Our 'Homemade' Family

I really do lag

2011-02-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

It's a good thing no one is expecting me to post, because they would be sorely disappointed.

Well since September what has happened...R passed the TEAS, on the first try. WoooHooo. He also completed his history class and started Spanish this semester. He's on the wait list for the nursing program, but also applied for Fall. Fingers crossed that he gets in then and gets this show on the road. That would be a major blessing.

J now loves school and I can't remember the last time I heard him complain about it. Sure he does the "I wish it was a weekend" because he wants to play with his toys, but nothing like I was dealing with before. I'm very happy with our decision to move him and I can tell that he is as well. We applied to the local magnet schools for Kinder and will find out if we get in come March. The schools around here are NOT good and this would be a great way for him to get a little more form his public school education. Our first choice is the Science, Math and Tech magnet, but we will also take the Visual and performing arts magnet.

Other then that things are holding steady. It's all in God's hands.

THE Test

2010-09-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

My husband is taking THE test today. I am so nervous for him. It's the TEAS, the entrance exam for the nursing program. Wow, I can't believe he's come so far. Now most would think that THE test would be the NCLEX, but you can take that as many times as you want. The TEAS, you can take twice and your score can make you or break you with getting into the program. Don't pass in 2 attempts, and at least for his school, it's over. So yeah, I'm a bit on edge today.

Stressing about this has totally made me forget about my morning struggle with J and his well voiced hatred of school.

PreK

2010-08-26T10:32:00.000-07:00

Justus started a new school on Monday and the little guy is taking it hard, actually we both are. I'm sure my anxiety is not making it any easier on him, but he does not do well with change. The sad part is that from this point forward he will have to deal with change every year as he moves through the grades.

I see positives and negatives to this new school, but I will have to give it a few more weeks before I can make my final conclusion, because right now all I really want to do is wrap him in my arms and take him back over to the loving home preschool he was in before.

He needs this change...right?

Attire

2010-07-30T11:06:00.000-07:00

Today is a dance party at school. J wore a button down shirt, black pants and...sparkly tights. This from the boy that exclaimed "mommy a peach shirt and blue pants (jeans) don't match."

My Purse

2010-04-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

Since my hubby keeps asking if I'm putting these on the blog, I guess I better. Even though he never reads it :)

Where does this child get it from, his sarcasm? Oh that's right, me...
I lost my wallet, it's gone. I realized it when J was with me, so he got to hear all about it(I was nice). A few days later I bought a small cross body purse to use so it won't happen again. The other day we were at a store and he took said purse and put it on saying "I'm mommy, I'm mommy" and then started looking in the purse and without missing a beat said "where is my wallet, oh that's right, I lost my wallet" The cashier started laughing and I had to admit that I really did lose my wallet. Little brat.

Happy Birthday Hubby

2010-04-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

It was a busy weekend.

Saturday was Ryan's birthday. He said he had wanted to do "something", but had no idea what that something was. He made suggestions (Zoo, Seaworld) and then we decided they were too expensive. blah. So we decided on mini golf. It was a first for J, and had been a long time since R and I have played and it worked out really well. J isn't the next Tiger, but he had fun none the less and he was well behaved. The outdoors does that too him. He even waited patiently for his turn. After we played both courses we went inside for some video games and a pretzel. J got lucky twice on one game and got 25 and 75 tickets, so he could actually get a little something from the prize area, so he was excited. All in all it was a good time had of about 3hrs for about $25, can't much beat that. R requested pizza for dinner, so we had that and I had made a dirt cake. He said all he wanted for a gift was Oreo's so I figured that would be a fun dessert :) I also got him a pack of double stuffs. Yea, we're livin large.

Sunday was In-Law day. We had R's family over for dinner and cake. I made some baked Ziti and we also had salad and bread. Nothing fancy, but it went over well. And of course his chocolate cake. We weren't going to do the cake because he had been on Atkins, but has since stopped that so I made him a single layer instead of the huge one he usually gets. The cake has become an issue. He thinks his family only wants to celebrate his birthday because of this cake. I thinking it's just "icing on the cake" so to speak. haha.

Sunday night I also had to make cupcakes for my boss' birthday yesterday. He also got the other layer of the chocolate cake. Heck there were 20 people that came to the office for lunch, so I had to do something.

So basically a busy but fun weekend. Now I just want to sleep, but as I mentioned, taxes are due in 2 days. BLAH!!!

Happy Birthday Ryan!

Philiosophical Quotes

2010-04-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

J- You can't taste your taste buds.

Yes that's all I've got right now. Did you know taxes are due in 2 days?!?

Boogers

2010-02-16T11:08:00.000-08:00

J has a very bad habit of picking his nose and also eating it, gross! This morning we were driving to school and he had a Bagel to eat, but instead he was eating his boogers. So I asked him "do they taste yummy" and he said yes. I asked what they taste like and he said "chicken" and then a few seconds later "or maybe cow" yuck, yuck, yuck. Then we went on to discuss that boogers do not taste as good as ice cream, but better then celery.

He had told me a couple weeks back that he was going to stop eating them because he found out what they are made of. That didn't last long.

2 months?

2010-02-03T11:08:00.001-08:00

Okay, it's really sad that I have so much to say, but that it has been two months since I have posted on this blog. Wow, so much has happened in two months. Oh well, might have to do a recap later.

Happy Birthday

2009-12-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

My sweet boy, you just turned 4. You are growing up so fast, right before my eyes. And as much as you frustrate me, I love you ten times more. You are a skinny little thing and are nearly half my height. lol. You can be so sweet and loving and so over the top frustrating and angry. I'll figure you out one of these days. You love all vehicles and you could have a thousand firetrucks, but if they're not all the same you still don't have enough. You're getting very interested in playing dress-up and will wear your Halloween costume often.

For your birthday this year you got several tractors, some Star Wars stuff, a Leapster, and your favorite, a chainsaw from your auntie Jenna. You still refuse to talk to her and we're not sure why, but you love your cousins and could play with them all day. Boy you need to show auntie a little love, but I know you will in your own time.

And of course we have to have a birthday "Justisism". Upon opening a pair of Pajama's that you asked for, your reaction was "Oh just a fluffy old shirt". Just like a child :) I love you.

Songs

2009-12-02T10:39:00.001-08:00

I've been listening to a lot of music the past few days and heard a new song today on KLove. I guess it's a Christmas song, but I have never heard it. It touched me in this time. Yes, I do know it's about Mary and all, but the chorus really got me. And who does not need help in their daily walk?

Breath of Heaven

I have traveled-Many moonless nights-Cold and weary-With a babe inside-And I wonder-What I've done-Holy Father-You have come-And chosen me now-To carry your son

I am waiting-In a silent prayer-I am frightened-By the load I bear-In a world as cold as stone-Must I walk this path alone-Be with me now-Be with me now

CHORUS
Breath of Heaven-Hold me together-Be forever near me-Breath of Heaven
Breath of Heaven-Light in my darkness-Pour over me your holiness-For you're holy
Breath of Heaven

Do you wonder-As you watch my face-If a wiser one-Should have had my place-But I offer all I am-For the mercy of your plan-Help me be strong-Help me be-Help me

Breath of Heaven-Light in my darkness-Pour over me your holiness-For you're holy
Breath of Heaven

Signs

2009-12-01T23:48:00.000-08:00

I am all about signs, omens, dreams, etc. I think Friday the 13th is a good day. And I was born on 7/7/74, at 4:44, no joke. 7/7 is also my uncles birthday, we both share my grandma's middle name.

At the same time, I am also religious. I consider myself a Christian and I do pray. I refuse to ask for silly stuff, like being able to speed without getting caught or even asking for my husband to ace a test, but I do pray for things like patience, calm in my son, and that my husband be able to comprehend the questions and relax so that he can do his best on his tests. I guess I ask for skills, not things.

My grandma was also religious. She is who first brought me to church when I was little. Her funeral will be held at the same church, which I have not been to in forever. I don't even know if she went faithfully, but I do know she was religious. She is being buried because she believes that if you get cremated, you will not go to heaven, which I also found out yesterday.

All day yesterday I was looking for a sign. A sign that she is with me, that she is watching over me. I did not get one. I was sad. I walked my son in the door at daycare and thought about something I told him one day and thought I should do the same. I told him that there is a piece of my heart in his pocket and any time he is sad or lonely that he can stick his hand in his pocket and a piece of me would be with him. It made me feel a bit better.

All day today, still no sign. Until I went to the store. I went for Gatorade because my husband is sick. I was going to get two bottles and that's all. The I remembered a lady at the store telling me if you drink the juice of 2-3 lemons, it will cure anything. Just for the heck of it I got 3 lemons and an 8 pack of Gatorade. I swiped my card, and for things like this I really never pay attention to the amount (bad I know), but when I looked up, there was my sign. Total $7.77.

It's silly I know, but in the weeks/months to come I will be looking for these signs. And I will smile each time I find one. And it will make it easier.

My Grandma

2009-12-01T10:40:00.000-08:00

This is short, and I will write more as I am able, but yesterday I lost my grandma.

This is the first death I have had to process. And I knew it would be, and I knew it would be incredibly painful. Everything I thought about it, it is.

For me?!?

2009-10-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

I got a blog award...really. I know this seems nearly impossible since no one reads this blog, but I did. Granted it's my own fault that no one reads it. Maybe if I posted a bit more and told more people about it I might have a reader or two, but I have at least one. I'm excited.:) Oh and for the record, one of my closest friends, who considers me her bff and who does know about the blog, does not read it. So what does that say about me?

It was Viv at A Proud Mom To Many who bestowed this award on me. Awww, thanks Viv. I think the easy part will be answering the questions, but do I even know of 6 bloggers I want to give this to? Heck two of them already recieved it, and I can't regift. This is not helped by the fact that another favorite blogger has decided to stop blogging and yet another has dissappeared. Not to mention that on most blogs I read but never comment. Well, without further ado...the award. :)

So my favorite bloggers (even if they don't read me) would have to be:
1. Kristen at UpDown...But her blog is private
2. Casey at Dancing On The Edge
3. KP at Ventalicious
4. Margret at Margret and Helen

So now it's your turn. The rules are simple, answer the following 35 questions in one word and name six (yeah yeah, I could only think of 4) of your favorite bloggers! Have fun.

1. Where is your cell phone? Desk
2. Your hair? Curly
3. Your mother? Strong
4. Your father? Pushover
5. Your favorite food? Junk
6. Your dream last night? Forgotten
7. Your favorite drink? Coke
8. Your dream/goal? Calmness
9. What room are you in? Office
10. Your hobby? Baking
11. Your fear? Fire
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Colorado
13. Where were you last night? Park
14. Something that you aren't? Confident
15. Muffins? Chocolate
16. Wish list item? Camera
17. Where did you grow up? SoCal
18. Last thing you did? This
19. What are you wearing? Shorts
20. Your TV? Home
21. Your pets? Dog
22. Friends? Far
23. Your life? Boring
24. Your mood? Decent
25. Missing someone? Always
26. Vehicle? Sonata
27. Something you’re not wearing? Makeup
28. Your favorite store? Target
29. Your favorite color? Blue
30. When was the last time you laughed? Saturday
31. Last time you cried? 9/11
32. Your best friend? Kristen?
33. One place that I go to over and over? Crazy
34. One person who emails me regularly? Kristen
35. Favorite place to eat? Anywhere

Blog Addresses

2009-10-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

I just read a post over at mymommyneedsatimeout about her 3yr old not sleeping. Is it in the water, is there a full moon, becuase man my little guy is being crazy at night. She has 6, I have 1, so I can't even begin to understand her pain, I mean where she's coming from. But child, please sleep and please STOP calling me. I hate to make you cry, I do, but sometimes I'm at my wits end.

Oh and on a somewhat similar topic...My blog adress. I chose my blog adress when I was newly pregnant, due with the "lil butterball" the day after Thanksgiving. I should have known it was a bad choice when he rufused to be born, seriously, refused. They had to go in and get him. So now I'm more in the thick of being "mom" and I realize that the cutsie blog name is not as fitting as I had hoped, nor will it describe any other child I have. I do have another blog, a dark, sinister blog (aka vent party) that is kind of a private journal where I rarely post, but it has a much more fitting title "I HATE BEDTIME". I've had it for awhile, and it still rings true.

I command you...SLEEP!

Tinkerbell

2009-09-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

So my child wants to be Tinkerell for Halloween. If you have stopped by here before you're aware that my child is a boy. Do I have a problem with this? Nope! Does everybody else, Yup! Ok I shouldn't say everybody. Daycare thinks it would be cute and I say have at it boy! My husband, I can't really tell for sure. I'm 90% sure he's fine with it, at least he says he is. But a childhood friend and my brother in law...they are trying to give me suggestions. As if they don't think I have not already asked him if he wants to be batman, spiderman, a ghost, wolverene, a pirate, a dinosaure, etc etc. Nope his heart is set on Tinkerbel and who am I to break a little guys heart?

Walkin

2009-09-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

I know this blog doesn't get much traffic, but I had to post this just in case someone happens upon it.

I have a friend who has been training to walk the Breast Cancer 3-day (the3day.org). She has been training for months and has been walking miles per day to be able to make it through the walk. Even more difficult then walking has been the fundraising. There is a minimum she must raise in order to be allowed to walk, after all the training and fundraising she has done.

She has raised $1,600 so far but needs another $700 to meet her "goal". I agree that $2,300 is a lot, but this is not a goal that she chose, it is the minimum amount they require once you choose to walk.

This is for a great cause and there is no doubt that someone you know has, or will be affected by this disease. I know for me personally that my risk is increased because my maternal grandmother is a survivor. I have wanted to walk in this race myself for the last few years and it is a personal goal that at some point I WILL accomplish, but for now, please donate to her. Even $5 will help and that's what, your morning coffee? $10, a fast food lunch? So make lunch and coffee at home one day, and donate $15 (or more). It will help her reach her goal and you will feel good doing it.

Thank you
http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/Walk/SanFranciscoBayAreaEvent2009?px=3112183&pg=personal&fr_id=1299

How do you pee?

2009-09-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

I was telling J the other day that he needed to learn to hold his pen.is when he goes potty so that he does not dribble everywhere. He agreed :)

The next time he went he came back and told me "I held it mommy" and I said "good job" . Then he proceeded to tell me "you don't have to do that because you don't have a pen.is, you have a uterus" I did have to explain that while that was true, my uterus was not used for that purpose.

And can someone please tell me how to explain to my 3yr old what a tampon is? He asks about those darn machines every time we go to the bathroom and "it's just something that girls use" just ain't cutting it anymore.

A camping we will go

2009-08-29T23:56:00.000-07:00

So I really lagged at getting this post up, but better late then never, right?

On 8/16/09-8/18/09 we took Justus on his first camping trip. We had hoped to take him sooner, but it just never worked out. At the last minute we made the decision to go since R was off from school only until the 24th. Since I couldn't find anything on a weekend on such short notice, I decided to take Mon & Tues off and go during the week. We had a really good time.

On Sunday we began loading up the car, until we realized there was no way we were getting all our stuff into it, so we unloaded it and loaded up the truck. We headed out and stopped for a quick lunch before heading out the whole 20min to get to the campsite. We decided to stay close since this was J's first trip as well as the first time that we decided to take our dog. When we got to the site my first thought was "Man it's HOT". We got our spot and started unloading. Justus wanted to help put up the tent, but we all know how helpful a 3yr old can be :) . We we're hot, we we're sweaty, but it was up. I remember why we love our tent. It's big, and roomie and easy to get up. Thank goodness the directions are on the bag though or we would have been screwed. We relaxed for a bit and then took a walk. It seemed like the pool/store was pretty far so we decided to take a drive around the park to see the rest of it. Justus ended up napping in the car which was good because it was HOT and I did not think he would sleep in the tent. We made dinner, steak kabobs, potatoes, and corn. Since he kept asking, we finally let Justus roast marshmallows over the fire. He loved it. We made smores too, but he didn't seem all that interested in those. He just like the gooey mellos. It was finally time to hit the bed and all my worries about him sleeping were laid to rest. He fell asleep quickly and slept soundly all night. Only mishap today was when daddy tried to spray some OFF! on him and he looked down and it got in his eyes. Poor baby, and daddy too, he felt so bad.

On Monday we got up and had breakfast, eggs, pancakes, and sausage. I love camping food, for some reason it's just more fun. The we let J play around in the dirt for awhile while we took in the coolness of the morning. Just before I was going to think about taking a shower, wouldn't you know it, our dog got stung by a bee! So not fun. We both kind of freaked out because bees and dogs are not a good mix. When we looked at his lip we saw the stinger and Ryan was able to pull it out with his fingers. We called the vet just to ask what to look for and I headed up to take a quick shower in case we had to rush him in. While I was in the shower my phone went off and I thought "ahh man", but R just wanted me to know "so far, so good." Really? In a time like this, only text me if I have to grab my clothes and go. lol. R took his next and everything seemed to be fine. His lip was slightly swollen, but no more then you would expect from a bee sting so we headed to the pool. After a nice long time in the cool pool we went and had lunch, chicken drumsticks with cucumbers and carrots, with Ranch of course. We relaxed for a bit after lunch before heading back up to the pool again where I got the boys and ice cream from the store. After the pool we went to the "playground" which consisted of two swings, an inverted U climber and three big tires, needless to say we did not stay there long. We headed back to camp to make some dinner, Steak, corn, and potatoes. It was getting late by this time and we were cooking by lantern light. After dinner R took Justus to the bathroom and I was alone at camp. I realized it was the first time I was alone and I didn't know what to do with myself. I just enjoyed the sounds of the evening. When R got back he said we needed to get J ready for bed because while they were gone he had told R "daddy, I'm so tired." That's a first! So we got him dressed and laid him down and within a few minutes, he was out. We followed close behind. Camping wears you out. I had been checking the dog often and he was fine, thank goodness.

On Tuesday it was time to go home. We got up and made breakfast, with ham this time, and then took our showers. We started packing up pretty much right away before it got too hot. Justus actually did a really good job of helping to pack up, and didn't even get in the way. Once we were packed we drove up to the pool and went swimming before heading home. When we got home, we all crashed, we were so tired!

Oh, and the geese. J loved the geese. They were too funny. If you turned around they would start running after you, when you turned back around they would put their wings out and lower their head like they were trying to challenge you. It was a pretty funny sight. Too bad I didn't get a picture of that. :) And what is with a "catch and release" lake? Really, what's the purpose?!?

It was fun, and if it hadn't been so darn hot it would have been even nicer. We can't wait to to go in December during "winter" break.

Da Theater

2009-08-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I found out that during the summer Edwards Cinema offers free movies for kids(and their parents). R had finally finished his summer class and I thought it would be a great way for him and J to have some daddy/son time. So on Wed 8/12 J got to stay home from preschool and go with daddy, and grandma, to his first movie at the theater. They went to see the Curious George movie.

I was told he was so excited he could hardly wait for grandma to get to the house. Once there he kept asking when the movie was going to start, and then I guess he was busting up during the movie. He had a really great time. They also ended up going to lunch and I guess he asked if they could pick me up, but they told him I was working. I'm happy he wanted to include me, sad I couldn't go with them.

It turned out to be a great time for him. I'm so glad he got to do this because I have wanted to take him to the movies, but could not see spending the money in case a) his attention span was too short or b) the theater was too loud for him, cause he tends to be sensitive like that. Neither thing happened, so bring it on Disney and Pixar.

Recent Justusisms

2009-07-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

We were driving in the car the other day and J was making noises. R says "Your Driving me crazy" to which J responds "I'm not driving". All sarcastic of course. He gets that from me.

We went to a mini wedding for one of J's teachers and the girls had little veils and the boys had black top hats and they paraded out for us to see. After the ceremony J announces"I'm a circus man"... You know top hat, ring master. I think he also put it on his back and said he was a turtle.

Then the other night he says to me "Mommy, I think I see my kidney" as he looks into his belly button.

Cute things he says

2009-06-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

On our trip from the bus to the car at the fair, J was riding in the stroller and says "mama, it's gonna be an awful mess when we get home." Lucky for me I was about 3 feet in front of my husband pushing the stroller, so I was able to laugh and compose myself before asking "really, why?" To which he answered "because I've got lots of sand in my shoes." Of course, why else. Just too cute. I have to wonder where he hears this because I don't think I've ever said anything would make an awful mess.

Full Weekend

2009-06-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a full one. On Saturday we went to Santee Lakes to celebrate my nephew's birthday. While it was nice, it was also long and hot and I think J was pretty bored at times. He didn't want to play at the sprayground because he doesn't like water in his eyes and the only playground close consisted of a swing set with two swings and sand. Lucky for me he loves sand and he did play in the sand for a bit, but we were there for FIVE hours. And while I just wanted to lay on the blanket since I was melting from the heat, he wanted to run up and down the bank to go watch the ducks or watch his cousin play in the sprayground. Since the ducks were down a steep incline, I was inclined to follow so he would not fall in the water, and the sprayground wasn't exactly within good viewing distance either. Finally I decided that it was time to split from my family since everyone was doing their own thing anyhow and head to a real play structure. Oh I should have done this soooo much sooner. Needless to say I think he had fun, just being out and about. We were both worn out from the heat and he crashed as soon as we headed home and slept for about 30min, only to wake up, eat, watch a little George and head to bed, where he promptly fell asleep again.

Yesterday we stayed home during the morning, which he did not like. He ended up playing out back for a bit and being happy with that. After nap we headed to the Fair and got there around 4. It wasn't as hot as Saturday which was nice, but it was crowded. While J enjoyed seeing the animals and watching his other cousin ride rides, we both thought he was a little bored. Finally he got to play some games. He said his favorite part was the balls (throwing ping pong balls into jars) but he wished he had made it in. :) He still won a prize though. After the rides I suggested we take them to the playground (free) and on the way they found some hay bales and had fun running through and over those while the adults sat down for a minute and then we headed to the playground. There was a boy J's age there and this kid would not stop bugging him. I swore J was gonna deck him. I actually saw him turn around and the boy fall to the ground but I think, and J confirmed, that the boy just fell to the ground, no pushing or hitting involved. That kid was a brat. After a bit we decided to head home and I realized we didn't even hardly eat anything. J had a slice of pizza and an Icee, R some nachos, and I split some Tasti-chips with R. That's all I ate! I didn't want to deal with food at that point as it was already after 8 and we needed to get home and I knew J had eaten enough, which is all that really matters. When he was in bed I asked him if he had fun and he said "yes but I wanted to play another game, one that you ride." I felt so bad, he wanted to go on a ride, but just a few months ago we tried that at the carnival and he was super scared, and that just went in a circle. I guess we should have taken him on the little train or something :( Don't worry baby, mommy didn't get to do the one thing she wanted to go to the fair for either, to look at the cakes.

Ummm Hunny?!?

2009-06-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

NOT what you want to hear when you go tuck your 3yr old into bed after being gone that evening while Dad was in charge...

"we looked at pen.ises on the computer" HUH??? "yea daddy showed me pen.ises on the Internet" ummm...I'll be right back.

As I suspected it was NOT the Internet, it was daddy's anatomy CD-Rom and yes they also looked at shoulders, hands, legs, etc. He just neglected to mention that part.

Please don't say that at day care.

Coupon Virgin

2009-06-09T09:37:00.000-07:00

Up until Sunday I had been a coupon virgin. Oh sure I dabbled in coupons here and there, getting lucky. Mostly from the store ad, right down the street. They offered a few items highly discounted with the "in-ad" coupon, so I would rush down and get them, often buying several other things I may or may not need in the process. But never full on couponing or better yet stacking* coupons, to actually save money.

Until Sunday...Sunday R said "I want hot dogs." A light clicked on and I remembered I had a coupon for free hot dogs, and that started the ball rolling. I then remembered I had the stores flyer and they had some in-ad coupons that I wanted to use, but I also thought I had some manufacturers coupons for their coupon items so I started searching. Pay dirt!

I headed to the store, an bit anxious I admit, to try out this coupon game. And it worked! I walked out of the store paying less then I actually saved. I spent $28.05. With club savings and coupons I saved $49.01!! 64%. And what did I get?

4 boxes of granola bars, 4 boxes of cereal, a jar of PB, a box of cheese-its, a 4pk of Easy Mac, 3 frozen lunches, 2 bottles of whip cream (yes we use this a lot and it was B1G1), Bryers Ice Cream, London Broil, hot dogs, and buns.

Not bad. And while I admit that I did spend a bit more time preparing to shop, I want to do it again. I want to see how much I can save! All in all, since I had the free hot dog coupon, I think I spent $1.50 on dinner that night!

Yea, I'm proud of myself.

*Stacking-I didn't even know you could do this till I read about it. You can use a manufacturer's coupon on top of the stores coupon.

First Joke

2009-06-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

Justus told us his first joke :)

What do call a dinosaur that's sleeping?

A Borontosnoreaus...said with just the right inflections.

Questions

2009-05-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Where does he come up with theses?

Mommy, why do blind people have eyes?

Blasts from the Past

2009-04-24T09:59:00.001-07:00

Recently I took it upon myself to find two people from my past, that I think about often. The mom of a girl I use to babysit for and my 6th grade teacher. I emailed them both. I haven't heard from the mom, but my teacher emailed me back in less then 10 minutes.

I was so happy to hear back from her. So excited that I honestly just wanted to cry.

This was someone who helped shape my life. Someone I think about often and hope she is doing well. Someone who made 6th-12th grade, and my parents divorce a little less painful. Someone who I would love to sit down with and tell my entire life to.

Oddly enough she was a teacher who most students disliked as she was extremely strict, to the point that she wouldn't even let her students wear makeup. I remember she let me bring my Cabbage Patch Kid with me to 6th grade camp, even though it was frowned upon. In taking me under her wing she did things that would be soooo frowned upon now. Like making me make a promise to not...before I was 18. Or inviting me into her family life where I spent a weekend with her and her family (after the school year ended). Things were just different then. She asked me difficult questions that I hated her for and then years later went to see her to apologize because I understood why.

I'm so so glad she is well and that she has become a principal like she wanted. I really doubt that she truly knows how much her mentoring and friendship meant to me.

Contact a teacher that made a difference in your life. It will make you feel good, and most likely make their day.

Earf Day

2009-04-22T23:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks to daycare, after going to the store today J held up the plastic bag and said to me "this is bad for da earf."

Yes sweetie, I know that. Now just remind me to bring my reusable bags.

Bunnies and Birthdays

2009-04-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Wow it seems like there have been a lot of birthdays this weekend. My bosses was Sunday but we celebrated it here at work on Thursday. I got to make a gluten free, organic chocolate cake...from a box. It didn't smell very good, and J did not want to lick the bowl, but after it was cooked and frosted it was actually okay. Thursday was also my dad's birthday and Friday was my grandma's and R's (who's the only one that really matters in this story).

Friday I left work at 10. I never do that so it was a huge shock for R. I wanted to take him down to San Diego for lunch and a trip through the Body World exhibit but with the drizzly weather and the roll over accident next to our house we thought it would be best to just stay in. Not to mention daycare probably would be less then ecstatic if we ran late on Good Friday. Heck we had originally planned to go to Disneyland, free birthday and all, but that plan was foiled when we realized it was Easter weekend.

Thursday I had made R's chocolate cake. A deliciously sinful, full sugar, full gluten cake with sour cream frosting. Staying in on Friday gave me a chance to whip up some butter cream icing and decorate the cake. He wanted me to make roses, so I could practice, but with only a half hour to pick up, there just wasn't time. I grabbed the boy, the cake and off we went to pizza with his family. Where R and his brother got in an argument on the state of our economy. Why or why? It's so interesting to see how different two people form the same family can be, especially since they are only a couple years apart. Despite that bit of tension it was a really relaxing dinner, for me at least.

On Saturday we didn't do much in the morning and headed over to a carnival for about an hour in the evening. J rode one ride and was done. Thankfully he had a blast playing games and even got three ping pong balls in the little floating cups. Since I had purchased tickets for two rides I just had to use the rest of the tickets myself. Unfortunately the carnival was pretty ghetto and the only ride that looked safe was the Tilt-a-whirl. It was fun the first few times around but then it got pretty monotonous. By the time I got off I felt sick and my arm hurt, very strange. Guess I'm getting old. blah.

Sunday was a really great Easter! Other then trying to make it down to brunch, where my uncle works, in time for the egg hunt, there was no stress. It was nice. When we got home it was nap time. I guess the sun wore me out because I ended up falling asleep in J's bed. When he woke grandma came over and we dyed eggs. I think the adults had much more fun then J, as he lost interest after about 10min.

Cheesecake

2009-04-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

Sometimes random memories pop into my head. Today it was one about Pumpkin Cheesecake. When I was TTC I had heard that if you eat Pumpkin Cheesecake it will help you get pregnant. This knowledge called for us to go to the nearest Cheesecake Factory, about 40 miles, and buy a whole pumpkin cheesecake.

Liars! But it tasted good anyhow.

I had the rest of that cheesecake in the freezer for who knows how long.

What's that for?

2009-03-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

J had just gone to the bathroom and needed to get into the bath, but before doing so he came to me and asked "mama, what's this?"
Me- You mean your pen.is? (thinking he was asking specifically about the head)
J-No this (pointing now under said pen.is)
Me- That's your scro.tum
J-What's inside of it?
Me-Your testicles.
J-What are they for?
Me-So when you get bigger you can help make a baby.
J ponders this info for just a second and then responds quiet pointedly and with a perfect facial expression "THAT, is never going to happen."

Grease

2009-03-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

I got caught up in watching Grease the other night (one of my faves) when I realized.... It's like totally the originally High School Musical.

Justusisms

2009-03-14T22:50:00.000-07:00

I wasn't personally there to witness this one but daddy said it went like this...

J-Daddy, why do camels have humps?

R- Well, it's to store water because camels live in the desert and the desert doesn't have much water. It's like a storage tank. It has water inside.

J thinks and responds- So what does the front hump have?

R-Water

J ponders this again, then says "then the back hump has cups."

J, the logical one.

Snort!!!

2009-03-12T08:59:00.000-07:00

The snort HAS been identified. See I knew it was not like J to make something like that up, at least not yet. I'm sure he'll be a little schemer when he gets a bit older though. Mental note, must find a way to channel that brain power for good, not evil.

Anyhow, the snort is the tractor that J pointed out to me. At least it is in the book "Are You My Mother?"

Oh and now my car is a snort. Heck if it makes him want to get in the car, he can call it whatever he wants.

Snort

2009-03-06T12:20:00.000-08:00

Justus swears up and down that there is a piece of heavy construction equipment called a snort. I have asked him if he's sure and he even pointed one out to me when we were driving. Could it be some slang term or maybe a Bob The Builder name?!? Because I work in a construction office and my boss has assured me there is nothing called a snort. And J is not one that would usually just grab a name and assign it to something it's not.

Dinner Please

2009-03-06T12:13:00.000-08:00

For dinner the other night we had cereal, yes I know great mom nomination headed my way. Oh and to top it off we made Chex Muddy buddies, even better. So when asked what kind of cereal J wanted he replied...

"Light Saber Crunch" of course he meant Cinnamon Life! Unfortunately we were out of Light Saber Crunch so Cinnamon Toast Crunch (CTC) would have to do. And yes, you would think that light saber crunch meant CTC but it really does mean Cinnamon Life, cause that's his favorite, and mine too. Would have made more sense if he said Cinnamon Light Saber, but I think I confused him when I asked if he wanted CTC.

side note-he's not real familiar with Star Wars...yet.

Three's

2009-03-03T15:05:00.000-08:00

So I was just going to write about J's dry overnights, but then I realized that today is 3/3. Justus is 3yrs 3mo old and he has worn "panties" to bed the last 3 nights and woken up dry.

While that is wonderful, the three nights was not unexpected as his pull-up was already dry 99% of the time anyhow. I just remembered on Saturday night that I told him this weekend he could try wearing panties to bed.

I bought two lotto tickets, maybe I should make it 3.

Happiness Is

2009-02-25T15:47:00.000-08:00

listening to Justus in the back seat try to sing to Celine's "Taking Chances" :)

No More Beetles

2009-02-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

While I can't tell you if we still have termites, which I'm sure we do. Or if we still have mold in the garage, which we might. I finally seem to have gotten rid of the weird little beetle bugs I was finding in the kitchen and bathroom.

I was really confused to find them in the bathroom especially when I seemed to have found their lair in the kitchen, which is no where near the bathroom. Their comfy cozy home seemed to be the Masa that I had, sitting in a long forgotten cupboard from who knows when (at least 2 years because I know it was before that when I made tamales). But sure enough there was a whole mess of 'em up in the cupboard. So I tossed the mesa and sprayed the cabinet and have not seen them crawling the walls since.

I don't expect the termites and mold to be so easy.

Bathroom Chatter

2009-02-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

This weekend I was at Target and had to use the bathroom. I was finally able to coax J away from the shoes and to the restroom with me. Once in the stall he asks, loudly, "why don't girls have a pe.nis?"

The lady in the next stall giggles as I quietly shush him. She then says "I can't wait to get that question, mine is 2"

I respond "yeah he's three" and we both laugh. So I told him "that's the way God made us." And she responds "there you go, that's a good answer, that's what I'd say too. Have a good day"

"You too" :) Hey at least she was the only one in the restroom and had a good sense of humor.

After she left I had to confuse the kid more by saying "most boys have a pen.is and most girls don't" lol at least he didn't ask why.

Oh and on that note I have to be over this cold by Wednesday because when he asked me what day specifically that I would be better that's what I said and he hasn't let me forget it.

Justusisms

2009-02-11T22:42:00.000-08:00

Today at school Justus told his teacher that he was a "Destruction Worker"

Yea, that sounds about right :)

Sweet Hamburger

2009-02-05T10:12:00.001-08:00

This happened awhile ago, and I made a note to put it in, but then forgot.

One night J was having trouble falling asleep. He told me it would be better if he could have a sweet Hamburger (aka a sausage Mcgriddle for McD's)

Lunch

2009-01-23T12:13:00.000-08:00

This are the lunches we had this week. :)

Monday-Turkey Chili with beans (garbanzo, black, kidney, and Cannelloni) and roasted squash
Tuesday- Tri-tip, salad, and roasted squash
Wednesday- Hamburger patties, salad, butternut squash, and my chocolate cake.
Thursday-Lamb chops, salmon, or chicken (they made them all). Roasted red peppers and green onions, avocado, and salad.
Friday-I'm on my own, and getting hungry :)

My Siblings

2009-01-19T14:23:00.000-08:00

I have four siblings. 2 sisters and 2 brother, half brothers if any ones counting. I am the oldest. As of this writing we are Tanya (34), Chandra (26), Jenna(24), Jacob(21), and Tim(18).

Tim is the youngest and the craziest. I often worry about him and where his life is headed. For the first time ever I sat with him and had an actual conversation this past Christmas. I remember Tim as little Timmy. My cute but troubled baby brother. The one I was a birth coach for. The one I would often babysit for when my mom went to work. The boy who had to have speech lessons because at two he would say "boid" you know the things that fly in the sky. I remember doing a presentation about him for Psychology class, but not the specifics. It was so cute that he would say "boid". He is the one that got kicked out of preschool and sent to special classes once he entered kindergarten. He has learning problems still to this day, anger issues, and is on and off medication. I hope that as he gets older he can get on a regimen that helps him become a wonderful young man, but still I worry.

At the other end of the spectrum is Jacob. He was the cute kid I took to school with me to show off during child development. I remember him telling me when he was very young that he was going to own his own business. I asked if I could work for him in the office and he said "would you know what to do?" :) When he got to be about 8 he was annoying as hell, and would not shut up. He has grown so much since then, into a handsome young man who I can have a real conversation with. We should be closer. He's smart too and is getting ready to graduate from the University of Boulder with a degree in Engineering, Full Scholarship! Hey where's my sweatshirt? And to be honest I did not want him to be born. How much I would have missed out on if my mom had followed my desire. :(

Then there's Jenna, my 'little' sister, who towers over me. She probably doesn't realize how protective I am of her, but I am. Ever since the breakup with her first boyfriend. She's a good girl who slips off the path every now and again and then jumps right back on. She's smarter and stronger then she realizes. She's like me in that she is a pleaser. Take her to the mall and she'll go where you want, share a soda, and be sweet. She can tend to be loud, but that's just Jenna. She would never hurt anyone on purpose. She was a teen mom, who defied the odds. Graduated with honors and went on to finish nursing school. She's afraid of failure and that can tend to hold her back. She currently lives with my dad with her two gorgeous kids Kaylee(6) and Derek(7). She will succeed in whatever she does as long as she puts her mind to it.

And last but not least, is Chandra. My sister! My "twin". The one who ruined my single child-hood. ;) She seems to constantly change, never bad, just changing. She's an adult now. She lives with her boyfriend and desires to be a SAHM so didn't go further then H.S. She was the bratty one growing up. Always getting into my stuff and making me punch her in the stomach. Which she will gladly tell you the story of even today. She is more independent, take her to the mall and you better be ready to go to the stores she wants to go to and fork out the money for the extra soda because she isn't sharing with anyone. She's gone though the "black" phase, the "pot" phase, and I've even called her a "fag hag", and now she's just chill. She's not 100% sure of herself, but she tries to hide it. She is not a girly girl.

Those are my siblings in a quick nutshell. I'm sure I have forgotten to mention many things, but I love them all and just wanted to take a second to let them know I notice them, and love them. :)

Lunch

2009-01-16T13:44:00.000-08:00

The other day Kristen mentioned something about the lunches at my work, and I too had just been thinking about them. So I've decided to start keeping track of what we had for lunch. Here goes:

Today I was on my own as is often the case on Mondays and Friday, so I went and got a sandwich. But here is the line up for the rest of this past week.

Tuesday - Grilled lamb chops, grilled veggies(zucchini and peppers) and organic salad with organic dressing (I have a feeling the veggies were organic too).

Wednesday - Grilled hamburgers with cheddar on whole wheat buns with lettuce and tomato, same type of grilled veggies and salad.

Thursday - Grilled Salmon, grilled sweet potatoes, acorn squash, and salad.

And these meats and veggies are not from the corner store, no they go to Jimbo's or Whole Foods, so most stuff is most likely organic. I am not complaining, because it is good and healthy, but I could get paid a buck more an hour for what my lunch costs! One of my coworkers is the one that gets to do all the grilling. My boss has commented that if we don't get any trenching jobs soon we'll be selling cakes and hot lunches out of the office.

New Stove

2009-01-12T12:46:00.000-08:00

Well it looks like we are going to have to get a new range. I've been babying the one we have for quite some time now, but now it seems that my oven, yes the oven, is giving me problems and we can't have that. Two of the burners will not light by them self and so I've been using a stick lighter, but the other night it took over two hours to cook a chicken. I have to make a cake tonight and I hope it turns out okay. It may just be that the calibration is off because when I checked my oven thermometer it read about 25 deg less then where I had it set. That could possibly explain the troubles I was having with a few sheets of cookies this year, or that could have been the sheets them self. I'll be sure to check it as soon as it's preheated to see where the temp falls.

Not that I wouldn't love a new stove/oven. I would REALLY love a nice big double oven and/or a convection oven but I refuse to spend $1500+ on one. I was trying to go as cheap as possible, but there are a few things I require which the cheepos don't have and if I spend a little more I will hopefully get a better insulated product which will cost less in the long run. And maybe I can actually go digital with the oven now, instead of the turn dial. Our current oven doesn't match anything in the kitchen as it's bisque and all the others are white.

So far there are two that I have in mind but I have to go to Best Buy to look at the one I saw on their site. There is another at Sears. Both are in the $550 range, ouch. If tonight's baking shows that I do in fact need one, I hope to have a decision made by next weekend before I have to bake another cake.

One Thing

2009-01-09T15:02:00.001-08:00

Have you ever thought about the fact that if you changed just one thing about your life, how totally different things could be? It could be something small that makes a small difference or something big that makes a huge difference.

For instance how different would your life be if you choose to stay at a job you left or vice-versa, or how about picked a different home to live in, or even chosen a different name for your child? Pick anything....

Contemplate!

Wednesday Weirdness

2009-01-07T22:18:00.000-08:00

Wednesday Weirdness

1. Why do you keep a blog?

Because I'm horrible at things like baby books so I use it mostly as a place to write things my son has done. Oh and I can't loose it in the clutter, like the baby book.

2. Who is one long lost blogger you wish would come back?

I think all the people I read still blog.

3. If you made a New Year’s Resolution, did you break it already? If you did not make one, why?

I did decide to make one. Clean the clutter out of my house. Then I decided to expand it and just clean all the clutter out of my life. I'm keeping it so far. Two areas in my house have remained clutter free for a week already.

4. People who still have their outside Christmas lights up. Festive or Lazy? Discuss.

Smart! Our house is tall and is a bear to put up and take down lights that's why we haven't had any in several years and it's sad really.

5. What is the last annoying song that got trapped in your head?

I can't even remember the last time one did.

6. Have you ever worn or tried edible underwear? What are your thoughts on it?

Had some that I got as a gift, but they never got used. Passed the Exp date, lol

Bonus: If you could do one bad thing and get away with it, what would you do and why?
On the VERY slight chance that someone might read this I will have to say, um, I'm so boring I have no idea. I guess key someones car that pissed off R just to say "feel better babe?" Or maybe I should just let R do it.

Eggnog Recipe

2009-01-06T11:07:00.000-08:00

Ingredients
2 eggs

Directions: Per Justus
take da egg, den take ahnder egg and nog it.

Daddy-how do you nog it?
Jusuts-it means stir

Cute Perception

2009-01-04T15:02:00.000-08:00

Today we say a commercial for this battery operated mascara. the way J perceives things is pretty cute. First when they showed a split screen of the woman's eyes he said "she broke her face." And every time they showed someone applying the mascara he would cover his eye and say "Ouch." I ask him if we should get some for him and he will pass.

Happy New Year

2009-01-04T14:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to All, a few days late!

We had a very quite New Years Eve. It consisted of us going out to dinner for Chinese and then spending the rest of the evening at home. Pretty boring, but at least I felt good the next day, unlike some unfortunate people. ;)...JENNA!

Melt my heart

2008-12-31T12:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday J woke up before R left and stumbled into the bathroom, probably looking for me since I've been in the shower when he's gotten up recently. I call to him to let him know I'm still in bed and I hear him say "daddy I just wanted to tell you I love you" ahhhhh. Then he proceeds to climb into bed next to me, cuddle up and fall asleep. Double ahhhhh. Now why do I have to get up and go to work?!?

Justusisms

2008-12-31T12:33:00.000-08:00

This time around we have two.

Said at the Chinese restaurant that we haven't been to in a long time.

"the cook made some really good food for me"

Said after I asked if he had to go potty and he didn't answer for a few minutes.

"Yes, I was just checking with my pe.nis"

Cakes, oh my!

2008-12-30T09:53:00.001-08:00

I decided to finally do it! I signed up for my first cake decorating class.

I think I may have to take a Xanax on the first day because I'm already having performance anxiety. I just hope there are other people in the class that are just as artistically untalented as I am.

I start next Tuesday, for 4 weeks, since R is out of school until the 21st. That way I only have to get a babysitter for one or two nights.

Christmas Celebrations

2008-12-30T09:52:00.000-08:00

As busy as we were, our Christmas was really nice. It started when I left work on Friday, as that's when I began the marathon baking. (see below) As is his tradition, or so it seems, R went to do his Christmas shopping on the 23rd, fun.

The first celebration was on Christmas Eve. After R getting home late we finally headed to spend the evening, or what was left of it, with my Mom's family. I said 4:30ish, we got there at 6:15. It was a nice evening with some yummy food and some gifts for Justus. His favorite part of the evening was eating the entire plate of cream cheese stuffed olive penguins. The worst part of his night? Getting pick up by my sister. She tries so hard to get him to like her and he won't even smile for her. We have decided that he either thinks she's pretty or a spaz. lol

The next morning we got to open presents at home and were ready to actually get the chance to relax before meeting with my Dad's side. Usually we rush back down to my dad's first thing in the AM, but this year my grandma decided to have it later at her house, which would work perfect...except at the last minute R's mom calls and asks us to come for meat pies, yummy! But it mean getting ready right away and we were already eating cinnamon rolls, oh well so much for the relaxing morning. We head over for a quick visit and then back home so I can finish getting my cookies ready. Then we head down to my Grandma's. More yummy food, great company, and J getting to play the piano. After that we head back up to R's families for dinner, uck, can you say stuffed?

And finally, on New Years Day J and I drove up to see my other sister that couldn't make it down for Christmas. We just spent the evening relaxing at her house and they cooked for us, quite nice of them. :)

A great time was had by all and J got lots of (aka too much) stuff. Lot's of vehicles including a huge garbage truck and roller from Santa, the usual clothes, some art stuff, Duplos, Lincoln logs, and games. R got a set of cordless power tools and I got a sewing machine. Now I just need to figure out how to use it. Hopefully by next year we will have some new stockings and some home-made gifts!!!

SAHM...For a week

2008-12-29T12:04:00.000-08:00

Last week I got to be a SAHM because daycare was closed. Before I the week started I told people things like, "you think I'm acting crazy now, wait till I get to be a sahm next week" and "I'll remember how much easier going to work is."

After worrying about how I would handle it, anxiety wise, I have to say that I loved the time with my son. In fact I did NOT want to come back to work. Sure you can think "who does want to go to work" but seriously I did not want to drop him at daycare and felt seriously guilty. So much so that the entire drive to work, I cried. Now maybe I would feel differently if R was still in school and gone 3 nights a week, or if was longer then a week, or if we weren't so busy the entire time, but I really want to stay home with him and let him crawl into bed with me and snuggle until he begs me to go play in the other room, sip coffee while I watch him play with his new trash truck, let him play outside and tell him again why he can't have water in his water table, give him a yummy lunch and then read to him, sneak in a shower and email time while he naps, play play-doh with him and then wait for daddy to come home while I make dinner. Giving us time to do all the things we didn't get to do during the week of Christmas. :( I'm sad.

Cookies

2008-12-25T00:33:00.001-08:00

Since I have deemed myself the 'crazy cookie lady', here is the list of treats I made this year...

Molasses sugar cookies
Coco Cookies with Marshmallow Kisses
Stained Glass Cookies
Spritz
Angle Food Candy (aka sponge or honeycomb candy)
M&M Shortbread Cookies
Jam Topped Sugar Cookies
Fudge-Peanut Butter and Chocolate Pistachio
And non edible bath cookies (special for my mom because she's doing O.A.)

And I still didn't make a dent in that flour or oil, but did use at least half of the sugar.

I do have to admit that I was not very happy with how several of the cookies turned out, but that's just more reason to try harder and make more for New Year's!

Ovulation

2008-12-25T00:29:00.000-08:00

We were going to try to insem this month. After speaking with the bank, they would not guarantee delivery during this week because of the holidays. So we skipped it. Wouldn't you figure, that I think I had the days perfect and had O pain today(24th). Which would have meant inseming on Christmas morning! erg.

Guess I didn't really need that extra stress on Christmas anyhow.

3yr Check Up

2008-12-25T00:21:00.000-08:00

Today, technically yesterday the 24th Justus had his 3yr well check.

His stats:
33 lbs and 38 in BP 86/40 (wish that was mine)

The Dr. says he's perfectly average (52% on both) and always has been, despite many people always telling me "he's so big." I never thought so because his 3T pants often don't fit and are too long and/or too big in the waist.

Shots:
Flu shot, no tears.

What we should work on:
learning to button

Silliest questions from the Dr:
"Does he use at least 4-5 word sentences?" Yes
"Are most people able to under..." he's interrupted by J asking "mommy, why is your thing (zipper) like this?" Dr. "Okay, never mind" So I guess that was "yes, most people can understand him." And heck that in itself was 7 words. Two birds with one stone.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T00:14:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to All!

What I wish I could get R... A new 4 door truck. Maybe an F150 or a Tacoma. What I got him...a set of wireless power tools. :( I would really LOVE to get him a truck, or heck any new car for that matter. I joke about it, but doubt he really knows how much I really want to do it. He deserves it!

Justusisms

2008-12-22T13:43:00.001-08:00

First thing in the morning the last two days
"Mommy, I think my brain is hungry"

Which translates to "get out of bed and get me some food!"

Coffee

2008-12-14T23:17:00.000-08:00

We're in trouble. This was my son's choice of words as I was paying for his very first Starbucks "coffee". . .

"I need my coffee Now!"

Yeah, can't you just hear the cashier chuckle as she says "we'll get that for you as quickly as we can."

Please do, can't you tell my son is having withdrawals, lol. Ahh the words of a 3yr old caffeine addict, at 8pm I might add.

Computer Time

2008-12-14T23:13:00.000-08:00

You know your on the computer too much when you have this conversation...

J-Mommy come mer, I found someting.

Me-I'm right in the middle of somthing, what did you find?

J-It's someting gross *long pause* are you looking someting up on the puter?

Me-Nooo, I am not looking somthing up on the computer "daddy". lol

And I wasn't either, I was cutting up a pineapple.

You got me

2008-12-13T23:31:00.001-08:00

It's been eleven years. Eleven crazy, up and down, what's next years of love, laughter, fear, frustration, questions, and even new beginnings. Eleven years of *us* and I hope that it continues for many more, even the ups and downs.

Thank you for a relaxed evening of dinner at San Sai, walking around the mall, seeing Santa with J and watching him get his first Starbucks. :) It was a perfect night.

Sorry about not telling you happy anniversary first thing in the morning, you know I just like to mess with you and I could tell you had other things on your mind because when I asked if we were going to dinner you seemed quite confused as to why I was adamant about going out. Until you asked the date that is *wink wink*. But I do have to say...You finally got me! And I'm sure the ear to ear grin told you that. I know I'm extremely hard to surprise, but you did it. Hey, it's not my fault that I saw you in the parking lot of the jewelry store near my work *that* year! What are the odds?!?

Happy Anniversary Ryan, I love you.

Perfect Party

2008-12-13T22:29:00.000-08:00

I'd have to say that J's 3rd Birthday Party was really great.

I deemed this birthday the "Over-achiever (aka too much) birthday." Last year it was the "rainy birthday", and the first birthday was definitely the "cake disaster birthday" (not my cake).

This year everything pretty much worked out. The only thing that didn't take shape were the dragon chocolates that I tried to make, but I think I overheated the chocolate as it lost it's sheen. The dragon eggs turned out great and were loved by all. The cake was pretty and delicious, if I do say so myself. And there was no one using the park when I got there, which I was thrilled about. We got all the tables under the gazebo and the weather was perfect, in the low 70's. We had tomato basil salad, veggies, fruit with dip, crackers, cake and dragon snot punch which J referred to as Booger Punch and of course had to make a funny face every time he drank it. We had too much food, too many drinks, way too much ice and soo many gifts including the vitamins that he kept telling me he was getting for his bithday. There were perfect number of people who all seemed to have a great time chatting, playing on the playground, in the sand and with the bubbles which were a big hit.

After the party we took my BIL and niece, and a good friend who drove an hr down with her two girls, to pizza. All the kids got along together great (3,6,6,8) and it was wonderful to finally catch up.

As soon as I get pictures from my sister I'll make a birthday slide show. Until then here is a pic of the cake and the eggs.

*keep reading for a happy birthday post below.

Happy 3rd Birthday

2008-12-06T22:46:00.000-08:00

My sweetpea, you're three today.

Three years ago you came into the world, unwillingly. :) You were so stubborn even then, that they had to go in and get you after my water had broken 10hrs earlier. When you were born you were already so alert. Oh we should have known then.

Today you are a high energy, highly sensitive, tactile child who loves to learn. You have a crazy good memory and a love of big words. You amaze us daily with what comes out of your mouth and how grown up you're getting. You notice the slightest changes in your environment like a new bowl for the dog, new shoes, or something out of place.

Your current interests are anything that has wheels or flys, like fire trucks, trash trucks, tractors, rollers, police cars, tow trucks, helicopter, planes etc. as well as building toys like Tinker Toys and manipulatives. You get a bit rambunctious when you play swords or guns, much to my dismay, and you enjoy art both visual and performing. You can count to at least 11, know what state California is, how to spell your name, all the letter of the alphbet and their sounds, how to write some letters, all the basic colors and shapes, and you can finally pedal a bike, among so many other things. You enjoy music by Josh Groban and anything "pretty". You love dressed up characters like the cow at Chick-fil-a and Santa. you are too smart for your own good and you can be a little jokster.

Your current favorite food seems to be meatballs and tomatoes, well aside from the candy and ice cream that you ask for every morning, to see if we'll finally give in. You're not a big fan of cake though. You also love fruit snacks, but what kid doesn't.

You don't like swings or high slides, unless it's a tube and you can't see how high you are . You also don't like odd textures in food including breading on chicken nuggets or loud noises and the sun in your eyes. You are sensitive to taste and sound and run when the toilet is flushed.

You would love, just once, for Doozer to stay in your bed, but again you move too much for his liking. You told us we needed a cage to keep him on the bed with you.

While I can tend to get easily frustrated with you, because you are strong willed and love to test your limits and argue with me, you are still loved beyond belief. Over all you are a good boy who just wants things your way. Humm you take after your mom, go figure.

Happy Birthday!

Party Planning

2008-12-04T09:23:00.000-08:00

While I actually enjoy it, I do often get stressed out about it.

First there is deciding on a theme and then creating the invitation. Then deciding who to invite and hoping that some of the dc kids will come, but not all because it would just be too many people. Then there is stressing when no one is RSVPing. I mean I want my child to have some friends there.

Then comes shopping for party supplies which can't be as simple as going to the store and picking up princess, or even fire truck stuff, no J wants a "dragon" theme, so I found a picture for the cake (Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty) and will pull the colors from there for plate and napkins, etc. Then there is the issue of goodie bags, which honestly I hate, receiving more then creating them, but I feel like I have to. And I can't just be normal. No I found an idea of making Paper Mache Dragon 'eggs' and so I'm trying to do that. I worry that I made the paste too thin and they won't set up well. I guess I'll know tonight. I did buy bags, just in case.

So tonight...I'm hoping the eggs are dry so that I can apply another layer of paper. and paint them tomorrow. This is in between the time I plan on picking of some Duplo blocks from someone on CL and making cupcakes for daycare. Last night I ran out to get some of the food. Fruit and ingredients for fruit dip, veggies, crackers and stuff to make dip, olives, string cheese, drinks, and ingredients for tomato basil salad.

I've been out every night this week running around. Trying to get things done, but tonight is Grey's so I'll be home unless I leave at ten. Who knows. But...my boss did offer to let me leave early tomorrow, which was a god send, even though I know it's because he's trying to save on payroll, rather then to help me out, but it sure will.

Baking

2008-11-24T10:50:00.000-08:00

So I guess my new title is "Office Baker". Heck I'd trade in Office Manager for that any day. :)

A few times my boss has brought in over ripe bananas and I have taken them home and made banana bread. Next thing I know he buys me a 3 pack of pumpkin bread mix, which I've made two of. Well Friday he went to Costco and asked what I usually go through with the baking and I mentioned sugar, flour, and oil.

I come in today and there is 5 quarts of oil, a 10lb bag of sugar, and a 25lb bag of flour! I better get to baking. My coworker says he just wants me to open a bakery. Heck we have a full kitchen here, I could make anything fresh for them.

Justusisms

2008-11-18T10:08:00.000-08:00

Here are the latest:

The other day he informed me he wanted to ride a squad. I was like a what?!? A squad. After much questioning I finally figured out that it was a quad that he would like to ride.

Last night I had a headache and asked that he be a little more quiet. He said "I sauge it for you mommy" and rubbed my head, what a sweetie.

Irony- in "G" Major

2008-11-16T23:30:00.000-08:00

How Ironic is it that R and I could walk into any county office or almost any church, tomorrow, and ask them to marry us, and they would be none the wiser, now how ironic is that?!?

Christmas Memories

2008-11-13T15:12:00.000-08:00

I got this from Sonya and figured why not, blog content!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? For Christmas I prefer wrapping paper.

2. Real tree or Artificial? We were doing real but then they got so expensive and we found a beautiful, huge fiber optic on clearance one year and used that, When J was born we didn't want to worry about the fibers so we now have a small 3' prelit one, that's sparkly green!

3. When do you put up the tree? Sometime after Thanksgiving Day, usually later then I like.

4. When do you take the tree down? A week of so after the first.

5. Do you like eggnog? No but I LOVE Starbucks Eggnog Latte, go figure.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Oh I got so much good stuff, I could name a listful.

7. Hardest person to buy for? We don't buy for that many people anymore, but probably my grandma when I do because I want to make sure it's special.

8. Easiest person to buy for? J because he'll love whatever we pick.

9. Do you have a nativity scene? No but I'd like to.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail.

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? That would probably have to be the mayo
knife/honey scoop for me AND the giant coin trivet for R, both lovingly from my grandma. She just tries to clean out her house.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? I like The Santa Clause and R loves the old cartoons.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Probably 2 weeks or so before for most gifts, but J will be right after thanksgiving so we can do birthday and Christmas shopping at the same time.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Nope

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Sweets especially homemade cookies and See's Candy.

16. Lights on the tree? Yes! Lots! And I prefer clear on a crisp green tree but R prefers colored. Our prelit green sparkly tree with green lights pretty much makes our decision for us. :)

17. Favorite Christmas song? I like lots of them. More traditional ones I like are "Away in a Manger", "Silent Night", "Mary Did You Know", "Carol of the bells", well pretty much all of them actually. An older but hipper songs I like is "Last Christmas", and "The Christmas Shoes" always get's me. Newer songs I like are "Thankful" (Groban) and "River"(Sarah) . R's fave is Little Drummer Boy and My Mom's is Grandma Got run over by a Reindeer. And my all time Fave Christmas album,"Winter Solstice IV". TMI I know, but I love music.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? "travel", but only by car within about 50mi which I think is worse then out of town. So much driving.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Yup

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Pooh bear Angel right now, but I've been looking for a nice star.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Here's where the traveling comes in. Christmas Eve with my mom's side, Christmas Early Morning at home with the three of us, Christmas Late morning with my dad and sister, Christmas evening with R's family.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? The traffic and dealing with other shoppers.

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? We pick out an ornament ever year for Me and R and now J picks one out for himself. Besides those special ones, I like the clean globe ornaments. We have silver, clear and purple and then a few with designs on them.

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Ham (honey baked if lucky)

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? A sewing machine
Tag if you wanna!

My Child the Scent Dog!

2008-11-11T15:33:00.000-08:00

I swear, the child can smell anything, anywhere. And it's not just smells either, it's sounds and sights, and other things. It's crazy really and all part of his 6th sense. Examples of his extreme smell ability:

I had a banana muffin in the car in a grocery bag. I opened the bag to get something out and he says "I smell pupcakes, why do I smell pupcakes?"
This a.m. he comes to me and says "did you buy chocolate chip cookies?" um no, "I smell chocolate chip cookies"- R had eaten them the night before out of a ziploc and had closed the baggie but had it next to the bed.
Again this a.m. When we got out of the car. "what's that smell" it was someone burning a fire in a fire place.
Once in a public bathroom, single stall thankfully "It smells really bad in here" 'I know' "I need to get out of here it's so stinky." as he nearly gags.
And one time after I ate chocolate "Mommy! What do I smell."

And these are only the times I can think of off the top of my head!

I'll go into sounds and sight later, when I can think of several.

ESP?!?

2008-11-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

As we were leaving last night to go get* ice cream* that Justus asked for all.day.long, we noticed a big grasshopper on the side of the house, just sitting there. Us walking under him didn’t seem to phase him.

On the way home J says “he flew away”. So I asked who, a plane? Nope. The moon? No. A cloud? No. What then? The grasshopper. Hummmmm ESP?!? I should have called R and asked him to go check, but obviously that wouldn’t have mattered unless he was still there. He was gone when we got home.

*aka frozen yogurt

Eavsdropping

2008-11-10T14:21:00.000-08:00

I admit it, I love to eavesdrop. Heck it’s funny to hear what other people are talking about and sometimes too easy to listen. Two prime examples.

The weekend before the election I took J to the bookstore to look at books and play with the trains. While I was sitting near the trains I overheard a group of ladies talking about who they were voting for. And one lady chimed in…”I always think about which one I would trust my kids with.” Very interesting. I didn’t hear who that would be but I figure it would have to be Obama because really, who would want to come home while their child is jumping all over Manny McCain saying “look ma he’s playin dead, he’s good at it huh?”

This very same night, while getting out of the car two moms are walking by with their, oh I’d guess 14mo old (if that) kids on their hip. And the one girl says to the other O.M.G. Jen (yes like that, text talk ) we should have taken them to Chuck-E-Cheese!!! Yes ladies because two barley walking toddlers would love to get trampled by a bunch of 4-8yr olds who can actually enjoy the value of Chuck-E-Cheese, mediocre pizza and all.

My son the Democrat

2008-11-07T09:44:00.000-08:00

Even at 2 my son is already following in my footsteps, I'm so proud!

On Monday they read a story at school about the Fox and the Bear who wanted to be in charge of the forest. That night we were suppose to read the story again and talk to them about it and then on Tuesday they were going to vote.

The story basically ready like this: Fox wanted to be in charge of the forest so he stood on a box and shouted out his plans. The porcupine said vote for Fox he is Fair and strong. Bear wanted to be in charge of the forest and said I will listen to you and sat down in the chair. The mouse said vote for Bear because he cares.

I asked J who he was going to vote for and he said Bear. I asked him why and he said "because he cares." This Democratic mom couldn't be more proud and I did NOT prompt him in anyway. I knew who I would vote for as soon as it ready "Fox shouted out his plans".

Unfortunately Fox won.

The Aftermath

2008-11-05T10:26:00.000-08:00

As much as I am excited that we finally have a Democrat back in the White House, I am equally saddened and angry at the results of Prop 8 here in California. I do not envy President-Elect Obama, for he has a tough job ahead of him, but I hope we will see the change that we need to uplift this country once again.

Closer to home, I could not be more disappointed in the Prop 8 decision. While there is still another 5% of votes to be counted, it has already been said that Prop 8 has passed and that the state constitution will be changed, to include discrimination.

Today I read that a Yes on 8 spokesperson said “we just ran a better campaign” to which I shuddered. They did NOT run a better campaign. They were dirty and deceptive, and their lies abundant. They used innocent children as a scare tactic and the religious right as their podium (not to mention income). What happened to Love Thy Neighbor?!? Hate is not in born, it is taught.

We do not want to change or challenge marriage. We don’t even care to get married in “their” church. We just want the Equality that we deserve. And do people really believe that we will ruin the sanctity of marriage? From what I have seen the high divorce rate and infidelity took care of that long ago.

And I am also angry because many people left the poll line once they got a text message or phone call telling then the outcome of the Presidential election. How many of these people might have voted No on 8?

I hang my head, knowing I should have done more…BUT the fight is not over! We shall prevail.

Exactly!

2008-11-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

6th Sense

2008-11-01T15:27:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's his ESP or some kind of serious 6th sense, but the other day Justus took a pear from the fruit dish and threw it away announcing "this one's yucky". Well I had just put in a new bag and the pear was perfectly fine so I fished it out, told him it was good, and put it back in the bowl. After work R came home and J asked for a pear. So he cuts into the pear and the middle was all mushy and brown.

Now how on earth did that child know that the INSIDE of the pear was gross? I swear to you there was not a bad spot anywhere on the outside. There is no way anyone could have known just by looking at it.

Spooky.

Booo!

2008-11-01T15:24:00.001-07:00

Here is a slideshow** of some of the pictures from our Halloween activities. If you can't view the slideshow scroll down for some regular pics as well. And Justus was extremely happy to get several bags on N-ah-Me's (aka M&M's) which this morning are now just N-ah-Men's which really isn't as cute as N-ah-Me's.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_L0nZ46NfwbA/SQzncaKgHII/AAAAAAAAAEM/LGP_uONdyB8/s1600-h/trick+o+treat+%285%29.JPG
**stop music at bottom of blog before viewing if playing

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Extra Money

2008-10-31T09:20:00.000-07:00

Today I thought about a great way to earn a little extra cash. Well besides being a human Guinea pig as part of a clinic trial, which is kinda cool.

I've decided that tonight I'm going to keep J out all.night.long trick-o-treating, even if I have to carry him half asleep and then I'm going to head out to 7-11 or something like that, or maybe the elementary school and I'll sell the candy I got free at a deep discount. Think it could work?!?

Yeah me neither.

100

2008-10-26T23:55:00.000-07:00

The other day I noticed that this would be my 100th post. I've been trying to figure out what I should write about and decided to make it a hodge podge.

First off, I find it sad that it took me over 3 years to even get to the 100th post.

I asked R what I should write about and he gave me an idea that sure wouldn't work for my blog.

Then there is the fact the gas has finally gone lower then $3/gallon here in CA. Hey this is exciting stuff!

But alas, I have nothing good or important to say.

So here's to 100 and may the next 100 go even quicker, and more interesting to read.

Rodents, Bugs, and Fungi

2008-10-21T19:51:00.000-07:00

We have them all, isn't it lovely? Sometimes I hate owning a home because of the upkeep costs and I just read an article where a guy claims that renting vs. buying will make you richer. Go Figure.

Anyhow, back to the rodents, bugs, and fungi..

Rodents, we've always had rodents. In the first year here we got 13 rats, next year 7, and then 3. Since then we've been able to keep them out of the attic but I still see them outside on occasion and I know they like the garage (accessible only from outside). We also have gophers and squirrels that eat anything I try to grow and bunnies that love the grass.

Bugs, we have the normal spiders and ants, no biggie, but then we also have these tiny annoying beetles, which R says he's sick of. I have no idea where they come from or what they want but I find them everywhere and they're yucky. Oh and I just noticed that they fly. They are most annoying because I don't know how to get rid of them. And the worst bug...termites. We have them and who knows how much damage they have done to our home. I try not to worry about them because R is suppose to drill holes in the wall were their "kick out" holes are and spray some foam stuff in there. Lets hope it works. We have seen one inside the house, but apparently nothing like the swarm that entered R's boss' house.

And finally my favorite (only because I can't see or smell the termites), fungi! Yes, we have mold in our garage. We've actually been dealing with moisture on and off in our garage for a few years now. It rained a lot a few years back and the ground got so over saturated that it came in through the concrete. To the point we had to sweep it out. We thought it was caused by a plant right behind the garage and tore it out, but that didn't help. Finally when it dried out the water was gone and we've been left with efflorescence, but until recently, no more water. Then a few weeks ago I started to notice a musty smell in the garage. R thought he found the problem and we moved on, not so. When he moved his truck he found the mold. It's on things like the highchair so I assumed it was because it had been so humid and there has been very little fresh air in there, and I figured it was just surface mold . It might still be just surface mold, but one day when I was down there I found water in the garage and figured it must be from the sprinklers because they had just been on, sure enough since turning them off, no more water. Now that the yard is dead we just have to figure out which sprinkler(s) we need to fix, decided if we need a drain along that wall, and do some mold cleanup and hopefully we'll be past this.

Memorable Quotes

2008-10-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

So, some of Justus' more memorable quotes (so i don't forget)

Is this for your butt? (as he holds up a tampon)

She doesn't talk real well. (said to me in the presence of the mom)

R went in to say goodnight after school and then told J he had to take his shoes off and would be back. R came out to eat dinner and a minute later J remarks "are you having trouble?" Can't get nothing past this kid.

And as the picture depicts..."I'm takin my temperature!"

If Not a Mom

2008-10-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

Seriously, if I wasn't a mom I would get This Bumpersticker!!!

But since I am I might just have to settle for this instead.

Red Flag Warning

2008-10-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

I can't keep doing this every year. Every time I see smoke coming from anywhere that is north of work I worry that the fire is close to our house. I thought we were safe seeing as we are right next to a major street and the freeway, but this security was quickly crushed when there was a fire on the other side of the freeway several weeks ago and we were told that if it jumps the freeway we were to leave immediately. Uh, yeah ya think! Our house is literally feet from the freeway.

Every time I see the black smoke, the eerie orange glow, my heart races. What if it's my home this time, my family. And even when it's not, my heart aches for the families that are in danger. I would be devastated if I lost my home of course, but I would understand that if it was just my home and I was able to get my stuff out that it would be much easier to cope. The house and things can be replaced.

During the devastating 2007 fires I had wanted to drive through the lost areas and take pictures to create a slide show and never did, as I thought it might be disrespectful to people who had lost there homes, and there were so many homes. I regret not doing it. Tunnel (current song as of today) would have been the one I used.

May the Lord watch over us this fire season and keep everyone safe.

Justus ESP

2008-10-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday his ESP abilities were right on.

Prior to leaving for daycare I asked what he thought they were having for breakfast and I suggested porridge. He replies "waffles". Sure enough, they had waffles. I asked him this morning but he said I don't know, he was really cranky.

Then on the way home I called free 411 to get the number for a local sandwich shop. Before they give you the number they always make you listen to an ad. I had told J we we're going to get daddy soup when he says "I want McDonald's". A few second later I get to the ad portion and it was for McDonald's, too odd. And McD is not one of his normal requests, it's usually "Bean Burrito Cheese".

So the ESP continues.

Skeltons in the Closet

2008-09-29T16:23:00.001-07:00

Is it wrong to talk badly about family members who have passed? Because there are some bugs coming out of the woodwork and it's just wrong!

I'm glad I did not get a chance to make a cake because well...I just am. I'm sure all of the secrets have not even been uncovered yet and we have just scratched the surface. Who knows how deep it goes.

I know R will not be happy that I posted this, but I'm mad. Mad for R, mad for his tante (french for aunt) and mad that it wasn't uncovered sooner, even though we have had our suspicions.

Bumps and Bruises

2008-09-27T12:58:00.000-07:00

Justus seems to get some odd bumps and bruises. There is one in particular that I may see the Dr. about as this red "spot" has been there for at least a couple weeks already.

What a face!

And I guess he did this while trying to get up from the table at daycare and fell and hit the window sill.

I don't love you

2008-09-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

What harsh words, that just broke my heart. And they wern't even directed at me.

"I don't love you daddy"

Which brought R to tears and me close. When what he really meant was "I want it my way and my way is mommy getting me out of bed to go potty, so I'm mad" But a 2 year old can't express that. And mommy is "busy" watching Grey's.

How do you tell a 2yr old to apologize when he can't understand how hurtful his words were. I tried to explain, but it was late and he was mad/sad and just wanted it his way.

I tried to reassure R, but the damage was done. I remember when Justus said it to me several months back and I cried too. I was alrady having a bad day and just didn't need it at that moment.

That phrase is normal right? I just expected it to be a little later, like adolecence.

Mon Oncle

2008-09-22T13:21:00.000-07:00

I really don't even know what to say except that you will be missed, you were loved, and you are home now.

After a week in ICU following a major heart attack R's Oncle (uncle) passed away this afternoon. We are very thankful to have a wondeful hospital in our area that took very good care of him and tried everything to keep him here with us. But God had other plans, and was ready to bring him home.

We are thankful that it was quick, with very little suffering as you were active until moments before the attack. I promised you a cake if you woke up, but I will make one in your honor for the memorial.

Headache

2008-09-22T10:02:00.000-07:00

Just for the record, when you can not find regular Tylenol in the house, Children's Tylenol(liquid)in NOT made to be taken in it's place. YUCK!! Just try a shot, mmmm.

A Past Funny

2008-09-18T09:25:00.001-07:00

I was telling my friend a funny story that happened once and it reminded me of an even funnier story.

When I was pregnant we went out to lunch with a friend. We were talking about the baby when she looks at me and looks at R and say "Oh you both have blue eyes, so he's going to have blue eyes too" Ummmm...well...actually the donor has green eyes. She just laughed and said "Oh my gosh, I'm so stupid" lol

Thanks Josie :) Oh and he does have blue eyes, just like his daddy.

Garage Sale Finds

2008-09-16T22:05:00.000-07:00

After a few hours on Saturday here's the bargins we got:

7 shirts (3T/4T)- $3.50 total
1 pair of near new water shoes - $.50
Canium tent set - $3
The smallest 2 wheel bike I have ever seen, with training wheels - $2
A set of twin sheets (2 fitted, 1 flat) - $5
A hypoallergenic/waterproof mattress cover - $10
A Safety First bed rail - $3
A 1-piece bathing suit with attached floaties - $1
A divided plate $.25
A jumping spider toy $0

And on Freecycle I also picked up:
2 bags of childrens books and a bag of clothes, which I still have to sort through.

Now I just need to Freecycle/CL some of J's things and get him a twin bed

Pro-Death?

2008-09-15T11:56:00.000-07:00

For about the last 3-4yrs or so the station I listen to while driving is usually K-Love, it's a Christian station. Recently R has gotten interested in it to. The other day he says to me "I'm surprised you like that station because they talk about pro-life". Now obviously he said this to me because I'm pro-choice, always have been always will be. This gave us a great opportunity to talk about my beliefs and reasons why, which have actually changed since I'rown. It basically went like this.

Me-Honey, it's not like I'm pro-death. Let me explain why I'm pro-choice. If abortion were illegal it would still happen. It would happen in back alleys, it would happen in dirty clinics, it would happen in a little girls bedroom with a wire hanger, possibly killing the girl as well, it.would.happen! And I would rather it happen safely then "illegally". It would be wonderful if every girl who was faced with an unwanted pregnancy decided to use adoption, but it's just not going to happen.

Point Made!

Our Weekend

2008-09-14T16:56:00.000-07:00

We had a busy weekend, mostly because R needed to do homework, so we got kicked out of the house. Thankfully he understands that if I'm not IN the house I have no ability to CLEAN the house, hey it works for me :)

Saturday - Since I knew we would need to be out of the house I decided to start Saturday with a little garage saleing. We left about 8:45 (late I know) and stayed out until about 12, so we could get home for lunch and a nap. After nap we headed back out to the park/spray ground, which was a first for J and he loved it. I think we'll be going back next weekend unless I can find another in the area. We we're there for a couple hours before heading home.

Sunday - Since I went to bed at 3am, I did not want to get out of bed. R got up with J and I slept another hour or so. We got ready and headed out again. We went and had some breakfast/brunch and then I tried to find some more sales, but all the addresses were a flop, oh well. At the last house I noticed a park at the end of the street so we headed over there. Lucky me, it was one of the parks I wanted to find and it also has a fountain that goes off every hour and a half that the kids can play in. Even better it was about 45min till the next time. So J played at the park and then we changed him into his bathing suit. Upon exiting the bathroom I fell off the curb hard and rolled, ouch. J just watched me, but thankfully no one else saw. He looked a bit scared so I just told him, see mommy falls down sometimes too, now give me a hug to make me feel better, and he did. :) Needless to say I am achy today. He enjoyed playing in the fountain, but seemed to like the spray ground better. After the fountain we headed home for nap. After nap we went grocery shopping and to the "vitamin store", also know as "the fruit store". It's like a farmers market store and they have testers of the kids vitamins and he gets so excited. Several times he has told me "I get the bear one for my birthday." If he's still saying it around his birthday, guess what he's getting.

So after our long weekend you would think he would fall fast asleep, he did at nap, but nope, he talked for a good hour+ in his bed after putting him down. Sleep child!

Compassion Please

2008-09-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

I am so sensitive sometimes. I have a friend who is going through something right now and although she lives hundreds of miles away I want to make my arms into a big bubble and shield her from all the harsh comments. People who say "you didn't figure it out" or "the writing was on the wall". That's kind of like saying "oh she's dead, it's sad but didn't you notice she was sick". Have some compassion for my friend because while we all may have been through it we're not going through it now and she needs loving arms right now.

Or maybe she just needs us to bad mouth the other person if that will make her feel better. :)

P.S. if she wants me to remove this post I will

The Response

2008-09-10T09:58:00.000-07:00

Ouch!

Good Morning Tanya:
Based on your email, you wouldn’t feel comfortable with our beliefs.
Stonebrooke Church

...
How can someone preach "love thy neighbor" and shun an entire group of people?!? As much as I hate to say it so many (NOT ALL) Christians are hyporcites. Sad thing is, this is the usual response that I get when I send an email like this.

I do have to say that the Methodist Church has been open minded since before J was born and in the last yr or so, now actually offers a GLBT group. I think I know where we'll be headed.

I know I'm a sinner, I just don't want to be told it EVER time I go to church. Teach me more then that!

Letter to a Church

2008-09-09T22:18:00.001-07:00

Tonight I got a flyer for a local church. They are doing a sermon that sounds very interesting. I would love to find a church home, but have had little luck. Here is the letter I wrote to the church. Is it a bit much?

Hi, my family is trying to find a church home and I ran across your sermon starting on September 21 that seems quite interesting. However, because we have a unique extended family, I would like to find out your church's stance on "alternative lifestyles". We have a young son who I would like to bring up accepting everyone and I do not want to put him or myself in a situation that expects us to chose between God or our family members. Nor do I want him to have the impression that his family is abnormal. That being said, we are also Christians and need to find a church home that is open and accepting of our family.

This does not necessarily mean we need to find a home that caters to alternative families, just one that does not shun them, and preferable one that is a bit more open minded.

I am just trying to be upfront because I know we will not feel like we're home in such a church. Thank you.

More Irony

2008-09-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

So R has been working for this guy for a few weeks. The job was advertised as a handyman with home remodeling expereince. Since then he has been doing all landscaping, which he does not enjoy.

The irony of it all is WE pay someone to do OUR lawn. Go Figure!