young, Cousin Avery, and Baby Girl</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFAKp9b19kt7KdrFfJexHoldpBhyphenhyphen8xTX23zN3DZJemRwG8czDJV2AUe1L_9QFCNH-4VGDRMSWQQYekhBSKREs85MTB889bRy-ebLxrsGjysYmgRKCRDMOgF_54kYOQyn8MxIX-HjJS7j_S/s1600/268141_10150243176743991_671748990_7110391_5410117_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFAKp9b19kt7KdrFfJexHoldpBhyphenhyphen8xTX23zN3DZJemRwG8czDJV2AUe1L_9QFCNH-4VGDRMSWQQYekhBSKREs85MTB889bRy-ebLxrsGjysYmgRKCRDMOgF_54kYOQyn8MxIX-HjJS7j_S/s400/268141_10150243176743991_671748990_7110391_5410117_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edlest swimming in Lake Gaston</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj260qPsGiEnxqa54ov8fIFdwM4WkEhyBS4Syi2d-zUCkmV-Qk8QStewAUftRwm6HJTKY4qXS4yihIJjLdT0rlIyBfuceWN2ocvxHZslSF4m2wghowg2oW875iVIJ5DUZvYC598T2XoqtJ7/s1600/269514_10150239526808991_671748990_7075576_1814071_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj260qPsGiEnxqa54ov8fIFdwM4WkEhyBS4Syi2d-zUCkmV-Qk8QStewAUftRwm6HJTKY4qXS4yihIJjLdT0rlIyBfuceWN2ocvxHZslSF4m2wghowg2oW875iVIJ5DUZvYC598T2XoqtJ7/s400/269514_10150239526808991_671748990_7075576_1814071_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 4th of July! (Eldest, Middle, and Baby Girl)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharIIREkbkpsrilzjmNlwHUSHehOie49EWJ9lXB4GgiYVeOc_0v679eMSJxl6WAgMmmdmlMJckpZW1WOTVP3r6zfH1vFDFo4G0MFTxuGuAqjEfD9FezA8G9CU5nxhCARoT9CKty6CXfkVO/s1600/262419_10150262431928991_671748990_7298938_8132504_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharIIREkbkpsrilzjmNlwHUSHehOie49EWJ9lXB4GgiYVeOc_0v679eMSJxl6WAgMmmdmlMJckpZW1WOTVP3r6zfH1vFDFo4G0MFTxuGuAqjEfD9FezA8G9CU5nxhCARoT9CKty6CXfkVO/s400/262419_10150262431928991_671748990_7298938_8132504_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma Jane rides with us to Vermont!</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYditkumWpLFk3MdPFYUjNHWqtpqb7I4J6k32lVmt_AG3umfwtHkfExIhd5d7cVY_QomAexDPNSqXw7pc3-XwXbCPO8Zv8TYWWgoNJ1bHRhVbSDq5H-7bsZL48dEa77OR3F7pWvEQalnz/s1600/263212_10150262432428991_671748990_7298953_3986638_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYditkumWpLFk3MdPFYUjNHWqtpqb7I4J6k32lVmt_AG3umfwtHkfExIhd5d7cVY_QomAexDPNSqXw7pc3-XwXbCPO8Zv8TYWWgoNJ1bHRhVbSDq5H-7bsZL48dEa77OR3F7pWvEQalnz/s400/263212_10150262432428991_671748990_7298953_3986638_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Grammy Burke and Baby Girl</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3e7emtCYReB6tZq3m3sLzg_-6TBQ_qQkohkWlJFTIltgmSvNZzM62f9cBsAIhMFQRy4vujZEvJgwPnLxZTptRX9ekjcBIvTaHyBhJzI08EWVQZEe1k3xsk5DZgEUTtzR8nXu1YHUXwx2/s1600/225710_10150262435398991_671748990_7299023_7545082_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3e7emtCYReB6tZq3m3sLzg_-6TBQ_qQkohkWlJFTIltgmSvNZzM62f9cBsAIhMFQRy4vujZEvJgwPnLxZTptRX9ekjcBIvTaHyBhJzI08EWVQZEe1k3xsk5DZgEUTtzR8nXu1YHUXwx2/s400/225710_10150262435398991_671748990_7299023_7545082_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karen, Her baby boy, myself, and Christine</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisApDMXRHaQgOByaMElIW07iQGmfeYm3nUyLN_gk5mzBX9NT9sanjDME8ZNI6MSUWctWab8E4MlZhdtL1oyKvuYG-1Haa_fZA4rt2P5r632NMB4fHfdOW8FdCKjHBleWnVLDvIm4UpQxHO/s1600/185568_10150262432513991_671748990_7298955_5931142_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisApDMXRHaQgOByaMElIW07iQGmfeYm3nUyLN_gk5mzBX9NT9sanjDME8ZNI6MSUWctWab8E4MlZhdtL1oyKvuYG-1Haa_fZA4rt2P5r632NMB4fHfdOW8FdCKjHBleWnVLDvIm4UpQxHO/s400/185568_10150262432513991_671748990_7298955_5931142_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Baby Cousins</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnsz-kiv93XzL504ZPC1hLu47FN5Jd24x1sp6gwUNsvHfcJat0hcQKzKQUF-CVJsHbfr-06SShvb2MIZbRWfuWgilhiECoxTIKfXFydPI1ZAOzFvrUewN6RNAtQtSh5Z6Imuxqde2FUzyv/s1600/281440_10150262434323991_671748990_7299004_1980993_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnsz-kiv93XzL504ZPC1hLu47FN5Jd24x1sp6gwUNsvHfcJat0hcQKzKQUF-CVJsHbfr-06SShvb2MIZbRWfuWgilhiECoxTIKfXFydPI1ZAOzFvrUewN6RNAtQtSh5Z6Imuxqde2FUzyv/s400/281440_10150262434323991_671748990_7299004_1980993_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Youngest, Middle, Baby Girl, and Eldest</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmlmCVf5e-hwvAzryvpvru05Wht3HpZVrw0-ML5aeDIdMdUgycX923gplHSJ6tdF7EvZ1guHzhv_qm58KNc87nUt8Z6UEVL3n9SYd0mv3OZ4p6m6ThSA2oSPu5iZpf9W5MiJ4e4VE6IS6/s1600/284162_10150262434533991_671748990_7299008_6357831_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmlmCVf5e-hwvAzryvpvru05Wht3HpZVrw0-ML5aeDIdMdUgycX923gplHSJ6tdF7EvZ1guHzhv_qm58KNc87nUt8Z6UEVL3n9SYd0mv3OZ4p6m6ThSA2oSPu5iZpf9W5MiJ4e4VE6IS6/s400/284162_10150262434533991_671748990_7299008_6357831_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cousins Picture!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nFKz_7wTtEnGWjKWlw5zkNcRsC1fpLZDkA35nwpMa6YELWNPJDGv8xSYOYrgNrHdVEFgjmQPh3B0U4d7moYK2FEaXb7WTxqndng_jaHwJiPzdU1bPcHXC0DQkfzIJJAvtON4yFTfHQgM/s1600/262508_10150276260598991_671748990_7434520_7572189_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nFKz_7wTtEnGWjKWlw5zkNcRsC1fpLZDkA35nwpMa6YELWNPJDGv8xSYOYrgNrHdVEFgjmQPh3B0U4d7moYK2FEaXb7WTxqndng_jaHwJiPzdU1bPcHXC0DQkfzIJJAvtON4yFTfHQgM/s400/262508_10150276260598991_671748990_7434520_7572189_n.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last day of summer fun (a bucket for two, Middle and Baby Girl)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8IVv8vlXqX5voXZ54Ozap3ir7yrJVwWUspy0w0n3ZLJbxHuoExiTI_iJzxQWecAdudNKPGHWjuXRTzR-Y2LyClHErJutSfFqURzBSA1NEVkOTLTqDuljU9cNxpNAmhGu5g-WobzeKcRF5/s1600/299834_10150276845713991_671748990_7439013_5228868_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8IVv8vlXqX5voXZ54Ozap3ir7yrJVwWUspy0w0n3ZLJbxHuoExiTI_iJzxQWecAdudNKPGHWjuXRTzR-Y2LyClHErJutSfFqURzBSA1NEVkOTLTqDuljU9cNxpNAmhGu5g-WobzeKcRF5/s400/299834_10150276845713991_671748990_7439013_5228868_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Popcicles with friends! Middle, Baby Girl, and our neighbors son</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnhs3u7LXlsA21EI_qZrm07EA90k1GgSyRUAhPdr4sos9gTVlWMiYSB1PvOMR55sPo2BFhVBxF5zLgVAM0fgywTnKvXToO56HgTRSmHw7MkXpFVwU6l6fmhBX7AV_ZbmhpVnFbp5wGZbnp/s1600/293990_10150276366943991_671748990_7435284_1274622_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnhs3u7LXlsA21EI_qZrm07EA90k1GgSyRUAhPdr4sos9gTVlWMiYSB1PvOMR55sPo2BFhVBxF5zLgVAM0fgywTnKvXToO56HgTRSmHw7MkXpFVwU6l6fmhBX7AV_ZbmhpVnFbp5wGZbnp/s400/293990_10150276366943991_671748990_7435284_1274622_n.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Window Crayons make my fridge look pretty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3cuB-hdGjgG0wtEeU99yOR0yKtxwZq0wSI17mkmKT8tAfyHGe7XOFQinbeG09R6PPzpZIOccbY1l26cAJn2ZBuutZhG91Dlln0KZBLprlBUv1wfmkL4VH6MgPwu0LUKbgZUPVtG1OI5y/s1600/292826_10150276696318991_671748990_7437764_3751762_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3cuB-hdGjgG0wtEeU99yOR0yKtxwZq0wSI17mkmKT8tAfyHGe7XOFQinbeG09R6PPzpZIOccbY1l26cAJn2ZBuutZhG91Dlln0KZBLprlBUv1wfmkL4VH6MgPwu0LUKbgZUPVtG1OI5y/s400/292826_10150276696318991_671748990_7437764_3751762_n.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy and Eldest off to the bus stop on the first day of school!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-85549463996361756582011-06-20T09:52:00.000-04:002011-06-20T09:52:06.662-04:00Life's a BeachThis past weekend my family of 6 went to the SC coast for the first time since moving here almost 2 years ago. It was on a whim, and it was worth every hour in the car. We went to North Myrtle and stayed in the Avista Condos. On the way down, Eldest barfed in the car, but our good fortune led us to a truck stop with a hose and long handled scrubbers, so even that couldn't dampen our excitment!<br />
<br />
When we arrived, and while unpacked the gear, Rob took the three oldest to the beach to run around and play. It was love at first site for Middle and Eldest, but Baby Girl HATED the ocean. She was scared stiff of it. Regardless, the next day we spent from 9 am to 3 PM on the beach. Youngest slept and hung out in a baby tent for the beach while the older three built sand castles and played in the ocean. <br />
<br />
What Rob and I were most surprised about is how much more relaxed we were at the ocean vs. the pool. It would seem that would be the opposite, but for some reason, we were less apprehensive with letting the boys run up and play in the surf vs. playing on the steps of the pool. The sun rejuvinated us and the kids have never been so tired in their lives. Even better, SPIKE TV was showing a Star Wars marathon, so the kids plopped down and watched until they couldn't keep their eyes open.<br />
<br />
Our Condo had a kitchen, so we made our own meals to save on money. The condo itself was a dump, I mean, the TV in our bedroom was black and white for chirst sake, but it was fine for the two nights we stayed. If we were to go for a week we would rent a house, or find a condo that had been updated since 1984. The one redeeming factor was the pool. They had both indoor and outdoor pools and each had its own "lazy river", which Eldest loved most. It was also RIGHT on the beach, so it was easy to go from the beach to the pool and back to the beach throughout the day.<br />
<br />
We'll be back, there's no doubt!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNG5QXXeZK2uh55gKHzR4w2MBO2KrznKucPweAvTZUl4TJQwT6W5qEx4kJ7gPkXbU6E12GLBYumMmN4Bh5f5bWnP0BeRjNJRRiC0IXjL90tYynjppGgqzDefgCgcyzsZvZgG0C34YdGrE/s1600/DSC02277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNG5QXXeZK2uh55gKHzR4w2MBO2KrznKucPweAvTZUl4TJQwT6W5qEx4kJ7gPkXbU6E12GLBYumMmN4Bh5f5bWnP0BeRjNJRRiC0IXjL90tYynjppGgqzDefgCgcyzsZvZgG0C34YdGrE/s400/DSC02277.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Middle LOVED the surf. I think he could have slept there if he could figure out how.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkYLo_-BCEVjFrjQBjSGleAQX6y-m35E9-7KXA7KcdkJCHbbqDavPj9dlirC_a9ghT348PjzBTva_2Y55Q8i_dpnEIQ7LWju8d7V_zBq6MUSsM8GwjY9OY_Q6x7PCYiqFW3heUqBSw7oB/s1600/DSC02278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkYLo_-BCEVjFrjQBjSGleAQX6y-m35E9-7KXA7KcdkJCHbbqDavPj9dlirC_a9ghT348PjzBTva_2Y55Q8i_dpnEIQ7LWju8d7V_zBq6MUSsM8GwjY9OY_Q6x7PCYiqFW3heUqBSw7oB/s400/DSC02278.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eldest was facinated by the clams that dug holes in the surf as the waves receeded back into the ocean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zUnVR73gEOLVA_EqQstsVnUhS8jr5XAPqaa8_ft3GfDVu8k_dUDafNJW5oGziN3mCKndCDEPTJEquCqscZheHc1VzEyspe8eFIzm-1Vx3rYcHplKg0e4qQgtavn_Rn8eHMTUq0MlEmLI/s1600/DSC02285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zUnVR73gEOLVA_EqQstsVnUhS8jr5XAPqaa8_ft3GfDVu8k_dUDafNJW5oGziN3mCKndCDEPTJEquCqscZheHc1VzEyspe8eFIzm-1Vx3rYcHplKg0e4qQgtavn_Rn8eHMTUq0MlEmLI/s400/DSC02285.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Girl! My littls sand flea.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFRQeGnDCNMDwr8Fhbf0XjbQMjbC9Jy52bi7s4uBXaNkZ7N-wSqR8HdX0-pvqos9pYLGqCHlAnXzKAQqiJh7ETPBhRQHQS3hhQ3QKVKjUapVmo88po8UO7HjNX2PFM4OnzHf0E0UcwYPO/s1600/DSC02284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFRQeGnDCNMDwr8Fhbf0XjbQMjbC9Jy52bi7s4uBXaNkZ7N-wSqR8HdX0-pvqos9pYLGqCHlAnXzKAQqiJh7ETPBhRQHQS3hhQ3QKVKjUapVmo88po8UO7HjNX2PFM4OnzHf0E0UcwYPO/s400/DSC02284.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Youngest chillin like a villan in his beach tent.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-56642492059745137372011-06-06T20:57:00.000-04:002011-06-06T20:57:02.007-04:00Screw You Skinny Bi*tches There are those who seem to have babies and then look like they just got done with a run way model shoot....then there is me. To those who lose the weight so fast (or didn't gain it to begin with) I say a hearty "ef you". "jealous much?" you might think....HELL yes I am jealous. "well, maybe you shouldn't have had all that ice cream while pregnant." you might be thinking, yeah well screw that.<br />
<br />
Yes, I am jealous, I hate feeling out of shape and like jabba the huts younger, more beautiful sister. But what I hate MOST is thinking about how in shape I once was, and how hard I worked to get there, and how now just walking up the stairs makes me sweat. How shopping for clothes was effortless, and now shopping for shorts is plain Impossible.<br />
<br />
Back in the day I took a lot of pilates classes and loved them. I could roll, plank, and boat with the best of them. Tonight I took my first class in over 6 years and I could hardly lift my legs...sure sure, I had a baby 6 weeks ago and my core is shot, so this shouldn't have been surprising, but what I didn't like was how fast I gave up when things were hard. This is something I really dislike about myself. Inside I like to think of myself as able to push through and succeed, then I am asked to do a side plank and i go into child's pose like...well like a child. <br />
<br />
So, even though this pilates class was my back up to the yoga I wanted to take this morning, I think I'll still go even if I do yoga in the am on mondays to prove to myself and the other classmates that I can do this, and will get better with each week. FYI, pilates and yoga are two different things...yoga is hard, but not impossible, pilates is all core and somewhat impossible at times. I have to admit, I miss my old instructor, Daria, at the pro club. She was great. The woman tonight was good, but didn't ease newbs in at all, and she did class to club music...it's hard to concentrate on your core and breathing while listening to "sexy back" by Justin timberlake. But I will go back, and maybe i will enjoy the club music once I get a little better at those side planks!!!<br />
<br />
But still, back to my original rant, those who lose baby weight within the first six weeks can kiss my butt. That is all.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-46093684101855518242011-05-09T21:46:00.001-04:002011-05-09T21:46:10.355-04:00My first blog post from my IPad<p>I love my husband. For our 12 year Anniversary he got me this awesome IPad and it is a joy to use. I downloaded the app called blogsy and am trying it for the first time.</p>
<p>So since my last post, I have had a baby! Yay, I feel so relieved physically and mentally. Our youngest is a doll baby and once we gothic in his own room and on the good formula he has been pretty good. No we aren't sleeping through the night and I feel like a ton of bricks has hit me each morning, but I can't complain. rob has been taking the older kids to school and baby girl and i enjoy our morning together while they are gone (so long as baby is sleeping.). She has her moments of jealousy, but has taken having a younger brother well. The boys love him, and talk about him endlessly to anyone that will listen. </p>
<p>So, the question is what will I call my kids now that I have more than just oldest middle and youngest? Well here are the new names:</p>
<p>Oldest is still oldest<br>Middle is still middle (as he is the middle son)<br>Youngest is now baby girl<br>And the new baby is ET</p>
<p>Got it? Good :)</p>
<p>So, I had a great mothers day here with the family. I got some great poems from oldest and middle and from those I gathered that I am a great cook and good at helping with homework and they think I am pretty which is awesome. I know I have written many a post about how hard it can be to stay home with these little ones, but I don't know what life would be like without them. Sure, I would get more sleep, but then what? Who would ask me questions about how bones work while they are trying to poop? who would snuggle next to me with the most disgusting smelling lovey ever? Who would say, "tanks mommy!" when I open a juice box? And who would cry out for me at 3:00 am? </p>
<p>I love those little nuggets and I try harder each day to make sure they know it. </p>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-83527416555544270182011-04-21T09:32:00.000-04:002011-04-21T09:32:54.827-04:00Where's the Light at the End of the Tunnel?If you've never been pregnant before, then take note for when you might be, the last few weeks are HELL. Not because you feel like a swollen cow, not because you are suffering back pain, and not because you haven't been sleeping well for weeks. Its hell because you are so close to the end of this journey, but have no idea when it will actually end.<br />
<br />
I am not good with waiting, and not knowing what will happen. I can't stand to hear "baby needs to cook.", or "it has to happen eventually". Yes, I know this. But I need to know, I HAVE to know when this is going to happen. I'm horribly bored with being pregnant, and my kids are over it too. I am an extreme bitch and have 0 patience with them (or anyone else for that matter) and am just ready to feel normal again, to sleep on my stomach, not have heartburn after drinking water, and get rid of this water weight.<br />
<br />
Today I have an OB appointment at 11:00. After my last she said she would schedule my induction for next week, but I never got a call for when that might be. If she hasn't thought about it, I may lose my mind. I've been a great patient so far, just going with the flow, but crazy Beth will come out if she says "maybe another week or two." Oh yeah, I will lose it. No, I can't wait until MAY to have a freakin' baby. I need a beer, I need to breath, and I NEED TO NOT BE PREGNANT anymore. I'm getting a little nutty about it, and my days are long and boring. get up, fight with the kids to do what I say, take rest time, fight with the kids some more, then watch NCIS on USA until I fall asleep. BAH! I want to not say "LEAVE ME ALONE" when my kids come ask me for something. <br />
<br />
Hopefully today I will have get that small light at the end of the tunnel, something concrete showing me that this will end on THIS day. If not, you'll find me at CVS buying caster oil. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328188809561412311.post-57981051054240792702011-04-04T15:25:00.000-04:002011-04-04T15:25:52.853-04:00ahh, the last few weeks...I am having some major DeeJa Vu writing this post as it was just 2 years ago that I was feeling the exact same way. However, 2 years ago I was going to have a baby in four days, not 14 (or more). Youngest will be 2 on Friday, Middle will be 4 on the 16th and this baby will be born sometime this month, but we're not sure when.<br />
<br />
My appointments are pretty damn boring and if I didn't need to make sure I had a good BP and urine tests, then I probably wouldn't bother. Its not like I need to know I gained 3 lbs in a week because I'm so bored I'm eating all the time. I should be walking, but taking the kids with me sucks when you can't run after them. I did have the OB check things out and I'm 2cm, which basically means I am closed, since this is my 4th baby. She would like things to be progressing more if I am to be induced the week of the 18th (which would be ideal, because its spring break and we wouldn't have to worry about how to get my oldest to school). <br />
<br />
So, here I sit again, for the fourth time, feeling each passing second tick by like Chinese water torture. The weather is perfect here, that is one bright note! At least I don't have to endure this endless time suck with the rainy weather of the NW (although I do miss the friends out there that would make the time go by faster...).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06257920894753790731noreply@blogger.com0