HAPPILY EVER LAFTER

How Pumpkin Pies are Made

2009-11-24T08:41:00.000-06:00

Trick or Treat!

2009-10-23T08:42:00.004-05:00

I can't believe it's already time to begin contemplating TRICK OR TREAT costumes! At our kids' school, that's sort of a big deal, as they dress up & do a costume parade through all the classrooms.

Thankfully, Holly is content to wear last year's hippy costume; Natalie is wearing a ballet tu-tu w/ fairy wings; and Evan is going to be -- brace yourself -- Hannah Montana! He's at that age where he wanted to wear a scary costume.... so we compromised and went with a FUNNY one! So, he's the proud new owner of a long blonde wig, and his sisters are going to serve as his stylists, pulling together a Hannah Montana worthy outfit from their closets.

I wanted to share this costume idea with you, which I thought was clever & funny. The "balloon boy" costume:

So, what are YOUR kids' costumes going to be this year?

Job Lead

2009-10-22T08:54:00.001-05:00

While browsing Craigslist (which I LOVE), I saw this classified ad, which I'm thinking I'm a shoo-in for:

We are in need of a young lady for a photo shoot that has a striking resemblance to actress Megan Fox. If you think this is you, please email your contact info and two photos ( one head shot, one full body - No Nude!). Pay is negotiable, if you have the right look we will work out pay. Please respond as quickly as possible, we are wanting to complete this project as soon as possible. Thanks!

What do you think? =)

Funny!

2009-09-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

My sis-in-love (hee hee), Laurie, sent me this, which I thought was hilarious:

A WOMAN'S WEEK AT THE GYM
If you read this without laughing out loud, there is something wrong with you. This is dedicated to everyone who ever attempted to get into a regular workout routine.

Dear Diary,

For my birthday this year, my daughter (the dear) purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me.

Although I am still in great shape since being a high school football cheerleader 43 years ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try.

I called the club and made my reservations with a personal trainer named Pam, who identified herself as a 26-year-old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear.

My daughter seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress.

MONDAY:

Started my day at 6:00 a.m. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Pam waiting for me. She is something of a Greek goddess - with beautiful bouncy brown hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile. Woo Hoo!! Pam gave me a tour and showed me the machines. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which she conducted her aerobics class after my workout today. Very inspiring!

Pam was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time she was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week!!

TUESDAY:

I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door.

Pam made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air then she put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. Pam's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT!! It's a whole new life for me.

WEDNESDAY:

The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot.

Pam was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members. Her voice is a little too perky for early in the morning and when she scolds, she gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying. My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Pam put me on the stair monster. Why the heck would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators? Pam told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. She said some other crap too.

THURSDAY :

Pam was waiting for me with her vampire-like teeth exposed as her thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late, it took me that long to tie my shoes.

Pam took me to work out with dumbbells. When she was not looking, I ran and hid in the restroom. She sent another skinny witch to find me.

Then, as punishment, she put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank.

FRIDAY :

I hate that witch Pam more than any human being has ever hated any other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic, anorexic little cheerleader. If there was a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat her with it.

Pam wanted me to work on my triceps. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich. The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher.

Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?

SATURDAY :

Pam left a message on my answering machine in her grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing her made me want to smash the machine with my planner. However, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel.

SUNDAY :
I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my daughter (the little &*%) will choose a gift for me that is fun -- like a root canal or a hysterectomy. I still say if God had wanted me to bend over, he would have sprinkled the floor with diamonds!!!

Sticks and Stones .... and Bikes!

2009-09-18T09:01:00.002-05:00

We love living in a quiet cul-de-sac. In fact, I believe once you've experienced the carefree life of cul-de-sac living, you'll never go back! The kids can play without mommy stressing over speeding cars. All the kids' playmates are always out front, playing basketball, riding bikes, scooters, a neighborhood baseball game -- you name it. It's like a slice of Americana that Rockwell would have done well to capture on canvas.

Well.....almost. The other night, a neighbor had guests drop by. While they chatted on their front porch, the guests' 3-year-old boy took off running towards the cul-de-sac, aka the hub of activity. Wouldn't you know ..... that little guy dashed right in the path of my daughter's 10-speed bike. According to Holly's official witness statement, "He appeared out of nowhere, and I tried to avoid him!"

Oh dear.

She ended up running over his leg! We all felt terrible about it, but knew it was an honest accident. Well guess what? HIS LEG ENDED UP BEING BROKEN ABOVE HIS KNEE CAP! So for the next six weeks, he'll be sporting a full leg cast, and his mom will undoubtedly be cursing the 10-speed that mowed him down like an ant.

We'll be staying indoors for a while and avoiding the dangerous cul-de-sac.

A Little Sample

2009-09-12T23:02:00.006-05:00

Have you heard the saying, "Find something you love to do, and then figure out a way to make money doing it"?

I just love playing around with florals. And I actually get paid to do just that! I've been helping a local interior decorator with her business, and am now in charge of all her custom florals. This is just a little sampling of what I've been up to!

And by the way, these are PUNY compared to some custom arrangements I did last week!

Easily Amused

2009-09-03T14:47:00.003-05:00

When browsing through pictures stored on my camera the other day, I happened upon these shots...... Looks as though lots of fun was had while I was away at work. I can't even quite make out what they were into -- maybe toothpaste, and a chocolate spoon from cake batter?! It doesn't take much around here to have a great time!

At Least It's Not Christmas Break Yet....

2009-08-30T20:36:00.006-05:00

OK, I'll admit that the first day of school was, well ..... more than a few days ago! As they say, better late than ever. Here are pics. of our 2nd grader, 4th grader, 5th grader and 8th grader.

Pickins are Slim

2009-08-18T12:37:00.002-05:00

It would be just dandy with me if I didn't have to read another Help Wanted ad for another 15 years or so! I've become borderline obsessive about searching those ads .... scouring for that one new listing which might be a good fit for Greg or me. And believe me, there are a LOT of employment websites out there! Unless you're a mystery shopper, an RN or a social worker, the pickins are indeed slim.

I thought I had found just the job listing meant for ME -- to work in a florist shop. Oh, as I perused the job description, hope started to rise up within me .... UNTIL I read this line, "Forklift driving experience is required."

SERIOUSLY?! So for ALL you forklift-driving florists out there, you're in luck! Somewhere out in the world, a person typed in "forklift, floral" in the search box and got a hit.

Please pray for us -- that God would open doors as He sees fit, and that we would trust in Him alone as our sole provider.

As Desi Would Say.....

2009-08-06T11:17:00.002-05:00

I've got a lot of 'splainin' to do"!

My sister occasionally reminds me, "You haven't blogged in a while". Two words: I KNOW. You may have also wondered why I haven't been posting much lately.

Here's why...... I try to keep my blog light hearted and amusing. If I don't have something witty or fun to share, then I tend to not want to post anything. Life's circumstances have bogged me down lately. Now hear me: I know God is in control and that it's all gonna work out .... I'm simply in the middle of the storm at the moment, squinting my eyes & looking for the rainbow.

A little background: The nation has been going through a recession, as we all are painfully aware. Well, lucky us -- Our family got a head start, and has been in a recession for the last four years. My husband has tried his very best to provide for us on a commission based profession, and financial pressures have been common place.

Greg has learned that his insurance agency will close at the end of this month, and unless God opens doors quickly -- he will join the ranks of the unemployed. As a result, he and I have both been actively pursuing employment opportunities. At this time, we have received little to no reply to those inquiries. (cue the crickets....)

Praise the Lord that our family unit remains strong. I realize daily & consciously remind myself that IT COULD BE WORSE. We're in this together. Our kids are healthy & happy. That, in and of itself, is a HUGE praise.

Have you ever noticed that through our most difficult times, in hindsight, we can see how much we grew spiritually through that chapter? Please pray that our lives would point others to HIM, and that He would be glorified, would guide us and provide.

Happy Ending

2009-07-21T20:30:00.009-05:00

My poor husband is having a hard week at work. As an insurance agent, following a local hail storm ..... it's a tough gig, with all the claims and upset homeowners.

This afternoon, I called my husband at work to ask a simple question. While chatting, he shared with me that a client had just called and verbally raked him over the coals over something that was totally out of his control. This really bothered him, as he tries incredibly hard to provide excellent customer service -- and this person was simply being unreasonable.

Our kids overheard my end of the conversation and were concerned. When I hung up, they asked "What's going on?!" I responding by saying that daddy was having a hard day at work.

Well, that's all I needed to say -- Natalie immediately began making the "SORRY" banner to greet daddy when he came home, Allison started thawing out a steak for his dinner, and Holly whipped up one of his favorites -- brownies (which we all knows soothes any sore spot!)

I'm sure Evan would have offered an empathetic gesture, such as letting daddy win at basketball, had he been home at the time. This was so encouraging to me as a parent, and it meant the world to my hubby! Thank the good Lord that tomorrow's a new day.

And the Silver Dollar City Blogathon Continues...

2009-07-18T15:10:00.001-05:00

Here's Evan, preparing to swish three shots in a row to win a basketball of his choice.

Meanwhile, the next booth over, little sister Natalie was getting ready to throw darts at balloons.

And here are the proud WINNERS displaying their prizes! SCORE!

One of our Favorite Attractions

2009-07-17T15:03:00.002-05:00

Introducing Jeerk, a group featured at Silver Dollar City this summer -- all the way from Sweden. People, they are talented!

They are a rhythmic group that dances, sings & makes music with everything under the sun. You see a cheese grater, they see a musical instrument.

Our whole family enjoyed their show, although the kids did cringe when I asked the band members for an autograph after the show ...... on my navel.

Conquering Silver Dollar City

2009-07-16T14:53:00.006-05:00

Refreshment of choice: Dip'N Dots and Cotton Candy!

Open the Park!

2009-07-15T14:22:00.007-05:00

Our kids were at the perfect age to fully enjoy Silver Dollar City, opening the park & closing the park down on both days.

We had a bit of a photo shoot while anxiously awaiting the park's opening .....

Natalie: 7, Evan: 9, Holly: 10, and Allison: 13.

I love their expressions in the Jail picture --"We're innocent"!

The Price of FUN

2009-07-14T14:08:00.004-05:00

In order to fund our summertime getaway in Branson, we first held a massive yard sale. The whole family pitched in & did their part. Whew! Yard sales are a lot of work -- and in 100 degree weather, to boot.

As a sidenote, I'm amazed at the new-found affection my children have for neglected, forgotten toys and such that I suggest putting a price tag on!

I'm happy to report that the sale was a huge success. It is, however, reminiscent of child birth .... in that I'm happy with the result but wouldn't want to do it again anytime soon!

And unlike child birth, I don't get 6 weeks off from work to recuperate, and nobody's delivering a casserole to help out with meals! Tomorrow I'll post pictures of our trip to Branson.

This One's for YOU, Sissy

2009-07-03T19:50:00.002-05:00

My little sister is antsy for another post -- never mind the fact that she talks to me pretty much every day and knows more about my life than my spouse.

So here goes, Amy!

We just got back from a 5-day vacation in Branson and had a FABULOUS time! The hotel we stayed in was nice, with plenty of space and a pool right outside the door, AND only about 1/2 mile from the entrance to (drumroll please.........) Silver Dollar City!!

We definitely got our money's worth on our 2-day pass to that park -- waiting with white knuckles wrapped around the gates at opening time and closing the joint down each night! The kids had an absolute blast.

It's funny -- out of our 4 kids, we have 2 who only want to ride the tame rides. (I've been informed to NOT call them "kiddie rides", thankyouverymuch) And we have 2 (our middle 2) who are stinkin' daredevils. Their motto is "FASTER & HIGHER"!! Since SDC wasn't very crowded, all the kids got their fill of their rides of choice.

I don't know what it is ..... but the older I get, the less I can hack the "round & round" rides. I can handle the roller coasters just fine -- but spin me round & round a couple dozen times, and I'm about to lose my lunch. Anyone with me on that? You say "teacups", I say "hurl".

We told the kids they could pick any one souvenir from the park that made their heart sing, which was a major source of excitement. Holly & Alli chose airbrushed personalized t-shirts; Evan sank a couple baskets & won a souvenir basketball; and Natalie exercised her newly discovered dart-throwing skills & won a huge blue monkey with Silver Dollar City sewn on its tummy. In fact, one of her darts actually took out three balloons at once. True! You say, "but HOW can that be?"! The dart burst 2 balloons, then fell downward & took out one more during its fall. That's SOME skill, huh? Look for her to compete at the 2012 Olympics in carnival dart-throwing.

I'll post some pics. soon, but hope this might be enough to pacify my information-starved sibling. LOVE LOVE

Father's Day

2009-06-21T14:29:00.000-05:00

It seems I've become the wife of the church crooner.

For the 3rd year in a row, Greg sang special music on Father's Day during worship service! Two years ago, it was "Somewhere in the World", last year was "Cinderella", and today was "I Want to be Just Like You". Throw in "Butterfly Kisses", and we'd have all the sentimental bases covered! (next year.....) I'm so grateful that he's the father of my children. How could I ask for more?

Warning: Warped Humor

2009-06-20T08:48:00.004-05:00

Thanks, Lisa, for these funnies!

Suffice it to say, I'm NOT a fan of snakes

2009-06-19T09:08:00.007-05:00

This week has been super busy & fun. Our church held its Vacation Bible School, which was Hawaiian themed.

At the big VBS finale last night, all the kids had a blast playing on inflatables, anticipating the next time the volcano would erupt & spit out candy, gliding down a zip line, etc.

To add to the fun, a portable reptile zoo of sorts was brought in. Because nothing says "let's celebrate VBS" like a Komodo dragon crawling across your foot while you're not paying attention. Thank goodness I keep an extra pair of underwear in my glove compartment.

Anyway, I was shocked & amazed to see my Holly (on the right) draping a snake around her neck as if it were a feather boa.

That girl was channeling Britney Spears at the MTV awards show, friends. And I'm worried.

An Ounce of Creativity .... Lots of Money Saved!

2009-06-16T23:06:00.004-05:00

One thing I've noticed is that birthday parties are a BIG deal around here. Oftentimes, the entire school class is invited to celebrate.

When you have FOUR kids in school, that really starts to add up. So we've tried to find frugal ways to put together gifts, with the birthday girl / guy in mind.

Alli decorated the pillows (above) to give her friend, knowing that Ryann had a black & white room and that she loves the fleur de lis design. Not bad, huh? She did this completely on her own!

On the left, I simply embellished a simple denim jacket I bought at Goodwill for $1.99 for Natalie's friend, Alexis, who was having a princess themed party.

What about you? Any thrifty or creative gift ideas you'd like to share?

The Inception of Road Rage

2009-06-05T08:14:00.000-05:00

I thought this was so cute:

Grandma's letter

She is eighty-eight years old and still drives her own car. She writes:

Dear Grand-daughter,

The other day I went up to our local Christian book store and saw a "Honk if you love Jesus" bumper sticker. I was feeling particularly sassy that day because I had just come from a thrilling choir performance, followed by a thunderous prayer meeting. So, I bought the sticker and put it on my bumper. Boy, am I glad I did! What an uplifting experience that followed.

I was stopped at a red light at a busy intersection, just lost in thought about the Lord and how good He is, and I didn't notice that the light had changed. It is a good thing someone else loves Jesus because if he hadn't honked, I'd never have noticed. I found that lots of people love Jesus!

While I was sitting there, the guy behind started honking like crazy, and then he leaned out of his window and screamed, 'For the love of God! Go! Go! Go! Jesus Christ, GO!' What an exuberant cheerleader he was for Jesus! Everyone started honking! I just leaned out my window and started waving and smiling at all those loving people. I even honked my horn a few times to share in the love!

There must have been a man from Florida back there because I heard him yelling something about a sunny beach. I saw another guy waving in a funny way with only his middle finger stuck up in the air. I asked my young teenage grandson in the back seat what that meant. He said it was probably a Hawaiian good luck sign or something. Well, I have never met anyone from Hawaii , so I leaned out the window and gave him the good luck sign right back. My grandson burst out laughing. Why, even he was enjoying this religious experience!

A couple of the people were so caught up in the joy of the moment that they got out of their cars and started walking towards me. I bet they wanted to pray or ask what church I attended, but this is when I noticed the light had changed. So, I waved at all my brothers and sisters grinning, and drove on through the intersection. I noticed that I was the only car that got through the intersection before the light changed again and felt kind of sad that I had to leave them after all the love we had shared.

So I slowed the car down, leaned out the window and gave them all the Hawaiian good luck sign one last time as I drove away. Praise the Lord for such wonderful folks! Will write again soon,

Love,
Grandma

Here we are, in Kitchen Stadium

2009-06-03T07:52:00.001-05:00

Every year during summer vacation, my kids complain about being bored. I'll agree that sometimes the days seem very l-o-n-g.

So, in an attempt to entertain the troops a bit last week, I suggested that they play "IRON CHEF". Evan & Allison jumped at that opportunity, and I declared that the secret ingredient was ...... PEANUT BUTTER!

Here they are as the competition kicked off, giving their best war cry:

Both competitors were fierce and down to business as they planned and executed their masterpiece dishes for the judges' consideration.

Chef Allison made a delectable batch of no-bake cookies, in addition to a crowd favorite --"Puppy Chow". Both dishes showed off the secret ingredient of peanut butter and wowed the judges.

Chef Evan went with a more simplistic approach, opting for Wheat Thins a la peanut butter, together with an unexpected twist of peanut butter on granola bars, topped off his signature dish: peanut butter & Cinnamon Toast Crunch sandwiches.

The judges were deadlocked ..... but after a lengthy conference, ultimately awarded the victory to Chef Allison.

But most importantly, we passed a couple hours of our l-o-n-g summer day in a positive way!

Camping (sort of.....)

2009-06-01T07:44:00.000-05:00

This picture depicts the "tent" my children made in our basement. It's primarily a love seat, covered by an air mattress roof. Since school has been out for summer, 2 campers at a time have taken turns sleeping under the "tent" together.

This is an instance where I have to put aside my thoughts of "what a mess!" and just let them enjoy making these summertime memories together..... right? Last night when I went to bed at 11:00, I could still hear them in the basement giggling.

I savored that moment, knowing that they'd likely be clobbering each other come sunrise. They're siblings, after all.

In Training for the Bridal Show

2009-05-28T10:22:00.012-05:00

The girls & I were hanging out recently, watching a program which we enjoy:

I love that show! When I was younger, I dreamed of opening a bridal shop & calling it The Blushing Bride. To me, there was no greater honor or more fulfilling way to make a living than to help brides bring their romantic notions to life on their very special day.

But then I learned about the term "Bridezilla", and also realized that my bridal shop dream would involve working evenings & weekends. Those dreams were accordingly swiftly scrapped.

While watching the brides choose their gowns on "Say Yes to the Dress", I shared a story with the kids about my wedding dress. My little sis (and best friend), Amy, had gotten engaged shortly before me, so we were both in wedding-planning-overdrive. We were up to our eyeballs in all the details, and envisioning our ideal wedding gown ....

During a visit to Amy's, I told her that I had found the gown I wanted. She responded, "me too"! In perfect sync, we both proceeded to flip through our prospective wedding magazines and simultaneously showed each other the very same page, featuring the very same gown!

Since we were getting married within 6 months of each other, we decided to purchase and share the gown. After drafting a joint custody agreement, it was all settled. Amy would wear the dress first (in Nashville), and I would get to keep the dress following my Columbus, Ohio nuptials.

As a side note, on even numbered years, our elegant gown spends the holiday season and President's Day with Amy.

My kids were amused at this story and asked me to go get the dress our of our storage area. What followed was an impromptu fashion show, which was captured on film:

It goes without saying that the man cub's bridal portrait below will be displayed at his wedding reception someday.

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T08:56:00.002-05:00

Swimsuit shopping is on the agenda this morning. THANKFULLY, it's for my 10-year-old & not me. Otherwise, I'd be breaking out in hives just at the mere thought!

Our big plans for the day include setting up our backyard pool this afternoon, then grill out for dinner ..... And don't count me out for a little round of badminton. Ahhh, I'm anticipating a nice, relaxing day. A little slice of Americana.

Of course, this picturesque scene in my mind will likely be shattered the moment my kids are actually out of bed.

As I contemplate our family's day off together, I'm forced to stop & realize WHY we have this day off and WHO we are celebrating.
This is a powerful photo of Alicia's son, bidding farewell to his daddy as he departs on a Navy tour of duty.

For ALL the families who sacrifice to protect our country, to preserve the values we hold dear, THANK YOU. Our soldiers, both past & present, AND their families, are our heroes. We honor YOU today.

2 Hours of my Life I'll Never Get Back

2009-05-17T12:58:00.006-05:00

Ding Dong. "He's here!"

Enter stage left one decidedly geeky vacuum salesman whose life is devoted to educating our family on its surprisingly filthy inhabitance.

He wasted no time in launching right into all of the cutting edge, space-age attributes of this remarkable vacuum system -- which incidentally was approximately the size of our Honda.

Friends, I've never in my life heard a human being speak SO quickly! He would make an auctioneer pale in comparison. It was all I could do to refrain from giggling and mimicking him .... all the while thinking "Are we being Punk'd? Ashton, come on out!"

He painstakingly demonstrated every wand, attachment and feature with the fervor and conviction of a presidential candidate. "YES, WE CAN!" From the caster wheels made of the same material as bowling balls to the steel drum which would collect our enormous amounts of dead skin .... known as dust to the layperson. Apparently, our existence with merely the aid of our God-forsaken Dust Devil has predestined us to a life in a cesspool of lung-clogging, allergy inducing, life-shortening dirty carpet.

At one point, he theatrically gazed with absolute horror & disgust at a small pile of dust that his sweeper had sucked up from our rug. It was truly comical to see his face. In fact, I jokingly told him, "If you're gonna puke, the restroom is that way"!

Although we were promised that this demonstration would last no longer than 30 minutes, he was still charming our socks off almost 2 hours later. What a treat.

Finally, he lowered the boom and presented the cost. A mere $3,000. Roughly the same price as a Disney vacation. But good news, there were several different payment options: one labeled something like the All-American; one dubbed the Blue Collar; and my personal favorite: the White Trash plan.

We decided to pass. Between you & me, we were only in it for the free $500 gift certificate! But of course, it ended up being practically worthless. When I visited the correlating website to redeem our certificate and peruse our options, I discovered that they charge you a ridiculous amount of money for "shipping and handling". For example, to use the certificate on a necklace, you are charged $80 out of pocket for shipping & handling. Can you say lud-i-crous?

Moral of the story? There's no such thing as a free lunch OR a free $500 gift certificate. Paging PigPen: Wanna move in? Word has it you'd be right at home!

Snickering in Seattle

2009-05-13T20:49:00.003-05:00

Funny thing....

My neighbors have been commenting lots lately about my "comedy-career-on-the-side". Apparently, my kids have been keeping them all posted on my goings-on. Sort of like live-in papparazzi.

In casual conversation one neighbor said to me, "Wow! Your kids say you're hitting the road in a few weeks for a comedy gig!" Sheepishly, I responded, "Yeah, I'm looking really forward to it!" Because, after all, I'm nothing if not humble!

Later in that conversation, the neighbor asked, "So when do you fly out?" Confused, I responded, "Oh, we'll drive there. It's not too far". Come to find out, my kids told all the neighbors that I was headed to Seattle. Um, I think the town they meant to say was Salina, as in 90 miles up the road, you know -- in Kansas!

Oh well, today Salina -- tomorrow Seattle!

A Star in the Making

2009-05-10T19:55:00.000-05:00

Gwen Stefani, eat your heart out. Our little Natalie is rockin' her garage sale sunglasses which we nabbed for 10 cents!

I hope she doesn't want to dye her hair platinum blonde next!

Shout Out to All the Moms in da House

2009-05-08T20:29:00.003-05:00

WHO KNEW ..... SO much was involved in being a mom, let alone aspiring to be a good mom. Folks, I had NO idea. I often joke that I'm "striving to be a mediocre mom", but my heart's desire is that one day my kids will rise up and call me blessed. They have a good start, as they often say "Bless you!" when I sneeze!

Growing up, my mom was simply always there. The quiet one in the background, letting her kids take center stage. She would take me on special little outings to the mall, where we might even steal away to grab a hot fudge sundae! Every summer, she would painstakingly map out plans for a family vacation -- trips that are among my most vivid childhood memories. Her greatest attribute might very well be her amazing generosity.

A childhood growing up in a Christian home ..... is there any better gift for a child?

I received this e-mail today from a good friend, and wanted to pass it along to all the moms out there:

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

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooed on.
Chewed on.
Wet on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

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

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put him down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life SOOOOO much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

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

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

May you always be overwhelmed by the Grace of God rather than by the cares of life, and HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

I Didn't Mean to Keep you Hangin'

2009-04-30T17:51:00.007-05:00

I just realized I neglected to post about my recent trip to Philly! Thanks for your patience....

For those of you who don't know me very well, I'm an "event" girl. By that, I mean that I live for the next exciting (and fun) outing, happening, gathering, gig -- you get the idea!

So, it was such a bright spot in my ordinary, hum-drum calendar to be able to fly to Philly to visit my dear, dear buddy -- Karen!

This is their awesome new house, which we had such fun decorating. It's located in a cool neighborhood with hills & big lots.

Here we are, tackling all 60+ miles of the King of Prussia Mall. We needed a GPS to find our way around that place!

Speaking of GPS, Philly was a confusing place to navigate! Karen literally needs her GPS to find her way to church -- and her husband is the pastor there! I laughed at that .... UNTIL I made the trek to church with her, and realized she wasn't exaggerating at all!

Everyone should be so blessed to have wonderful friends as I do! It was a great get-away, where we laughed, ate, shopped, ate again while laughing, and then slept in. All in all: PARADISE!

(insert "These are a Few of my Favorite Things" tract)

Isn't my Karen the most beautifulest of them all?! I was flattered when someone asked if we were sisters .... although Karen reacted by bursting into tears and running from the room. Hmmmm, wonder what that was about? She's just as pretty on the inside, and I love & miss her lots!

It's an Annual Issue

2009-04-29T10:00:00.003-05:00

It's officially Spring. You know how I know? It has nothing to do with the groundhog or the blooming flowers.

THE ICE CREAM TRUCK has emerged from its winter hibernation. And with it comes the booming, somewhat warbling, circus-sounding soundtrack, which draws children much like the Pied Piper did with rats. Irresistable. Yes, my friends, the children are like moths to the flame.

Amazingly, the kids are able to hear that magical tune playing from about six blocks away. In the distance, yet ever-so-slowly getting closer. Closer ..... closer ..... closer. Until it rounds the corner to our street.

Everyone aged 13 and under squeal with delight and run for their mommy's wallet. "ICE CREAM! MOOOOOOOOOMMMMMM!!!" (with the utmost fervor and urgency you might reserve for, say, a fire)

We have a few neighbors in the cul-de-sac that fork out the bills to their frozen-delight-desiring-kids without batting an eye. ME..... I have two words: TIMES FOUR!!! When you have 4 kids, everything adds up SO quickly. And of course, they all want the Pokemon Deluxe Pop which is perched on a light sabre stick and trimmed with edible gold leaf.

My young-unz cannot fathom why I'm not quite as excited as they are when Mr. Ice Cream (who may or may not be just out of prison) hits our block, touting overpriced dairy treats.

Yesterday, the guy hit our street twice in the same afternoon. There should be a limit, and I'm accordingly considering the filing of a restraining order.

My solution to this dilemma? I keep a box of fun popsicles and/or ice cream bars in the freezer, and they can have that when the neighbor kids are licking their Pokemon Pop. It's the next best thing, don't you think?

Promotional DVD

2009-04-22T21:21:00.009-05:00

Drum roll, please.

By popular demand and near rioting by the masses, I hereby present my very own, never-before-seen CHRISTIAN COMEDY PROMOTIONAL DVD! I guess you could call it the WORLD PREMIERE, and YOU'RE in on it! I do hope you enjoy it and get a sense of the sheer silliness that reigns supreme when I'm handed a microphone.

As Frank Sinatra would say,
Start spreading the news,
She's goofy today,
She wants to be a part of it,
Your girls' par-tay!

(And yes, I did just make that up off the cuff, "on the fly" as they say on the street)

My friend, Jill, is the talent behind the production of this DVD. If you're in the Wichita area, contact her to do an excellent job for you at very reasonable prices!

It Started as Any Ordinary Day......

2009-04-22T08:59:00.004-05:00

THREE YEARS AGO.

A hand full of us were at the church for Worship Team practice, waiting for Tony to show up. He was always the early one, so that was definitely unusual. None of us could have imagined what his delay involved.

All at once, he burst through the sanctuary doors, sobbing. "Christi just called. There's been a terrible accident! I don't even know where they are -- somewhere between Pittsburg, KS & Kansas City". My blood ran cold. His daughter, Christi, was and is one of my dearest friends.

We all gathered around Tony and fervently prayed. As soon as we were finished, he headed for the door to go home, pick up his wife Sue, and pack a quick bag. I felt an overwhelming, urgent need to go with them. My dear friend was facing tragedy, although none of us had any idea of the extent.

The next thing I knew, I was in the back seat, headed towards Kansas City. We were in a constant state of prayer, holding our breath every time the cell phone rang. Words like "life flighted" were being used, and we knew it was bad. Really bad.

We were desperate to get to Christi, who had been taken to a hospital. Her son, Josiah (age 2 at the time), had been taken to a different hospital, over at Children's in KC. No word on the husband, Ian, who was driving, other than he had been bleeding from his ears. Not a good sign at all.

The miles stretched ahead in agony. Every single mile seemed to pass in slow motion.

Then we got the phone call we all dreaded and hoped not to receive. "Ian didn't make it." No words can express the blow those 4 little words carried. Raw sorrow. We knew that Christi's husband was gone before she even knew. And our desperation to get to her suddenly doubled.

Before we could get to Christi's hospital room, she had received the news. I can't imagine how alone she felt hearing those words that would forever change her life. Wondering how her little boy was faring over at Children's Hospital, with head injuries and possible broken bones.

Miraculously, Christi had virtually escaped the accident without injury. A few cuts & bruises was all. I remember helping her get out of her hospital bed, and brushing away chards of glass that were left behind on the sheet. We made a quick trip to their apartment, so that Christi could shower off and hastily pack a bag, then we headed straight to Children's Hospital.

Christi held Josiah close & rocked him for a long time. All he wanted was his mommy. God's hand was on that little boy, protecting him from a more serious injury one would have expected. If you could see a picture of the wreckage, you wouldn't think anyone could have survived that accident.

It was a day that would change many lives forever. Including mine. Through it all, Christi has maintained a beautiful testimony for Christ. You can read her first hand account here. The moral of the story is: appreciate your loved ones now, as none of us are guaranteed another single breath.

Wanted: Your Funniest Story

2009-04-21T13:37:00.002-05:00

Hello friends! I hope you're all having a good week so far. After my last post, I'm happy to report that I've managed to NOT break any merchandise or make any major mishaps in the home decor arena. Yay, me!

I'm doing a "comedy gig" this coming Saturday morning, which includes mothers AND daughters of ALL ages. In other words, this girl needs to appeal to toddlers & um, mature women alike.

So, that's where YOU come in -- I'm looking for some fresh material. Do you have a hilarious story I could steal, I mean, that I might borrow? Please, please, please leave me a comment & share a funny moment that you yourself have experienced that would be sure to bring a smile to ladies of all ages.

I can't wait to see what you come up with! Thanks in advance!!!

I Would be the Perverbial Bull in the China Shop

2009-04-15T21:14:00.006-05:00

You have have noticed I haven't been blogging too often lately. The primary reason for that is that I've been .... are you ready ..... working!! Yes, like a real job!

I'm helping a local lady with her upscale custom home decor shop. And let me tell you, she has some COOL stuff. And yes, it's the same lady who has the boutique I wrote about recently.

Anyhoo, I had, shall we say, an off-week recently, which was mortifying at the time, but evokes a chuckle now. So, if you'd like a chuckle at my expense, by all means -- keep reading.

My first little mishap was when I placed my Suburban in reverse and promptly backed over a large plastic bin filled to the brim with the shop owner's fancy decorator feathers. And of course, this HAD to happen right in front of her! I had to hop out of my vehicle and pry the bin out from my undercarriage where it was wedged.

Yeah, it gets better.

A few days later, I accidentally put away a whole pile of merchandise that a customer had pain-stakingly selected the day before to be put aside and saved for her. Oops! My bad. I felt terrible, and this new boss isn't quick to say the three words I most longed to hear: "no big deal"!

THEN, while "on location" at a client's house I popped open the hatch of my boss' vehicle to unload boxes of decor when ..... CRASH! An avalanche of breakables descended upon me at an alarming rate. There was NO time to react. Words cannot express the anguish I felt as I heard fragile, expensive items hitting the pavement like asteroids crashing to earth.

THEN, the same day, I was decorating on top of the customer's kitchen cabinets when I went to step down onto the ladder, and the ladder seemingly jumped out from under my foot. I totally missed the ladder rung -- but honey, momentum was already in motion. Alexander Graham Bell was onto something with that gravity stuff. Thank the Good Lord that I managed to catch the next rung down on the ladder with my tippy tippy tippy toes and hung on for dear life like a doggone orangutan.

But ooooh, it stung like the dickens. And yes, it left an impressive bruise on the arch of my foot.

I'm happy to report that this week is going much, MUCH better. Heck, short of burning down the joint, it couldn't have gotten much worse! In spite of it all, I really am enjoying the work and feel like I'm also gaining valuable experience.

So do forgive me if my blog lacks a bit from time to time. The girl's busier than usual! But don't worry -- at this rate I'll have lots of mortifying/amusing work stories to share.

Chuckle of the Day

2009-04-13T09:19:00.002-05:00

A 3-year-old tells all from his mother's restroom stall. By Shannon Popkin

My little guy, Cade, is quite a talker. He loves to communicate and does it quite well. He talks to people constantly, whether we are in the library, the grocery store or at a drive-thru window. People often comment on how clearly he speaks for a just-turned-3-year-old. And you never have to ask him to turn up the volume. It's always fully cranked. There have been several embarrassing times that I've wished the meaning of his words would have been masked by a not-so-audible voice, but never have I wished this more than last week at Costco.

Halfway, through our shopping trip, nature called, so I took Cade with me into the restroom. If you'd been one of the ladies in the restroom that evening, this is what you would have heard coming from the second to the last stall:

''Mommy, are you gonna go potty? Oh! Why are you putting toiwet paper on the potty, Mommy? Oh! You gonna sit down on da toiwet paper now? Mommy, what are you doing?Mommy, are you gonna go stinkies on the potty?''

At this point I started mentally counting how many women had been in the bathroom when I walked in. Several stalls were full ... 4? 5? Maybe we could wait until they all left before I had to make my debut out of this stall and reveal my identity. Cade continued: ''Mommy, you ARE going stinkies aren't you? Oh, dat's a good girl, Mommy! Are you gonna get some candy for going stinkies on the potty? Let me see doze stinkies, Mommy! Oh...Mommy! I'm trying to see in dere. Oh! I see dem. Dat is a very good girl, Mommy. You are gonna get some candy!'' I heard a few faint chuckles coming from the stalls on either side of me. Where is a screaming newborn when you need her? Good grief. This was really getting embarrassing. I was definitely waiting a long time before exiting.

Trying to divert him, I said, ''Why don't you look in Mommy's purse and see if you can find some candy. We'll both have some!'' ''No, I'm trying to see doze more stinkies... Oh! Mommy!'' He started to gag at this point. ''Uh - oh, Mommy. I fink I'm gonna frow up. Mommy, doze stinkies are making me frow up!! Dat is so gross!! ''As the gags became louder, so did the chuckles outside my stall... I quickly flushed the toilet in hopes of changing the subject. I began to reason with myself: OK. There are four other toilets. If I count four flushes, I can be reasonably assured that those who overheard this embarrassing monologue will be long gone.

''Mommy! Would you get off the potty, now? I want you to be done going stinkies! Get up! Get up!' 'He grunted as he tried to pull me off. Now I could hear full-blown laughter. I bent down to count the feet outside my door. ''Oh, are you wooking under dere, Mommy? You wooking under da door? What were you wooking at? Mommy? You wooking at the wady's feet?' 'More laughter. I stood inside the locked door and tried to assess the situation.' 'Mommy, it's time to wash our hands, now. We have to go out now, Mommy.'' He started pounding on the door. ''Mommy, don't you want to wash your hands? I want to go out!! '

I saw that my wait 'em out' plan was unraveling. I sheepishly opened the door, and found standing outside my stall, twenty to thirty ladies crowded around the stall, all smiling and starting to applaud. My first thought was complete embarrassment, then I thought, where's the fine print on the 'motherhood contract' where I signed away every bit of my dignity and privacy? But as my little boy gave me a big, cheeky grin while he rubbed bubbly soap between his chubby little hands,I thought, I'd sign it all away again, just to be known as Mommy to this little fellow.

(Shannon Popkin is a freelance writer and mother of three. She lives with her family in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she no longer uses public restrooms)

Peep Show

2009-04-09T21:15:00.003-05:00

Made ya look!

With Easter around the corner, I just couldn't resist posting this silly "peep show"! (sorry mom)

Tomorrow night our family will attend Good Friday service at our church. Then on Sat. we will dye eggs, make our annual bunny cake, and undoubtedly dominate the local Easter egg hunt. I pity da fool that gets in our way!!

I need to finish getting the kids' baskets filled & ready to hide. And of course, they each got a little something new to wear to church on Easter morning.

Funny memory -- I remember when I was around 8 years old, we went to visit my grandparents for Easter. I was so excited to wear my new Easter dress! However, while getting ready for church that morning, I discovered that I had no more clean underwear in my suitcase. I shared this with my mom, who made me wear my big brother's FRUIT OF THE LOOMS!!! So, while I was looking spiffy on the outside, I couldn't feel pretty all over, knowing my "brief little secret"!

What about you? What are your Easter traditions / plans?

Diary of a Workin' Girl

2009-03-30T18:55:00.000-05:00

Talk about a fun job! I've been helping set up shop for a brand new boutique full of cool, trendy merchandise -- purses, fancy belts, scarves, jewelry, and unique home decor.

I was given an empty, blank slate and told to "go to town" displaying it all.

Here are a few pictures to give you an idea of what I've been up to. As usual, the pictures don't seem to do it justice.

For my Wichita peeps -- it's called "All Dec'd Out" on Andover Road, between Kellogg & Central. Let me know if you want more details!

Birthday on a Budget

2009-03-29T20:39:00.002-05:00

Evan celebrated his birthday last week with 3 of his best buds. They started out at our house for hot dogs & birthday cake .... then my hubby took them to watch a Wichita State University baseball game.

This party was so easy & inexpensive! For starters, all I had to do was make a simple round cake & decorate it like a baseball. Then, I grabbed Evan's sports themed quilt off his bed to use as a tablecloth. Finally, I "shopped" the garage for assorted sports equipment, stuffed them artistically in a basket, complete with a sports page.

It's a tradition at our house that first you take a "nice" picture, then the next picture everyone can make a CRAZY face!

Hey, it's the simple things in life, right?

In Like a LION

2009-03-28T20:04:00.012-05:00

Maybe you've noticed Kansas getting extra coverage on the Weather Channel lately. I'm here to simply say: "WE DESERVED IT". Can you imagine, the week following Spring Break, being under a Blizzard Warning, of all things?

Here's Natalie, happily working on her snowman masterpiece.

It's hard to believe that just last week I was contem- plating breaking out the sun screen....

Clearly, Mother Nature hates our tree.

These are the broken limbs from that tree alone -- combined with an equal pile in our neighbor's front yard. Yes, all from the same tree!

On a somewhat related note ..... A few weeks ago, Evan lost his winter coat. We couldn't find it ANYWHERE. I thought to myself, "Oh well, we won't need a heavy coat again until, say....November anyway" -- WRONG! So..... I followed my little sister's advice and made Evan wear one of his sister's coats! (I'm trying to make a point with that little guy to keep track of his belongings)! Here he is, a bit uncertain about making this fashion statement. At least he has matching silver gloves!

PG Rated Humor

2009-03-23T11:55:00.003-05:00

As I was growing up, my older brothers and dad delighted in embarrassing me over sensitive "girl" stuff. Back-in-da-day, a Cathy Rigby commercial couldn't come on t.v. without one of the males in the house hollering for me to HURRY & see this important message on the tube.

You get the idea. Charming, huh?

When sorting laundry, my dad would dangle an unmentionable in the air just for comic effect, loudly inquiring, "Whose flopper stopper is this?!" Okay, maybe the Strawberry Shortcake figure on it might have given that away that it was mine and not mom's! I told that story to my kids, and now Evan keeps calling my bras "flapper snappers" on accident. What have I started? Oh yes, Grandpa would be proud.

Anywho, a friend sent me this little ditty which I thought was kinda cute:

What Religion is Your Bra?
A man walked into the ladies department of a Macy's and shyly walked up to the woman behind the counter and said, "I'd like to buy a bra for my wife". "What type of bra"? asked the clerk. "Type?" inquires the man, "There's more than one type"? The saleslady replied that there are four types to choose from:

'There are the Catholic,
the Salvation Army,
the Presbyterian,
and the Baptist types.
Which one would you prefer?'

Now totally befuddled, the man asked about the differences between them. The Saleslady responded, "It is all really quite simple......"

The Catholic type supports the masses;
The Salvation Army type lifts the fallen;
The Presbyterian type keeps them staunch and upright;
The Baptist type makes mountains out of molehills.'

And don't forget the German bra:
Holtzemfromfloppen

Good, "Clean" Fun

2009-03-16T12:57:00.003-05:00

Happy First Day of Spring Break ...... feel free to join me in doubling our respective anti-anxiety medicines until school resumes.

Honestly, the kids are at such a fun age, that I'm actually -- brace yourself -- LOOKING FORWARD (just a little) to a week of quality time together. I know, that's WAY out of character for me.

During former Spring Breaks, I would be awakened early by little munchkins begging for frivolous things like breakfast! Now that they're a little older, they can serve themselves the most important meal of the day.... and even make an occasional room service delivery for good ole mom.

This particular morning, our girls set their alarm & awoke early with a mission in mind -- TAKE BACK THEIR TURF. In fact, this morning I awakened to Holly leaning over my bed with a full-size shovel in hand, telling me that they were heading over to the dirt pile. After briefly picturing the hobbling scene from the movie "Misery", I said "Oh, sure! Go ahead, have fun"!

This particular dirt pile has been a God-send. Our kids recently discovered said treasure when exploring a nearby vacant lot, and have enjoyed hours of fun digging & building. Hey, when you live in Kansas, this is as close to playing in the sand at the beach as you can get! (I can hear it now.....What did you do during Spring Break?)

On a sidenote, it tickles me that all 4 of our kids "dig" that scene (pun intended). Our 13-year-old is right in there, digging to her heart's content next to our 1st grader.

Well, it seems that other kids in the 'hood have discovered the promised-land-o-dirt-pile as well, and have been tampering with our kids' masterpieces. They had the audacity to create their OWN creations -- and that did NOT set well with my kiddos! SO...... my gang woke up early before the "others" were up & around, to have their way with the dirt pile and put it back the way THEY wanted and the way God intended.

I'm fairly certain this is a modern day "West Side Story" that's developing. With Holly wielding the shovel, I'm not worried.

The man cub turns 9

2009-03-14T20:23:00.013-05:00

This boy of mine is turning NINE!

Surrounded by all sisters, Evan joins in the dress-up fun and strikes a pose in Alli's dance dress!

In 2nd grade, Evan's artwork was selected from his school to be displayed at the Art Museum -- behold THE NUTCRACKER KING!

Evan & little sis Natalie being their typical silly selves during a photo shootOur little guy is ALL BOY, but also has a tender heart ...... here he's taking it hard & saying goodbye to his favorite kitten from Peanut's litter when it was being adopted by a family.

Happy Birthday, Evan! Our family is so blessed. Even though your birth was the most traumatic for me, I'd do it again tomorrow to have the blessing of YOU in our lives.

Hard-Hitting Interview with Natalie

2009-03-11T12:24:00.003-05:00

This is a fun activity that's ALL THE RAGE over at Facebook. I asked my youngest, Natalie, the following questions and typed her answers exactly as she stated them:

1. What is something mommy always says to you?
STOP THAT !!!!!

2. What makes mommy happy?
Kisses and hugs.

3. What makes mommy sad?
When we always get on your nerves.

4. How does your mommy make you laugh?
Tickle me.

5. What was your mommy like as a child?
I don't know. You never told us about you.

6. How old is your mommy?
44. (I just had a b-day so this is fresh information on her mind!)

7. How tall is your mommy?
I don't know. WHO would know that about their mom?!

8. What is mommy’s favorite thing to do?
Tickle fight.

9. What does your mommy do when you are not home?
Watch t.v. and work on the computer.

10. If your mommy becomes famous, what will it be for?
Speaking at churches and like ... doing funny stuff.

11. What is your mommy really good at?
Balloon volleyball.

12. What is your mommy not good at?
Karate.

13.what does your mommy do for a job?
Speak in churches.

14. What is your mommy's favorite food?
Donuts, pizza & brownies.

15. What makes you proud of your mommy?
You feed us.

16. If your mommy were a cartoon character, who would she be?
Sandy on Sponge Bob 'cause she's a karate fighter. (refer to #12....????)

17. What do you and your mommy do together?
Go out shopping for apples.

18. How are you and your mommy the same?
We're both girls! We both have brown hair and we both have brown eyes.

19. How are you and your mommy different?
My hair is straight and yours is up a little bit and crazy.

20. How do you know your mommy loves you?
'Cause you're sweet on us; you care for us.

21. What does your mommy like most about your daddy?
That he always tickles you.

22. Where is your mom's favorite place to go.
Natalie thinking....asks me: "Have you been to Applebees?" Oh, I got it -- SUMO! (Japanese Steak House)

Show us the Bling

2009-03-10T10:20:00.000-05:00

Alli's middle school does lots of special "spirit" days. Everything from pajama day to mismatched day.

The latest one was "bling" day & she tapped into her inner rap girl to fully express her blingin' self. My girl, she loves a theme day!!!

She went all out, even uttering a phrase I never thought I'd hear her say: "Dad, can I borrow a pair of your boxer shorts to wear to school tomorrow?" (for some strange reason I can get the photo below to rotate....ugh!)

Whadayathink? WORD. Fo-shizzle.

Sort of Like Mardi Gras in Kansas Around Here!

2009-02-27T21:17:00.012-06:00

These 7th grade girls appear to be harmless enough .... but they absolutely, positively cannot handle cupcakes with a Mountain Dew chaser. Hey, I've trained my whole life to stomach such a feat.

Resolved: Only bread & water for them until daylight!

This is Alli's 13th birthday party sleep- over which we've all .... sort of .... looked forward to. And yet I find myself locked in a remote bathroom, hugging my knees and rocking back and forth in the dark as the chaos rages below in the living room. And I've never empathized with Anne Frank more than I do right this minute.

Seriously though, it warms my heart to know that Alli is having the time of her life and making great memories. Greg & I got her a pink digital camera for this milestone birthday. You tell me from the picture above: Think she liked it?!

The party theme was polka dots, which was really easy and so much fun! She was really tickled with the "el grande cupcake" which I made today.

Our little girl -- (almost) a teenager. Wow.

Happy Pancake Day!

2009-02-24T11:06:00.006-06:00

When I awoke this morning, I had no idea what a SPECIAL day it was .... although I'm sure that hard core pancake lovers have been drooling waiting for this annual event. It's pretty much like Christmas.

Today only IHOP will be serving up FREE short stacks to each of their customers, with donations going to Children's Miracle Network. So put away your crock pots and head to IHOP for a free meal today!

To my local friends, you'll know where to find our gang at dinner time! And pass the huckleberry syrup.

Watch Out, Shaq!

2009-02-23T17:37:00.008-06:00

Evan's basketball season is winding down......only one game left. I must say, it's been really fun for our whole family to go & cheer him on every Saturday! He's thrilled that his best school buddy, Luke, is on his team.
This past week's game was a real nail biter. In the last 20 seconds of the game, Evan found himself on the free throw line, with our team only up by one point. ONE! OH THE PRESSURE! He's a serious competitor, and I know how hard he would take it if the team lost because of him choking in the clutch. Needless to say, we were very relieved when he sank both his foul shots, securing his team's win.

In fact, his team's final score was 20 -- and Evan scored half of those total points!

Here's Evan with his coach, whom he absolutely worships. In fact, we've already signed up to play on this same coach's flag football team. (On a sidenote, I was really shocked to see how some other coaches conducted themselves, absolutely YELLING at the kids during the games.) We were so blessed to be paired with this coach, who really cares about the kids and has taught them so much.

Look how excited Evan is to receive his trophy! When he gets older, he fully intends to play in the NBA and says he'll autograph some of his basketball cards so I can sell them on Ebay for a little extra cash. ha! Hey, with the financial situation the way it is, Evan might be our best bet for a retirement plan!

Look Who's SEVEN

2009-02-20T08:53:00.011-06:00

Our baby is SEVEN! When she arrived in 2002, that brought our count to 4 kids -- ages 5 and under! I'll give you a minute to digest that and/or express your sympathies. We definitely had our hands full, and sometimes I wonder how we managed! But then I watch an episode of Jon & Kate Plus Eight, and I think I had it easy. It's all a matter of perspective, isn't it?

We celebrated Natalie's birthday at the house on President's Day, as the kids had the day off from school. On a sidenote, I think the presidents would be even more honored if the kids were in school as much as possible...... I'm an education nut that way.

Back to Natalie, she wanted a Valentine's theme party, since she was born on Feb. 15. Talk about an EASY party to plan! We did a couple Valentines games, whacked a heart shaped pinata, and called it a day. And she absolutely LOVED it.

Mommy & Daddy got her a Leapster, which she liked ALMOST as much as this NOISY piano toy (whose batteries are likely to be removed in the dark of night)

This Color Explosion toy is awesome -- courtesy of Aunt Amy!

Here's Natalie, getting ready to take on the pinata, remniscent of a Westside Story scene.

Both big sisters baked & decorated the cake & cupcakes.

The kids loved this simple game, trying to drop conver- sation hearts into a vase below.

They also played "Pass the Valentine" -- sort of like Musical Chairs. We were mindful of Kate (in the wheelchair), and wanted to play games that all the guests could participate in.

The moral of the story? You don't have to spend a lot or be super fancy for the kids to have a GREAT time.

And after popping a few Tylenol, I even enjoyed the party as well!

Valentine's Recap

2009-02-15T20:27:00.015-06:00

Valentine's Day is a pretty big deal around our house -- Greg & I had a Valentine wedding, and our youngest (Natalie) was born on Feb. 15. She just turned 7 on Sunday!

On Friday, I made the rounds at the school Valentine parties, beginning with Natalie's 1st grade class. (note my Valentine's necklace that Natalie made for me)

From there, I made an appearance at Evan's 3rd grade class party. Here, he's posing with his special friend, Sydney.

Then I hopped across the hall to drop in on Holly's 4th grade party. (but not before following Holly's strict instructions to REMOVE the necklace Natalie made for me beforehand) Here she is with her all-time favorite teacher.

Holly came home from school with a box of chocolates bigger than my head from her hunk of a special friend, David.

Look how happy!

On my way out of the school, I noticed that Evan's class had made Valentine poems that were being displayed in the hallway. I spotted his right away, since it said Ohio State on it..... When I read it, tears came to my eyes.

I'm not sure you can make out the words, so I'll reprint them:

Happy Valentine's Day!

Mom

Pretty, funny

helping, gardening, cooking

friend, daughter, sister, mother

singing, loving, joking

awesome, super

woman

That is a reward, and I am beyond blessed, friends.

Another Reason Why Coffee's BAD for ya

2009-02-13T15:46:00.007-06:00

At Left: THE CULPRIT

At Right: THE VICTIM

Moral of the story: WE NEED A NEW DISH- WASHER -- NOW!

Alli was washing the dishes in the sink when a coffee cup broke & gave her a nasty cut. It was her 1st trip to the E.R. 7 stitches later, she's fine.

And yes, our new dishwasher will be delivered on Monday!

As Kermit Would Say .....

2009-02-10T17:41:00.001-06:00

Behold, THE RAINBOW CONNECTION:

Few things thrill my heart like spotting a vivid rainbow in the sky! This was the view from our back window this afternoon. If you look closely, there's a faint second rainbow above. "I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth." Genesis 9:13. Thank you, Lord, for your beautiful handiwork painted in the sky today --
the reminder of your covenant of love towards little old me!

I know, I know!

2009-02-08T21:56:00.004-06:00

Hello, my dear public. "Where have I been?" you ask? Well, thanks for noticing I haven't been able to blog much lately! I'm feeling this underlying pressure to post SOMETHING, even though I don't have much to report.

This past week was pretty much consumed with my comedy stylings -- literally. By that, I mean everything from shopping for new duds to honing the perfect punchlines.

Monday was shopping day with my friend, Jennifer, who just happens to have great style. As we started out, however, I did feel compelled to remind her that if we were Veggie Tales, she would be Larry the Cucumber and I would be Bob the Tomato -- and that she should accordingly keep that basic truth in mind while we were shopping.

I'm happy to report that we found a few fun jackets that just may be appearing at a comedy club near you!

And of course, on Wed. I got my fun new haircut. Anyone else ever struggled to replicate the look that you left the hairdresser with? In a word: futile.

THEN, on Thurs. & Fri. I had back-to-back gigs at a large church here in Wichita. Question: You know what's really challenging? Answer: Presenting comedy material first thing in the morning to a small group of very quiet & reserved people! Whew -- that was a real work out. I drove home wondering if I should cancel that down payment on my comedy tour bus......

The group on Fri. was much more lively and interactive, which was SUCH a relief for me! (insert Sally Fields: You like me! You really like me!)

The thing with humor is that it's so doggone subjective! It keeps me on my toes, and more importantly, leaning on the strength of the Lord. Because after all, it's NOT about me -- it's all about Him.

Sassy Hair !

2009-02-04T17:22:00.002-06:00

Does anyone else out there find that it's really tricky to snap a good picture of yourself?! Most of my shots ended up looking like a deer caught in the headlights -- not my best look.

Anyway, I got a sassy new 'do today and I thought I'd share it with ya. Feel free to leave the girl a comment and gush!

Not much length was taken off, but I think it's a nice improvement. I still look like me, just a little bit BETTER me!

I'm being videotaped tomorrow for use in making my promotional DVD for Christian comedy! That adds a little pressure to my "gig", but I'll follow my friend's advice and just be myself.

If you think of it tomorrow morning, please lift up a prayer for me -- that the Lord would be glorified, and that I will share only what HE wants me to!

A Typical Photo Shoot

2009-02-04T09:11:00.002-06:00

This is typical ..... Evan being a goof ball, then check out Natalie below (in the pink dress)

It's ALL we can do to get a good shot of everyone at the same time!!! ha!

OH, the 1st Grade Drama!

2009-02-03T20:28:00.002-06:00

Driving in the car today, I overheard Natalie telling Holly in an exaggerated, dramatic way that another girl in her class kept staring at her that day. Then she exclaimed the following line, "I mean, come on! We're ALL human beans, after all"!

Um.....I think the word you're searching for is "beings", Natalie.

200th Post !!!

2009-01-31T11:19:00.002-06:00

Wow, my 200th post already! I guess when you're blogging about every little thing your CAT does, it really adds up!!

I've been especially busy this week. We hosted a women's event at our church which was cleverly dubbed "Chuckles & Cheesecake". (cute, huh?) Feel free to rip that idea off -- it's not copyrighted .... yet!

We had such a blast -- with plenty of goodies and even more laughs! I had the honor of serving as the resident comedienne (mainly because that's all our women's ministry budget could afford -- ZERO)! Let me tell you -- I think I could have stood there and sung the ABC's and they would have LAUGHED their delicately coiffed heads off! The crowd was definitely hungry for a chuckle. On a sidenote, I love that in an audience!

In lieu of charging admission, we held a silent auction. Our team put together a great variety of items up for bid, everything from manicures & massage to home decor and make-up.

It was such a gratifying evening, and such an encouragement to me personally in my new ministry in Christian comedy. I've always thrived on making people laugh -- it fills my heart with such joy! And it seems that God is beginning to open doors for me to expand and share this ministry with more and more people.

In fact, I have 2 gigs this coming week (that's what we in the biz call them -- "gigs"). I'm already booked for a few events in March. And yesterday, a lady from a large local church called me and wondered if I was still available on DECEMBER 3. Go figure -- it was still open. But not anymore! Yes, I'm already booked on Dec. 3, so don't ask!

A friend is going to videotape some of my upcoming performances and put together a promotional DVD for me! Another is going to help me build a web page. I'M SO EXCITED!

Please pray for this developing ministry -- that God would guide me and that He might continue to allow me the blessing of serving as His "funny bone in the body of Christ".

Hats Off to Us !

2009-01-26T19:54:00.003-06:00

By simply adhering to the mode of "gluing random junk onto any ordinary hat", our kids swept ye annual CRAZY HAT NITE at our church's AWANA group! And no, these one-of-a-kind creations are NOT copyrighted, so copy away!

And if you can't tell from this angle, the base of Natalie's creation was .... one of the record album serving bowls we made for Greg's birthday party. I'm "green" that way and this is proof that I do occasionally recycle!!!

Random Things

2009-01-25T07:11:00.002-06:00

If you're part of the Facebook world, you've no doubt seen these random lists posted. Since I have absolutely nothing fascinating to blog about, I thought I'd share MY list of 25 absolutely random things about me:

1. I'm an Ohio girl who had never lived out of state until I married (at age 28).

2. In our 15 years of marriage, we have lived in 5 states. All the glamorous ones: Ohio, Illinois, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas.

3. I grew up in church and accepted Jesus as my savior at the age of 6. Our family was super involved in our church, with my dad serving as a deacon + music director & my mom playing the piano + teaching Sunday School. Every Sat. our entire family cleaned the church, and I hated it.

4. Before meeting Greg, I had a turbulent dating life and was actually engaged to someone else for a short time.

5. My little sister, Amy, is my best friend in the whole world.... although we pretty much hated each other while growing up. She's 5 years younger than me.

6. I also have 2 big brothers -- one still in Ohio, the other in Houston. Most of our family is still in Ohio.

7. Because my high school was so large & intimidating, I tended to be shy and feel insecure. To this day, I won't go back for reunions, because I'm convinced no one would remember me.

8. I've come out of my shell just a little since then! Credit goes to Greg for playing a key role in re-building my self-image and confidence.

9. Before marriage, I worked as a legal assistant for 10 years. Go figure -- I was always the one planning the Friday pizza party or baby picture contest, just to make life more interesting.

10. I like to laugh. Laughing's my favorite! I find humor in just about everything and have to restrain myself from blurting out all the punch lines swirling in my pea brain.

11. I'm VERY prone to cabin fever.

12. My senior year in high school, I was the State Champion in ..... shorthand. (really!)

13. I always wanted to have 4 kids, just like I grew up with. However, I didn't think we actually would, as we were both .... well ..... less than young to begin with!

14. It bothers me if the t.v. volume level is not on an even number -- I have no idea why. (can you say OCD?)

15. In earlier years, I aspired to be part of the "Go-Go's" girl band -- but would have settled for the Bangles.

16. During my early 20's I saw Prince in concert during his Purple Rain tour.

17. I'm drawn to any kind of creative reality show .... Project Runway's my absolute favorite!

18. Even though I know it's irrational, deep down I want to be everyone's BEST friend. (call me!)

19. I'm beginning to doubt that I'll ever make the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition.

20. In our first few years of marriage, Greg worked for American Airlines and we got to take many inexpensive trips. New England, South Carolina, San Diego, Orlando, Cancun, Hawaii (Maui) and Paris were among our favorite destinations.

21. I'd love to visit New York City. Can I borrow your can of mace?

22. I never thought of myself as selfish or especially impatient UNTIL I had kids.

23. I'm watching the Miss America pageant while I type this and secretly hope to see their thighs jiggle during the swimsuit competition.

24. I'm a chronic people pleaser and an approval junkie -- is that okay?

25. I'd love to be used of the Lord in Christian Comedy to bless others, and truly hope that ministry takes off and grows. To me, there's no better feeling than hearing laughter in response to my humor!

Brutal Realizations by way of a Poodle Skirt

2009-01-22T16:36:00.007-06:00

The truth hurts. May I begin by saying "OUCH"?

As I mentioned in my last post, the kids & I threw a big surprise "Fabulous 50's" party for Greg's birthday. Prior to the big shindig, I had been feverishly sewing poodle skirts every time Greg left the house. They turned out so stinkin' cute, friends! Except mine.

Mine just wasn't working out right and not cooperating ..... so I had the brilliant idea of simply taking one of my existing skirts and merely adding the decorations of a poodle & leash. EASY BREEZY! The finished product looked adorable, and I was oh-so pleased at my innovative-ness. I may have even bragged a time or two.

Then it was time ...... all the decorations were up, food table ready, and the guests were expected to start arriving any minute. And oh, sweet adrenaline! I hurried my hiney upstairs to drape myself from head to toe in festive party duds -- and promptly hit a snag. Or should I say "sag"?

That doggone skirt was SKIN tight and had apparently shrunk while hanging in my closet. That's the only explanation I can come up with! And while a "Girl Next Door" might be able to pull off the look of a skin tight skirt, this Lane Bryant poster girl will continue to wear long, flowy skirts as the Good Lord intended. And in compliance with the petition the neighbors circulated last spring when I washed my car in short shorts.

So I was faced with quite a dilemma. My head-to-toe 50's outfit was missing the piece de resistance ..... the cornerstone of the whole outfit. The FOUNDATION, folks! As I stood there, mind reeling, I heard the most horrifying statement: "Mom! The guests are here!"

All I could do at that point was throw on a pair of jeans, give them a roll or two at the hem, and call it good. I'm still grieving for the poodle skirt that would have been ...... and mad at myself for not planning better. I mean really, WHAT KIND OF DUMMY DOESN'T TRY ON THE SKIRT FIRST BEFORE SPENDING HOURS DECORATING IT?!

It was, however, a wake-up call. I can no longer deny that a few or more pounds have found their way to my lower extremity. They like it there and migrate to that destination with the fervor of old folks heading to Florida in the winter. In fact, I don't even think those pounds even need Mapquest nor a GPA system to find my hips. They're on auto-pilot, those buggers!

So, it seems God used a poodle skirt to open my eyes ...... and motivate me to make some changes. Apparently, Hurley's (from LOST) diet plan isn't working for me. And I guess you're supposed to be a "swimmer" to be able to consume 10,000 calories a day like Michael Phelps. Deep down, that feels a bit prejudiced, just because I don't know how to swim.

So I'm determined to try crazy, radical self-discipline, like limiting myself to only 3 candy bars a day. And maybe, just maybe, by Halloween that stinkin' skirt just might fit and I can dress up like a 50's girl. And if the pounds are still around, I'll just hunt for a hat with a gigantic bow on it, and dub myself "Aretha at the Inauguration"!

How about you? Did those holiday Butterballs and fudge catch up to you too? What have you been doing to battle the bulge?

Elvis in the house!

2009-01-20T11:39:00.017-06:00

Yesterday was a milestone day in our home. My hubby turned ..... well, I don't know if he'd actually want me to give you a number ...... Let's just say it coordinated well with a "Fabulous 50's party"!! And as you can see from the picture, even Elvis wouldn't miss it!

Courtesy of Martin Luther King, my kids were out of school and could help get the party ready. Check out the cake Alli made to resemble a record album. Not bad for a 12-year-old, huh?

Our guests were great sports and dressed up in their best 50's garb!

Getting ready to blow out the candles & make a wish.

We even made serving bowls out of actual record albums! Isn't that fun?

Our menu was burgers, coneys, chips & popcorn, with root beer floats in the punch bowl.

It was a blast! Happy Birthday, GREG!

So Touching

2009-01-18T20:19:00.002-06:00

I saw the picture below on my friend Alicia's blog, Experiencing Each Moment, and just had to share it with you.

Alicia was able to capture this moment shared between her son, bidding farewell to his daddy as he leaves on a Navy deployment. Could it be any more priceless?!

Thank you so much to Dan and all our country's servicemen -- who make sacrifices to protect all that we love and hold dear. And if you feel led, hop on over to Alicia's blog and lift her up with encouraging words while her hubby's away.

Our Youngest is also a Bully

2009-01-17T12:28:00.006-06:00

Yes, it's your lucky day. Back-to-back postings about my kitty cat. And half the bloggosphere just clicked "end".

Have you ever wanted to be a fly on the wall? Well, not really a fly -- that would be gross. I mean to observe without being noticed. Spy, if you will. I had that opportunity last week and it wasn't pretty. I saw a whole different & unlovely side of our youngest, Peanut.

From the vantage point of our 2nd story window, I noticed Peanut perched on the top of our backyard privacy fence. She was concentrating very intently on something I couldn't see. Then I saw it ...... the poofy tail of our neighbor's little powder puff dog. They own a darling Pomeranian (interesting fact: "Pomeranian" in German means wimpy, girly dog).

We're fairly certain our Peanut is pregnant again, and just like me, her pregnancy hormones have transformed her into an altogether different creature. She's downright aggressive and moody; just a shadow of her usual lovable, cuddly self.

Well, that surge of Peanut hormones didn't bode well for old "powder puff" next door. The little dog was oblivious as I watched Peanut begin to creep towards it, as if a cougar hunting a wildebeast. I felt like I was watching "Animal Planet: When Wild Animals Attack". Peanut would take a few delicate steps then freeze. Then a few steps. Freeze.

When powder puff turned and noticed her, he froze too. It was a stare down. "WHAT is that crazy cat gonna do?" Then Peanut poofed her fur up as big as she could in an attempt to intimidate. She then began hopping on all fours sideways, advancing towards the poor dog. It was quite a sight! I stared in equal parts horror and fascination.

Powder puff yipped and ran away as Peanut strutted around their patio in victory, sifting her paw through the dog's food dish to rub it in.

Oh yes, she's a bully. I witnessed the whole ugly incident and have grounded her for the weekend. NO Tom & Jerry for you, young lady! And powder puff, we're so sorry. Peanut does, after all, come from the tiger family. Question: Do they make Zoloft for expectant kitties?!

Our Youngest

2009-01-14T15:40:00.007-06:00

We keep having problems with our youngest during the night. She's up at all hours bugging us ...... all -- night -- long. And seeing as I've long since passed the newborn days of being accustomed to arising every 2-3 hours, I'm not a very good sport when being awakened repeatedly. Especially when it's for NO good reason.

So therefore, we have banned our youngest to the garage at bed time. I know that sounds harsh, but none of us gets any rest if we don't. Sometimes I worry about her, as the temperature does tend to get chilly overnight. But then I remind myself that she has a warm coat & cozy blanket and should be just fine.

In the morning, she's always eager to come inside when I open the door. Until last week.

I opened the garage door and there was no sign of her. I started calling her name but got no response. I hunted and started wondering, "where is she?!" And then ...... THEN, I caught sight of her -- She had crawled inside our Suburban and spent the night there. Hey, I don't blame her! I'd settle into the "Lazy Boy" car seat myself too if I were her! I quickly grabbed my camera to capture this "bloggable moment" to share with you:

I'll have another Peanut story for you soon!

An Anniversary of Sorts

2009-01-13T07:28:00.004-06:00

It was the dreaded call you never want to receive. The one that instantly changes your life forever.

January 13, 1995. I'm not superstitious, but ironically, it was Friday the 13th.

The phone rang early that morning as Greg & I contemplated our fun plans for the day. My sister-in-law was crying on the other end of the line, struggling to deliver the bad news. "Sharon, your dad died last night." I dropped the phone and collapsed in sobs, with waves of grief I'd never experienced paralyzing me.

Our patriarch gone. Taken in his sleep by his first heart attack. He went to sleep and woke up in Heaven. What a way to go!

I miss him. I hate that my kids never got to meet him. BUT I know with all my heart that we'll have eternity together. I fully expect to have two fathers waiting for me in heaven -- my earthly father and my Heavenly father.

During our trip to Ohio, we made sure to stop by the cemetary to pay our respects. Here are the kids with Gram at Grandpa's grave.

Love the people in your life, as you're not promised tomorrow. Live with no regrets, because sometimes you don't get a second chance. I love you, dad.

Tough Life Lessons

2009-01-10T19:41:00.007-06:00

Do you remember the old intro for ABC's Wide World of Sports, where the ski jumper wipes out at the bottom of the ramp to fully demonstrate the announcer's words: "and the agony of defeat"? Agony, indeed! For years, I was unable to watch that clip without groaning out of empathy.

This week, I had similar reactions in my own life. Feel free to join me in groaning.

Our son was served up not one but two heapin' doses of "learning sportsmanship", while his daddy & I watched from the sideline, with worried looks and our nails bitten down to the quick.

The first lesson came on Friday when he was competing in the school spelling bee. Each class sent two representatives to go head-to-head with the rest of the cream-of-the-crop spellers in the school. It was nerve-wracking for Evan -- AND for us as we sat by helplessly, flashing him a shaky thumbs up whenever he looked our direction. It was a packed house, with the entire school body and camcorder-toting parents craning their necks for a glimpse of their favorite competitor.

The spellers went through a practice round intended to help calm their nerves. It would seem that strategy back-fired where Evan was concerned, as he got the spelling of his practice word wrong. I know that left him rattled. For the record, I don't know many 3rd grade boys who spell the word "canary" on a regular basis. Maybe Tweety Bird. And I personally feel that c-O-n-a-r-y is CLOSE ENOUGH! But then again, I'm a mercy girl.

The real competition then began and the tension in the room thickened. I was curled up under my metal folding chair, rocking in the fetal position when Evan stepped up to the mic. "Lord, help him to not be too scared. Lord, let a word like "cat" come forth out of the judge's mouth." I held my breath, and the word was NOT cat. "Evan, your word is: renovate". "Oh, does he know that word?" Perhaps he absorbed that word through osmosis when I was watching HGTV...... I won't keep you in suspense: He didn't. r-e-n-A-v-a-t-e. So close, but take a seat, kid.

My mommy heart welled up as I knew he was fighting tears as he exited the stage. Eliminated from the spelling bee on his first word. Ouch. It was a slight consolation that literally 3/4 of the spellers got knocked out on their very first word as well.

Evan had another bitter taste of defeat today at his very first "real" basketball game. He loves that game and is happy to spend hours shooting baskets. Today was the day he dreamt of dominating the court. Let's just say it didn't quite work out the way he had envisioned. There were these pesky guys called defenders who kept getting in the way!

And those guys in the stripes with the whistles were brutal! Frankly, I don't think they possess the gift of mercy when calling our team for travelling and double dribbling. Just because they travelled and double dribbled! It's 3rd grade basketball -- not the NBA!

Today's match-up resembled a Harlem globetrotters exhibition game. And we weren't on Meadowlark Lemon's team. But good news: I can spell the term correctly: m-a-s-s-a-c-r-e.

It's tough to learn these life lessons .... and just as tough to watch your kids go through it!

P.G. (Pre-Greg)

2009-01-08T08:39:00.006-06:00

All I ever really wanted to be was a wife & mommy. Growing up, my ideal plan for my life looked like this: Marry in my early 20's and start a family by the age of 25. God swiftly vetoed MY plan and made me wait. And I mean really W--A--I--T........

Suffice it to say that before I finally met my husband in my late 20's, I survived a turbulent dating life. And that is the perfect word, turbulent, as defined by Webster: causing unrest, characterized by agitation. Tossed to and fro, unexpected and jarring jolts that left me rattled. Webster invented that word JUST FOR ME, friends, to accurately describe my young love life. They should post a picture of me with my big 80's hair in my best date outfit next to the definition!

I'm so glad that difficult chapter of my life is over. My experiences left me with waning self-esteem, wondering what was wrong with me? I found myself trying to conform and somehow will a square peg to fit nicely into a round hole. Wondering if it was supposed to be that hard. Thinking, is this as good as anyone can expect in a relationship? Are my expectations unrealistic? Am I going to need the assistance of a walker by the time I make it down the aisle?

There was a short season where I was engaged to the wrong guy for me. My desire to be a wife clouded my judgment and I'm sincerely grateful that God spared me that wrong path. He alone gave me the strength to face hard facts and give back the engagement ring. Months later, that former fiance' embraced an alternate lifestyle.

I believe God was preparing my heart all along to fully appreciate and recognize the right one when He allowed our paths to finally cross. When we did meet, the chemistry was instant and there was no looking back. HE was the one God saved just for me. And I'm beyond blessed.

Our friend Sarah took these shots for us -- she rocks! And as a side note, I admit that my "come hither" look in the first frame clearly needs work. In my mind's eye, I was channeling the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition. I may have missed the mark. With that expression, I couldn't entice a tiger to take a big juicy steak out of my hand!

Christmas Program

2009-01-07T07:39:00.003-06:00

Here are our 3 youngest, ready to hit the stage for their Christmas program at church. Look for them next on Broadway!

They're doing a good job putting on a happy face, as they were ALL bummed out about their wardrobe and couldn't WAIT to get home and put on their typical, favored duds!

I love the brotherly protective arm around his little sister.

We're definitely in the minority here

2009-01-05T12:12:00.010-06:00

During our recent trip to Ohio, Greg & I wanted to show the kids the "horseshoe" -- the enormous stadium which hosts the home football games for THE Ohio State Buckeyes.

We were pleasantly surprised and rather amazed that the stadium gates were wide open, which we took as an invitation to come on in! I only wished I had planned ahead enough to be wearing my shoulder pads.

Here are the kids spelling out "O-h-i-o" at mid-field. Allison was bummed to have to be the boring old "I", but not everyone can have the glamour and prestige as the letter "O". Am I right?!

If you could actually see their faces, their expressions seem to be openly conveying, "mom, this is lame". But that didn't stop me from capturing this special moment in time, did it? I'd have no fun at all if I heeded such looks from my children!

It's apparent that Buckeye fans are very much in the minority in this neck of the woods (Kansas). I miss being in Columbus on big game days, when you could feel the electric tension in the air.

Our favorite team will be facing those Longhorn guys later tonight in a bowl of some sort...... Yes, I'm a die hard football fan. Mostly for the hot wings and snacks associated with such.

Which reminds me -- I'm going to make a batch of Buckeye candy to share and subsequently taunt our neighbors with, as they have equally dogmatic loyalties to the Texas Longhorns. It's a bit of a friendly, passive-aggressive cul-de-sac smackdown. AND I'm going to really push the envelope and hang our Ohio State football flag on their porch while they're at work.

Because that's what productive, responsible housewives do while you're all at the office. I'm a rebel. I just hope no one calls the cops on me. But if I do land in jail, I'll be wearing my OSU shirt over my convict stripes & hoping the jail has tv coverage of the game! And will attempt to charm the judge with Buckeye candy.

GO BUCKS!

Mandatory Overtime

2009-01-03T09:40:00.008-06:00

You know when employees are required to work overtime, without being given the option? That's about how I feel right now as a mommy. Without the time and a half.

Please don't misunderstand me. It's been a really great holiday break ....... TRULY ....... all 8 weeks of it (or so it seems). In a nutshell: It's been swell, but enough already! I say "over"; you say "kill". It's beginning to feel like a scene from Groundhog Day around here! Hence the twitching.
This picture accurately captures the energy of my youngest. Just imagine the noise level that accompanies that, um, enthusiasm. I can relate to the Grinch more than I care to admit, thinking to myself, "all the noise, NOISE, NOISE!" I'll take this opportunity to quote my little sis when speaking of Natalie: "She packs a lot of volume for such a little thing!" Yeah. I noticed.

I can vaguely remember the Christmas festivities in the kids' classrooms, which seems like ages ago at this point. It's all a haze now, and I find myself daydreaming, longing for the marvelous, blessed sight of the school bus reappearing. And in the bus driver's right hand she held a sword ..... oh wait, I'm getting confused with the book of Revelation. I won't lie -- I struggle against worshipping the school bus and idolizing all it stands for. I'm an education nut that way.

Oh, I kid. Kinda. Now where are my ear plugs?

Honey, I'm Home!

2009-01-01T12:20:00.003-06:00

We travelled home from Ohio yesterday and had a truly wonderful time. It was great to revisit our roots in Columbus, and equally great to be back home in Kansas. During our trip, we covered the gammet, doing everything from frolicking on the official Ohio State football field to visiting my dad's grave.

My mom & I got to shop at all my old favorite haunts, and we ate our way across the town at all our favorite restaurants that we don't have in Kansas. Which is a lot, by the way! Can I get a shout out for Bob Evans and Donato's Pizza? I'll miss you! Until next time.....

I'll post pictures soon. But for now, I'm up to my new pearl earrings with dirty laundry -- so I'll write more later after I finish my chores. Like in April.

In the meantime, HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!

Hello there!

2008-12-29T09:49:00.003-06:00

Hi friends! We've been out of town, visiting family and friends in Ohio. Our trip began with a 4:00 a.m. wake-up call, with a 6:00 a.m. flight.

Is it just me, or is it nerve-wracking to go through airport security -- especially with kids in tow! The first leg of the trip went smoothly .... until we landed in Chicago. The airport was a virtual skating rink, covered with a thin sheet of ice. We sat on the tarmac for nearly an hour, waiting to pull to the gate.

I was so thankful our kids are old enough to entertain themselves with tic, tac, toe, I Spy, and countless rounds of thumb wrestling. We weren't worried at all about catching our connecting flight, as we already had a long layover in our schedule.

Well, when we looked at the departure screen, we were horrified to find that our next flight had been CANCELLED. That's the worst word you can imagine in a crowded airport! Can I get an "AMEN"?!

I was glad that my hubby was there to handle all that mess of getting us on another flight. Bottom line: we were booked on the next flight to Columbus, Ohio -- but we had about 6 hours to pass in the meantime. Folks, that's a LOT of thumb wrestling!

We actually managed to pass the time rather quickly ...... spending our life's savings at the airport restaurant and making up games to entertain ourselves.

We're having a truly wonderful visit, having quality time with family and dear friends. Grandma's house is full of fun for the kids, and it was warm enough on Sat. to take them to my favorite childhood park! We then came back to the hotel and had a pizza/pool party at the hotel with all the cousins.

It was way special to worship at our home church yesterday -- where Greg & I met and were married almost 15 years ago. So many new faces, yet many familiar and dear ones we've missed seeing.

We're headed soon to the greatest Amish restaurant in the whole world, where I fully intend to eat half my body weight in pie! And yes, I am wearing stretch pants, because I'm a planner that way.

I'll check in again soon! Hope you all had a wonderful holiday.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T09:05:00.000-06:00

Our kids are at such a great age this holiday season. They're super excited about Christmas AND also understand what it's truly about.

Have a wonderful day, enjoying your loved ones, making memories and especially reflecting on the ultimate gift -- JESUS!

EAT YOUR HEART OUT, CINDY CRAWFORD!

2008-12-24T08:34:00.004-06:00

Natalie was thrilled with her new swimsuit, and strutted around wearing it all day -- regardless of the minus zero windchill outside!

AND she has the option to add the ruffled skirt for a more modest look.

Yeah, she thinks she's hot stuff!

On the first day of Christmas break

2008-12-23T08:59:00.003-06:00

Hello wall, meet my head. I can describe yesterday in one word: UGH. On the first day of Christmas break, my children gave to me -- a near nervous breakdown.

I had awakened early, with high hopes, imagining a festive day with my children. Making Christmas cookies. Doing crafts. Snuggling while sipping cocoa and watching a movie. Worthy of a stinkin' Rockwell Christmas painting, friends!

I donned my best apron, pearls and pumps, humming a happy tune while making a special breakfast of waffles topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips.

That Rockwell Christmas dream took a major hit at approximately 7:01 a.m. when my beloved children stampeded down the steps and proceeded to do bodily harm to each other over which breakfast plate they claimed. And yes, they were all identical. Mr. Rockwell's ideal Christmas image proceeded to die a slow, painful death throughout the day.

It was more like "Good Morning, Vietnam".

I accordingly kicked off my pumps and put on my combat boots. It was shaping up to be a day in the trenches.

It was just one of those days where you look for the hidden cameras of Candid Camera or wonder if someone's secretly shooting authentic footage for an anti-depressant commercial.

Here's a little secret: That doesn't bring out the best in me.

Our good friend loaned us Narnia: Prince Caspian, which I viewed as a major lifeline to make it through the day. That would be a good two hours of entertainment, where the kids would hopefully co-exist in peace.

Wrong.

When the movie was booting up, a huge argument occurred between my son and my youngest. It seems that they were spatting because Evan clicked on "English" as the preferred language. Natalie came unglued, because she didn't WANT to watch "English"; SHE WANTED TO WATCH PRINCE CASPIAN!!!!

Just a little real life example for you there. Charming.

And so the day went on ...... and on ....... and on ........ until I wondered if my husband would EVER come home from work.

At which point I greeted hubby and simultaneously retreated to a long, hot bubble bath with a good book. Do you remember the commercial, "Calgon, take me away"! That was SO me yesterday.

I awoke today with a clean slate, with new hope for a good, positive day together. Co-existing without blood shed. Making special memories. But this time, I'm going to clothe myself in prayer, instead of trying to do it all in MY strength and effort. Honey, you can put on the pearls and pumps, but if YOUR heart ain't right, it don't matter! Can I get an "AMEN"?!

Got a decoder ring?

2008-12-20T14:54:00.009-06:00

BEHOLD my Christmas list, which I delight in torturing my kids with: I didn't give this a second thought until a friend recently noticed it and exclaimed "WHAT IN THE WORLD?!" My first thought was that Evan must have hawked a loogie on the kitchen counter, then realized she was pointing to my Christmas list.

It was then that I realized that some people have never in their life seen authentic, old school shorthand. When I mentioned to another friend that I kept my shorthand list lying around the house, she said "what if the kids figure it out?" Well, you tell me -- could you BEGIN to guess what's on the above list?! Any of you prehistoric shorthand junkies care to guess a word or two?

As a side note, guess who was the 1983 state champion in the shorthand competition of the Office Administrative Olympics? I'm the closest thing to Bruce Jenner that I know. No autographs, please!

Back to Christmas -- Each of the kids will receive 3 gifts to open on Christmas morning. That's what Baby Jesus got, so that's enough for us! Granted, if a Wii game system had been on the wish list, the wise men may have had to pawn their goods and give that lone gift. Unless they hopped on their camels and fought the crowd on Black Friday to get a miracle of a deal. Just sayin'.

What about you? Is your shopping done, or are you still hunting that much-sought-after gift? What was your hardest gift to find this year?

Christmas Spirit Abounds

2008-12-18T09:10:00.003-06:00

I had a very special experience yesterday, which truly filled my heart with Christmas joy.

Typically when I'm entering Wal-Mart, it's with a decidedly unglamorous shopping list, including such items as dishwashing liquid and cream cheese. I put my head down and get to work comparing prices on margarine and shampoo.

But yesterday's trip to Wal-Mart was different. Every year, our school's 4th graders sell personalized keepsake ornaments, with the proceeds going towards making Christmas extra special for the needy in the community. I had the privilege of joining Holly's class for that shopping excursion.

We were virtually Santa's elves, and loving every minute of it! I finally found my calling in life -- I want to be an elf! I'm going to chat with Santa at the mall and see if he can hook me up.

Back to the shopping .... Each group was given an anonymous list of family members, with their sizes and interests. Working within our allotted budget, we had a ball picking out items which we thought would bring them joy on Christmas morning.

I do hope the daddy enjoys his holiday boxer shorts. We spent a little extra on the ones that jingle.

Seriously, it brought tears to my eyes, thinking of the anonymous little girl who will excitedly open her much-desired princess toy on Christmas morning. All thanks to the generosity of our wonderful community.

And that's when my heart was filled to the brim with the Christmas spirit ..... in the toy aisle of Wal-Mart (which usually gives me hives).

Guess what I'm getting for Christmas? I'll give you a clue: I'm a princess too. A CROWN! Only I'll be wearing it on my molar. (I'm pretending it's my "white girl grill") Fo-shizzle.

Perspective

2008-12-15T09:15:00.005-06:00

Maybe you've heard that our nation is officially in a recession -- or a "reception" as my little sister accidentally called it. I'm with her --I'd prefer cocktail weenies to foreclosures any day!

We've had our financial belts tightened in our household for a few years now, and are constantly analyzing our wants versus needs. But let's face it: Financial stress STINKS. It seems that especially at the Christmas season, we are bombarded with an endless wish list.

It's easy to fall into the pattern of focusing on what we don't have, instead of being grateful and recognizing all that we DO. I'm convinced that we take so, so very much for granted. All of us.

I was reminded of a great perspective at my friend Christi's blog. It relates to a dear church friend who has gone through unimaginable, heart-breaking circumstances and still praises the Lord. Someone who had every single thing stripped from her at a moment's notice. Who spent endless months captive in a jungle. Who said the hardest thing about that whole situation was coming face to face with who she really was.

I truly hope you'll take a look at Christi's page, listen to the song and follow along with the printed lyrics. And I pray it will minister to your heart today.

Inappropriate Laughter

2008-12-11T21:12:00.006-06:00

I don't know what it is about me .... but when faced with certain stressful situations, I tend to react by giggling. The kind where I'm unable to stop. As Oprah would say, "the ugly giggle". Trying so hard not to, but that giggle's gonna win. It's a strong force in the gut of my being.

If it had happened only once, I could shrug it off. I'm here to admit that I find myself giggling at completely inappropriate times. I've looked in the yellow pages and there's a gaping hole in the "anonymous" support group network for that issue -- so I'm turning to you. Still love me? Does anyone out there feel the need to sponsor an intervention?

For example, when my kids get hurt -- and I mean more than a typical scraped knee -- I can feel the giggle rising up in my belly and I've got to fight to keep it down. Because to sound like a laughter track from Three's Company does NOT convey love, care and concern for my injured child. Am I right? Although that Jack was a crazy piece of work.

Years ago, I accidentally shut my niece's arm in the car door (sorry again, Kelsey). I could hardly get out the sentence, "I ... don't .... think ..... it's ....... broken" through my halted laughter. AND I'M A certified MERCY GIRL, friends!

Can any of you relate? I have a hunch it's an adrenaline related thing.

And if I'm ever visiting you in the Intensive Care Unit and you happen to notice my uncontrollable cackling ..... you'll understand why. And I'd like to apologize in advance. It's going to be so very insensitive of me.

Brace Yourself ... I Had a Deep Thought

2008-12-10T09:28:00.003-06:00

Yes, it's true. I had an uncharacteristically deep thought today, which I will now attempt to articulate to you.

Yesterday brought our first real snow of the season. When looking out the window, you felt as though you were in the middle of a snow globe .... and some crazy brat was shaking the globe with all his (or her) might. Beautiful.

Although there wasn't much depth accumulated in the snowfall, the roads were very slick as a result. Even in our heavy Suburban, we were slip sliding all the way to school. A nerve wracking commute, to be sure.

No matter how cautiously I attempted to drive, I couldn't know what was around the corner waiting for us. What's down the road? Could be a slick spot, maybe a pile-up of cars, or perhaps be dry and clear. I could hold the wheel tightly and be alert, but ultimately I recognized that I had only a certain amount of control.

There have been seasons in my life where I've held gripped the the steering wheel with white knuckles, determined to go MY preferred way. I gritted my teeth and prayed for the outcome I envisioned.

And sometimes the path has been dry and clear, and other times I've ended up skidding out of control. He's allowed me experience quite a few bumps over the years! "But God, I don't want to go that way"!

Ultimately, God has the control, despite my efforts in the flesh. He knows best and has the perfect plan for my life, no matter how I may try to resist and steer my own direction.

It reminds me of a bumper sticker I saw that read: If Jesus is your co-pilot, YOU'RE in the wrong seat". The word of the day is "YIELD" -- to Him!

Who's been watching Terms of Endearment?

2008-12-09T22:38:00.000-06:00

Evan surprised me this afternoon with a deep, impromptu conversation that went like this:

EVAN: Mom, if you're ever sick and know you're probably going to die, would you tell us kids?

ME: Well, would you want me to tell you?

EVAN: Yeah, I guess. That way I could cut a little piece of your shirt and ask you to autograph it, then have you to put lots of lipstick on and kiss a paper that I could keep and always remember you.

Wow, for a crazy 8-year-old boy, he has deep thoughts sometimes. For the record, I feel fine. A specimen of health. But if you want my autograph to be on the safe side, just say the word!

He Make-a-me-Laugh

2008-12-09T07:07:00.001-06:00

Hello, funny bone? Prepare to be tickled!

Check out the Christmas humor of Dave Barnes: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfrhFkz0hrs

It's adorable, CLEAN comedy, so turn up your volume and ENJOY his silliness!

Plain Crazy, I tell ya!

2008-12-08T15:37:00.003-06:00

Now I hate to stoop to ..... um ..... well, talking about the weather. And this is most decidedly NOT to just make idle small talk, folks.

Although I will come clean and admit there's absolutely NOTHING else going on that's interesting at the moment, so I'm had pressed for a topic. Unless you find my cleaning the house in my p.j.'s while belting it out with Karen Carpenter's Christmas CD fascinating.

Anyway, about the weather. It's CRAZY! The current temperature is 67 -- albeit with 70 mph winds. But here's the kicker: the trusty weathermen are predicting snow tomorrow. (see how I bolded that for emphasis?!)

When the kids get home from school, we're going to play outside and eat popsicles ..... Then we'll get to bed early to have energy to shovel the snow in the driveway tomorrow morning. I tell you, people -- I'm having to keep both tank tops and wool coats alike handy around here!

Ta ta for now -- I need to go apply my sunscreen. And then dig out my flannel pajamas.

Cheering is a Full-Time Job!

2008-12-06T08:27:00.009-06:00

As I've posted a time or five in my blog, my little Alli has begun her maiden voyage in the world of OFFICIAL cheerleading for her middle school.

I had no idea all that would involve. She has been utterly exhausted. It's a lot like DALLAS COWBOYS CHEERLEADERS: Making the Team ..... without the skimpy uniforms. ThankyouJesus.

Not only does Alli have practice nearly every day after school, she also cheers two nights a week for the boys and girls' basketball teams alike. Back to back games. Some 2 1/2 hours of high energy kicks, jazz hands and plastered on smiles. Wears me out just thinking about it sitting on my couch. I need a snack, hold on.....

The whole family went to the boys' games on Tuesday night, and I was amazed at how talented and aggressive the players were, many of whom I remember from early years in elementary school.

Alli has a crush on one particular player ..... and after watching him on the court all night, I told her I have a crush on him too! He's pretty much the "Troy" of the school and I'm considering asking him to the homecoming dance. I just have to find a babysitter....

Moving on to Thursday night, we passed on watching the girls' games, and came towards the end of the games to pick up our favorite cheerleader.

When we got there towards the end of the 4th quarter ..... the game score was 8 to 7. Seriously! During the last seconds of the game, the score ended up tied at 8.

So we found ourselves in a sudden death situation, where the first team to score would win the game.

Can I just say that in a 7th grade girls' basketball game ...... that deadlocked score can stand for QUITE. a. while.

It was a nail biter, and after about 20 minutes of frenzied dribbling and wild shots, I'm happy to report that "the good guys" managed to land a free throw and win the game! GO JAGS! I did my best hurkey jump and we headed home to relish the victory. FINAL SCORE: 8 to 9. Look for the recap on ESPN.

Gladys, She Makes Me Giggle

2008-12-05T10:32:00.001-06:00

My little sister sent me this link, and it's well worth watching if you need a little chuckle!

http://www.boreme.com/boreme/funny-2007/ellen-gladys-hardy-p1.php?emf=1

I'll post some "new and original material" soon!

Let's Hear it for the Cheerleaders!

2008-12-02T15:12:00.004-06:00

Today is a big day for me, I mean, um for Alli. It's finally here -- her big debut on the 7th grade basketball cheerleading squad! She was so excited that the school held a pep assembly this afternoon, and I was touched when Alli specifically asked if I could be there. I said, "No, my soap opera is on then....." Oh, I kid -- I wouldn't miss it for the world!!

Here she is, headed to school this morning: (if you click on the photos, you can see enlargements)

Right before the pep rally .... "now what are we doing?"
There she is -- on the left. The one who's showing superior effort with the bent knee and heel off the ground.

She was even the most graceful cheerleading sitter, if you ask me...... but I know I'm biased.

This stage of life is fun. Days like this are a reward to this mommy's heart.

Yah Me !!!

2008-12-01T08:54:00.004-06:00

You like me! YOU REALLY LIKE ME!

I'm honored to have received this award from Alicia of http://experiencingeachmoment.blogspot.com/

Funny thing is, I've never actually met Alicia. She's a friend of a friend, and we've gotten acquainted through the blogging world. Check out her blog -- you'll be glad you did. Thanks, Alicia -- You made my day, and it's not even 9:00 a.m.!!

All By My Lonesome

2008-11-30T19:41:00.003-06:00

Well, I did something on Saturday that I don't think I've ever done before.....

I went to the movies ...... ALONE. Some plans with friends didn't pan out, so I decided to be a big girl and go it alone.

My heart was set on seeing "Australia", but since it was sold out I settled for "Twilight". I wish I could say that God closed the door to Australia and ushered me towards the vampire flick, but even Ozzie Osborne would say that's a stretch.

Venturing in, I was surprised to see the Twilight theatre empty. So I boldly decided to do another thing that was completely out of character for me -- I went & bought a popcorn and drink! And proceeded to notify my mortgage company that our house payment may be a little short as a result ....

Goodies in hand, I headed back to the now almost empty theatre, and tried to blend in and not feel like a loser who was there by herself. A feat in and of itself. I felt like I stuck out like a sore thumb, even though in my head I knew that was an irrational thought.

It seemed like time stood still waiting for the lights to go down. I nervously crammed popcorn into my mouth and looked around as if I were expecting someone. The phrase "where are they?!" may have been uttered under my breath for good measure.

The bottom line is that Edward Cullen & I shared some quality one-on-one time -- but I don't think I'll be hitting a matinee solo again for quite some time.

So the question is: Do you go to the movies comfortably alone? And why is it a big deal for the rest of us to do that?!

Tales from the Dental Chair

2008-11-27T19:00:00.003-06:00

I'm so flattered to be featured today on 5 Minutes for Mom! Take a look: http://www.5minutesformom.com/5022/the-sampler-dental/

In the words of Barry Manilow, LOOKS LIKE WE MADE IT! Yah!!

Thankful

2008-11-27T10:23:00.001-06:00

HOW DO YOU COOK A TURKEY? By Natalie (while in preschool)
"You find 'em on the first aisle at Wal-Mart. Then we drive it to our house .... put it in a pan with salt & pepper, and put it on the stove for 50 minutes ..... When it looks like a chicken then we eat it! My mom & dad get big pieces."

(Natalie, preschool): I AM THANKFUL FOR ...... my cat. I love our class gerbils and how they eat food. I'm thankful for cheese. I'm thankful for my sisters and brother.

For our wedding back in 1994, I rewrote the words of Cindy Morgan's song, "How Could I Ask for More?". Today, my heart is full of thanks, and again I ponder, how could I ask for more?

With Jesus in my heart, family & friends by my side -- I'm truly grateful and blessed beyond what I ever deserved.

"Always give thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." ~ Ephesians 5:20

Fun!

2008-11-26T20:37:00.002-06:00

Allow me to introduce you to my newest addiction, Line Rider: http://www.sober-productions.co.uk/line-rider/

It's a simple game that's big fun for the whole family! The girls and I will undoubtedly be playing many rounds during ALL the football games tomorrow.

Give 'er a try!

From the Mouth of Babes

2008-11-25T22:10:00.003-06:00

This is my 1st grader's latest spelling test ..... number 14 was "Thanksgiving", which she spelled "tax given". I think she's been watching too much C-Span and political ads!

Up to NO Good

2008-11-25T16:59:00.002-06:00

I was just at the dollar store grabbing a couple quick items when I saw a large group of middle school boys milling about.

They ended up being right in front of me a few minutes later at the check-out line ..... and I had to grin when I took stock of their purchases:

ALL the toilet paper they could possibly hold, a 2-liter of Diet Coke and a pack of Mentos.

Those boys are most definitely up to some mischief, and thankfully, that's as close to gang-related activity as we get in our wholesome little suburb!

I'm a Frugal One, Yes I Am

2008-11-24T14:46:00.003-06:00

RECYCLED HOLIDAY OVERALLS

To get extra mileage out of and give new life to used overalls, just add a few ruffles and patches in festive prints! Pick up some overalls at your local thrift store and then add the personality! These are one-of-a-kind and get lots of compliments.

My girls are too grown up for this style now (sniffle, sniffle), but we have plenty of pictures where they're wearing similar outfits -- to visit Santa, for school programs, Christmas dinner, etc.

If you want to see more great ideas, visit Antique Mommy's blog where she's holding a "Handmade Holiday Carnival!

I Have a Lot in Common with Little Rabbit Foo Foo

2008-11-20T15:25:00.006-06:00

I'm not much of an outdoorsman. I wish I were cut out of that fabric (say, um, burlap?), but I'm more of a satin type gal. Don't give me rough, thankyouverymuch -- I'm comfortable with smooth. In a nutshell: Steve Irwin & I would NOT have made a good pair. He'd be caressing a snake, saying "Crikey, she's a be--UTE", and I'd be screaming & running for the safety of a nearby production van.

Aside from tinkering in my flower bed occasionally, I tend to migrate indoors .... in the air conditioning (or heat), perhaps looking out the window and admiring nature without getting dirty, battling mosquitos, and encountering SCARY spiders.

I recently had yet another recent confirmation of being a "satin girl", which I'll share, even though it makes me look really bad. Really.

The kids & I discovered our cat, Peanut the Mighty Feline Warrior, toying with a big fluffy mouse right in front of our garage. He looked a lot like Gus from Cinderella, come to think of it. All the kids (who have more burlap content than their mommy) were pleading with Peanut to let the mouse go, and trying to intervene. The little guy was injured but still hanging in there. About that time, that mouse made a daring run, nay CHARGE, for the inside of our garage to escape.

My knee jerk reaction (literally) was to boot that mouse to prevent its entry into MY residence. Yep. It's true. I punted a poor, wounded mouse about half the length of our driveway. To the absolute horror of my satin-free children. Two of them burst into tears .... and I felt so awful, and rightfully so.

But in my mind, THIS is what I saw:

I'm not sure there's a valid self-defense argument in my crime of mouse punting, but I'd like to assert that defense for the record. Is there a notary in the house?

Sing it with me, my new theme song: Little Rabbit Foo Foo, hoppin' through the forest, scooping up the field mice and bonkin' them on the head.

If you'd like to send a Get Well Card to Gus, he's hanging out at a nearby stream where Greg took him, quite possibly nursing a throbbing headache.

Still love me?

My Song

2008-11-17T18:04:00.007-06:00

My hunk of a hubby can croon a mean rendition of Elton John's "Your Song". You know the one: "it's a little bit funnnnny, this feelin' insiiiiiide....." He's been known to bring down the house when channeling Elton at the karaoke parties. Does anyone ELSE have goose bumps right now?! Someone quick, hand me a lighter that I can wave in the air. And girls, back off 'cause HE'S ALL MINE!!

Well, I discovered today that I have "another song" -- officially.

A friend referred me to http:www.joshhosler.biz, where you can plug in your birth date to find out what was the #1 song on that day in history. It's such fun!

The #1 song on my actual day of birth was a catchy little diddy called "Yankee Doodle". Oh, I jest. It was actually "My Girl" by the Temptations.

After you find out YOUR song, leave a comment and let us know which one it was!

Who Knew?!

2008-11-16T14:43:00.002-06:00

I came across this very fun (and FREE) "celebrity look-alike" function at www.myheritage.com, and was amazed .... and very FLATTERED .... at my results. It goes without saying that had my results favored, say, Roseanne Barr or even Jack Black, I wouldn't be sharing this with you!

As you'll see from my OFFICIAL results below, I should clearly be packing my bags for Hollywood. I'd especially like to point your attention to Angelina Jolie in my look-alike collage. (Brad, call me!)

I'd like to thank all the little people for this honor. Oh boy, I hope the paparazzi doesn't get wind of this and start hounding me. The price of fame is steep, my faithful fans.

You've got to try it, and let me know how it turns out for you!

Growing up so Fast

2008-11-14T13:44:00.005-06:00

Fun at the park with Natalie (6)

Alli (12) was so thrilled to get her cheer uniform this week!

Holly, anxiously awaiting her ear piercing on her 10th birthday.

And workin' the hippie costume on Halloween!

Natalie playing dress up and looking so grown up!

We rarely see Evan (8) without a basketball or football in tow. Doesn't he look tall in this shot?!

Alli, our favorite 7th grade basketball cheerleader!

Evan found one of his old baby outfits in the back of his closet, and was teary eyed when reminiscing.

We were amazed by how much he'd grown!

Cold Food Can Be a Costly Blessing

2008-11-13T09:10:00.002-06:00

Last summer, we returned home from vacation to discover that our refrigerator had given up the ghost while we were away. Oh the pain -- no time to say goodbye.

We instantly found ourselves wandering the aisles at Lowe's, muttering words like "doggone it" under our breath (even before we had unpacked our suitcases). There are SOME things you can put off ..... a functioning refrigerator for a family of 6 is NOT one of those things.

We selected a suitable, semi-affordable model and anxiously awaited its delivery the next morning. The Lowe's men showed up right on time and the delivery was made seamlessly. That was a relief, as we had a photography appointment we needed to run along to.

Here's where the plot thickens: When we got back a few hours later, my daughter reported to me that "the basement ceiling had caved in." Huh?! I went to see what she was talking about, and sure enough -- inward cavage had occurred. What the?

It would seem that the installer of our new fridge didn't "quite" secure the water line 100%, and enough water had leaked through our hardwood kitchen floor, through the sub floor, through the basement ceiling, to cause its collapse. Ugh!

ALL I wanted was cold food, folks. Is that too much to ask? I realize that in most third world countries that's a luxury. But if my 7th grade U.S. History memory serves correctly, chilled & amply preserved perishable food is an inalienable right which our founding fathers fought for and secured. Come to think of it, I think I may have failed that course.

Bottom line is that Lowe's made it right ... eventually .... and paid for the entire treatment and repair. Despite not being able to use our kitchen for a few weeks, and huge industrial fans which sound like jet airplane engines occupying half our square footage for a while -- we got a brand new kitchen hardwood floor out of the deal, and a new basement ceiling. So I guess it ended up being a good thing, if you can get past the inconvenience of the whole process.

Anyway, when I saw this cute video of comedian Brian Regan's synopsis of a refrigerator salesman, that made me reflect on our refrigerator saga. You've got to take a look:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rmun8GK6o2c