My Polluted Stream of Consciousness

A Start of Summer Wrap Up

2007-06-20T16:57:00.000-05:00

So far we haven't done anything spectacular this summer. I felt like I needed a recording of what we HAVE done though so that when The Boys later said that we didn't do anything at all this summer I could simply point them in the direction of this post.

So we have completed 2 weeks of "little people camp". The part-time MDO gig meets two days a week for a few hours just to break up the monotony of summer. My boys are supposed to be positive and help me in exchange for some spending cash of their own. Let's just say we're working on it.

We had the scout cub kart races and The Critter placed in his rank. The Negotiator did well too, but there was much more competition at his level. We also had our scout pool party. We ate and played and played and ate. I swear all of the cubs were growing gills by the time we fished them out of the pool.

Last Friday we participated in our annual Splash Bash with the good people at my work. At first it rained, but then the clouds parted and it was lovely. Darned if we didn't have the whole place to ourselves. My boys got to ride the slide unlimited times and we finally left after 4 hours of interactive pool fun.

Monday we got together with the PTA Officers and planned for the year. It was amazingly productive given that we had 9 children, mostly boys, corralled up in a playroom while we tried to get our work done. Still miles to go before we sleep, miles to go before we sleep.

Yesterday we hung out at Tinkerbell's pool and her hubby grilled for us. Again we were pool side for at least 3 hours. I think I see a theme emerging here...

We tried to mosey down to Six Flags Fiesta Texas today, but were met with torrential rain pour. Even the boys were willing to turn around and come back to try for a later time. Now we're just sitting around being vegetables. You know, lay like lettuce, be like broccoli.

I'm reading this book by Ann Rule. I like it because it's set up as short stories. I can read in between laundry and refereeing the kids. Speaking of books, the boys and I are going to the library once a week. They get to check out what they like and I get to assign a reading time. We're also been pretty good about completing at least one worksheet a day. I find they're more into it if they get to pick, but if they are assigned something they're not as likely to work without complaint.

-E

E-View: H-E-B "Doritios"

2007-06-12T07:07:00.000-05:00

Or as I call them Fauxritos.

They're the store brand and they are just grand! Mind you, I don't like all store brands, so I'm not just all about these because of the price. They taste just like that other nacho cheese brand. Try 'em.

After all if you're not really a classy chip kind of person then you've got nothing to lose.

-E

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

2007-06-10T18:40:00.000-05:00

Have you ever broken up with a friend? I've had my share of friend break-ups, but not in awhile. I'm a little rusty. Still a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. Part of me says I should just go quietly into the night. Part of me says I owe her a explanation of my departure.

This is not a quick decision. It's been years in the making. Now seems like a good enough break.

-E

The Fence

2007-06-07T15:48:00.000-05:00

This is the fence I have right now...
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This is the fence I would like to have...
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Setting aside the fact in the second picture there actually IS a fence, I like the horizontal slats of the second fence.

We've been without a fence going on about 3 months now. It blew down in a storm and we just haven't put it back up yet. We've had estimates, but Papa and the neighbor with whom we share the lot line haven't moved on a start date. The dogs are loving their new expanded yard and the neighbor has taken to greeting them and I think even feeding them. It seems we now have co-op dogs. Fine by me.

-E

Broccoli

2007-06-05T17:41:00.000-05:00

I used to say that I hate broccoli. And I still do. You know raw or steamed. Basically stand alone broccoli oogs me.

Lately though I've found that I like broccoli IN something. My mom makes this fantastic broccoli salad that sent me over to the other side. Before the salad my sister in law made an amazing broccoli, rice and cheese casserole. Good stuff.

So I'm no longer a broccoli hater, but I only enjoy it in the company of others.

-E

Signs of Summer

2007-05-29T16:15:00.000-05:00

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Dang I wanna be my kid! How sweet is it to spend you Memorial Day weekend lounging in a pool? With a drink to boot.
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I think this is the last year we'll be able to pull off this pool. Several of our friends are getting pools this year. The in-ground variety. I'm just not there with space, money or dedication to that big a home improvement project. We have these really large oaks in the back yard and we're not allowed to cut them down without a review from the permit powers that be so I'm not sure an in-ground is even feasible for us. Maybe on one side of the yard that the trees aren't on, but then again the whole money and maintenance issue comes into play. An above ground seems just as easy an answer.
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I like that we have at least this pool to burn off the energy. Summer can be a sedentary time of year. In Texas is gets so hot that people here hibernate like the midwest folks do in winter. Boys cooped up in a house with nothing to do is a recipe for disaster. At least with this distraction they can splash and I can read my current book club selection.

E
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The Bag Off My Back

2007-05-28T13:52:00.000-05:00

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I think this might be the last I see of my latest bag. Someone at the library offered to buy it right off of me. I decided to make her another one so that I could add a cell phone pocket that is slightly larger since the pocket is made for my wee little phone. The new owner called me to tell me her friend wants to by this bag if I'm making Library Lady a new bag.

Mmmkay.

I'm a bit surprised at all the attention, but these are a labor of love. I have so much fun designing, creating and making the bags. I'm thinking about making a go of it. I must think of a name though. Besides what fun to have a business where you can deduct at least part of your habit? And if it turns even a quasi profit then more's the better.

E
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How Does My Garden Grow? I Wish!

2007-05-23T17:08:00.000-05:00

You speaking as preschool teacher (one of my many hats) I can say I've received my share of flowers and potted plants as thank you gifts. None of them compares to this one though.
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(top view)

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Those are gift card blooms. The other room parent, J, and I for Critter's class asked all the parents to give a gift card of any amount to any place (we gave a few suggestions). Then J bought a pot and I added silk flowers to the arrangement. We presented the whole ensemble to the Critter's teacher yesterday. She loved it! Of course.

I picked up the boys early on this last day of school. The Negotiator's teacher gave me GC for being room mom. Super sweet and totally unexpected. As I was leaving Critter's classroom his teacher pulled me aside and said, "I've really enjoyed getting to know you better this year and I hope you've come to consider me more of a friend than a teacher." I busted out crying. I am SO sappy.

Summer's on.

E
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Happy Birthday, Critter!

2007-05-18T00:36:00.000-05:00

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Critter is 6 years old today.

Nothing like a sibling birthday serenade to start off the day. Papa made the Critter's favorite breakfast of eggs, bacon and pancakes. And then Mama sent him to school. No worries though I took lunch for him and The Negotiator and they each got to bring a friend to the guest table. It's the little things that thrill my kids.
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Just a sampling of the gifts Boy 2 got for his birthday. We don't really do friend parties anymore. Just having the family over is a major event by most people's standards. You have to figure though that with Papa as one of SEVEN kids and counting step-sibs on my side we also number seven, the potential for just an immediate family gathering is pretty astounding. Besides if you're not used to a big family - particularly one of the Latino variety - it can be quite daunting. We tend to shelter our unexposed friends from the congregation of our family.
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That there is an ice cream cake and it was delish! Of course we had dinner since our kind of parties aren't about snack food, ice cream & cake. Latinos make a meal when we make a party. There is no other standard by our way of thinking.

If you're so inclined you can take a walk down memory lane from the birthday five.

E
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Mother's Day and Other Crazy Ideas

2007-05-13T22:47:00.000-05:00

When is Mother's Day not Mother's Day? When you have a sick kid. Of course, having a sick wee one is what being a mom is all about. Poor Critter came home with a fever and a headache on Thursday and has been puny all weekend. Turns out many in his class are fighting this bug. I missed the family meal with Papa's side of the family so one of us could represent and one of us could serve as cootie master (that'd be me).

Sunday has been better all the way around. Critter seems to be fever-free and if he can stay that way he'll go to school tomorrow. He's definitely looking better and getting into trouble which is the real sign that he's on the mend.

We were able to go to my mom's house for lunch. GG - Grandpa Golf (that would be my mom's hubby and my step-dad) - made a fabulous lunch and drinks. I got to have a mango margarita, eat chips with salsa and talk to my mom. My mom asked that I make her cookies for Mom's Day.

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Since I got a margarita from them I returned the favor. I cookies are rimmed in sugar crystals to look like salt. Next time I think I'll add a little bit of fresh lime to the icing just to give it a kick.

As for me I got my off the hook new iron/steam generator. One of the Hancock Fabric Stores is going out of business. Their loss is my gain. This is a $150 iron and it was marked for 70% off and the cashier gave me an extra 10%.
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The box was crushed, the machine was dusty and it had been in the back of the store for quite awhile (it was an older model). Still I plugged her in and she fired right up. I walked out the door for about $40, happier than a pig in shit. Papa cleaned her up for me and she is a honey. So that was my Mother's Day gift along with the potted begonia that is really nice. It sits outside my home office and makes me smile.
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Happy Mother's Day everyone!!

E

Trashiness

2007-05-10T12:40:00.000-05:00

I'm making my friend, Anna's, trashy candy that she brought to Bunco awhile back. It's this concoction of Fritos, pretzels, peanut butter cups, butter and brown sugar. Rates really high on the heart-healthy foods. Lucky for me "heart" also has to do with comfort and this yumminess totally fits the bill.

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So far, so good. I found I had a hard time with the chopping the pretzels and Fritos in the food processor. I got a bunch of whole pieces combines with snack dust. I'll have to work on that one.

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I didn't have plain ol' chocolate chips so I used the caramel filled chocolate chips I had in the freezer (I'm bought them on clearance after Christmas). The carmel filled chips left the top a little more ooey-gooey than I liked. It made it harder to spread the melted chocolate so it could cool as a solid piece of chocolate. Also I think I undershot the brown sugar with melted butter ratio. It seemed that there was quite a bit of unrestrained corn chip and pretzel pieces about the pan.

This batch went to Papa's work and made a new batch with more butter, brown sugar and real chocolate chips. It was much better.

E

I Have The Mind of a 4-Year-Old

2007-05-08T15:52:00.000-05:00

My 8-year-old son just told me not to wait to go potty.

I was on my way to take care of business when the Critter asked me a question. Being the dutiful mom I am I stopped to answer his inquiry. The Negotiator says to me, "Mom, I thought you were going to the bathroom. You really shouldn't wait until the last minute." Hmm, I wonder where he's heard that before...

Earlier today I was looking for trinkets for the treasure box in my classroom. While I was going though some boxes of donated items I found a box of mints.
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I could not stop laughing.

Being the completely mature adult that I am, I waited for my boss to go take care of his business and then I left the box of mints on his keyboard. Tee hee. I went back to my classroom to wait. And watch. I could barely contain my school-girl giggle. When he got back to his desk I saw him smile so I went to 'fess up. He said he knew it was me.

I suppose my reputation precedes me.

E

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What Happens When You Leave Your Digital Camera In The Reach Of Small Children

2007-05-06T21:46:00.000-05:00

They take their own pictures. This one for example...

Can't figure out what this is a picture of in this shot?

How about this one?

This is a picture of "Catty". The Caterpillar. Yep, the boys went and found themselves one of God's little creatures and brought it's fuzzy ass into my house. The set up a fishing line for the insect's enjoyment and captured the moment digitally.

Want to know the VERY best part? They put the caterpillar in jar, complete with leaves, twigs and other insect accouterments, and didn't close the top securely. The next morning "Catty" was gone.

We never did find him.

E

The Butterfly Farm

2007-05-04T21:04:00.000-05:00

We went to visit our local butterfly farm for a field trip today. Aside from the fact it raining, humid and I ticked off the owner right from the start it was a great trip. I learned a good deal about butterflies and now have come to not loathe flies. I'm sorry, but even knowing their important function in pollination that's still all the respect I can muster up the fly.

How did I tick off of the proprietors you are wondering? In all fairness she was not happy with our group from the get-go after the bus drove up too close to the farm. Apparently we were supposed to schlep through the muddy road with 100 children and leave the busses at the gate. Oopsey daisy. Then when one of the owners was unloading the lunches, she told me to stop with our wagon and, thinking she was another parent, I didn't. I was a bad, bad chaparone. Then I wouldn't allow the Negotiator to go into their education room because they have 5 cats that use that room as a bedroom. There was cat hair all over the floor, you know, where the kids sit. Since I didn't have an epipen or even a toot of Benadryl, my boy was not going inside to go into anaphylactic shock. Sorry.

In the end I did enjoy the trip, but I would have enjoyed it more on a cooler day. At least I get another shot in two years when the Critter goes on this same trip.

E

The Good, The Bad and The Ooogly

2007-04-30T11:18:00.000-05:00

First I’m back from Progresso. I had a blast and managed to stay out of any Mexican jails. The house was a mess when I got home, but it’s not like I left it clean so no harm, no foul. I found the boys all healthy, happy and it one piece. We’ll call it good.

Bummer is I lost my cell phone on the Mexico side. I discovered the phone was gone pretty quickly, but you’d be surprised to know there isn’t a general “lost & found” at the boarder. Okay, maybe not. The last I saw my phone I was in a bathroom in a bar and then the phone was gone. My mom thinks someone pick pocketed it. Heck after 2 margaritas and a pina colada I might have traded it for a shirt?

I bummed a phone and called to suspend my service. Thankfully no one had made any phone calls (you might remember that unfortunate incident a few years back when Papa left his phone at the Marie Callendar’s and whoever took it racked up $100+ in international calls toot sweet). Bottom line I don’t have a phone and it’ll take a day or two for me to make my way to Sprint and end my pity party.

I’m doggie-butt tired and the Critter has a field trip out tomorrow that I’m supposed to chaperon. Is it awful that I’m PRAYING for rain?! I just found out that the Negotiator has a field trip to a butterfly farm on Friday and this is the absolute first I’ve heard of it. Why don’t boys communicate these things?!

So there you have it. Love, kisses and all that crap.

Thanks, Bluebonnet

2007-04-20T16:58:00.000-05:00

For leaving that bottle of Mudslide at my house from a long-ago bunco.

Last night The Critter nearly took the tip of this finger off playing with a garden tool (we are such watchful parents). He saw Papa using the long-handled branch clippers to cut back some of the branches near the fence we’re taking down. Critter decided to “help” and sliced into his pinky near at the fingernail. Blood was everywhere! We took him to the ER last night, but the blood finally stopped so we brought him home and took him back to his pedi today. We knew his tetanus shot was current and that the finger was still attached so we didn’t stay for the hospital procedure. Critter was so exhausted and totally freaked out by the ER that it was less traumatic to wait for Dr. J and just dope him up for the night.

We got in to see the doctor this morning and she put Humpty Dumpty back together again. It seems like the only time Boy Two sees his pediatrician is when she’s has to patch him up and send him on his way. We had lunch and ran some errands before picking up Boy One with Boy Three (who today is Tinkerbell's son since she has strep throat and Big A is out of town). At the moment all is right and happy in Boyland.

But wait! Fast forward…

You will not believe it, but Critter stepped on a nail this afternoon. He went in the backyard without shoes. The rule is you have to have shoes on so outside so I didn’t specifically tell him that this time. Because it’s every time, you know? He’s running around playing tag with the Negotiator and Boy Three when all of a sudden Critter comes in the house crying. The nail wasn’t actually in his foot, but there was a nice gaping hole from which blood was oozing. Fortunately we know for certain from our visit THIS MORNING that his tetanus shot is current.

God has a wonderful sense of humor. Or this whole “secret/law of attraction” theory everyone is banking on is all a load of shit because I tell myself constantly how careful and cautious my children are and nothin’.

E

WOOT! There It Is.

2007-04-14T16:44:00.000-05:00

I finished knitting a scarf. The never ending scarf. I swear I've been working on this for weeks. Months. I made this one for my good friend, Di. She loves lime green and I crocheted some fun pink yarn around the edging . The Critter is modeling the finished product for you.

Now that I've shown it off to the folks in my bubble everyone seems to want a piece of the Knitmaster's work.

-E

Oooh, Look What The Crap Bunny Left Us

2007-04-11T08:47:00.000-05:00

My mom is cleaning out her house. Sort of a very long, drawn out flylady process. She's going through this purging phase and so guess who is the benefit of her discards. Right-o!

What am I gonna do with all this stuff? Really do I, a mom of two small boys, need delicate little etched wine glasses? My mom gets these baubles at thrift stores because she thinks they look pretty, and they do, but it causes her to take leave of her practical senses. So alleviates her guilt of purchase by passing them on to me. On my door step without telling me.

Sneaky.

So I leave the house on my way to meeting last night and found a basket of these "treasures" sitting there waiting for my attention. They're still there because it's easier to carry them to the back of my car to take them to the GW.

E

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Generational Gap

2007-04-09T23:02:00.000-05:00

I signed up for myspace.

I have to admit I feel a little like a middle aged woman wearing a miniskirt. Even if she can pull it off it doesn't seem quite right. You know?

I'm enjoying customizing my profile and all dat, but the whole process feels a little clunky. Or maybe I'm just used to blogger? I've tried to move to wordpress before and I came back. I am a creature of habit.

I also can't help but wonder how I will keep up with this on any sort of a regular basis. I sort of see two different audiences with blogger and myspace since I use some identifying information on myspace, but have it set to "friends only". Still if I post here and then post there won't they get bored?

As usual, my carrying on is much ado about nothing.

E

BUSTED

2007-04-08T21:24:00.000-05:00

I was putting some of the Critter's worksheets in a bag for the recycle bin and he caught me.

"MOM! You're going to recycle my projects?!" he cried.

"Of course not! I was putting it in a bag for safe keeping until after everyone has come to dinner. Then I was going to let you tell me all about it!"

Papa and The Negotiator looked at me knowing I was lying like a rug, but Critter bought it. That's all that mattered.

Not Your Mama's Minivan

2007-04-01T00:11:00.000-05:00

Or any one's minivan for that matter.

I got to take this bad girl out for a spin around town.

Our PTA was raffling off a weekend with a BMW Z4. The dealership let us take a car for a visual and I got to show her around.

And because I'm such a good mommy I took the boys out for a spin. Later someone mentioned that kids in a convertible is not a safe idea. Whatever. The Critter is in his booster seat so it's all good.

I can tell you that it's really hard to go from this kind of ride back to my Sienna minivan. Of course spring in Texas is hard to beat in any car. I'm sure I'll appreciate my minivan and her air conditioning come May.

E

Spring Break In Pictures

2007-03-29T14:11:00.000-05:00

I meant to post these earlier, but well, you know...

The Negotiator earned his archery belt loop at Cub World. All the cubs and dads went to a District sponsored event. I can rest easy knowing Boy 1 can bag a water buffalo in a famine.

Spring Break isn't a break without a carnival. We opted out of the official rodeo carnival for the rag-tag outfit about a mile from the house. We didn't have to pay for parking and the wrist bands were only a $1 more than at the Texas Star event. Neither boy noticed the difference so who are we tell them?

I love that they are each other's best buddies. They fight, but they do have a great time with one another. Makes my job much easier - and much harder.

We planted spring flowers. Our yard looks like doo doo. Papa and the boys spent some time getting the weeds out and adding a little color. I'm hoping to add more, but they were worn out with just the clearing stages.

E

About Me

2007-03-27T18:34:00.000-05:00

I got this from my genxjackie who has no blog. She must get one.

Place an (X) by all the things you've done, or remove the X from the ones you haven't. This is for your entire life!

Smoked a cigarette. (X)
Drank so much you threw up. (X)...Everclear is NOT my friend
Had feelings for someone who didn't have them back. (X)
Gone on a blind date.
Skipped school. (X)...but don't tell my mom
Seen someone die.
Been to Canada
Been to Florida (X)...honeymoon
Been to Mexico . (X)
Been on a plane. (X)
Been lost. (X)...I could get lost in a box
Been on the opposite side of the country. (X)
Gone to Washington DC.
Swam in the ocean. (X )
Felt like dying. (X) after the aforementioned Everclear
Cried yourself to sleep. (X)
Played cops and robbers. (X)
Recently colored with crayons. (X)
Sang karaoke. (X)...at our last bunco game
Paid for a meal with only coins. (X)...how else do you eat in college?
Done something you told yourself you wouldn't. (X)
Made prank phone calls. (X)
Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose. (X)
Caught a snowflake on your tongue. (X)
Danced in the rain. (X)
Written a letter to Santa Claus. (X)...I'm still waiting for my Ken doll
Been kissed under the mistletoe. (X)
Watched the sun rise with someone you care about. (X)...my husband when our sons were sick and we were up all night cleaning up poopie and vomit
Blown bubbles. (X)
Made a bonfire on the beach. (X)
Crashed a party. (X)
Gone roller-skating. (X)
Gone Ice-skating. (X)
Any Nicknames - Lainey, E, Mom,
What is your favorite drink- unleaded-Coke Zero, leaded-margarita on the rocks with salt
Tattoos? - Soon, on my 40th birthday I'll get something
Body piercing? (X)...Ears
How much do you love your job? Define love. Define job.
Birthplace: Austin
Favorite vacation spot? Mt. Hood, Oregon
Ever been to Africa ? No
Ever eaten cookies for dinner? Yes
Ever been on TV? Yes
Ever steal any traffic signs? Yes *hanging my head in shame*
Ever been in a car accident? Yes
Was it your fault? Hell, no
2 doors or 4? 5 - I have a minivan
Salad Dressing? Ranch
Favorite pie? Boston cream
Favorite number? 7
Favorite movie? Fools Rush In
Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving
Favorite desert? Cream puff with custard in the center, not whipped cream
Favorite food? Mexican
Favorite day of the week? Saturday
Favorite brand of body soap? Target or Dove
Favorite TV show? Grey's Anatomy
Toothpaste? Crest Pro Health
Favorite smell? Cinnamon vanilla
What do you do to relax? blog, knit, read, scrapbook, watch tv
How do you see yourself in 10 years? Working full time, still living in the same house with a fabulous new kitchen, driving something other than a mom mobile.
What do you do when you are bored? watch TV
Furthest place you will send this message? You tell me, where are you?
Who will respond fastest? Beth

E

Regalos

2007-03-26T14:04:00.000-05:00

I am on a board about budgeting and someone was asking what was one of the strangest gifts I've received. I was thinking it was this crazy cat garden stake, but then one of the gals was talking about towels and I must revise my answer.

I remember that when Papa and I got married someone gave us two tweety-bird-yellow towels. Our colors were Burgundy and green so I'm not sure where they got the idea to give us yellow towels. Thankfully they only gave us two and they became the cat's towels and then eventually they became the car's towels.

What is the weirdest gift you've ever received?

-E

My Volunteeritis Is Acting Up Again

2007-03-25T17:23:00.000-05:00

Our school carnival is this Saturday. We're getting down to the wire for volunteers, donations, and organizing. I keep thinking that since people aren't helping out that I must. Bad habit.

I have committed to baking dozens of cookies, cupcakes and brownies this week. I will sell tickets, arrange baskets and make phone calls. I will do this in addition to hauling The Negotiator to Cub Scouts, both boys to soccer games at different places, handling all the end of the month accounting at work and maintaining the household.

In the 60's, people took acid to make the world weird. Now the world is weird and people take Prozac to make it normal.

E

Buggin' On This

2007-03-22T09:06:00.000-05:00

You know, sometimes there are people that bug me. This bothers me. I want to like, be liked and get along with everyone. Sometimes it just doesn't work out that way.

There is one mom who is currently driving me bonkers. What's even more frustrating is that I can't put a finger on why she bothers me so much. She's nice enough. Polite enough. I do feel that she's a little inconsiderate. I know there may be a reason why she seems to be completely oblivious to the people and circumstances around her.

What's more is I love one of her kids. I would love to have my boy play with hers, but I don't because then it would lead to the inevitable mommy talk that has to ensue during playtime. I don't want to talk to her. So I avoid.

I'm just really up front that way.

-E

Can You Spot The Killer?

2007-03-21T17:09:00.000-05:00

Another one of those crazy quizzes.

I got a 7/10. "Pretty good; it seems you know your JavaBeans from your fava beans, your slashers from your slashdotters."

What did you get?

E

Children. Wild. Help. Me.

2007-03-20T20:02:00.000-05:00

OMG! The my school kids were bonkers today! They wouldn't listen, they were ornery to one another. A few even - gasp! - talked back to me. We all remained calm and collected (but did do petty things out of their view) and knew this too would pass.

It better pass.

I know it's hard to get readjusted after being off a week and then whole time change, but get over it, kid. We all have issues.

Am I not the embodiment of maturity? Is it any wonder I teach 3-years-olds? I seem to have not progressed mentally past that state.

E

Dr. Who?

2007-03-16T22:30:00.000-05:00

I'm constantly amazed how Papa can manage a staff of many, the business and administration of a medical office and the politics of government yet be so forgetful at home. It cracks me up the things he forgets. For example, the other day he was making a doctor appointment for himself. I hear him talking on phone and then I hear the shuffle of feet coming into the dining room where I'm reading the paper.

He frantically asks me, "who's my primary care physician?"

I reply, "you don't know?"

"I can see his face in my mind, but I don't remember his name" Papa answered.

Mmkay.

I tell him and he walks happily away to complete his appointment.

-E

Stupid.

2007-03-15T14:06:00.000-05:00

From today's local paper:

10 EMS employees disciplined for viewing porn while on duty

By Tony Plohetski Thursday, March 15, 2007, 11:15 AM

Ten Austin-Travis County EMS employees have been disciplined for viewing Internet pornography on city computers while on duty, officials said today.

Officials said three paramedics resigned instead of being fired.

Two district commanders were demoted and suspended for two weeks; two other paramedics were suspended for 96 hours - tantamount to two weeks - and three were suspended for 48 hours, which equals a week.

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Gawd! How STUPID can people behave?! I know these are not stupid people, but their actions sure do give me pause for thought. No doubt their good judgement comes into question, but now our city is three paramedics fewer when there is already a shortage.

What kind of tits and ass could possibly be worth this outcome?

I’m sorry, but what defect in these people’s personality leaves them to believe that viewing, porn PARTICULARLY in the workplace, is acceptable? Has the office setting changed that much since I’ve been at home?

E

Taking A Step Down on The Coolness Ladder

2007-03-13T00:11:00.000-05:00

We did it.

We joined the minivan nation. (Is minivan one word or two, see I don't even know this which further proves maybe I'm not the minivan type).

I'm learning to love it, but I'm so panicked about having a new-to-me vehicle. We traded in the Suburban which was dangerously close to expiring on us. The Sienna isn't new, but it's got really low miles and, hell anything would have felt new to us. The payments are manageable and now we have a good, reliable vehicle. Safety first, you know.

I'm sorry, when did we take this detour into suburban hell?

I love my life, but every once in awhile I look around and go whoa! As a child of the 80's I thought I was going to be a corporate woman having power lunches, not play dates. I had visions of Madison Avenue, not Sesame Street.

The boys run to tell anyone who will listen "we got a new minivan!" I don't have the heart to tell them it's not what the cool kids are driving. At the dealership they told Papa they could see about adding some sort of sports upgrade. Yeah, right, he says. It's a minivan.

Still it was really nice to spend a little less than $40 on a fill up as opposed to nearly $100. I'm actually thinking that with gas prices we might be less in the hole than we thought given we now have a car payment. The thought gets me through the night anyway.

E

Daylight Savings, Smalight Savings

2007-03-11T13:41:00.000-05:00

I get so frustrated with Daylight Savings time. I'm so glad it's happening during our spring break. My kids (both MY kids and the kids I teach) are absolute monsters when the time changes. I'm hoping my kids at school will get their internal clock reset before we get back to class.

I'm sure moving daylight savings ahead 3 weeks makes sense for other parts of the country, but it's a total PITA.

E

Decaf, Please

2007-03-07T23:32:00.000-06:00

When am I going to learn to order decaf? I'm usually pretty good, but lately I've been slipping. So here I am at what seems like the middle of the night trying to type off the caffeine.

Damn!

Still the Cinnamon Dolce latte was SO worth it!

E

Tastes for Two

2007-03-02T10:05:00.000-06:00

Why can my boys like the same thing?

It seems I'm usually making two different "somethings". One will want a burger and the other chicken nuggets. One will want fresh fruit and one will only drink smoothies. I know I should put stuff out and too bad, so sad if you don't like it. Still I'm a mommy and seeing my kids NOT eat goes against every fiber in my body.

I'm trying a different approach. I'm sending the boys to cooking camp over spring break and maybe they can learn to cook for themselves since they seem to have such different tastes. At the very least I hope to get some help in the kitchen.

E

My Sentiments Exactly!

2007-02-28T08:55:00.000-06:00

A few months ago there was a woman on The Ellen show who cracked me up. Supposedly this 80 year old woman called in and had some advice for Ellen on her set. What made me laugh the most was Ellen! She nearly came unglued! Whether or not this whole thing was real or made up is a source of some debate, but no matter, it's funny!

I think there is a Gladys trapped inside of me.

E, who also loves Jesus, but does drink a little

Family Pride

2007-02-26T22:44:00.000-06:00

My cousin was just deployed to Iraq. He arrived safely and so far is just fine. J is the one in the first row, third from the right.

Y'all keep him in your prayers and I'll keep you up to date on his progress.

E

Gets My Toes Tapping

2007-02-24T20:11:00.000-06:00

I love the GMC commercial that is out right out. The techno version of "Hail to the Chief" makes me want to put on my dancing shoes.

E

Missing The Clothes Boat

2007-02-22T09:16:00.000-06:00

I hate it when I miss the season on my boy's clothing. I put away The Negotiator's spring clothes last year for The Critter this year. When I pulled them out The Critter had already outgrown them. How could he?? Moving on.

So I purged The Critter's closet of no-longer-fits clothing and got a bag ready for the clothing pantry at Papa's work. I know all the clothes there go to great new homes and I'm glad. It gives me incentive to keep purging, and believe me I need it since it feels like we are drowning in stuff.

E

Teacher Talks

2007-02-20T20:42:00.000-06:00

We had our conference with The Critter's teacher today. She says he's doing great. From what I can tell at the student-led conference, the teacher is correct. He can maneuver the computers like nobody's business. He's whipping through those math manipulatives. He seems to be inclined towards reading and is already at the 1st grade level.

It's all good with The Critter.

The Negotiator has made great strides. His reading has shown remarkable improvement and he's reading slightly above grade level. Whew! As much as we valued the teacher's input we decided to take our own way of helping The Negotiator along with his reading. We started out with us reading to him from chapter books. He had to understand that all those random letters pulled together to make a word and those words in the correct sequence made a story. Once he made that connection he started challenging himself to read more.

This time we didn't meet formally with The Negotiator's teacher, but she sent home a progress form. He kicking mathematics booty. As I said, reading is rocking (a very special thanks to the Harry Potter books). We are told there still a bit of a disconnect with writing, which isn't about handwriting at all, but rather showing your reading comprehension through writing.

I don't think I'm gonna worry about that one. First he's a boy and the physical part of writing is just too hard for them at this age. Moving the brain, the language arts muscle, the hand for actually writing and bringing them all together in concert is a lot to ask. He'll get there eventually. I know he's comprehending the material because he can answer the questions verbally even if he can't write them down in his allotted time. Writing, in the case of this evaluation is, in my opinion, just another bullshit bench mark that only serves to make parents panic about their kid's progress. Which is exactly what I did, panic that is, when I got the little note. Then after further reflection it occurred to me that he's just like me. My mom was told I should repeat Kindergarten and that I was possibly dyslexic because I kept flipping my letters or some such nonsense. So at The Negotiator's age I couldn't show my comprehension through writing either. Today I can say that I've written for the news media (radio, television and print) for a mid-sized market in addition to the many other written documents I've produced over the years.

He'll be just fine. Trust me, teacher, I didn't turn out half bad.

E

From The Spin Cycle

2007-02-19T13:28:00.000-06:00

When will I learn that little boys with pockets and laundry do NOT mix?

I got out to move the laundry from the washer to the dryer and what to my eyes appear? Why little tubes of balloon goop. You know the kind that comes with straws and you blow up big plastic-like bubbles? I found yellow, blue, green and red at the bottom of the washer, thank God, still in tact.

Can you imagine what all of clothes would have looked like with the psychedelic goop on them? It's bad enough that I've already had to have the washer serviced because of those damned little playground rocks. Yeah, I know they're safer for kids, but they play hell on my floors and appliances.

E

Hang Up and Bond

2007-02-18T21:00:00.000-06:00

I was so frustrated today at lunch. We were at a fast food joint and there was only one other family there in the dining room. A mom and 3 kids were eating quietly while dad was on the phone talking business.

First of all, c'mon dude, you can't put away the phone for one FAST food meal? Your family is sitting there not interacting so that you can take your call. That's just wrong. So okay, maybe it is a matter of life and death that you take talk to this person. I'll give you that, but you can't take it outside so that at least the remaining family members can have a conversation?

Ugh.

Double ugh.

E

Bah Lovebug!

2007-02-15T21:11:00.000-06:00

I finally finished knitting Papa that scraf he asked for in the fall. Ooops. Well, mas tarde que nunca. I got it to him just in time for Spring.

Since I think Valentine's day is a crock of you-know-what I gave it to him the day after. I refuse to give in to the whole commercialization of the day. I get cards for my boys and try to do something a little extra to show them I love them, but I ain't buying JACK.

I'll celebrate that the day is about love and not just about the romantic kind of love. I love all my boys, I love my family, I love my friends and I love the Lord. So here I am basking in the glow of all kinds of love.

I hope the same for you!

-E

Is It Bad?

2007-02-12T13:56:00.000-06:00

I made all of these chocolate covered stawberries for Papa to take to his office. I became very particular as to the quality of my work on this project. Any strawberry that did not meet strict standards was booted to the reject pile.

Of course all those yummy chocolate covered strawberries couldn't go to waste just because they weren't visually pleasing so I had to eat them. I think I made myself sick on "rejects".

E

What's In A Word?

2007-02-08T20:00:00.000-06:00

Have you ever looked at a word and just made yourself all confused?

I was reading the word "flower" and for some reason my mind just couldn't process it. I thought FLOW-er? FLO-er? Of course if I had read the word even a little bit in context it would have made total sense without me resorting to moving my lips while I read.

And yes, the irony that my most recent post was in fact about a flower was not lost on me.

E

A Flower When I Grow Up

2007-02-06T16:07:00.000-06:00

When I was kid someone once asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I said either a lawyer or flower. I never became the lawyer, but I think I still have a good shot at the flower position.

Both my kids have been in school since fall. During this time I have spent an inordinate amount of time trying to decide what I will do next. It doesn't help that some people keep asking when I'll go back to work. I know it's expected, but if I'm honest I'm not ready to do it yet. I sort of feel like I deserve a little "rest" time.

Then I wonder what I could do to put my education and experience to work and I feel guilty that I'm not doing whatever that is. The thing is I don't know that I want to do that anymore. I'm slowly coming to the realization that I may have a different calling. One that I would have never predicted so I'm having a hard time accepting it. I actually like working with kids. I feel that I'm doing something worthwhile even in the few hours a week I spend with them. I just never saw myself in that capacity, especially after my own kids were no longer able to benefit from my program. Still I'm here and I'm happy to be here.

Once again, God doesn't call the equipped. He equips the called.

E

March To State

2007-02-03T19:44:00.000-06:00

This year's March To State Parade was even colder than last year. Still the boys had a great time and one of the benefits of being a Cub Scout is that you get to experience a real live parade from the inside out.

Our Pack gets to use Army vehicles to ride in the parade. The trucks are bumpy ride, but the ride is much better than the poor fellas who have to walk the whole time! At least the truck provided a little protection from the wind.

Here are the boys inside the vehicle. The parade watchers watching the boys watch them. Too funny!

E

The Oven Man Commeth

2007-02-01T22:23:00.000-06:00

Damn! Damn! Damn!

It was going to cost nearly $400 to get that MFer fixed. Yeah, right. Thanks, but no thanks buddy.

We went to Sears and got a new oven which will be delivered on Saturday. I'm so tired of cooking on the stove top and in a crock pot. I want to heat a frozen pizza in the oven just like all the other kids on the block get to do.

Our appliances are white, but we decided to switch to black. So all the other majors will still be white until they go to the big appliance house in the sky. I wish we could afford to replace everything at once (but hell, if we could afford *that* we would have gone with all stainless).

E

Party...Scout Style

2007-01-31T00:40:00.000-06:00

Tonight we went to a Den Meeting/Birthday Party. OMG it was so much fun. I mean we did the usual Scout thing - Pledge of Allegiance, Cub Scout Promise - and then we were served an authentic Philipino meal. It was YUMMY!

I think we should do that more often, you know have people over to experience different foods and cultures. We have a very diverse little den. We could do it.

The cake was as chocolate as chocolate could be so no complaints on that front. The boys got to do a treasure hunt for their goodie bags. One of the best parts of the evening was the adults (okay, me and Papa - some of the parents could stand to loosen up a bit) sang karaoke. We rocked.

E

A Boy's Life

2007-01-27T20:14:00.000-06:00

My goodness what a great Saturday. Papa took the boys fishing all afternoon. They came home smelling of dog and lake water. Doesn't get much better!

They're really enjoying casting. Not necessarily fishing, but getting that bobber right where they want it is such great fun they can hardly stand it. I guess it's a guy thing.

I stayed home and organized my craft room.
Different strokes...

Light A Candle For My Oven

2007-01-23T11:37:00.000-06:00

The damn thing has died. It comes in three's so first the dog, now the oven. What is next?

We've had the oven for nearly 9 years so I have a feeling we have to get a new one. I think it could be fixed, but they're probably going to tell me some laughable number to get it running again.

Any ideas for stove top cooking until the Sears guy can get here NEXT week?

E

A Little Bit of Irony

2007-01-22T15:41:00.000-06:00

I'm looking for a Bible cover for the Negotiator. He wants a very specific kind. He wants it to be camoflauge and say something about the Lord's Army. So I enter this information into Amazon.com and I get not only the Bible cover I'm looking for, but also this little gem.

What a giggle.

Or maybe it's just me.

E

Dangerously Crafty

2007-01-18T09:42:00.000-06:00

This crafting business is dangerous. It can turn your head around like in that Exorcist movie.

Every time I get an e-mail or a catalog from a craft related business I get all gung-ho on a hobby. Now I'm a scrapbooker through and through, but I sure am a fickle woman when it comes to other crafty arts.

This morning I caught a glimpse of my sewing machine and tackle box of sewing supplies. Then I received an e-mail about Simplicty patterns being on sale. Then yet another e-mail containing a coupon for material. I think to myself, I really should get back into sewing.

They saw me coming, didn't they?

E

Brrrr

2007-01-16T18:42:00.000-06:00

Holy. Crap. It's. Cold.

I'm a Texan and I'm not used to this weather. I don't know how you people in the North and Midwest deal with this shitty weather for months at a time. I would be on mega doses of Prozac if I had to deal with this more than a few days.

I'm tired of being in the house. I'm tired of being cold. I'm tired of the break in my routine. This cozy cold weather was fun, but now that I'm made all my cold weather food, I'm pretty much done.

The kids like that they've had two snow days. They'll be plenty ticked in May when they realize that just means school goes a little longer in Spring. I'll wait for the school to deliver that piece of bad news.

-E

The boys are catching snowflakes on their tounges. Que cute!

That's me and my good sense getting the hell out of the cold. The only good thing about this weather is that I finally get to wear my pink Uggs.

In Memoriam

2007-01-13T23:34:00.000-06:00

Zoe

April 1, 1995 - January 13, 2006

The dog died. This was the last picture taken of her before we took her in to the vet. We knew she had been struggling with The Big C, but she'd been content. This morning she couldn't walk, couldn't eat and couldn't drink. We knew it was time to let her pass.

My Cheating Heart

2007-01-11T14:12:00.000-06:00

I'm being a lazy blogger and posting the answers to one of my emails. Feel free to steal it, but if you do, let me know so I can peek in on your answers!

It's all about Friends...

1. What is your occupation? Wife, Mom, MDO instructor/coordinator.

2. What color are your socks right now? White.

3. What are you listening to right now? The damn dog barking.

4. What was the last thing that you ate? Penne pasta with pesto sauce, grilled chicken, artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes.

6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Burnt orange ;)

7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Mandi.

8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Very much.

9. How old are you today? 36

10. Favorite drink? Coffee, coke zero

11. What is your favorite sport to watch? football

13. Pets? Zoe, Chula & Hurley all mutt-Chihuahua mix

14. Favorite food? Chips & salsa

15. What was the last movie you watched? "Tortilla Soup".

16. Favorite day of the year? The first sweater-weather day of the year.

17. What do you do to vent anger? talk, walk, write nasty e-mails that I never send

18. What was your favorite toy as a child? My tea set from England (I still have it).

19. What is your favorite -- fall or spring? fall

20. Hugs or kisses? hugs

21. Cherries or Blueberries? cherries

22. Do you want your friends to email you back? Of course

23. Who is most likely to respond? Diane

25. Living arrangements? With Papa, two boys and 3 dogs.

26. When was the last time you cried? Tuesday because my husband did a really sweet thing for our boy…Good daddy!

27. What is on the floor of your closet? shoes

28. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending this to? I don’t know.

29. What did you do last night? Went to my knitting group and talked about toilet planters.

30. Favorite smells? The smell of coffee brewing, the smell of my sons after they’ve been playing hard.

31. What inspires you? The Word.

32. What are you afraid of? Missing out on my kids growing up.

33. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? Oooh, spicy!

34. Favorite dog breed? Dachshund

36. How many years at your current job? 15, 8, 4 respectively

37. Favorite day of the week? Friday

38. How many states have you lived in? 2

39. Favorite holidays? Cinco de Mayo

-e

Excitement

2007-01-09T10:02:00.000-06:00

Today is my anniversary.

It's been 15 years of marital bliss, but it feels like 5 minutes.

Under water.

-e

Happy Birthday, J-Boy

2007-01-05T21:44:00.000-06:00

He turns 8 years old today.

It's just not possible! He was just born, wasn't he?

Time is passing so quickly. I love the independence that having a growing child brings, but I am missing that baby boy! -E

I Made It Myself!

2007-01-02T13:57:00.000-06:00

In light of the new year and doing our best to keep things tidy, The Critter has taken to cleaning his own room. Today he came to me all excited that he made his own bed. I guess a little more practice is in order.

-e

New Years Goals

2007-01-01T12:11:00.000-06:00

I've decided not to do the whole weight resolution. I'm just not there yet. Still I have so many other things I can resolve to do so here goes...

1) To stay on budget. Last year I created a budget - what a concept! This year I resolve to manage our money and be good stewards of what has been given to us.

2) To ride my bike. I finally got a helmet so I can set a good example for the kids so now I have no excuse. Of course, I haven't committed to a specific time or place to ride so I'm not so sure how this resolution will go.

3) To scrapbook at least once a week. I have tons of materials and tools and I need to use them. To that end I will not buy any more supplies (see resolution #1) until at least April 1 (Q2). I hope to get some friends to scrapbook with me during the day while the kiddos are in school, but we shall see. Either way I will commit to getting my pages caught up.

4) To have people over to our house. This goes to making relationships in the real world. As much as I value the people I "know" online I have to make an effort to keep in touch with the people in my world. There are people I'd love to get to know better and that means face time. It is inconvenient to create relationships, but no mom is an island so I gotta reach out.

5) To work on feathering my nest. I have a list of goals and projects I want to accomplish. I have little line item in my budget and Papa and I have identified one home improvement project a quarter. The first goal is to replace 2 light fixtures and add an outlet to the front of the house.

6) To drink more water. I'm really bad about living on coffee and diet coke so I must make this change!

Allrightee! There's my plan in blog. Anyone else want to share their resolutions?

-e

Friday Five: New Years Eve

2006-12-29T17:08:00.000-06:00

Okay, I borrowed this from Kristy.

1) Big Party or stay at home alone?
Stay at home with the boys.

2) Stay up to watch the ball drop?
Go to bed!!!

3) Will you make any resolutions?
They will be post on here 1-1

4) Is Dick Clark a good host for New Year's Eve?
Yes, buy Ryan Seacrest isn't bad either.

5) Do you know the words to Auld Lang Syne?
The first verse. The rest I'm just mumbling under my breath.

-E

I'll Just Wear A Hat

2006-12-28T13:55:00.000-06:00

Lately The Negotiator has taken to wearing hats rather than brush his hair. What is up with that? I tell him to go brush his hair, but he acts like this is just SUCH an imposition on his time. Maybe it is to him, but c'mon, kid, we all crosses to bear.

I'd love to find a compromise, but there doesn't seem to be a middle ground between his idea and mine. I know eventually I won't have a say so, for now anyway, I win.

-E

Puzzling

2006-12-27T10:38:00.000-06:00

We got a 500 piece puzzle on Christmas Eve. At first Papa and I weren't all that jazzed about this project, but it was a picture of a train so The Critter's happiness served as our motivation. Well, I'll be damned, but it turns out puzzles are kind of fun! The four of us will sit around for a little while, try to put it together and have sparkling conversation.

So a week later we are still working on this puzzle and it's still fun, but we all want our kitchen table back. We've actually been eating over the puzzle pieces at meal time. This method isn't working anymore.

I am spending the morning cleaning the kitchen and thinking about where to move all 500 pieces in various stages of completeness and NOT send these guys into a tizzy about ruining what they've worked on so far. And where the hell do I store this while they're working on it? I don't want it on the dining room table either, but at least we don't eat off of that one as much as the breakfast table. It seems like it would be a reasonable compromise for the time being.

Of course, they're talking about actually buying a puzzle table. Yeah, right!

-e

Bah Humbug!

2006-12-21T09:06:00.000-06:00

It's getting to be that time of year when I'm completely overwhelmed. The irony is that I'm actually at the end of all of our holiday commitments. This is really the time of year I swear, "never again!" Of course, that sentiment doesn't stick.

I will say have have scaled back this year in all things and that despite the busyness of the season I haven't been totally stressed out. I've tried really hard to keep perspective and pray for guideance on what is really important.

Sorry I haven't been around much, but I'm sure you are all just as crazy this time of year. Here is hoping your world slows down a bit also and we can catch up soon!

-e

Which Reindeer Are You?

2006-12-13T21:52:00.000-06:00

I am...

You Are Blitzen

Always in good spirits, you're the reindeer who loves to party down with Santa.

Why You're Naughty: You're always blitzed on Christmas Eve, while flying!

Why You're Nice: You mix up a mean eggnog martini.

Which of Santa's Reindeer Are You?

Go find out who you are and let me know!

-e

My First Time

2006-12-01T15:40:00.000-06:00

Until today I was an IKEA virgin.

Oh. My. Goodness.

Really, there are no words. My head is so full and my heart sings at the joy that is that store. Two of my friends who had given up their IKEA innocence before me took me to guide me through. We couldn’t get through all of the offerings today. We had to rush through the market place and didn’t get to check out the As Is section. I will furnish the boys room with stuff from IKEA.

My shopping list was so long, but I had to whittle it down to only what I was going to take today. I totally felt the value for my dollar. I can't wait to go back. I want to go back now.

This is my new happy place.

The Mystery of Boys

2006-12-01T00:11:00.000-06:00

My little boys are showing their genetics.

Oh my goodness these kids cannot sit still. That is of course unless they are in front of a video game. Otherwise they are perpetual movement. They can't sit still to eat, to do homework, not even to sleep judging by the way they toss and turn to get comfortable.

Yesterday we were at the dentist and they talked her ear off. Apparently they had been saving questions up for her since their last visit. She rocks. She patiently listened and answered all of their questions. She even chatted them up about spit and other good boy stuff. I was horrified. She looked and me and reassured me she understood. You see, she too has boy offspring. We looked at each other knowingly.

They've really gotten to the age where they prefer to hang out with Papa. They love me and want me to take care of them, but the other stuff is all about Dad. They go walking through the parks and creeks looking for bugs and reptiles. They climb trees. They build forts. They have burping contests. All activities of great fun, I'm sure, but I'm going to pass all the same.

I'm reading two books right now that I'm hoping we'll help me understand these male creatures that have invaded my home. So far I'm really caught up in Kids, Parents and Power Struggles. I'm also starting Bring Up Boys. Papa just finished that one and said he got a lot out of it. Any other suggestions?

-e

Visions of Pink

2006-11-28T07:54:00.000-06:00

I finished my bag. I have knitted, cast off and felted that BAMF. She is very pretty, but we're still getting used to one another. I will take picture for all of you who have been waiting with reckless anticipation for the finished product.

-e

Allrightee Then!

2006-11-25T01:55:00.000-06:00

Two of my "peeps" also have birthdays in November. I wanted to commemorate their special days with a token of my love and appreciation. I picked up a calendar for each of them and brought it to our weekly knit night. In the calendar there was a new pattern for each day of the year. Wow, I thought, what fun to be inspired by yarn and creativity every morning you wake up.

One of the girls opened the packaging to check out the patterns we saw some perfectly lovely projects that we will attempt at knit night or another time. However, it did become painfully obvious around February that the publishers were, at times, reaching to fill up the entire year. The project that led us to that conclusion was a Valentine's knitted thong. Yes, indeed! I have to wonder, what kind of yarn would you use for this pattern? I think I'd have to run screaming from wool on this one. And the novelty fibers would be uncomfortable with all their bumps and glitter, no?

Girls, Happy Birthday and I hope you do like your calendars. If you decided to knit that thong be sure to bring it to the next knit night for show and tell.

-e

It Ain't A Holiday Until Something Gets Broke

2006-11-23T21:05:00.000-06:00

You know when you combine family all in the same house for extended period of time no good can come of it, right? I honestly thought this would be event that sent someone to the ER, but it wasn't. One of Papa's brothers broke the corkscrew while trying to remove the cork from a bottle of Pinot Grigio. Hmm, how do we get the cork out now? Oooh, this seems like a fine family project! NOT. So two minutes later, pliers in hand, the boys (let their ages in the categories of 20 to 40 make no never mind here, they are behaving like boys) set out to rescue this bottle.

Surprisingly they did get the cork out with nary a broken bone or dish. Honestly I so could have lived without that bottle of wine. I'm a White Zinfandel gal myself.

Not to let this holiday go without incident my 3-year-old niece is the one that ended up with the tribal markings. She was running out the door as The Negotiator was opening the door and when door meets forehead, well I think you know the rest of the sad, sad tale. She ended up with quite a gash on her right eyebrow and I got to relay the story of the scar on my forehead given to me by my cousin when I was her age.

Everything comes full circle.

-e

You Say It's Your Birthday? It's My Birthday Too! Nah Nah Nah Nah!

2006-11-22T09:13:00.000-06:00

I think I'll just get it out in the open that today is my birthday. I'm okay with it. Maybe I'm trying to convince me more than you?

Since it's a school holiday I'm home with my beloved children. Yep, they've promised to behave and be nice to each other all day in honor of my birthday. Too bad that proclamation went out the door at 9:00 a.m. when they came to fisticuffs over an action figure.

*sigh*

I'm off to Best Buy to exchange the car charger that the shithead clerk in the the cell phone accessory area said would work with Papa's Samsung phone. It does not. Oh, correction he did not actually say it would work, that would have been too much trouble. Rather he wordlessly handed me the package and walked away. Don't you love the customer service?

-e

Family!

2006-11-20T18:55:00.000-06:00

Yep, it’s getting to be that time of year again when I get to grump about my family. Mostly I love having so many relatives around, but holidays are when the rubber meets the road. Everyone seems to be sideways with one another.

What is everyone doing for Thanksgiving? We aren’t completely sure yet. My mom is having dinner at her house and all my in-laws are supposed to come here for lunch. All this hullabaloo for one day?

I think next year we’re having pizza. Or did I say that last year?

-e

8 Years Ago

2006-11-17T14:39:00.000-06:00

Today is the anniversary of my last day at a RPJ (Real Paying Job). I was put on bed rest when I was almost 8 months pregnant with my first boy. Since then I've been mostly a stay-at-home-mom. A few years ago I started teaching at a Mother's Day Out program, which is super part time care for moms who are at home, but need time to run errands, visit the chick doctor, go to therapy...whatever. I teach 2 days a week for 4 hours a day. Not exactly paying the mortgage, but Starbucks loves me and my babies got to go to the class for free. I love most of the people I work with and it's fun for me. It's been good.

Lately though, now that both boys are in school all day, I've been thinking about what to with myself. I want to do more than sing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "The Wheels on the Bus". Not that painting and Play Doh haven't been oodles of fun, but I got this whole student loan thing going and I sort of feel like I should put that degree and the experience of my past RPJs to good use. Papa and I talked about me going back to work full time and he wasn't all that amped about me and a full time gig. Let's face it, I do most of the house and kid stuff (which is not to any way minimize his household contribution - he totally steps up, he's just not the coordinator) and taking that on for him his akin to a root canal. Besides what a total stress worrying about what to do with the kids when school is out like it will be for 5 days next week. I see parents that have two full time working outside them home jobs lose years of their life worrying about where to stash the kids and how much extra it will cost.

My friend Candy has been leading me in to the VA business for quite awhile and I'm taking the plunge. I'm really excited! I've got the business name, secured the domain name and I'm looking to get my logo done. I'm doing the set up for my website, but I might have someone actually build it for me. I love the idea of owning my own business. We have before, but it didn't work out. Still I learned a ton about running a business and I think it will serve me well this time around. Most importantly for us, Papa is good where he is at and I don't have to worry about bringing in income to eat. I just want to have something to build and improve my quality of life.

So on the anniversary of the day I left a job I start a new adventure. I'll let y'all know how it goes!

-e

Phooey!

2006-11-07T22:36:00.000-06:00

This seriously made CNN breaking news? Am I the only one that feels this information should be reserved for entertainment television and not "legitimate" news sources?

I mean it's voting day! Why does this information merit breaking into my e-mail retrieval experience?

-----Original Message-----
From: BreakingNews@MAIL.CNN.COM [mailto:BreakingNews@MAIL.CNN.COM]
Sent: Tuesday, November 07, 2006 3:09 PM
To: TEXTBREAKINGNEWS@CNNIMAIL12.CNN.COM
Subject: CNN Breaking News

-- Britney Spears files for divorce from her husband Kevin Federline, citing irreconcilable differences.

Phooey! Double Phooey!

-e

Critter On The Weather

2006-11-06T07:25:00.000-06:00

This morning as The Critter is preparing to go to school he puts on a fleece pull-over. Papa tells him "son, I think it's going to be too warm for that" to which The Critter responds, "Dad, it's almost time for Christmas! It's time for the freezing weather!"

Hmmm. I guess he is seeing too many commercials if a) he thinks it's close to Christmas and b) he assumes that the weather in the commercials set in the Midwest/Northeast have any bearing on our climate in Texas.

We let him go in his fleece. He'll get hot soon enough and put it in his backpack. I sure admire his vision and belief though.

-e

Political Poop

2006-11-04T22:30:00.000-06:00

I hate the time right before an election. The mass mail outs, the computer generated messages and the advertisements. I wish there was a way to opt out or at least them know that I voted early and their wasting their precious "get out the vote" time on someone who already got out and voted.

C'mon Tuesday and the then bring on the silent airwaves on Wednesday!

-e

Thirteen Thursday: Holiday Worries and Wonders

2006-11-02T08:22:00.000-06:00

Today is the day we offer up 13 things about ourselves in order to get to know one another a just a little bit better. Krisco started this train of thought so pop on over and let her know you're on board.

It being November and all I've started my official holiday worrying. Here are some things that are on my brain:

1) Crafts - I have to think of fun, easy-to-do and appropriate or adjustable for ages 7, 5 and 3 crafts for the month of December and three holiday parties. Yes, I plan to use Oriental Trading Company for some of them, but not all of them since those crafts come with lots of pieces. Why is that important? Because if it's too complicated then mommy/teacher ends up doing the project and that's not really the goal.

2) Presents - I've started buying for the boys, but everyone else is being thrown under a bus at this point. I don't know what people want. Hell, I don't know what I want. This time of year seems so commercialized and hum bahg-y that I'm starting to dread it sooner and sooner each year. I love the season and the tradition, but the gift giving makes me crazy.

3) The Teacher Gifts - It's the time of year to hit up parents for money to buy the teacher a gift. It's not hard and I don't mind doing it, but there seems to be a sense of expectation that as co-room parent we're supposed to also be everyone's personal reminder service. I'm sorry, but there is nothing that bothers me as much as being told "remind me". Um, no. Write a little note and remind yourself. I got enough to keep up with all on my ownsome.

4) Parties - There are at least three to be organized. Crafts, goodies to eat, goodies to take, time, place and so many other details.

5) The Politics of Family - It never fails that we are expected in multiple places at the same time. We've managed to get Christmas pretty well worked out, but even after 16 years of togetherness we're still struggling with Thanksgiving.

6) Flu Shots - I've got to get my older, asthmatic child a flu shot. The pediatrician's office says they'll call when their in, but I haven't heard. I'm afraid to keep calling them fearing they'll place me on "stalker status".

7) Food - It's always so busy this time of year that we end up eating out way too much. I've done a lot of prep work on several meals so we're not tempted to drive-thru. The cost of eating out just kills me.

8) Weight - And of course, there is the extra baggage we take into the new year in the form of added pounds (and time with our family).

9) Exercise - Both for my sanity and the aforementioned weight, I need to walk. I must create time. I love that my days are free, but I feel like there is a lot of pressure to spend time with people during the hours my kids are in school. In order to walk I have to put me first. Not exactly the spirit of the season, no?

10) Me Time - I get very little of this despite my mostly-stay-at-home status. I think some people have the impression that since I don't clock into a 9 to 5 every day that I'm available at a moments notice. Not so. My day is pretty much set the night before and I'm not really good with being flexible. I mark out my 5 priority goals before I go to bed and work really hard to get them done so I feel that I've accomplished something. Once those 5 things are checked off I do something for ME. Frankly, that happens very little because I'm constantly getting waylaid into meeting someone else's need. Other women have talked to me about this problem. I've heard Oprah, but for me, the problem persists.

11) The Cars - Both of them need oil changes, but we can't make the time for auto-wellness. Very bad.

12) The House - It's a disorganized mess. I'm trying. I can't promise it will get any better over the holidays.

13) Cards - I have every intention of sending out timely, creative and personal cards this year. Last year I took a picture of the boys, uploaded to Snapfish for cards to be delivered to my house and called it done. It's looking like a repeat performance.

Okay, share your stuff or make up some Thirteens of your own!

-e

Just Wondering

2006-10-26T17:22:00.000-05:00

How many times do you invite someone to a recurring event that is a schedule conflict for that person before it is considered annoying? And then when you stop inviting them, but others are talking about it, is that rude? It's one of those fine line things. You want to invite the person because you don't want them to feel like you don't want them there, but they never come so why keep extending yourself? You feel me? I mean if that person came every once in awhile I could see maintaining the invitation, but if they consistently decline isnt' it time to move on?

-e

Knitting Night

2006-10-26T01:33:00.000-05:00

It's that time of week again! It's my night to knit with the ladies. It's group therapy for the price of a cup of coffee, albeit Starbucks, and a skein of yarn. Can't beat that! Tonight I worked on the bag I'm someday going to felt. I say someday because I ran out of yarn and my comadre bought the goods at a little fiber store on the other side of town and I have no idea what the color and lot number is to duplicate it. I may give it a try soon, but in the mean time I'm working on my soft lime green scarf that will have yummy bling at the ends.

This is where I'm at so far on the bag. Do check back soon to see my progress.

-e

October Pack Meeting

2006-10-25T00:09:00.000-05:00

This month's Pack meeting was on fire safety. All the hot firemen came to give a presentation to the cubs on what to do in th event of a fire. I have to admit this is a meeting that I always enjoy! Our den was in charge of the cake raffle, but neither of the boys won this time. Two of our brother wolves won and that was just fine.

-e

Props To Papa

2006-10-20T22:21:00.000-05:00

We were supposed to go camping this weekend, but it didn't work out. No matter all the boys just went camping in the backyard. Papa pitched the smaller tent, lit a fire in the chimenea, pulled out the smore makings and instant campsite.

I, however, stayed inside in my own bed. I'm happy to camp if we're actually out in the wilderness, but I'm not going to take a pass on the comforts of home if it's not necessary.

-e

Help, I’ve Started Something And I Can’t Finish It!

2006-10-13T21:51:00.000-05:00

I can not seem to find a way to finish a project. This morning I got up (and yes, I’m still home with a chicken pox kid) and am cleaning out two cabinets. Just two. Still, every item out of the cabinet begets a new task. I’m trying really hard to stay focused, but here I sit in from of my computer working on my blog. I’m doing a great job, aren’t I?

It’s not just today, it’s every thing. I’m trying to decide if I’m going to homeschool next year. Every time I get some information I find another side of the story. I’m sorry it’s the reporter in me. I have been trained to investigate both sides and report objectively and accurately. Yes, I know this is not a story, but rather my son’s education and I’m not good at making decisions.

*sigh*

Oh, yeah. We did talk to the peditrician about The Negotiator’s inability to focus. We chatted about it while we were there for his chicken pox — did I tell y’all he DOES have chicken pox?? — and we’re exploring our options. She gave me a book to read, um, do they have an audio book on this so I can listen while I’m in the car? I’ve brought up the subject of homeschooling to The Negotiator. So far, well, let’s just say he’s skeptical. I haven’t broached the subject vis-a-vis me homeschooling him, but rather introduced the idea generally. We talked about what homeschooling is, who he knows that is homeschooled and some of the reasons people have school at home. So far he’s very noncommittal. I’ll let y’all know.

My dining room table looks like a hurricane waiting to die. It’s the first flat surface as you come into my home so everything gets deposited there to die. Backpacks, mail, shopping bags, school work, and the list goes on. That was my big project yesterday, to clean off the table. It’s not done and here I am starting this cabinet thing. Which leads me to the garage and the gallon on vinegar I bought to start using more natural cleaners. Which I have to come look up on the Internet. Which brings me here to my computer. Which leads me to my blog.

It’s the whole If You Give A Mouse A Cookie thing gone horribly, horribly wrong.

-e

Day Three and Counting

2006-10-12T07:42:00.000-05:00

Today marks the third day The Negotiator has been home sick. He doesn’t even appear to be on the mend. He’s been running a fever since Monday night. This morning Papa clocked him at 101 once the Motrin wore off. Crap. He’s itchy, but doesn’t have chicken pox. There were about 8 known cases of chicken pox in his school, but this isn’t it. We’re trotting back to the doctor today.

I’ve been out of work this week too. I’ve done some work from home, but I miss being around the other teachers. I miss our playground time. Of course the weather has been pretty crappy so there wasn’t any playground time on Tuesday.

I’m trying to get caught up at home. It just seems mail, laundry and dishes multiply at an alarming rate. I did laundry on Monday and I have 3 spanking new loads to do on Thursday. The paperwork, oh, the paperwork. I curse the mailman everyday he brings be more crap to slog through. It’s bad enough that I’m on every junk mail list in the commerce driven world, but so is my family. I get mail for at least four members of our family each week. Oh, and let us not forget John Smith’s correspondence. A few years ago when Papa was working at That Agency I had our number listed under John Smith so as to not be detected and still not have to pay for a non-published number. Well, Mr. Smith gets a lot of mail still. I’m not complaining, mind you. He gets some awesome coupons in the mail that I feel obliged to use on his behalf. After all what is Mr. Smith going to do with a free pair of panties from Victoria’s Secret? Wait! Don’t answer that.

I need to catch up with my Scouts. Dates and places have changed for activities and I have to pass that information along. I’ve not been a very good leader this last week. That thought is mitigated by the fact that I have been a pretty darn good teacher this week. All of The Negotiator’s schoolwork has come home and I’ve been going over it all with him. When he has energy we try to knock out a few worksheets and I’ll read to him or he’ll read to me. Then we take a break and go our separate ways until it’s time to come back and take care of a little more business. He seems to retain information better in small amounts. Makes sense to me. I think most people do not learn well under the Camel school of learning.

Okay, off to call the doctor. Y’all come back now, ya hear!

-e

Scanner

2006-10-07T20:44:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine recently watched this show on PBS by Barbara Sher. My friend found that she’s a “scanner” . Which basically explains why she is having a hard time deciding what to be when she grows up. I told her she sounds like me.

I’ve been committed to my little part time job for as long as I have only because they are SO flexible and put up with me. Sometimes I think about starting a business, but as soon as it feels like work my mind is running in the other direction. I get bored in the details. I love scrapbooking. I always balked at the idea of teaching it because then it would take the love out of it for me. Despite all my protests I did eventually teach a class at Michael’s. I hated it. All the rules and regulations just made drudgery of my passion. I guess we can’t all be Oprah.

I think we might have been sold a load of crap with this whole do-what-you-love-and-the-money-will-come notion. That’s like winning the lotto, a long shot. Most of us have to pay a mortgage, bills and eat so we do things we might not be all that amped about so by the time we can give to our passion we’re wiped out. Emotionally, financially and creatively. Maybe the trick is to be happy what we’re doing and not necessarily doing what we’re happy about? I dunno.

This much I know, I love being home when my kids are home. It’s more important to me than driving a new car, than having the latest techno gadget, than having my identity through my career rather than through my family. When my boys come running to me after the school bell rings, it makes up for every sacrifice we’ve made over the years. That is our choice. That is MY choice. Others may choose differently and I respect that choice as I hope they will respect mine. I’m okay being a mom and a fill-in mom (aka preschool aged teacher). I will do it as long as I am able and I continue to be happy.

-e

The Tears of A Clown

2006-10-05T16:50:00.000-05:00

I guess that clown would be me except I’m scared shitless of clowns. The fear stems from “Poltergeist” the movie. Ruined clowns for me forever, but I digress. Still the title fits my mood.

Okay, maybe “The Tracks of My Tears” would be better.

I had my parent-teacher conference with The Negotiator’s teacher today. Papa couldn’t make it so I met him for lunch right after and boo-hooed so much through the meal he went back to work, wrapped up and came home. It seems our boy is falling through the cracks. He’s not Talented & Gifted which neither of us could give a flying fandango about and he’s not low performing so he’s just expected to keep up. The problem is there is no problem. He’s not a discipline issue. He’s quiet and sweet and empathetic, but he works too slow. How is that remedied in the classroom? If his work isn’t complete he loses recess and gets a warning. A warning about what? To stay on task. And how does that warning help him other than to crush his spirit and tatter his self esteem? It’s just a reminder to keep up, I'm told.

Bottom line? He’s falling behind and if he doesn’t learn to work faster third grade is going to devour him. Third grade?! Why aren’t we just getting what we need out of second grade? It seems his handwriting is bad and he won’t be able to learn cursive if it doesn’t improve.

He doesn’t complete his worksheets so he doesn’t get free time. He’s one of the last ones sitting at his desk. When he doesn’t finish his work he has to take it home to do at night. I asked him why he doesn’t finish and he says he doesn’t understand and he doesn’t want to disturb the teacher to ask for help. I also found out he *finally* got to try a computer site he’s been waiting to have a turn at and he didn’t know how to log on so he just sat there for his whole 15 minute turn. Again, why don’t you ask for help? He tells me he raised his hand, but the teacher didn’t see him. He’s so timid about asking for anything. No matter how much we assure him that asking is a good thing he won’t ask. I think he fears the rejection. When he was in Kindergarten and 1st he was terrified to ask the teacher if he could go to the bathroom. Papa had to go school a couple of times to make sure that The Negotiator was sure about the routine. He finally got it after 4 weeks, but he would still hold IT if there was any break in the routine.

I don’t blame the teacher. She has several rambunctious kids she is dealing with so she’s doing the best she can with what she’s got. She says she loves The Negotiator, but she hasn’t found a way to get through to him. Join the club. He just doesn’t learn the same way the other kids do. He takes longer to process, but when he does get it he GETS it. The teacher just can’t wait for him. Damn. Add to that the more they push the more he withdraws. It’s a vicious circle.

You’ll be proud to know that I didn’t actually cry in front of the teacher. I managed to keep my dignity together long enough to cry my eyes out at lunch with Papa and this afternoon with a friend. I’m looking into my options, but I think I know where I am headed.

Thanks for letting me cry this out again. There is nothing worse than feeling like your child is struggling and not in a good, he’s-growing-from-the-challenge sort of way.

-e

Bad Service Sucks

2006-10-04T20:44:00.000-05:00

We had a work meeting at the new Scooters in our area.

The positive I can say is that it was nicely decorated, they had fun stuff for sale and they had hand lotion in the bathroom in addition to soap.

Areas of concern, they got my drink wrong. I drink chai latte, add vanilla, no foam. What I got was something that tasted like chai flavored dirt that was more than half foam and no vanilla. Gotta have the vanilla. Also the service was lousy. No, “welcome to Scooters”, no “what can I get started for you today?” What we got was a grunt of “I can take your order over here.” Golly gee, so good of you to be able to take time out of your busy chat schedule to totally decimate my order.

I swore I was going to write an email to the owner to give them constructive feedback, no bitchfest, I promise. So far all I’ve been able to do is schedule our next meeting at Starbucks. At least they get my drink right every time.

-e

I Heart Camping

2006-10-02T13:30:00.000-05:00

You don’t know how hard that was to admit.

I’ve never considered myself to be a real nature girl, but camping seems to be much different. First of all, Papa plans and prepares all the meals. Since camping gear is the toys of boys, Papa was all too excited to play. I kept thinking what do you DO when you go camping? OMG the hours just flew by. We played in the river, ran around, went on a hike, pretended to fish and talked around the camp fire. Other than that we did blissfully nothing.

It was nice to camp with such a big group (this was a Cub Scout Pack camp out) because if we forgot something, some one surely had it for us to borrow. It was also nice getting to the parents in such an informal atmosphere. We laughed. We cried. We bonded. Okay, too much, but we DID bond.

Who’s ready for the next camp out?!

-e

Volunteeritis

2006-09-25T07:24:00.000-05:00

No, not volunteerism. That’s when you find something you believe in and donate your time and talent to the cause. What I’m talking about is the need to volunteer because I’m a control freak. What I’m talking about is a sickness.

Someone is out sick at work and you need a back up? Sure.

The class doesn’t have a room parent? No problem. Oh, both of my kids classes need a room parent? Right on it.

Can I speak at the next meeting? You betcha!

Will I draft the flyer for the upcoming event? Absolutely!

Say it with me, “no, thank you”. Yeah, if I could say that I wouldn’t be here complaining and feeling frenzied right before I have the first of two meetings and picking up an extra shift in an area I don’t usually work.

I do love helping out! I do! Still I know my motives are not completely altruistic. I’m trying to control what I can. Control is my comfort. Not that I want to control other people, just the situation.

I’m working on it.

-e

Craftadise

2006-09-20T07:44:00.000-05:00

Oh my gosh! Look at this room! I want a room like this one! No detail was left unattended. It looks like a showroom.

The thing is, even if I did have a room like that it would look that good for all of 10 minutes. I’m a very messy crafter and am at my most creative when things are all asunder.
So I love the idea, but the implementation would be sorely lacking.

-e

In The Zone

2006-09-19T23:06:00.000-05:00

My co-teacher and I have been working out after class. We bring our clothes and hit the treadmill or stationary bike. I guess we figure that since we do work in a gym we might as well make use of the equipment.

Actually what has motivated us more is the t-shirt. The Y is giving away a t-shirt if you do X number of work-outs during the month of September. So we won’t work out for our health, but by God, throw a t-shirt in there and we’re all over this fitness craze.

-e

Fine!

2006-09-15T20:54:00.000-05:00

All of you who gave me hooey about my writing checks win. I got a debit card. Just to be clear though, it wasn’t peer pressure from you hooligans, it was the fact that everything was being electronically debited anyway. Papa and I came up with a system to keep track and I think we’ll be okay.

I’ll let y’all know how it goes.

-e

The Big Game

2006-09-09T11:02:00.000-05:00

Oh, not the game all of Texas is talking about today (though it IS very important). I'm talking about the one going on in MY house.

Testosterone vs. Estrogen

The boys are taking over and then inching in my space. We specifically set up the guest room in our house to be Mommy's Space. It's got all my crafts, my laptop, a small tv and just last week I bought a small comfy chair for reading and knitting at Goodwill.

Today I walked into my happy place and found a boy in my comfy chair watching a BOY show. Excuse me? If it ain't Lifetime it shouldn't be in Mommy's Space. Get out.

Now they're all excited because people are coming over to watch the game with us tonight. We'll have food and the game? They are well on their way to becoming little men.

-E

Who Are YOU?

2006-09-08T19:57:00.000-05:00

I picked up The Critter and The Professor from school this afternoon. The Critter gets out about 10 minutes earlier because the school tries to get the little ones through the crowds and on the bus before the "bigger" kids let out for the day. So we're hanging out on the picnic benches at the front of the school and Critter is playing tag with his new pals.

To my right someone comes to sit down beside me and puts a sticker on my shirt. I turn almost abruptly, but catch myself. Holy CRAP! It's The Professor. I swear he grew in school today. I didn't even sense him let alone recognize him.

He's growing up.

It's breaking my heart.

-E

I Write Checks

2006-09-07T23:38:00.000-05:00

Excuse my vent.

We have one check card between the two of us. It’s in Papa’s name so he keeps it and I have the number for online purchases.

I write checks. I used to have a check card, but I’m just not that responsible. I’d forget what I swiped where and there were little purchases – that eventually added up to big purchases – just hanging in the air and not in our check register.

I like checks. It makes me accountable when I have to write out *exactly* how much I’m spending at the time of purchase and to whom. It also gives me a record of what I spent that I can keep in one place and not in 15 tiny pieces of paper at the bottom of my purse.

So it makes me a tad irked when a store clerk looks at me and says “you *know* we run all our checks through as an electronic debit?”

And?

Frankly after I give you my little paper IOU I don’t give a flying fandango what you do with it. And then they make me sign a second piece of paper after I filled out and signed the check. Can I just had them over a blank check and be done with it since I’ve got to fill out all their ancillary paperwork anyway?

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t have a problem with EFT’s. I just don’t like the ‘tude that comes along with it.

I WRITE CHECKS.

Okay, that’s it. Thanks.

-E

My Pathetic Attempt At Self Entertainment

2006-08-28T11:30:00.000-05:00

I haven’t been keeping up with my blog so my groups are the unfortunate recipients of my anecdotes.

I’m home by myself working on, or rather procrastinating about, getting out Cub Scout den meetings in order. Today was my day to knock it out. I have to inform our parents about the annual plan. Or at least refry the old crap. So what have I done about this task? Very little.

Oh, not that I’ve been sitting around eating bon bons and sipping mint juleps, mind you. I’ve mopped the floors, I’ve walked, taken a shower and put out the garbage. And while these are all very useful tasks, they get me no closer to my ONE goal for the day. As I’m clearing off the dining room table to make room for the books and binders that will allow me to complete this project I come across Papa’s birthday balloon. Weee! I read in my frugal-something-or-other that Mylar is great for wrapping small presents so I decided to take it apart and put it in the gift wrap container. I grab some scissors and cut off the end of the balloon with the string and wait…not all the helium is gone.

I take a hit.

“Did my voice change?” I ask myself in a Minnie Mouse tone.

Another hit.

“La la la la la la” I sing in the same squeaky voice.

Again.

“Near. Far. Where ever you are, I believe that the heart does go on…..”

Yes, I’m singing the theme song from Titanic hopped up on helium. It’s the middle of the day and I have a thousand and one things to do, but I’m amusing myself with this remake for an audience of three dogs.

-E

The Golden Cheesecake?

2006-08-21T20:58:00.000-05:00

Went out with the moms again. Sort of a gathering of what is left of our sanity after having sent our young off to school. I didn't bring a camera, but if you're really interested in all the broughaha you can check our Crystal and Candy for more information.

I'm going to use my moment to discuss The Cheesecake Factory. Good night their food is expensive. Was it that expensive the first time we went? I was thinking it was a fairly good location for all who would be in attendance, but yee haw it was pricey. For one drink, a shared appetizer and a dessert I shelled out $30. Gadzooks!

I think next time I'm going to stick with Bunco potluck so as to keep the cost of a MNO to a minimum. You can get friends together to eat, drink and chat without having to take out a second on the house, no?

-E

Time Junkie

2006-08-15T12:39:00.000-05:00

I spent my Serene Sunday crying to my husband of how sick I am of the kids being home and how I can't wait for school to start. I was upset because I didn't have any time to have a consecutive thought or have any sort of order to this madhouse. Then I felt terrible because I felt that way. I'm their mom, for goodness sake! The sound of their noises should be music to my ears, but it just makes me crazy. Not all the time, but enough time over these last 12 weeks that the constant sound it wearing on me. I sound nuts.

My big plan was to start running again, but that hasn't happened. What do I do with the kids as I'm running away the stress? Not to mention in Texas it's just too HOT in August to run except for early in the morning or late at night. There are people out on the trail and in the neighborhoods running so I know my reason is just an excuse. So what I actually have been doing is just giving up. I become Floppy Mommy and let them do what they want so long as it keeps the peace and some semblance of silence in my house. That of course, leads to more disorganization and chaos. At this last week of summer it's become a matter of picking my poisons.

Both of the boys will be in school this year. The Negotiator will be in second grade and The Critter will be in Kindergarten. I've been getting a lot of - probably unintended, but there none the less - pressure to go back to work full time. It's comments like, "I saw a job that you'd be perfect for in our employment listings" or "what are you going to do with all that time once the boys are in school?". Um, that is when I hope to get my life back. I really was considering going back to work to increase our income, but with the stress of afterschool care, summers, sick days, conferences days and the like it isn't worth it to me or Papa. I know he's been able to advance faster in his career (read more income) in part because he IS able to stay later, take on special projects and responsibilities without worrying about the kids. The flip side of that is that a huge portion of the home front responsibilities are on me. That can make for a very squirrelly mom.

I wish I had a longer range goal than getting through the first few weeks of school. I know that I won't work in a traditional job outside the home because of the conflicts we feel it brings to the home for our family. That assessment may just be a matter of habit on our end. People adapt and I'm sure moms that work full time outside the home make adjustments in their own way. This just works for us.

Listen to me! I'm always justifying staying home! And to whom? Not to Papa. His mom stayed home so this is the way it *should* be to him. Okay, back to what I was saying, I would like to find a way to do something creative that could be parlayed into additional income (and the tax benefits of self employment). So far I can't even manage to get the few things I have to sell off a few of the things I have put aside for Craigslist and eBay.

*sigh*

I'll let you know if it gets easier once they are both out of the house for several hours at a clip. You know the crazy thing about time is that the more you have, the more you crave. I used to have a few hours each week when The Critter was in MDO, but now I want more, more, more! I'm a time junkie looking for fix.

-e

Thoughts From The Front Door

2006-08-13T22:51:00.000-05:00

Have you ever walked up to the front door and try to open it by pressing the unlock on your car access? I think this is a great idea for a home improvement gadget. How many times have I walked up to the front door with an armload of sumthin or other and stood there helplessly? The boys just dance on the front porch not offering a bit of help at all.

I was in a hurry to get somewhere today and scooted out the door full of purpose. I turned around after locking the door and met head on with a bill poster (those rodents who leave ads on your doorknob). I screamed. Not just a little "eeek" mind you. A full-on-neighbors-looking-out-their-front-window sceam. She seemed to be just as startled and told me no one has ever screamed before. Good. Teach you to leave that crap on my door.

-E

School, Car Crap and a Little Hanging On By A Thread

2006-08-11T10:26:00.000-05:00

School is about to start around these parts. We've been spending our time getting supplies together, cleaning out our wardrobes, and filling in the blanks. I started back to stuff with the PTA and Scouts already. Makes the actual start of school seem almost anticlimactic. Well, no, there is still the pure joy of having both the boys in school and a house to myself for at least 3 days a week. I can finally tend to those piles that I am putting off until "someday". It seems "someday" starts Tuesday.

Papa and I are sharing Scout duties this year. He did a great job last year, but I am definitely the planner and organizer of the two. He is by far the better executer of tasks. We will each go with our strengths and have a kick-bum den. That's the plan anyway.

I took my truck in for her wellness stuff. Let me say the down side to not having a car payment is having repairs. Still and all, the damage to my wallet was much less than a new car so I'm okay, once Papa talked me down from my invoice-shocked ledge. My truck is purring like a kitten and I'm going to get her a bath today. She'll be all ready for school too.

I am ready for my kids to go back to school. I know, I work with kids, and I'm really excited to start back with them. I'm ready to get a break from my own kids. Y'see as a teacher I get the best of the little darlings. They listen, they don't back, the follow instructions (for the most part) and the follow rules (again, for the most part). To my own kids I am mom and I do not get the benefit of adoring students. We have spent a lovely **voice dripping with sarcasm** past eleven weeks enjoying each other's company. I think it's all time we made friends our own age. Do you know how much I miss being able to just run into a store? The battle of "can I take my gameboy in to the store with me?" every time we go anywhere is about to undo me. Not to mention during the summer I work less and spend more so my budget could do with getting back on a routine too.

-E

One Big Catching Up Post

2006-08-04T21:35:00.000-05:00

*Whew*

It's been a crazy two weeks. I've been getting ready for all the back to school to do. For my boys, but also for me and my program. The behind the scenes stuff that goes on to get school in session is crazy. Then on the PTA Board at my boy's school we start working a month earlier than school goes into session. As a Scout leader we get ready two weeks before school starts. I wear so many hats it's silly. Still I love it! I love that my boys love it. It's a busy, crazy, happy time that will pass far too quickly. I must admit though, I'm looking forward to having my time back when everyone is off doing his thing.

Onward...

Papa's cousin got married a couple of weekends ago. This wedding was Murphy's Law and then some. The decorators left business cards on every table as form of advertising. Can you say tacky? I doubt the happy couple even knew that wasn't supposed to happen at a wedding, unless of course the decorator was, in fact, paying for the wedding. The cake person dropped the big bottom tier of the cake when they were setting up and assured the bride they'd come back with a replacement. They didn't. So the happy couple was short on cake and ended up running out to buy some cheesecakes for the guests. The margarita machine froze on them and the D.J. left early for another gig. About the only thing that was missing was the bride tripping down the aisle.

All and all it was very fun just hanging out with family at another rite of passage. Here is a picture of The Negotiator, me and The Critter. I didn't even bother to take the sunglasses off the top of my head at a wedding reception. Damn, I'm classy!

Last weekend we went to a baby shower for two of our really good friends. Eight years ago Papa was the best man and I was the maid of honor at their wedding. Rae and I have the same birthday, but I'm a year older and Papa and Pepo are brothers from different mothers. Once Papa and I had the boys we didn't see our friends as much as we did before because, well that happens. Still they hold a very special place in our hearts. We love these people like family and are SO excited about their baby girl. The shower was great because we got to catch up with friends we hadn't seen since Before Kids. Our kids are now old enough that we can dump...uh, entrust them to friends and family while we take some time to be grown ups again.

One of the games (and ordinarily I'm not a fan of shower games, but you give me 3 frozen margaritas and I am quite the sport) was to see who could diaper the doll - no, mom, it's an action figure, as The Critter would tell me - the fastest. Even though both of our boys have been potty trained for the better part of 3 years, Papa still managed to prove he's fastest diaperer in the Lone Star state. He spanked the competition and taught the Papa-to-be how it's done!

And speaking of Papa I totally have to give him props. Everyone has to have a creative outlet and Papa's is breakfast. He got up early to make the boys a special meal before he headed into the office. It was so cute I had to share it. He'll probably roll his eyes knowing I shared it with ya'll, but you won't tell him , right?

He calls it Airplane Waffles with Sunshine and Clouds. I guess the breakfast taco is supposed to be a mountain. How cute is that??

We also managed to hit Fiesta Texas again. Yep, we took our own food. Nope, we didn't let the kids buy anything at the park. I think it's criminal how much amusement parks charge for things and I refuse to give in to the machine.

Then on our way back from San Antonio we found out we were expected for dinner at the family house. Nothing like driving for 4 hours, smelling like sweat and river water to then be a part of a birthday surprise, but indeed we were. It's all about being a family.

-E