Helping With The Move

We have spent the last week helping my sister get settled into her new house. Well, settled isn't exactly the word for it because she isn't completely in yet. But as much as we could help with is now done, and I think I need to head in for a headache treatment! Moving is nothing but non-stop stress, and it really is exhausting whether it's your own move or if you are just helping someone else. I would love to hit a botox treatment for my headaches, nothing else seems to work right now, but I've heard amazing success stories with that. I think I should look up the pricing!

Straw Poll!!

I just took a Conservative Straw Poll. I was happy to see my first choice doing really well--not first--but not fifth either!! I thought it would be fun to post it, just because it's specifically directed toward bloggers--and since all of you blog--or read them--it's perfect for you!!



Leave me a comment and let me know who got your vote!! I'll tell you mine if you tell me yours!!

KaterBugBlue.com

I have a new domain all my own! I know--these days, who doesn't? But I have to tell you-I never thought I would. My sister has had one for nearly 9 months and has loved it. I'm a little more reserved on the technical aspect of the world, but we did it. Rather she did it-but it's up and I can start posting on it! I chose my nickname, KaterBugBlue.com, and now I'm just working with my sister to get the theme of my dreams up and running! So check back soon--and see what you think!

First Day Of School

You can't tell--but at this moment I'm doing a little "Happy Dance"! I know--I shouldn't be so happy--but it's the kids first day of school--and I have to tell you----------------It's AWESOME!!
Yes I do understand that the first day of school can drive some mothers to tears. Thoughts of the past summer spent with their children in some idyllic setting day after day, only to lose their cherubs to the harsh ordinariness of school. They are better moms than me! No really, I'm happy to admit it. I adore my children! I love spending time with my children! The problem is--they have no desire to 'hang out with mom' so I just generally end up cleaning up the messes that my kids make in their funnel cloud from the kitchen to the back door! If I have to bleach my counter top one more time to get the cherry popsicle drips off--I think I'll scream!

So yes, it was sad---even more expensive--but they are at school until 2:40--and my kitchen is CLEAN!!

Eye Of The Dolphin Was Great

You know how you eagerly anticipate something and it never lives up to what you think it will be? I can think of several books and movies that are just like that--but what was new--I have been waiting for Eye of the Dolphin to come out forever!! From the first time I heard about it--I've been waiting. Yes, I'm a huge fan of all things Oceanic and the Bahamian Island theme was just an added bonus.

This was a great movie! Everything you have heard about it---is true. Rarely do I come away from a movie with the thought that I can't wait to see it again, but that was how it was with this. The message was so beautifully portrayed, that you literally cared about these people, and it's almost haunting when you leave the theater and find yourself throughout the day thinking of these people and places as if they were in existence today!

If you are looking for a truly inspirational film--this is it! Take the family--and sit back for a wonderful ride.

My Own .Com

I've been working all morning on doing the one thing I vowed I would never do! I'm so illiterate in all things technical, that I'm amazed this blog has been up and running as long as it has. My sister got her own domain back in February, and I've been dragging my feet. In March we found a site that would let us register our domain names for free, so I thought what the heck, I'll take it for free. But then we realized that it required hosting with the company that gave it to us, which was fine since that was free too. The problem came when we realized that we couldn't put a blog on the website. So we needed to cancel our domains, and wait for them to come available again. I chose my nickname as my .com back then, and here we are 4 weeks later and my name still hasn't been released for re-purchase yet. I'm bummed, but I will either come up with a name kind of like the .com I want and then get the one I want when it opens up-or just sit and wait until it does. As of right now, I think I'm better off waiting just because I'm clearly not proficient enough to do this myself!

The Chocolate Factory

I just found out that there is a chocolate factory near here--and they offer free tours and samples. It's in Long Grove, Illinois--and it sounds like something my kids would really enjoy. Ok, so I'm pawning it off on my kids--but really--we drove all the way to Wisconsin to see the Jelly Belly Factory--and this is an hour closer! We are going to Wisconsin next Thursday--so I'm thinking we'll try to make an appointment for a tour on Monday or Tuesday.

If any of you in the Chicago area are interested, it's Long Grove Confectionary Company and tours are available Monday through Thursday from 9 am until 1 pm.

I can't wait!

Wisconsin Dells!!

Next weekend is the final weekend before school starts, so we thought we take the kids and get-away. We are heading up to Wisconsin Dells. We have never been there-but it is apparently--THE place to go. There are a lot of really fun things to do--I'm mostly looking forward to the indoor water park. I do not enjoy being out in the sun--my eyes just really don't enjoy the squint--and the wrinkles around my eyes are already far too progressed for someone my age! Plus, with the indoor water park--there is no need for sunscreen! I can't think of anything better! Well, except maybe room service's breakfast in bed!!

School Supplies

We spent the rest of the afternoon shopping for school supplies. We have a couple of weeks until school starts but at Walmart--boxes of crayons that go for $2.50 normally were 20 cents each! I bought 5 and will probably go back for more! Filler paper was also 5 for $1.00. I couldn't believe it! I got a ton of supplies that we won't need--but I couldn't resist the price!

Then we met my sister and her kids and spent the evening swimming. It was warm and cool--and very refreshing. An ice cream cone on the way home topped off a really good day!

But He's A Mormon

I find it so interesting that the only thing people talk about when discussing Mitt Romney is his religion. How it will affect the White House, his Presidency, his stand in the global community. I find this tremendously funny. He is a good man, he is an impressive businessman. He came in in the middle of the failing Salt Lake 2002 Olympics amid scandal and financial problems--and turned it, not only in the HUGELY successful Olympics that it was, but also a profitable one.

What people need to remember when you hear the word Mormon in relation to our politicians. They are just like every other religion--you will have good ones and you will have bad ones--you will have those that are for abortion and those that are against it---those that are for tax increases across the board--and those that are against it. Mormonism is what makes the man--not anything that they bring into the office--want some proof? Well, HE'S Mormon too!!




This is of course, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid--and even though he doesn't act like it in Washington, on TV or in any other time in his life...He is the same religion as Mitt Romney. One just lives it a little better than the other one!!

PR Update

The whisperings have turned into mumbling, and the mumbling has taken voice! Everyone all over the blogosphere seems to be holding their collective breath--has the Google update begun?? Everyone claims to be seeing their numbers changing--some up--some down--some both--and then there is me! My poor little old blog here has remained a PR3 from the very first update it went through nearly a year ago! I can't complain--many friends of mine lost a point or two-so to simply remain at three is a happy thing in my mind! Of course, who isn't wishing for something just a little higher!!

TMNT

Today was a downpour! So instead of going out for a fun afternoon, we decided that we would stay in, pop popcorn, and let the kids find a movie that they would enjoy watching.

Much to Kate's chagrin, the boys chose TMNT and then invited the neighbor boy over to watch it with them. I didn't stay with them, as the movie holds ZERO interest from me--but I could here them laughing and commenting from the other room.

Afterwards I was rewarded with three ninja imitating young men just a little doped out on Popcorn and Soda Pop! I think tomorrow will be a quiet day at home--ALONE!!

I'm Going To Kill My Sister

Yep, she's toast! She's been sick for nearly 3 weeks, and as miserable as she has been-she has continued to function in her daily life. Well, today--I have come down with her mystery illness! I do not have 3 weeks to devote to this 'bug' so I am off to the doctor for antibiotics tomorrow!

Katie is still sick from yesterday, and I'm wondering if I may have what she has-although, she is feverish and sick to her stomach. Whereas, I'm coughing and hacking and stuffed up! So coincidence as it may be with my daughter--I'm still blaming my sister!

Lincoln Park Zoo

We are going to head to the zoo with my sister and some family members in town for the weekend. Last week we went to the Brookfield Zoo, and tomorrow it is the Lincoln Park Zoo--both are fun--but Lincoln Park is free--and for me-I generally live in the Sea Otter Cavern because it's air conditioned! I plan to hang out there with my snow cone while everyone else checks out the other animals. Should be fun--and I will put up lots of pictures!!

Where Are They Now?

Have you ever looked up people from high school to see if they show up on the internet? It's a lot easier to do with the guys since their names don't change--but I was surprised to find this:

The guy in the black shirt holding roses with Kenny Rogers arm around him--that's Erik--he was my Senior Class President when I was in High School in little old Kaysville, Utah! He and a friend wrote the song "Buy Me A Rose" that was a chart topper for Kenny Rogers.

Sadly, I've never heard the song--but it's just amazing to my brain that here is this 'guy' from high school--and he's all hangin' out with Kenny Rogers! Just weird what we all grow up to be!

Downtown Chicago

Today I drove to downtown Chicago to take my friend to see her divorce attorney. Parking is such a joke and if you can't find a meter there are parking garages that cost $26! So for a trip downtown for 5 minutes to drop papers off--it was much easier for me to take her and then circle the block a few times while she ran up what she needed to.

I don't mind driving downtown--a lot of people have a problem with it--but it's really fun to be in the city where there is so much atmosphere and so many landmarks. I really only made it around the block twice before she was ready to be picked up, but I got to see the old Chicago Theater, Millennium Park, the skyline and on the way home we even passed the United Center. Nothing huge, I know, but when you live in the suburbs you forget just how cool the big city can be!

Harry Potter V

Well, we finally did it! We took the kids to see the new Harry Potter movie. I think it's just funny, in our family we've started calling HPV for Harry Potter 5, but all I ever think about when we say it is the disease, Human Papillomavirus. Terrible, I know--but it's where the mind goes!! What can you do?

I thought it was an OK movie--not too stressful on the kids, but missing out on so much information-I hardly wondered if the writer of the screenplay was reading the same book as I was. Yes, they 'kind of' showed the anger and resentment that Harry was feeling-but he only used the fact that Dumbledore was talking to him as the reason. There was so much more--Ron and Hermione making Prefect was a huge part of this. That is how he came to meet Luna-R & H had to sit in the prefect car on the train--which left Harry on his own--but nope--no mention, as far as teh movie was concerned--there were no Prefects.

What was missed even more--Quidditch! I think we have seen the last of late in movie number 3. In number 4 it was by-passed for the Tri-Wizards Tournament and it is back in number 5 although Harry is banned by Umbridge--but not in the movie--it's nowhere! Number 6 and Number 7 books also have ZERO Quidditch--so sadly--number three was the last time we'll ever get to see it!

Bye Bye Bear

Wow, I just got off the phone with Rob. Apparently she needs me to watch her baby on Friday because she is going to take her dog in to the vet and have him put down. I really don't blame her, he is a scary dog. My kids won't even go in the house if the dogs are out, so minus one isn't necessarily a bad thing.

They looked into a rescue for Rhodesian Ridgebacks, but decided that it was more humane to put him down rather than possibly bring out some of the separation problems he has experienced in the past. She's afraid if they were to put both dogs down her husband would want a puppy soon, and she isn't up for potty training a new puppy on her new carpet, so I think they are simply going to take Brownie with them.

Hubby's Birthday

My husbands birthday is coming up next week and I'm faced with a bit of a dilemma! I found him the most beautiful hamilton watches I've ever seen. My problem...he's always made the crack that he will only wear a watch when it's a Rolex! Yeah, like that will happen anytime in my lifetime! This watch is on of the most beautiful I've seen, and while I was looking for his, I chose an amazing ladies watch for me. I'm sure I will find something else to get him as well, but I'm really thinking he will enjoy this watch too!

Harry Potter V

I'm taking Jake with me to see Harry Potter today. My sister went on Wednesday and thought it was great. Jake is reading the books right along with me, so I thought it would be fun for just the two of us. Then we can treat the whole family to the flick later on. I still haven't gotten my debit card in the mail, so we will be stopping by an ATM to get a cash advance from my visa card. It's all paid off quickly-and so much easier to use cash over credit at the movie theater! I'll have to let you know how it is when we get home!!

Moving To The Suburbs

We got home from our trip just in time to help Rob start packing. I know, it's not like I spend enough time over here as it is, but now I even have a better reason. Use her computer to blog, and pack a box. Use her computer to blog, and pack a box. Get the picture??

She is moving closer to me, which is farther away from the city. Urbanite turned Suburbanite. I think she will enjoy her new house. There are tons of mature trees and it's really a pretty neighborhood, and best of all...they won't ever have to park on the street again. This house not only has a driveway, but an attached garage. It's been 5 years since they've had that, and she is so excited! She's put pictures up somewhere-I'm going to have to track them down and get them added, since not all of our readers are the same!!

Canvas On Demand

Just looksey what came by Fed Ex today! I'm so excited!! This is a picture that my sister took of her cute kids. Her husband is a Chef and this was his anniversary gift 4 years ago. She had a poster made of it and it hangs in her kitchen. I have always loved it--and when the offer came in to have my favorite photo made into canvas portrait--I knew that this would be my choice.

I first mentioned this wonderful prize opportunity back in June, and honestly--I thought it would take much longer to receive this beautiful canvas. People thought I was crazy that I didn't get something done involving my kids--but I just don't have a picture with all four kids looking good at the same time-so I thought I would steal this portrait for my kitchen.

This canvas was done by Canvas On Demand--and it is priceless! The cost is no where near the quality that you get. I think I will find my favorite single portraits of each of my kids, and have some beautiful 8x10's made. This beautiful 16x20 retails for $89.00, and I would gladly pay it for the piece of art that this photo has become!

Are You A Racist??

I have to start this post by saying that I never really thought about segregation and racial problems when I was growing up--because I wasn't raised around anyone that looked different than me. So when I grew up and kept hearing about there still being racial tensions-I was surprised that it was still an issue.

I would in no way consider myself a racist. When I see a person of a different ethnicity--Sure--my mind notices that fact. Just as it would if I walked by a fat person--or a bald person--my mind notes that--nothing more--nothing less--just a note. Beyond that--there is no difference in my opinion and life moves on and goes forward.

I do have to say---I am very intolerant of stereotypes--any stereotype--I don't care what ethnicity you are--you don't have to "live" the stereotype. It's like meeting a gay man--I've never met a woman as "feminine" as some of these people. They are living a stereotype--and I HATE IT! I hate grills, and tats, and piercings, and doo rags, and dread locks, and pimped out cars---I HATE ALL OF IT! Why? Because no one is doing any of these things because they like them---they are doing them to be "IN"--and where is the individuality in that!

At the same time--I must admit--I fit the stereotypical stay at home mom! I'm a 'big' girl, I wear frumpy clothes, I rarely wear make up, and my hair is in a pony tail 24/7! And you know what--as stereotypical as it is---I HATE MYSELF FOR IT! But honestly--with four kids--I really don't stand a chance!

So in all of this I have to say--I'm not a racist--although I do hate the stereotypical portion of it. I'm not homophobic--but I do hate the stereotypical portion of it--I am a frumpy, stereotypical housewife--and I HATE IT!!!

What 'cha Watchin'?

Brett is in control of the DVD player today. In the last 1o minutes we've had Cars, The Wild and Over The Hedge on--I think he enjoys working the electronic devices more than actually watching the movies. He climbs up on the table-reaches above the TV and pushes just the right buttons to get what he wants--for a two year old--I can say two things---He's VERY smart--and he's definitely A BOY!! Kate has no interest in electronics--Brett has no interest in her dollies--so I guess it's even--but it still just amazes me how much gender really does play a role in their lives at such an early age!

Kids Today

I believe I've forgotten to mention in the past--but my oldest son has been accepted into the gifted and talented program at his school. He is just the smartest thing ever! His test scores put him in the top 3% of the country in Reading/Math/Science. So next year when he starts school, he will be in a normal class setting but will leave for 2 hours in the afternoon for a little bit more advanced work. All of this is paid for by grants to the school-so we don't really have to pay anything extra for a top notch education. How did kids today get so smart? I don't remember learning half of this stuff as early as these kids are--and they aren't just learning it early--they are excelling at it!!

Summer Adventure

Today was a beautiful day. We went running through the sprinklers--old mom even partook in a moment of childlike fun! The kids had a blast with Brett's new 'Diego' sprinkler, and the older kids had as much fun as the younger ones.

Tomorrow I think we will be heading to the Lincoln Park Zoo. It's in downtown Chicago--it's a beautiful, huge park right off of Lake Michigan--but then--it's also a zoo! There's a big merry-go-round that Kate will love-so that is Thursday--and then Friday--we'll have to find some other fun adventure at home! Maybe we'll go ice skating with the cousins!!

NYC Here We Come

My husband just called. He is being sent on a business trip to New York at the end of the month. He has a few meetings that he has to be at--but everything wraps up on Friday Morning--and he doesn't have to be back to work until the next Tuesday. So he's wanting to see if we can plan a quick get a way! You know--take the kids--stay in the hotel room that the company is paying for--and we'll do some site seeing while he's in his meetings--and then he can join us the rest of the time! I've been to New York a couple of times--but never with my kids. They will be so excited about getting to see the Statue Of Liberty and all of the other sites of New York!

What a great Family Vacation!

Fishing

My husband is taking the boys fishing this weekend. Not necessarily something I ever look forward too. I don't eat fish, I don't want them in my kitchen. But they love to do it, and they love spending the day with dad. The other down side in my mind is the huge amount of money that he spends year after year, to get the kids and him set up with fishin' gear. Then add in the license and honestly, I could go out to Morton's Steakhouse for cheaper fish!!

But, I'm all for the time they get to spend together. I hope it's a tradition that they will carry on with their boys when they grow up. Dads and sons have such a hard time communicating affection-that this is a great tradition to have!

Memorial Day!!

We had a really nice, quiet Memorial Day. Nothing much got accompished, but I think that is the best kind of holiday there is. We didnt' get to sleep in at all, and I would complain more, but school gets out in less than 2 weeks, and then there will be plenty of time for the snooze button!

I got some of the yard work completed. The flower beds weeded and the dead tulips pulled for the year, but other than that...not much! Daniel was sick most of the day, I felt really bad for him. We were supposed to go swimming with my sister and her family, but with the flu type symptoms that were being exhibited--I thought it would be best to stick around the house!

Daniel stayed home from school today, and may just miss tomorrow. I feel so bad with him missing school on the last full week of the school year! Poor guy!

The Police Are Coming

Do you remember the Fallout when word got out that the Police had gone their separate ways? It really created a Hole in My Life, and I was So Lonely. I just remember saying over and over that I Can't Stand Losing You! I was Driven To Tears so many times after that. Nothing could brighten my day, it was as though the Voices Inside My Head were screaming at Spirits In The Material World to just Bring On The Night. I felt like I had been hit by a Demolition Man. I know that Truth Hits Everybody differently, but for the longest time I felt as though I was Walking On The Moon, and like a Canary In A Coalmine, I found it hard to breath. You know--when it feels like Every Breath You Take makes you want to scream at Roxanne--Don't Stand So Close To Me. Next To You there was no other group that felt like that. I was Walking In Your Footsteps--you had me Wrapped Around Your Finger!! But alas, you are the King Of Pain, listening to my Sychronicity cassette was just like Murder By Numbers. For years, I sat in a stupor with a dribble of drool dropping from my bottom lip as I chanted "Do Do Do de Da Da Da" while I danced a Regatta De Blanc in my white straight jacket. But hark, what is this?? Like a Message In A Bottle, my sister brings word...could it be? Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic so it must be true! The Police are going on a world tour--and a new police cd is coming out! My heart is thrilled, it's as though an Invisible Sun has warmed my soul...Like Tea In The Sahara the world is full of warmth and light again!!

The Police will be in Chicago July 5th and 6th, and I can guarantee--I WILL BE THERE!! The new police cd goes on sale the first week of June--It is a two disk set with all 28 of the songs listed above included!! There is also a vintage fold out poster from 1978--I'm telling you--I HAVE TO HAVE THIS!!

Garage Sales

Garage sales are starting up for the year...Finally! It's been so frigid here, that it's been slim pickin's thus far! We don't generally purchase much--but I do have a little list of things I try to keep my eyes open for! You can get a lot better deal on some treasures--and unlike Ebay--you don't have to pay shipping on them. I'm looking for a used treadmill this year. I'm not picky--but I would like one that is relatively good shape-perfection is not necessary--but working would be nice! I would also like to find beds for the kids. We have a couple, and we need a couple--so I'm off to buy a newspaper to plan out my mode of attack for tomorrow!! I'll have to let you know what treasures I find!

She's Moving!!

Well, it looks like my sister is finally moving! I know, I talk about her a lot, but you have to realize in order for me to blog, I have to visit her. So I blog about all of the fun things I find out during our visit. She has found a home that she loves (closer to me than she is now) and it is still on the market. We've driven buy it a couple of times, and we both love it. It's enough home for her family, and enough yard for two families. Her husband started the search but then suddenly stopped. But he has finally started back up with the mortgage work, so it looks like it may just happen this summer. We are putting our kids in different summer camps together, so I will get to drop my kids off at camp with her kids, and then head over to help with the packing, moving and cleaning. I can't wait, but neither can she!

Postie-Con

Last night I signed up for Postie Con in Las Vegas. It isn't until November--but with my sister/babysitter going also, I'm going to have to start planning now! I wasn't going to go because it will take up my husbands vacation time at work, and we won't be able to take one this summer as a family-which was more important to me, but I decided that a mom of four, really can use a weekend out with the girls! So instead of going for the week like Rob is, I'm just going to leave here Friday afternon, leaving the kids with dad who will have to take off of work just a tiny bit early--the I have all day Satuday and Sunday--and come home late Sunday night! I think it sounds like a lot of fun-and the man doesn't have to miss one day of work! I'm so glad it all worked out! Watch out Vegas---here we come!

Accelerated Reading Program

Daniel is home sick today! He wanted to stay home on Monday so that he wouldn't have take part in the final Accelerated Reading Test at school. He's so funny. He reads so well, but we didn't understand the program at the beginning. There were no notes home, he just showed up with extra homework. I figured it was something that they were doing at school, so we didn't really do too much with it! Well, now--we understand the whole program--and it's a great one--sadly, because we didnt' "get it" in the beginning-Daniel is a bit behind the rest--and he doesn't want to do it anymore! I feel bad because I should have asked more questions to keep him up to date. All I can say is--next year, he's going to be a pro!

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday To You!!

Happy Birthday To You!!

Happy Birthday, Dear Robyn,

Happy Birthday To You!!

Yep, it's Rob's birthday! I have to get over there and bring her her cake! The kids helped decorate her cake--and can't wait to dig in to it!! I hope she takes a picture to put on her blog--because my camera is on the fritz!!

Postie Con

I'm so excited! We just registered for Postie Con in Vegas! I can't wait--it's in November, and we are going as a group of sisters, and it will be so fun! Kiss the man, and the kids goodbye for a weekend with the girls! Oh I hope it's true--what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!!

Not that we'll do anything huge and naughty! We aren't that type of people--but I do forsee very little sleep for that weekend!! Man--I'm going to need to brush up on some of my Table Game skills! Well, I guess I should learn them before I brush up on them, huh!! See, I told you we aren't wild gambling fools!! But we just might turn into them!!

Last Day Of Pre-school

Today Kate's preschool class will be taking a field trip! Actually, they are just walking to the park. It's kind of an end of the school year tradition, and luckily the weather is perfect for it today. A little on the warm side for me, but kids totally don't mind the heat of Summer. It kills me! It is the last day of Preschool for Kate, which she hates. It's been such a fun year for her and she's not looking forward to going the whole summer with no school.

Rob is putting her daughter in with Score Learning to learn to read, and Kate might enjoy that too--but I haven't looked into it yet. I keep thinking I will, and then I put it off to do other things--so you know what--maybe I will go there now!

Quiet Night

I am childless once again! My two older boys and Kate have gone to the neighbors baseball game, and they are still gone. It's nearly 9:30 on a school night, and my kids haven't had dinner yet. That is nuts! But I do have to say, Brett took a very late nap, and I had several hours of quiet time while everyone was gone.

However, now once they get home--I have to figure out something to feed them quickly--and get them to bed! They have a bedtime of 8 pm, and they will be over 2 hours late by the time they actually get to bed!!

Mother's Day

Mother's Day is Sunday. I'm not sure what our plans are--but I'm thinking a brunch is in order--oooooh, or breakfast in bed! Of course, my husband burns everything--so that may not be such a good idea. We were going to go to Rob's husbands restaurant-but they have over 400 reservations-so I'm thinking we'll find something else.

If it's a beautiful day-I may just suggest a nice picnic at the park. Sit in the shade and let the kids play. Robyn did invite us over to her inlaws home-apparently the pool is open. Wow, it isn't even Memorial Day, and it's warm enough to grill and pool it! Amazing! I don't have suits for my kids yet-so depending on how much time I find between now and then -we'll see if we make it!

Walking To The Tree

I spent the weekend trying to find my car keys! You know--that is the most aggravating as well as 'messy' job around! I had to tear the entire living room apart looking for them! I guess we are heading into the toddler stage-a little too early for my taste--but Brett seems to have wandered off with them--and I still haven't found them! I will be searching for them in the bedrooms today! I hate that--it's work tearing the house apart and then it's more work--putting it all back together! It's the biggest waste of time imaginable! I had no car keys and no real dinner food in the house-so we walked up the street to the "Tree" restaurant for dinner! It wasn't so bad! My sandwich wasn't great-but the kids felt like they were on a real adventure-so that was fun!

Fun In The...Water??

Oh my heavens! I have three kids that just came inside the house--in 60 degree weather--SOAKING WET!! It's not raining--but it's too cold for to much else! Hmmmmmm, off to ask the kids what's up!

Ah, turns out the neighbor just up the street turned their sprinklers on-and the kids ventured into their first days of Summer! But now they are all frozen solid and I have to turn the radiators up!

They may all be sick for the weekend-but hey, at least they had fun!!

Where'd Everybody Go??

Wouldn't you know it! Just as I'm about to begin a little video segment--my assistant (husband) gets called away for an emergency! Ahhhhh, such is life! I wish Rob was here--she'd help me! But hey, I will survive! I just feel bad for all of you that will be forced to watch my video filmed by and starring me! Beware--you may need to take some Anti-nausea medication first!! But ok--I'm off to cook! Wish me luck!!

Sorry--Missed Picture Of The "B" Man

Ok, I forgot to insert a picture of the "B" man after I was talking about him on my last post! Since I'm on Rob's computer--let's see if I can find one that sums up his cuteness in one easy stroke!!

This one is taken mid-chant! He's just a silly little doll baby! So happy to be alive--and he's going to let you know just how pleased he is to be here!

I didn't mention--he's starting to tell knock knock jokes--so cute. He'll say knock knock and you say who's there and he'll say chicken who and then you say chicken who who--and he answers with Knock Knock and it starts all over. He even tries to play I Spy--which is really fun to hear this little two year old attempt! Such a cutie!!

Barrett Is So Cute

Robyn's son Barrett is 2 1/2 and he is a total ham! He loves to sing and will walk around the house chanting songs or conversations that he's heard. He's potty training and can get his diaper off--but can't get another one back on. So he'll wander around naked for a bit. Rob asked him, "Barrett, are you naked?" and he yells back "Bummy Man". Robyn calls him Naked Bummy Man and it is so cute to hear him repeat it. He just walked in from his nap with the gallon of milk and his bottle. After the bottle was filled he started chanting "yay, yay, yay, yay" as he carried the milk back to the fridge with the bottle nipple embedded between his front teeth!

What a cutie!!

Hangin' With Rob

I have to say! I have had a great day today! Yep, I'm at my sisters house to blog--but we got her just in time to help make Toffee Bars with Rob and Blake. Kate had so much fun too. Blakelynn is her best friend-which makes it so nice for me when we come over. My boys are at school, her boys are at school. Our girls play together both cute and quiet. Our babies take naps together. Seriously--can anything else work as well?

So while they bake--I thought I would jump on and see what there was to talk about!! It was either this or take a blanket out to the front yard and snuggle down for a nap in the warm sunlight! But alas, blogging by the fan-is the winner!!

Scouts!!

Tonight is scouts. We haven't been in the last couple of weeks, but we really do need to get back to it. Jake is working on his Bear--and is desperately behind--we will have to work really hard this summer to get him caught up. I think Robyn's Jake is slightly behind on his Bear as well. I think if we get them together--they can get caught up and have a great time doing it!

I do need to stop at the post office before we head to scouts, and it looks like it will be a McDonald's night. There is very little time after scouts before bedtime--so a quick drive thru window will be essential in getting them to bed on time!!

She's Been At It Again!

If any of you have noticed my shiny new template--it's all thanks to my sister! Rob came up with the theme because of the name "Wild & Crazy"--so she went with an amusement park theme--I love it. It's so cheery and colorful--it's great! Well, after she did mine--she hijacked Aunt Peggy's blog. Peggy had disappeared for a bit--so she surprised her with a beautiful new template. Well, last night she hijacked our sister in law Sally's blog. She did an amazing job! Sally hasn't even seen it yet. She just got on and hijacked the template. I'm sure Sally won't mind-because it is a beautiful, colorful, peaceful template! Good job Robyn--Oh Genki one!!

Summer Camp!!

I can't believe there is only 1 month left in the school year! I think I've said that before--but honestly--I have but 4 weeks before the Roller Coaster Summer begins! Yes, it is for this that my blog theme was created! Life at home 24/7 with energetic kids--OH MY GOODNESS!! My life is crazy now with 2 home most of the day-I can't imagine all of them. Summer Camp here we come!!

Kate is old enough for all day summer camp this year--It does scare me a little with her because they walk to the neighborhood pool--and she is still so little and doesn't know how to swim. Daniel was this age when he started summer camp--so I'm sure she'll be fine-but oh it makes me sad that she's big enough to go off with her brothers. It will kill Brett to be left home all alone with boring old mom!!

To Do Lists!!

I have made several 2 week goals. You know, things that really need to be done--and you never quite get to them. Some of them are big jobs--going through and cataloging my home videos; others aren't so huge-just at the bottom of the to do list that never gets "to do'd"-like cleaning out the toy box. There are so many broken toys or else toys that are missing half of their pieces--so I just need to get in there and get it cleaned out! So it's on a 2 week mission! By May 15th, I should have my list done!!

Another Great Prize Possibility!!

I found another great sweepstakes kind of site. This one is unique as well as really interesting. This new, cool and totally FREE site is called whogets.com. What makes this one so interesting to me is that you sign up for free, and then go into the semi-final round and put your name into the hat for the products that you are the most interested in. Seven names are pulled from that hat to move on to the finals. It is during this round that all of the whogets.com members get to get in and vote for the person they think makes the best argument for why they would like the item. The person with the highest number of votes, gets the item! If you sign up today--there are three items up for a final vote--as well as the next three items currently in the semi-final stage. So get in there and get your vote on--as well as your name in for some of the items up currently. There will be hundreds of contests and the prize values range from $10 to $600!!

He Did It!!

I just got a letter in the mail that Daniel has been accepted into the gifted and talented program at his school. I am thrilled with this--because he really is doing well. Unfortunately, the program costs a fortune--and begins early every weekday morning of the summer. So he won't be going--but as they always say at the Academy Awards--it was just nice to be accepted!!

I'm not too surprised by this-he's already in the accelerated reading program at school. It is a lot of extra work-but he does really well. He is in the first grade reading at a 3rd grade level. His teacher adores him, and will miss him next year when he moves on to second grade!

Google Update

Well, it has been confirmed--by everyone but me--that Google is indeed updating! This blog doesn't show any fluctuation as of yet--but it came at the very end of the update last time-so I'm not going to start resting easy that I didn't go down.

I really haven't done much to promote my blog--which is bad--but there are so many things going on in a day with four kids and a house to keep in order--doesn't leave much more time to visit my sister to use her computer. She did buy a new one today--I guess I should break down and let my job buy us one too--but then I will lose my "sister" time!! Some days I'm around long enough to post several posts--other days nothing at all, so it really wouldn't be a bad investment! I wouldn't even have the PR that I do have except that Rob has added me to everything that people add her to--and then she'll get in and link all of them to me. So nice!!

Anyway--good luck to everyone out there hoping for a great PR update!! Let me know how you are doing!!

Read-iculous Reading!

We went with my sister and her family tonight to a Read-iculous Reading Party. It was really fun. It was at a high school local to my sister and there were all of these booths that the kids could work at. They made a book and bookmarks, see through sprouting bean sprout things. The boys got to shoot baskets and even got a chance to meet Bob Love, a former Chicago Bull. They illustrated a story, and colored a cartoon strip of the old lady who swallowed a fly. There were refreshements and prizes, and there were a ton of people--but it was really a nice evening to hang out with the family in a fun and educational way!!

Da' Bulls

My sister and her husband took their kids to the Bulls playoff game tonight. I'm jealous because it was a really exciting game. We all thought that the Bulls didn't stand a chance against Shaq and the Heat, but they are now leading 2 games to zero! My nephews are loving this, they are huge basketball fans and are even enrolled in the Bulls Basketball Academy.

My sister has promised pictures from the game last night, so if you are interested you should head on over to her blog at Genki Desu Yo!

SHE'S GONE!!!!

WOOOOOO HOOOOOO! I don't even know how to say that loud and strong enough!! I just saw a sniglet of the news--an apparently Rosie is O-U-T OUT at the View! Now I have to tell you, I hate the View--I stopped watching it years ago--but honestly, Star Jones was my favorite-so when they toasted her--They were gone for me anyway! But Rosie, OH MY GOSH--I can not put my loathing of that woman into words! Hanoi Jane nuthing---Traitorous Rosie has Jane's Jazzercized BUTT kicked! Anyone who can honestly get up on their soap box and claim to the masses that our government had anything to do with the tragedy of 9/11--deserves the Saddam Hussein treatment in my mind! How utterly dispicable and hateful can one woman be?? Honestly--I knew she was stark raving mad--but honestly--it's time to cut the brain out and check for Mad Cow--she's a lunatic! I don't care what you think of the Administration...I don't care what you think of the War in Iraq...I don't care what you think about America in general---but to think that we would do this to ourselves so that we could go after Saddam is just schizophrenic --and she's truly heading down that rolling green trail to LaLa Land!! Have a safe trip and enjoy the straight jacket!!!

Taking Care Of The Yard!!

We have spent the week hard at work on our yard! It is amazing what happens to the poor thing during the winter. The kids are back at school and the weather has been cool but not cold, so that is perfect for me to work outside in. We planted two bushes, lots of flowers and we are looking to transplant a tree here in the coming weeks. The grass needed a good raking to get the dead thatch out. That was probably the most time consuming of the week. But it is in order, and it got a good mow. It's supposed to warm up a bit before another rain storm. I'm glad we got it done now-because now with the rain, I won't need to water the new plants.

The Baby Daddy

Well--it looks like Larry is the daddy! Not that any of us had any doubt anyway! Howard was nothing more than the drug dealer. I really haven't kept up on any of the goings on--but I did just hear that it is official--and then they moved on to how custody isn't final--the grandmother wants custody--the baby daddy might give up custody--who knows--I'm sure Larry really only wants the cash anyway--not that the grandma did a better job with her own daughter--maybe she's learned and can do a better job for her granddaughter!! We'll see!!

O(sama) My Heavens!!

I am sooooooo sick of Barrack Hussein Osama! Now you have to understand--I live in Chicago-so it is Osama Overdrive!! Everyday all you hear is either crap or glory for our Jr. Senator from Illinois! Before I share my two experiences with both sides of the fence--let me first make it VERY VERY CLEAR!!! I will not EVER vote for Barrack Osama. Have you ever seen Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone? Do you remember at the end when the Professor unwraps his head to expose a parasite living off of him? Well, that is Mr. Osama! Not necessarily that he has a parasite--but that he will say and do everything PERSONALLY to keep himself looking respectable and perfect--yet is working his puppets to do what he really wants done--while keeping his hands clean! hmmmmm, who does this remind me of...Ah, yes!! Our beloved First Black President! Billy did that with everything!

Ok--so you now know that I'm not a fan---but the following experiences are both true--and so funny how they are polar opposites!!

First--late last year when Osama was considering his run for the Presidency--I caught a talk radio show from downtown Chicago--and every caller--and I KID YOU NOT--every caller called in to call Osama the "Anti-Christ". Some even had scriptural backup! One wacko woman called in quoting quatrains from Nostradamus! The entire 4 hour talk show revolved around the obscenely silly notion that Osama was the Anti-Christ!

Fast forward to this week--and the Art Institute of Chicago has a statue of Osama himself in robes of glory--completely opposite of the Anti-Christ!
OH MY HEAVENS!! People get a grip!! He is neither the Anti-Christ or the Black Savior--he is a man. Questionable character, Interesting Politician--whatever--he's just a freak guy--who wants to be the President---I think it's time we drop all Deity when it comes to this one--you just come out looking like Morons!!
***And just in case you aren't sure I really know how to spell the man's name--I do--It's just very interesting to find his middle name and last name are so close to Evil Dictators...coincidence??? Of course, but it's still good fun!! But then there's always the folks calling him the "Chocolate Jesus"--now I'm sorry--that's just WRONG on soooooooo many levels---racism being one!!

Updates!!

It looks like Google is heading into another update! I for one, wasn't expecting it until late April--but Googlebots have been sited!! I only have this blog--but my sister has hers at Genki Desu Yo, Genki Desu Yo and Cheffin' It. So you would all want to check those sites out as well! Might as well give them a boost!!

I've never figured out how she has so much time for Genki Desu Yo, Genki Desu Yo and Cheffin' It, but she seems to do pretty good with it!! I'll have to find out her secret!

Cindy Sheehan Is Coo-Coo!

Yesterday was the four year anniversary of the start of the War in Iraq. I support the war--maybe not how we got there--but we are there, and we can do nothing other than win--so suck it up folks!! Cindy Sheehan lost her son in the early stages of the war, and what does she do--she lashes out at how this war is corrupt, and brought on with lies, and illegal. So hmmmmmm, lets see! I guess that means that I find her son far more heroic than she does. He was doing a great thing--he was involved in a wonderful undertaking that brought freedom to millions upon millions of people. Isn't it everyone's goal--to leave the world a little better than it was when we got here? He did that, for millions of Iraqi people, for Iraqi women, for Iraqi children. He was an honorable young man working to help people--and he died a hero. She'll claim his hero status alright--but then slam the very efforts that he died working for. Sounds like "Mom of the Year" to me!!! NOT!

Hockey Night

We are staying up late watching hockey! It's really kind of cute! My husband and two sons are sitting on the couch, and one son is sitting on a recliner. They've been cheering the entire game, but they are currently in a shoot out. The three oldest will cheer immediately when something happens--and then2 year old Brett realizes that he was supposed to cheer--so he cheers just a bit late! By the end of the shoot out, and to the cheering of all four boys (husband included), the Blackhawks had won. It was actually the game from the night before--my husband had recorded it. So as soon as they turned this game off--the one for tonight against the Ducks, started--and we are in for 3 more hours of hockey!

I'm not sure the 3 younger boys will make it through--in fact, I'll be stealing Brett here in a minute to get him to bed! Guaranteed the hubby will make it through!!

Merlot!!

I read today on MSN that a man in Utah with a vanity plate is reading Merlot is going to have to change it. Utah doesn't allow words of "intoxicants" to be added to vanity plates. I have no problem with that--I'm amazed at what sneaks through here in Chicago--much worse--and more adult than a wine vanity plate. The problem is--Merlot is a wine, yes--but it is also a type of Grape--pre alcohol form--Merlot isn't an intoxicant. Furthermore--it's also a color--and it just so happens to be the color of this mans car.

I should point out-that I have no problem with Utah liquor rules--I think many more states should try it--maybe there would be less DUI's and alcoholics in the world. And Utah is nowhere near being a "Dry" state. You just can't buy alcohol after midnight--I have no problem with that! You can't buy alcohol on Sunday--don't know why on that one--but again, I have no problem with it! If you want to go into a bar--you have to pay a "private club" membership--either for the night--or for a year--NOPE--no problem with that either! If you don't like the liquor laws--Move to Wendover! It's a 90 minute drive to work in Salt Lake--but hey--you can drink, and party, and gamble all you want! Plus you get to pass the big cement tree twice a day! Win/Win situation for you!!

FMN!

Friday Night Movie night is upon us again. I've talked about them enough--I won't go over the details again. Tonight we are going to watch the Disney version of Peter Pan. I've never seen it. That shocks a lot of people. I'm 35 years old and have never seen the animated Peter Pan -- or any other Peter Pan for that matter. I've seen "Hook" and it's one of my classic favorites--and I've seen the Ballet Peter Pan, and a high school play of it--but never a movie!

Jake spent the day up in Lincolnshire at the play--he hasn't come home from his friends house yet--so I don't know how it was. I've never seen The Wizard of Oz all the way through either! I've tried--but it loses my interest and I'll change the channel. I do know the basics--it was a dream at the end, and everything's back to normal--but the middle part, I don't know. Oh, well, I hope he enjoyed his field trip--maybe he can fill me in on what happens!

Blogging Again!!

I love to read other peoples blogs--I don't get nearly enough time for it in a given day--but at night when everything is quiet--I would rather do the "reading" blogging than the "writing" blogging! I do this during the day, unless something big comes up! In my recent wanderings I found a "MUST READ" blog. It's called Where's Mommy's Prozac and let me tell you -- this is one cool lady!!

What really captured my attention--her post--How Hairy Is Your Hoo-Ha? I swear--my jaw dropped and I honestly thought that Hoo-Ha must have a new and updated meaning--surely, no one would ask that question!! But nope--She Did!! And what was more astonishing--people actually commented about their little "labies", I was shocked!! Laughing hysterically--tears running down my face--sides hurting---SHOCKED!!

Now, just because I am a "lady" and raised with some sense of Decorum (stop snickering Rob), I will abstain from answering said question--I will, however, state--that my answer EXACTLY was given in the comments--not too far down the list!!

To be completely honest, Jennifer really does seem like an awesome lady! She sings the songs that her kids like--just to annoy them--heck, she even knew the Pussy Cat Doll song--and I barely heard that last night! And--she drives a really SHWEET car--I am hoping for some pictures of it in the future though! Check her out--and enjoy the drama of life with teenagers!! I can't wait!

Meet The Robinsons

We decided to take the kids to the movie today since they have the day off of school. We are going to see "Meet The Robinson's". It looks like a cute movie that the kids will really enjoy. There's a science fair theme-and both of my boys LOVE science. After that we will probably go to dinner-I hope it's somewhere good! I'm hoping the Outback!! mmmmmm, bloomin' onion!!!

I am a bad mom! I really hate school holidays. My kids enjoy school so much that they are just stir crazy all day on their day off! So it will be nice to get them out of the house for the day--and then to send them back to school until tomorrow!

Oh, what will I do next month when Spring Break rolls around--for a WHOLE WEEK!!!

Mexico!!

This is a picture my sister is using on her "Travel" blog. It's a photo taken in Cancun at sunset, and I LOVE it! The pinks, purples and grays are just so beautiful. I think it's a great photo for a travel blog--because it certainly makes me want to head to Mexico just for the sunsets!! And with all of the snow outside my house--I'm game for the heat too!!

Gucci! Guess! Prada!

My mom is a "Designer Handbag" queen! She hasn't always been-but when she was watching the movie 'Serendipity' she thought it was so strange that these people would go to New York just to buy knock-off Prada Handbags. My mom had never heard of Prada before this movie--and now--she's hooked! Not just to Prada-she has a handbag collection that contains Gucci, Guess, Burberry, Dooney & Bourke and, yes, Prada.

Well, now---I found an amazing deal on Prada sunglasses. Now-my dad will kill me if I get her addicted to designer sunglasses as well! But these really are great sunglasses! Prada Sunglasses at BestBuyEyeglasses come with an easy return policy--but what is even better than the lowest prices anywhere??? They can customize your lenses if you happen to need them to be prescription! That is amazing! And they are classy looking sunglasses too!

These happen to be my favorites-but there are so many styles to choose from! I will definitely have to pass this info on to my mom--plus--they even give you a discount code to get 5% off!

It's Cold!!

It's Presidents Day! I'm not real sure what we are supposed to do on Presidents Day-but in this house it meant -- sleep and clean! Not much else occured-sadly.

My house is cold--the water heater is out of "juice" and my radiators are not working because of it! Some man is supposed to be coming early tomorrow to swap out the old one for the new one! And with him--comes the $450 bill plus removal of the old water heater.

So tonight we will all be sleeping under our electric blankets with our clothes for tomorrow at the foot of the bed-under the blankets too! I guess it isn't as bad as the olden days when they had to heat bricks and then sleep with them in your bed!!

A Gift For The Chef!!

We spend alot of time over at my sisters house. Our kids are the same age--she and I are pretty darn close--and she married a Chef! Who wouldn't go over there! It is kind of intimidating ever having to cook anything to bring to her house. You just know that even if he doesn't say anything--he's judging everything he puts in his mouth!

He's also pretty hard to shop for. You know--one of those--guys with everything. I love to find interesting, one of a kind gifts for him--but that is pretty rough!! But HELLO!! I found a great one! It's from Brookstone-yep, the interesting, one of a kind gift heaven!! My find this time? A wireless meat thermometer. It comes with a Wireless belt monitor that announces out loud when dinner is done. How fun is that! Plus it has a range of 300 feet!

He's really good with his internal timer at knowing when food is ready--but what a fun and clever gift idea!! I can't wait!

The Big Sleep Over!!

My kids had a wonderful time spending the night at their grandparents house. They always do! Uncle Bob gets up to cook them a big pancake breakfast, and then tickles them all awake when it's ready! They love their uncle Bob which makes me VERY happy! We don't get to see much of my family--so I'm glad that they have strong relationships with the family that is here. It also helps that Uncle Bob is still a kid too!

They played games and watched videos until we came to pick them up! I'm not sure they really wanted to come home--but didn't want mommy to leave them again, so they mumbled-but they came!

We don't have school on Monday for Presidents Day--I was going to look at taking them out to the movies or something--but I'm feeling too tired for that! We'll have to see what they deserve!!

Valentine's Day--Late!!

My husband was out of town this week, so we didn't have a chance to have a "Valentine's Day" with the rest of the world. It's not really a big deal--we have Christmas on a different day too--you just get used to enjoying the holiday itself-not just the day.

This afternoon we dropped the kids off at his parents, and headed to dinner. We went to Giordano's Pizza. YUMMM!! It is my favorite spot in the world. Such good pizza--and just down the street from the theater. Yep, he took me to see Wicked. It's kind of a funny choice for me because I've never even seen the Wizard of Oz. My poor husband--I'm very technical--I do it with commercials and I do it with movies and TV shows. If there is something 'wrong'--I have to let it be known! So we are sitting in the theater and I turned to him and said--I thought at the end of the Wizard of Oz-Dorothy woke up and it was all a bad dream. Why is there a story about the Witches of Oz if they never even existed? He closed his eyes and shook his head! I'm sorry--but that totally screws with the show for me--it doesn't exist--so why are we here???

It was a nice evening out with my husband--and for that alone--I'm grateful! The yummy food and fun evening at the theater was just an added bonus!! We have never done Valentine gifts. We've never really felt the need. We "show" the love in many other ways--many other times of the year, which I prefer anyway.

I was reading an article by BELISI on Valentine's Gift ideas--you know, the over $5 million for this gift kind of list. I was amazed by it. One--I can't imagine ever having that kind of money--and Two-even if I did-I can't imagine spending it on gifts. Mr. Belisi asks the question--what was your most "fab" gift--or your biggest flop gift? Now that isn't too hard--we got engaged on Valentine's Day--so I would have to say--a beautiful 1 ct. Diamond Engagement Ring would have to take the cake on that one!!

The Rush Before The Date!!

I just got off of the phone with my husband. He is still at the office, and is running late! I need to get the kids together and get them to their grandparents house for the afternoon and evening. We are going out! It's our Valentine's Day--he was out of town for the actual day--but tonight is the night!

He won't tell me what we are doing--I'm expecting dinner--but what comes after is a surprise. I know there is a movie that came out last night that he wants to see--but I can't imagine that he will take me to it. Some guy on fire riding a motorcycle! But for him--I will sit through it and eat my popcorn!! I will do it for him!!

The kids are going to spend the night with their grandparents--so you know what I'm expecting later!! Yep--a full night of S-L-E-E-P!!! No kids waking me up early to refill a bottle, no older kids up at the crack of dawn to watch cartoons---NOPE--I'm sleeping!! I know what the hubby has planned--I give him 15 minutes--and then I'm out!!!

Are You Secure??

Living in the suburbs you tend to think you are far enough away from the "Evil" city that nothing can go wrong. That is such a bad state of mind to get in to. And a dangerous one at that. I for one am always worrying. Fires, safety, kids, insurance needs, and yes, security.

I think it's so cool that my husband will get phone calls at all hours of the night from the security company hired by his work. Usually it has to do with power outages and such--but it's nice to know that there are extra eyes watching your important assets at all hours of the day and night.

I would love to have just this type of service. My problem--I really don't want to spend a fortune. I know--you get what you pay for. That is true in so many respects--but I think I've found a exception to that rule!! The Laser Shield Home Security System is easy to install, you can use it in your home-apartment or small office, it is a wireless unit that uses infrared detection, and you get monitoring 24/7!! And it's cheaper than other security systems and packages out there. In fact, you can even purchase Laser Shield at you local outlets like Comp USA, Home Depot, Costco, Kmart, and Sears.

Service!!

We are house-sitting again this weekend. Last week for my sister-this week for my neighbor. We aren't actually staying at her house though. We are just going to pick up the mail, feed the animals and let them out-and water plants (if they need it).

She just found out a couple of days ago that her grandmother in Florida passed away. So is having a hard time with this, but she and her kids had made a trip to Florida last year to spend time with her--so she really feels lucky to have had that opportunity.

She took her son with her, and her daughter is going to stay with her mom. So we get to spend a bit of our weekend in the service of our fellowman! I love moments like these!!

Snow Day!!

I just got off the phone with my sister. Bad news! We were going to get together today and let the kids play in the snow. They actually have toboggan runs here--where were they when we were little! But it turns out all three of her boys are sick. She didn't sound too great either--but the boys have the stomach flu--and I really don't want that invading my house. My kids have already missed so much school for being sick!

So now I have a long three day weekend to plan something fun! I wonder what movies are out there for the kids. We still have free movie tickets left from Christmas--and it's warm in the theaters!! hmmmm, I'll have to give this a little more thought!

Wax On--Wax Off!!

My cousin Kristin and I have a lot of fun together going to movies, watching videos, discussing books we've read,shopping, and eating together. A few months ago she showed me her brand new Epilady she had just purchased. She told me she bought it because I had told her about mine. I couldn't remember telling her about it, but obviously I had. I, like most people shaved my legs the old fashioned way, with a razor, until my other cousin Kim introduced me to the Epilady, in 1987 . We started playing around with it and I fell in love with it. I was very happy when Kim gave me my own Epilady for my birthday a few months later. I have used it ever since. I've told countless people about my Epilady, but I hadn't heard if anyone bought one until Kristin did. She had actually listened to my testimonials extolling it's virtues!

Nineteen years later found me doing the same thing: sitting on the floor playing with an Epilady with an individual. This time it was Kristin instead of Kim. I decided right there and then that I had to have a new one. However, I have to admit that I haven't bought it yet, and that was several months ago. My Epilady will be 20 years old in August, and it is still perfectly good! I need to buy a new one however, so I went looking for a new one on the web. I found an article about Hair Removal. If you have ever thought about this kind of thing, I would recommend you checking this site out.

For complete, long-lasting hair removal-The ultimate epilator: wide-head, cordless and ergonomic hair removal. Keeps you hair-free for up to six weeks. Or there are always the waxing strips!

New Pets!!

Our neighbors just got a new dog! Now I am 100% for introducing new family members--but as the neighbor of said animal--it isn't so great. From the incessant barking that comes with the animal--to the whimpering to get back into the house after 5 seconds in the freezing snow!

I was out shoveling today--yes, I actually broke down and got it done--and this little "Rat" dog comes out to the fence, and starts baiting me. As if he actually thinks he stands a chance if he takes me on! I should mention that little "Rat" dog would be a fabulous after dinner mint to my big, huge, bruiser dog--but for the sake of neighborly relations--I won't give in to the urge to drop kick him through the front window!!

Digging Out Again!

Holy Crap--there is a ton of snow out there! But you know the one thing that drives me nuts--there could be 10 feet of snow outside our door and my childrens school would not be cancelled! I guess they figure we can all walk-so why not keep it open! Yes, we can walk--but there is no way my kids are walking to school in 10 feet of snow--so I have to dig my car out of--not 10--but 15 feet of snow thanks to the snowplow shoveling me in! MMMM HMMMM Thanks guys!

I finally bit the bullet and called the kids in sick! I'm sorry--if it's snowy enough for every other school to close in the state--it's snowy enough for my kids to stay home and snuggle where it's warm! They are all prone to Bronchitis--so this is another precaution for that! When the sun comes out a little later--we will go out and begin the digging out process!!

Sun vs. Snow!!

The kids and I spent the last couple of days housesitting for my sister. She and her family headed to Phoenix for the week. I don't like to fly-so I'm not jealous of that--but OH HOW I LOVE THE SUN! I'm sure she's basking in the view of the palm trees and swimming outdoors and getting a sunburn! Lucky lady!

It's cold here! Not just chilly--but truly negative 16 COLD! My brother in law got home from Phoenix last night and it was -16, he was in shock because he left Phoenix and it was 86 degrees. What a sad, SAD shock for his system!

It is supposed to warm up to 26 degrees this week, but they say the snow will be back early next week! Just in time for Valentine's Day! That's the night my sister is flying home! I hope they make it home safe and sound!

Happy Birthday Cristiano Ronaldo

My boys are big sports fans. They aren't to picky--as long as they are watching in person. They do tend to lose interest if we are watching baseball or hockey on tv--not enough action on the baseball side--and so much action it's hard to keep straight on the hockey side!! The one that they have come to love--Basketball and Soccer.

When we were home visiting family last summer, we had the opportunity to take them to a REAL SALT LAKE soccer game. They loved it, and came home with souvenir soccer balls of their own. It's all I heard about for weeks!

Their favorite team is REAL Madrid (I wonder why??) and Real Madrid was really interested in acquiring a "Winger" by the name of Cristiano Ronaldo. He is currently playing for Manchester United. He was born in Portugal and today is his 22nd birthday! I need to show them his Cristiano Ronaldo fansite. They would love it, since it's dealing with Soccer!! I think Ronaldo has decided to extend his contract with the United--it would be great if REAL Madrid could have snagged him!

House Sitting!

My kids and I are going to be staying at my sisters house for the next few nights! Her family is leaving for Phoenix tomorrow, and they have two big dogs that need to stay home. So we are going to move in until Thursday.

My kids are excited! Aunt Robyn's house is sooooo much cooler than ours--I think every new house is neater than ours! They are excited to be able to play some PS2 games, and watch some satelite tv! We don't have cable at our house--so they really enjoy getting to see what they are missing on a daily basis!

I'm glad it's Robyn flying and not me! I HATE to fly! I get all sick to my stomach and antsy and that whirring of the engines just about drives me mad!!

It's Commercial Day!!

Today is the Superbowl! No one in my family is a Chicago Bears fan--we are transplants from the West--so our teams are mostly Western Conference teams. I do, however, ADORE Mr. Peyton Manning! Sadly, I'm married--but OOOOOOOOH, he's a cutie!

We are going to keep it simple tonight! We have a family birthday party and the kids are excited to have a party of any sort. They have gotten into the spirit more than I have just because they go to school with born and bred Bears fans.

It would be fun to see how crazy this town goes if they win! I'm just hoping for some great commercials!!

Sickies!!

We did not escape unscathed?? As posted earlier--we did NOT escape at all! Today--I have 2 sick kids! But it was almost gone--almost out of the Universe--and now, it's struck our house. Poor Daniel and Kate--feverish, achy-noses a dribbling. Poor little things. We had chicken soup for dinner, I'm sure it felt good on their throats-but not much else is feeling any better!

We have a birthday party/Superbowl party this weekend. My sisters little boy Grayson is turning 7---OH MY GOSH!!! 7!!! It was just yesterday he was born! They almost lost him when he was born--so it's still a very fresh memory in all of our minds! Any way, her little boy is turning 7 on Tuesday--but they will be on an airplane to Phoenix on Tuesday. I'm so jealous. We both used to live there, and she is getting to go home--sort of! Since they will be gone for his birthday, and the Bears are in the Superbowl, she's throwing a birthday party with a Superbowl theme.

I hope my kids are feeling better by then! With her kids going on vacation--it would be so bad to take mine to the party and get hers sick! So if they aren't feeling better-I think they'll stay home with dad, and the other 2 and I will head to the party!

Groundhog Day 2007!!

What a great Groundhog Day!! It may sound silly--but Groundhog Day is a big deal in our household. Mainly just the mommy fun of it! We start off our day with Groundhog shaped pancakes with powdered sugar snow topping, and when we are finished we run outside to see if we can see our shadows!

Here is the OFFICIAL word from Gobbler's Knob:

Phil Says Spring is Right Around the Corner!
Phil's official forecast as read 2/2/07 at 7:28 a.m. at Gobbler's Knob:


El Nino has caused high winds, heavy snow, ice and freezing temperatures in the west.
Here in the East with much mild winter weather we have been blessed.

Global warming has caused a great debate. (Global Warming??? Oh PUH-LEASE!!)
This mild winter makes it seem just great.

On this Groundhog Day we think of one thing.
Will we have winter or will we have spring?

On Gobbler's Knob I see no shadow today.
I predict that early spring is on the way.

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Now how many of you really know the ins and outs of Groundhog Day??

Just after sunrise on Groundhog Day, the 15 top-hat-and tuxedo-clad members of the Inner Circle of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club will do as they and their predecessors have done for more than 100 years: Pull Punxsutawney Phil from his burrow to check on his shadow.

If, as he usually does, the globe's most famous marmot sees his furry shadow, meaning winter should last six weeks longer, a mighty "Boo!" will rise up from the 20,000 freezing people expected to be present--a crowd more than three times larger than this Pennsylvania town's population.

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How famous has Phil become? Last year the Department of Homeland Security included Phil's permanent homestead, the Groundhog Zoo, located in a nook in the town's library, as one of 77,069 sites in the National Asset Database of potential terror targets. (Chicago Tribune)

So you see--we aren't the only Groundhog Fans! The movie Groundhog Day was filmed in Woodstock, Illinois--apparently the real town of Punxsutawney didn't have the architectural or "town square" needs that the film wanted! I don't think we will ever make the pilgrimage to Punxsutawney for Groundhog Day--but it is certainly a fun family tradition!!

Groundhog Day Is Tomorrow!!

Probably not a big deal for all of you--quite the exciting highlight of our Winter! We have traditions that must be followed to the letter!! Kids depend upon this! Actually, it's really fun for mom too!

Groundhog Day is a great flick for your viewing pleasure! It tries to make you think it was filmed in Pennsylvania--but it's a total lie! They filmed it in Woodstock, IL--a cute little town up north. Maybe tomorrow we should start a new tradition and make our pilgrimage to Woodstock instead of Punxsutawney--guaranteed to be far fewer people gathering there!!

I will definitely update you on all of our fun tomorrow!

What A Loss!

What a sad sad story! Barbaro, after so many months of hopeful recovery, suffered another setback, and they decided that they should put her down! Ohhhhhh, how sad! It happened a few days ago--but I've been so busy, I'm barely catching up on it now! I feel so bad!! The owners, trainers and doctors--not to mention so many Americans were pulling for her! I can't imagine what the people working with her must be feeling! She was such a beautiful horse, and it was such a tragic accident! My heart goes out to all of the people that loved her, she will be missed!!

Home Sick!!

I thought we had made it through the bulk of the "gook" period relatively unscathed! Sadly, when I woke Daniel up this morning for school he was all achy and fevering! Poor little thing! So I had to call him out sick today. Now, I didn't have much planned for the day--just some grocery shopping and cleaning--and the cleaning I can still do--but the grocery shopping is out! That would be leaving him alone just too long. I don't have a problem leaving him for a few minutes to drop his sister off at school--he's 7 next week-and is fully capable of getting himself out of the house or calling 911 in an emergency. But grocery shopping can take upwards of an hour--and that is just too long! So I will wait until later this evening to see if he is feeling better--or just put it off until tomorrow!

I remember going to school when I was younger--when I didn't feel good! What misery! So he's snuggled up in front of the tv--sound asleep!

Snow Fun!!

This weekend we are hoping to be able to get the kids to Wisconsin to do some SNOWMOBILING!! It's my favorite thing in the world, and with the new snow these past couple of days, it should be beautiful and FUN!

We are using my husbands family cabin--which makes it so fun! To come in from a day in the snow, and warm up by the wood burning snow. Buried under quilts watching movies and drinking Hot Cocoa--I CAN'T WAIT!!

This is what childhood memories are made of! I plan to take a TON of photo's, so I'll share them with you when we get them up!!

Time Off!!

Well, I have taken a few days off from my posting! That's the joy of getting paid working online! There is no boss to call in to call out! Sorry Mr. Internet--I just don't feel like blogging today--maybe tomorrow too! I don't know when I'll feel like it again-but you'll be the first one to know!

Nope!! I just didn't turn it on! Mostly I blog at my sisters house--but her kids are sick, and I didn't want the exposure! But I broke down today and gave in to the familial withdrawals! So while she's cleaning up her kitchen--I thought I would get some work done!! Very nice to be back!!

And there's a new puzzle going on!! I'm not sure I'll work with this one! I find it conveniently strange that two of the "Core" folks have been the ones to get it--not that I think it's a set up--I certainly DO NOT!! But it would be nice to see some of the less "upfront" people get some of the winnings!! I was voting for Andrew of Benspark--but he was tied up on business! But it will be exciting to hear who gets it this time!

Cold & Snowy!!

I remember when we were young--I don't remember the exact age-but I feel like I was at least as old as my kids-we used to go out and shovel the snow! Now, I'm probably wrong--and I'm thinking that I am expecting way to much from my kids! My oldest just turned 9 and I seem to expect him to help out more around the houes than he does! I've asked my mom if we kids help out much at this age. I thought yes--she said no!

So I guess that clears it up! I'm too hard on my kids! I was hoping my 9 year old could go out and shovel the snow--but I guess that lovely job will be left to yours truly!

Lunch!!

I just had to take my daughter to school! I've been craving a Mandarin Chicken Salad from Wendy's so we had to stop there on the way home! What a YUMMY lunch! I hate it when other places (McDonalds) try to foofy up their salads. If it's supposed to be a Mandarin salad, they put wierd greens in with it as well as pea pods and crap! You know--I just want a GREEN SALAD with chicken, mandarin oranges, asian noodles, almonds and some oriental dressing! Leave my greens ALONE!!!

Ok, rant over! But the salad from Wendy's----PERFECT!!

Love To Do!!

Thirteen Things about Blake The 13 things I love to DO: (Not in any particular order) 1. Family history--I own my own microfilm reader and can spend hours researching names. 2. Scrapbooking--My children have volumes each. My oldest (9 years old) has 6 3"binders. 3. Blogging--I look at it as a way to journal, the day to day moments of life. 4. Photography--I have hundreds of rolls of film on negatives, and I just burned all of my digital photo's onto cd's--it took 3! 5. Roadtrips--I love to get out and see this great land of ours. I have to be the one driving-or it's tiring and boring!! 6. Playing with my kids--boardgames, video games, coloring, you name it-I LOVE it!! 7. Decorating Cakes--I'm not very good at it--because I've never taken lessons--but I have made some darling birthday cakes for my kids, and even a beautiful 'basket weave' wedding cake (5 of them) for a friend! 8. Interior Design--Again--not a pro--but I love changing things and making them my own--it's just so darn expensive!! 9. Talking to my mom--she lives several states away--but I talk to her EVERYDAY! 10. Paint--Every year I make my kids a Christmas ornament. They are all the same-I get one too-when they get married they will take all of their ornaments from my tree. Then when they are all married and gone--the 5 of us will have matching ornaments! 11. Type--I would love a job that lets me sit at a desk-with no interuption, and just type and type and type and type! 10 Key is good fun too!! 12. I love TIVO!--I never have a chance to watch any tv on my own-with 4 kids--not a chance, but with Tivo-I take an hour after the kids are in bed, and watch my shows! House, Men in Trees, Crossing Jordan, The Dead Zone--just to name a few!! 13. Spending time ALONE with my husband! It happens so rarely--but when it does-it's a magical time!! Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

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The "Shuffle"!!

Sunday we will be spending the day with my in laws and watching the Bears game at Walter Payton's restaurant! How cool is that! My husband just called, and they were getting our names on the list! My boys are going to love it! They are into anything sport related, and especially with the Super Bowl lurking so close!! It will also be nice to spend some time with my husbands "sane" portion of family--just incase we do end up moving west! This will be a wonderful memory for my boys to take!

I didn't live in Chicago when the Bears won the Superbowl 21 years ago! I lived in Utah, and my youngest brother was (and still is) a diehard Bears fan--so I did watch the Superbowl, and had even memorized the "Super Bowl Shuffle"! Wow, I hope if the Bears make it again--they will put out a new one! That was great!

The Other Sister!!

Today is my Niece's 18th birthday! It's very strange! She's been in my life for nearly 10 years, and she was so sweet and innocent when I got her! Mind you she was 8--how hard could she be!

But she has an older sister, who has always been a challenge! Boy crazy, couldn't wait to "mature", wanted to be pregnant by 14--and I'm very serious about that one! She did wait until she was 17 and then lost that baby, is 19 and due in 2 months time! Yes--challenge indeed!

But this other little niece wasn't ever a challenge! She's my husbands God Daughter, so he feels a little more need to protect her! Well, she was a straight A student, and could have been on track to graduate early--had she kept up! But she didn't. Instead, she dropped out of high school before the start of her Jr. Year, and is currently making minimum wage while living with some strange family with her best friend and her best friends baby!

My Mother In Law went all out today to make everything special for this birthday. She was going to make her favorite food, a special birthday cake--everything. But then she discovered--that she had been left out! The family had had their special birthday dinner the night before--and decided to spend the evening of her birthday taking her out and getting her her SECOND Tatoo!

I'm sitting here shaking my head! Why oh why do parents have kids, if they are just going to give up on them when they are half way finished!!

Adler Planetarium!!

I looked online, and found some really great educational activities all over the area! Of course, it's Chicago--I would hope they have a ton!!

We've decided on the Adler Planetarium! We've never been--and it has always sounded wonderful! But the reason we chose this particular destination was for their Shoot For The Moon exhibit. It looks Awesome! I posted the link above so you can take a look at it! If you are in the Chicago area--come and check it out!! There are a ton of things to see and do, as well as getting up close and personal with a space ship!

My boys will go nuts!!

Tagged!! Movie Mahem!!

Alrighty--my big sister tagged me for her Movie Meme!! Ah, it is so hard to pick the top 5! Let us think!!

1-Skeleton Key
2-Pirates of the Caribean-#1
3-Frequency
4-Stepmom
5-Stir of Echoes

Ok, I'm sure I missed the favorite of all time--it's really hard to think of them just sitting here! But those are the 5 I enjoy watching quite a lot of!!

Thursday Thirteen!!

Thirteen Things about Blake 13 Things I Want To Accomplish In The New Year! 1. Read a bedtime story to my children nightly. 2. Work out a schedule for my day that actually works. 3. Teach my children how to help with the housework, and be happy with it!! 4. Take better care of myself-health-physical appearance-spiritual 5. Save $50 per week, on top of other budgeting attempts 6. Become the hero that my kids already think I am 7. Stop tearing myself down everyday--every other day should be fine!! 8. Take the time to "PLAY" with my kids, let them choose the game, and just PLAY! 9. Finish up the information on my Famliy History-so I can return the microfilm! 10.Create my own webdomain, and design it all myself! 11.Get my childrent to church every week! It is such a firm foundation to build on! 12.Be a better "wife" to my sweet, dear husband! 13.Try to find the happiness in each day--even if the mood doesn't match! Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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