- 1 cup peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups Quaker® Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked)
2 cups (any combination of) raisins, diced dried mixed fruit, miniature marshmallows, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels or mini candy-coated chocolate pieces
In large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, milk and vanilla; mix well. - Stir in oats and remaining ingredients.
- Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto waxed paper.
- Let stand until firm.
- Store tightly covered.
Makes 4 dozen.
(credit here)We split into 2 groups. My group used chocolate/peanut butter chips and the other group used marshmallows. We would let the girls have some for a snack and the rest were going home. While we were waiting for the cookies to set so they wouldn't be a complete gooey mess when they ate them, we had them color a few things that will be used in our ceremony in a few weeks. We also had them take turns adding ingredients to make the punch. The other leader and I were trying to bag some of the cookies to take home when we realized they were still a gooey mess. Did you notice that an exact time to sit isn't mentioned in the recipe? Ya, that would have been real nice!
The girls loved the cookies and the punch was met with some mixed reviews. I'm not sure what happened to the cookies the girls took home, but I can tell you that ours turned into one giant sticky cookie!
Until next time....
I Think We Should Have Bought a Back-Up Plan
So last night I had a Brownie meeting. We only have one real meeting left and then our end of the year ceremony. I'm happy the Girl Scouting year is almost over, but I'm a little sad, too. Anyway, our meeting last night focused on the Make It, Eat It badge. I finally found a no-bake cookie recipe we could make and the other leader had a recipe for fizzy punch stuff. We each kept coming across recipes for such cookies where you had to melt butter and/or chocolate on the stove first. I guess we should have specified with Google that we meant no-bake and no-cook! Anyway, here's the recipe I finally found...
No-Bake Peanutty Oat Treats
Time For Me
I realized the other night that I have had quite a few time out opportunities. A Theta Mom time out is when we take an hour just for ourselves. I've been working on a new project and this time out has been my nightly ritual for a week or so now.
I like to crochet. Ok, I love it - I'm hooked!!! Ever since I started last year I've been making things for other people. I've made stuffed animals for each of my kids. I made a boatload of Christmas presents last year. I even made a blanket for the husband. That last project took forever, but it felt so good to finally complete it!
But I have never made anything for myself. For a while now I've been wanting to make a sweater but I'll be darned if I could find a decent pattern. Either it wasn't the style I was looking for or it was a knitting pattern. I don't knit - I'm not sure if I could do 2 needles. For my birthday a few months ago my mother-in-law bought me a subscription for a crochet magazine. Lo and behold there was an awesome sweater in the latest issue! So guess what I'm making for myself?
This is the back of the sweater. I also have 3/4 of one of the sleeves done. It sounded confusing at first because I have never made an article of clothing, but it's actually quite simple. Almost every night after I put the kids to bed, I plop on the couch, turn on one of my shows or a hockey game, and work on my sweater. I can't wait to wear it! Hopefully I finish it before it gets too hot outside!
If you want to see more of what I have crocheted, there's a link up in my nav bar. I have also opened an Etsy shop recently. There's only a few things there, but I plan on adding to it once I finish my project for myself. Click on the button below to be redirected to my shop. I hope you like what you see!
Until next time....
My Soccer Stars - WW
She may protest when it's cold and rainy, but she really loves soccer. And she is really good, too! Her ball control is awesome, she's great at passing, and she can boot the ball down the field like nobody's business. She gets a little intimidated during the games and holds back some. But this year seems to be the age where they really start to play. I've noticed with each game that she is doing more and more. I couldn't be prouder!
Little Dude... well, he likes to run. He's also good at bumping into the other kids. But he has so much fun when he's on the field. This is only his second season. It is just so cute to watch these little kids run down the field (into other games). Little Dude, or Mr. Attitude according to this picture, is also beyond excited to wear yellow. That is his absolute favorite color! The team also decided to call themselves the Gold Butterflies. Now Little Dude goes around making people put their hands in so they can do the cheer.Wordful Wednesday hosted by...
Until next time....
Cheers!
I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. Blogging really takes up a lot of time. I love it, I truly do. But I have a lot on my plate right now and I really think I need a break. I know I've said this before and after a few days I was back in full force.
But really, I just can't do it right now. My blog will still be here and I do plan on coming back sometime in the future.
So for now I say good-bye!
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You didn't really fall for that, did you? Hahahaha! I'm laughing with you, I swear! All day Monday I thought it was Tuesday, which made Monday seem that much more suckier! But I know for a fact it is now Wednesday. And with Wednesday comes...
So what I really meant to say was...
Until next time....
But really, I just can't do it right now. My blog will still be here and I do plan on coming back sometime in the future.
So for now I say good-bye!
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You didn't really fall for that, did you? Hahahaha! I'm laughing with you, I swear! All day Monday I thought it was Tuesday, which made Monday seem that much more suckier! But I know for a fact it is now Wednesday. And with Wednesday comes...
So what I really meant to say was...
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
PRINCESS!!!!!
It's her 21st birthday I do believe!
Click to leave her birthday wishes!!
I personally like pretty ones with straws,
but you can choose whatever you want!
Cheers!
I wish you many, many more happy birthdays!
PRINCESS!!!!!
It's her 21st birthday I do believe!
Click to leave her birthday wishes!!
Princess, I wish you a lovely birthday!
In honor of your 21st,
I am treating you to a round of drinks.
In honor of your 21st,
I am treating you to a round of drinks.
I personally like pretty ones with straws,
but you can choose whatever you want!
Cheers!
I wish you many, many more happy birthdays!
Until next time....
Always Look on the Bright Side
So the Mommyologist has started this monthly meme thing...
This got me to thinking. And if I don't put my thoughts down on paper, so to speak, then they will bounce around my head all day. That leaves less room for anything else I need to think about throughout the day. Believe it or not, I do that sometimes. Think, that is. Now I'm getting off track. Let me get back to my inner workings...
What is Mom Sexy? Here is what the Mommyologist has to say about it. I love what she is doing with this type of sexy because it's exactly what I'm looking for. I'm not always comfortable in my own skin and you can read about it here. I know not everyone clicks on back links so let me just sum it up and say that it shouldn't matter how big or little you are. Being comfortable in your own skin is Mom Sexy. For me, appearance doesn't always mean everything. I can go out in public with yoga pants and flip flops and still feel comfortable. It's the confidence that I can take on many different tasks while still being me that does it. Although I will admit, getting gussied up doesn't hurt either! I do have a black dress and some killer shoes that I am dying to wear again. Yes, that was a hint to the husband should he stop in and read this today!
But it's not always about getting that dressed up. Although some comfy jeans and a cute tee don't hurt - lol! But it's about recognizing me for who I am and focusing on the good so I can realize that I can accomplish anything I want. It doesn't matter that I have toothpaste down my shirt or my hair is in a perma-ponytail. Confidence is key. And support from those around you is always great to have!
I cannot make any promises that I will not have my bad days, but from here on out I will look on the positive. What can I do and what do I have to offer. Not wondering why my body can't look like someone in a magazine. Or why I can't be supermom who has a perfect house with perfect looking kids, because you know what? My kids are perfect! Even if my son's face is covered with cheese curls, he has spilled milk on his shorts, and mud covering 1 leg. And sometimes the chores can wait - we didn't pay good money for 2 scooters to have them not be used! But I really should go do the dishes now if I plan on having room to cook tonight.
Until next time....
This got me to thinking. And if I don't put my thoughts down on paper, so to speak, then they will bounce around my head all day. That leaves less room for anything else I need to think about throughout the day. Believe it or not, I do that sometimes. Think, that is. Now I'm getting off track. Let me get back to my inner workings...
What is Mom Sexy? Here is what the Mommyologist has to say about it. I love what she is doing with this type of sexy because it's exactly what I'm looking for. I'm not always comfortable in my own skin and you can read about it here. I know not everyone clicks on back links so let me just sum it up and say that it shouldn't matter how big or little you are. Being comfortable in your own skin is Mom Sexy. For me, appearance doesn't always mean everything. I can go out in public with yoga pants and flip flops and still feel comfortable. It's the confidence that I can take on many different tasks while still being me that does it. Although I will admit, getting gussied up doesn't hurt either! I do have a black dress and some killer shoes that I am dying to wear again. Yes, that was a hint to the husband should he stop in and read this today!
But it's not always about getting that dressed up. Although some comfy jeans and a cute tee don't hurt - lol! But it's about recognizing me for who I am and focusing on the good so I can realize that I can accomplish anything I want. It doesn't matter that I have toothpaste down my shirt or my hair is in a perma-ponytail. Confidence is key. And support from those around you is always great to have!
I cannot make any promises that I will not have my bad days, but from here on out I will look on the positive. What can I do and what do I have to offer. Not wondering why my body can't look like someone in a magazine. Or why I can't be supermom who has a perfect house with perfect looking kids, because you know what? My kids are perfect! Even if my son's face is covered with cheese curls, he has spilled milk on his shorts, and mud covering 1 leg. And sometimes the chores can wait - we didn't pay good money for 2 scooters to have them not be used! But I really should go do the dishes now if I plan on having room to cook tonight.
Until next time....
Sunflowers and Dandelions
Today's post-its are brought to you by the letter P and
Until next time....
Savor the Moment
I was reading a blog the other day about milestones and how we don't notice them so much as our kids get older. I apologize for not remember who's blog it was, so if you read this and it was your blog, please let me know so I can give credit where credit is due.
Anyway, this got me thinking of my own kids. The milestones they hit within that first year are so huge. For example, one day your baby is laying there smiling at you. The next they're rolling all over the place getting stuck under tables and stuff! After reading this post I've been trying to seek out new things that my kids are learning. The biggies are obvious - like new things GG learns in school or when Little Dude points out a letter we just learned.
The newest thing I've noticed with Little Dude is time. Almost every day he asks if we are going to so and so's house on the next morning. That's what he says instead of "tomorrow" - cute! Last Friday he asked when we were going to Grandma and Pap's house. I said in 2 days. He explained to me that we would visit them after 2 times of dark. In other words, after 2 nights it would be the day to go to their house. Abstract thinking - awesome!
Before typing out this post I was looking at my cousin's new baby. She is so friggin cute! And chubby - she reminds me of how GG was (she was F-A-T!!!). I look at my own kids sometimes and realize that I miss those baby days. The first word, the first food, the first steps. It's funny because now I can't get them to stop talking, eating, or moving! But I do miss those first milestones. Seeing Little Dude understand things such as time and watching GG figure out complicated word problems helps me to realize that those milestones will never stop.
Some day down the road there will be the first date, learning how to drive a car, marriage, and watching their own babies hit those ever important milestones.
But let's not rush that, ok? I'll just savor each day as it comes and embrace the new things that we discover today.
Until next time....
Anyway, this got me thinking of my own kids. The milestones they hit within that first year are so huge. For example, one day your baby is laying there smiling at you. The next they're rolling all over the place getting stuck under tables and stuff! After reading this post I've been trying to seek out new things that my kids are learning. The biggies are obvious - like new things GG learns in school or when Little Dude points out a letter we just learned.
The newest thing I've noticed with Little Dude is time. Almost every day he asks if we are going to so and so's house on the next morning. That's what he says instead of "tomorrow" - cute! Last Friday he asked when we were going to Grandma and Pap's house. I said in 2 days. He explained to me that we would visit them after 2 times of dark. In other words, after 2 nights it would be the day to go to their house. Abstract thinking - awesome!
Before typing out this post I was looking at my cousin's new baby. She is so friggin cute! And chubby - she reminds me of how GG was (she was F-A-T!!!). I look at my own kids sometimes and realize that I miss those baby days. The first word, the first food, the first steps. It's funny because now I can't get them to stop talking, eating, or moving! But I do miss those first milestones. Seeing Little Dude understand things such as time and watching GG figure out complicated word problems helps me to realize that those milestones will never stop.
Some day down the road there will be the first date, learning how to drive a car, marriage, and watching their own babies hit those ever important milestones.
But let's not rush that, ok? I'll just savor each day as it comes and embrace the new things that we discover today.
Until next time....
Don't Drink the Kool-Aid!!
Come listen to a story 'bout a man named Jed...
Ok, maybe not Jed. How about Dan. That's my brother and he is nucking futs!!!
Maybe not the most current of pictures
But I love showing him off getting ready
for the Macy's parade.
He still looks about the same.
Let me back up to where this story begins. The husband had a heck of a day at work and couldn't leave at his usual time - too many things to fix. That meant we had to pick him up later than normal, but the problem was that GG had soccer practice. I got in touch with my mom who graciously agreed to meet us at the field. She would take GG to her house and I would pick her up after getting Chris from work. Due to the insane traffic trying to get to the arena for the hockey game, my drive took way longer than I anticipated. I wasn't too far from my mom's house when I get a text from her.
"Running late?"
No, I just don't want to pick my daughter up! Of course I was running late. Yes, I come by my sarcasm naturally!
As I'm walking up to her house I hear my phone going off in the car. I asked if she sent me another message. This message...
"Hurry! She's going to drink the Kool Ade"
Why is this a bad thing, you ask? I love my brother, but sometimes he's not right in the head. I've been making Kool Aid for years and I know that the directions call for 1 cup of sugar per packet. I usually make with less sugar than that, but my brother uses way more than that. It's almost like syrup by the time he's done. I asked him the exact amount before typing this and his reply was that the amount varies, but it's usually around 10 cups!
No, that is NOT a typo!
Needless to say, I had a ping pong ball at my house for a bit. Lovely!
Until next time....
Ok, maybe not Jed. How about Dan. That's my brother and he is nucking futs!!!
Maybe not the most current of picturesBut I love showing him off getting ready
for the Macy's parade.
He still looks about the same.
Let me back up to where this story begins. The husband had a heck of a day at work and couldn't leave at his usual time - too many things to fix. That meant we had to pick him up later than normal, but the problem was that GG had soccer practice. I got in touch with my mom who graciously agreed to meet us at the field. She would take GG to her house and I would pick her up after getting Chris from work. Due to the insane traffic trying to get to the arena for the hockey game, my drive took way longer than I anticipated. I wasn't too far from my mom's house when I get a text from her.
"Running late?"
No, I just don't want to pick my daughter up! Of course I was running late. Yes, I come by my sarcasm naturally!
As I'm walking up to her house I hear my phone going off in the car. I asked if she sent me another message. This message...
"Hurry! She's going to drink the Kool Ade"
Why is this a bad thing, you ask? I love my brother, but sometimes he's not right in the head. I've been making Kool Aid for years and I know that the directions call for 1 cup of sugar per packet. I usually make with less sugar than that, but my brother uses way more than that. It's almost like syrup by the time he's done. I asked him the exact amount before typing this and his reply was that the amount varies, but it's usually around 10 cups!
No, that is NOT a typo!
Needless to say, I had a ping pong ball at my house for a bit. Lovely!
Until next time....
Hired Help
Tuesday night surely was a stressful one. It was hockey night in Pittsburgh! Ok, more like in Ottawa, but I watched it here. Close enough right? And I'm sure there were a ton of people watching on the big screen outside the arena. So that makes it kind of like a home game. Anyway, it's playoffs and I get stressed. I was on the edge of the couch up until the middle of the second period. We scored 3 goals within a minute or so. The Pens were up 4-0. I was pretty comfortable with that lead. So comfortable that I figured it would be ok to watch Lost and flip back to check on the game. Then Ottawa scored. Then they scored again. The rest of the game was a back and forth battle! Then Chris came up to watch. He gets more stressed than I do, but that made me even worse! I finally caved and decided to watch Lost online at some point on Wednesday.
Apparently Tuesday night was tiring for other little people. Little people as in my youngest midget. Once he falls asleep for the night he is O.U.T!!! It's getting to that point that's difficult. He usually passes out around 10pm, sometimes later. Keep in mind the kids go to bed around 8:30.
I've noticed for the past few days that Little Dude hasn't been falling back asleep in the car when I take Chris to work. This makes for one cranky kid come lunchtime. Ok, really it's more like one little person who does nothing but argue and one cranky mom. By lunchtime on Wednesday we were both exhausted. A least I was. I crashed on the couch for a bit. But it was one of those annoying naps where you know you're sleeping but you can still hear what's going on. That's good when kids are around, bad when Yo Gabba Gabba is on tv.
I set my alarm for 2 because I was paranoid about not waking up to get GG from school. THIS is what I woke up to see...
But I guess that nap really helped because after dinner, THIS is what he wanted to do...
The other night GG was practicing to be a waitress. She can practice waiting on me all she wants! Now all I need is a cook.
Oh, and the Pens won 7-4 in case anyone was wondering.
Until next time....
Apparently Tuesday night was tiring for other little people. Little people as in my youngest midget. Once he falls asleep for the night he is O.U.T!!! It's getting to that point that's difficult. He usually passes out around 10pm, sometimes later. Keep in mind the kids go to bed around 8:30.
I've noticed for the past few days that Little Dude hasn't been falling back asleep in the car when I take Chris to work. This makes for one cranky kid come lunchtime. Ok, really it's more like one little person who does nothing but argue and one cranky mom. By lunchtime on Wednesday we were both exhausted. A least I was. I crashed on the couch for a bit. But it was one of those annoying naps where you know you're sleeping but you can still hear what's going on. That's good when kids are around, bad when Yo Gabba Gabba is on tv.
I set my alarm for 2 because I was paranoid about not waking up to get GG from school. THIS is what I woke up to see...
But I guess that nap really helped because after dinner, THIS is what he wanted to do...
Yes, he wanted to fold laundry. He put it all away, too!
The other night GG was practicing to be a waitress. She can practice waiting on me all she wants! Now all I need is a cook.
Oh, and the Pens won 7-4 in case anyone was wondering.
Until next time....
Weighing In
So I have this thing. This thing that I always think about. Some people think I'm nuts, but it really does bother me.
I don't do this meme every week, but when I have something heavy on my mind, I see this as permission to get it off my chest. Due to things that have been said to me in the past, I feel the need to post Shell's rules as well.
I hate that I even have to say this, but, whether you are participating or just reading, please keep in mind that the people linking really are sharing something from the heart. So, please, BE RESPECTFUL. We might not agree with each other, but we can all accept someone's right to have a different opinion than we do and NOT attack someone because of this. Play nice. :)
The thing that bothers me has to do with body image. I'm little and I realize this. But it is not by choice. No I'm not saying I would rather be overweight, but a few extra pounds would be nice. I have my days where I put on my clothes and feel absolutely great. But then I also have those days where I'm sick of my clothes not fitting right. I don't really have the hips or butt to hold up a pair of pants. I swear, all the clothes out there were made for those who are curvy and/or have big boobs. Um... not me. Belts - those I do have.
I guess it wouldn't bother me if people wouldn't comment on my weight all the time. Saying things like "It's sickening how skinny you are!" - how exactly do you take that? Yes, I know it's a compliment. It's the way it's phrased that I don't like. Pointing out something that I'm not always happy about makes me even more self-conscious. For my birthday or Christmas, if you want to get me clothes so you have to ask what size I wear, just write it down and call it a day, ok? No need so sigh and shake your head. Thanks!
I've also had people accuse me of having an eating disorder. I love my food and I love to eat. Throwing up is by far one of, if not my least favorite thing to do. If you would see my family, my uncles in particular, they are almost all tall and skinny. So I do come by this naturally. Or maybe it's a medical thing - thyroid or something. I hate going to the doctor as much as I hate blood work so I've never had that checked out. I know I should though. There's lots of things I should do, but just don't. But, whatever. That's for another time.
Anyway, back to my point. I am quite aware of what I look like. You may not realize I'm not always happy about it, but please, think about how you phrase your comments.
Until next time....
I'm going to link up with Shell for
I don't do this meme every week, but when I have something heavy on my mind, I see this as permission to get it off my chest. Due to things that have been said to me in the past, I feel the need to post Shell's rules as well.
I hate that I even have to say this, but, whether you are participating or just reading, please keep in mind that the people linking really are sharing something from the heart. So, please, BE RESPECTFUL. We might not agree with each other, but we can all accept someone's right to have a different opinion than we do and NOT attack someone because of this. Play nice. :)
The thing that bothers me has to do with body image. I'm little and I realize this. But it is not by choice. No I'm not saying I would rather be overweight, but a few extra pounds would be nice. I have my days where I put on my clothes and feel absolutely great. But then I also have those days where I'm sick of my clothes not fitting right. I don't really have the hips or butt to hold up a pair of pants. I swear, all the clothes out there were made for those who are curvy and/or have big boobs. Um... not me. Belts - those I do have.
I guess it wouldn't bother me if people wouldn't comment on my weight all the time. Saying things like "It's sickening how skinny you are!" - how exactly do you take that? Yes, I know it's a compliment. It's the way it's phrased that I don't like. Pointing out something that I'm not always happy about makes me even more self-conscious. For my birthday or Christmas, if you want to get me clothes so you have to ask what size I wear, just write it down and call it a day, ok? No need so sigh and shake your head. Thanks!
I've also had people accuse me of having an eating disorder. I love my food and I love to eat. Throwing up is by far one of, if not my least favorite thing to do. If you would see my family, my uncles in particular, they are almost all tall and skinny. So I do come by this naturally. Or maybe it's a medical thing - thyroid or something. I hate going to the doctor as much as I hate blood work so I've never had that checked out. I know I should though. There's lots of things I should do, but just don't. But, whatever. That's for another time.
Anyway, back to my point. I am quite aware of what I look like. You may not realize I'm not always happy about it, but please, think about how you phrase your comments.
Until next time....
Hi! Nice to Meet You!
I've realized lately that I blog about my kids waaay too much a lot. Yes, they are my world and they are why I started this blog, but things have changed. Like most people, I've realized that blogging is also about making friends. There's always someone out there who can relate to a particular story. I take comfort in that because I know I'm not alone.
What I've noticed with my little piece of the net over here is that if I'm not blogging about my kids, I'm doing a meme. I guess it's kind of hypocritical that I'm doing this post of part of a meme, but I am NOT giving up my Post-It Note Tuesday! It's just way too fun. But I am going to cut back on doing memes. If what I have to say is relevant to a particular one, then I'll probably link up. My kids - oh, you'll still hear about them. But I want to blog more about who I am, as a mom as well as outside of that. Because there is so much more to me than just a mom. But I don't know where to start.
So...
Another thing I've realized about blogging is...
I've said this before - who doesn't want a ton of followers? But what good is a ton of followers if not many of them read and comment. Comments are how we get to know each other.
So here's what I plan to do...
If I do my part more, hopefully it will be reciprocated.
So... HI!! Nice to meet you! Anything you want to know, ask away! I will answer via email and/or a post.
Now go check out
Until next time....
What I've noticed with my little piece of the net over here is that if I'm not blogging about my kids, I'm doing a meme. I guess it's kind of hypocritical that I'm doing this post of part of a meme, but I am NOT giving up my Post-It Note Tuesday! It's just way too fun. But I am going to cut back on doing memes. If what I have to say is relevant to a particular one, then I'll probably link up. My kids - oh, you'll still hear about them. But I want to blog more about who I am, as a mom as well as outside of that. Because there is so much more to me than just a mom. But I don't know where to start.
So...
Another thing I've realized about blogging is...
I've said this before - who doesn't want a ton of followers? But what good is a ton of followers if not many of them read and comment. Comments are how we get to know each other.
So here's what I plan to do...
If I do my part more, hopefully it will be reciprocated.
So... HI!! Nice to meet you! Anything you want to know, ask away! I will answer via email and/or a post.
Now go check out
Until next time....
Taking a Minute
Uninspired? Maybe, but how about we go with me letting you in on who I am. That sounds much better. To do this, I'm going to take a Monday Minute and answer a few questions asked by Ian over at The Daily Dose of Reality.
1 - Ever take a shit in the woods?
If by "in the woods' you mean an outhouse placed at the far end of a camp site, then yes. A few years ago we went camping with some friends. One of our friend's family had a cabin. I'm still trying to figure out how this cabin had electricity, a stove, a microwave, and running water, but no bathroom other than the outhouse.
2 - If you won $1,000, what's the first thing you would do with it besides give me a cut?
The first thing I would do would get myself pampered with a decent haircut. If that's the kind of cut you mean, than you are more than welcome to come with me! When I go to the hairdresser I went to growing up, as opposed to the el-cheepo one closer to my house, I always get an awesome haircut. I vow to go back in 6-8 weeks for a trim, but then I never go. This results in long bushy, uncontrollable hair. Now you see why my hair is almost always in a ponytail!
After getting a haircut, I would treat myself to some new clothes. I'm always buying things for the kids, so anything that I want gets put n the back burner. This would be the perfect opportunity to spoil myself, even though I would probably pick them up something little anyway.
3 - What's your favorite phrase?
My favorite word is "awesome" and I'm sure I say it way more than necessary. As for actual phrases... it's hockey season, and more importantly, hockey playoffs. Let me just sneak it in here that my boys are on fire! Go, Pens, go! Ok, back to phrases. The Pens have this guy that does the commentary for their games - Mike Lange. He used to do the tv games, a bunch of stuff happened, and now he's on the radio. Mike Lange has some awesome phrases. Not one of them makes sense, except for maybe "Elvis has left the building". Here's a link to a few of his most common, but my favorite is one I heard this morning. "Well, shave my beard with a rusty razor!" See, makes no sense.
4 - Fill in the blank - the world would be a better place if ______ left the planet.
Stupid people. Enough said!
5 - How do you take your coffee or tea?
Like my man - hot and strong!
Until next time....
1 - Ever take a shit in the woods?
If by "in the woods' you mean an outhouse placed at the far end of a camp site, then yes. A few years ago we went camping with some friends. One of our friend's family had a cabin. I'm still trying to figure out how this cabin had electricity, a stove, a microwave, and running water, but no bathroom other than the outhouse.
2 - If you won $1,000, what's the first thing you would do with it besides give me a cut?
The first thing I would do would get myself pampered with a decent haircut. If that's the kind of cut you mean, than you are more than welcome to come with me! When I go to the hairdresser I went to growing up, as opposed to the el-cheepo one closer to my house, I always get an awesome haircut. I vow to go back in 6-8 weeks for a trim, but then I never go. This results in long bushy, uncontrollable hair. Now you see why my hair is almost always in a ponytail!
After getting a haircut, I would treat myself to some new clothes. I'm always buying things for the kids, so anything that I want gets put n the back burner. This would be the perfect opportunity to spoil myself, even though I would probably pick them up something little anyway.
3 - What's your favorite phrase?
My favorite word is "awesome" and I'm sure I say it way more than necessary. As for actual phrases... it's hockey season, and more importantly, hockey playoffs. Let me just sneak it in here that my boys are on fire! Go, Pens, go! Ok, back to phrases. The Pens have this guy that does the commentary for their games - Mike Lange. He used to do the tv games, a bunch of stuff happened, and now he's on the radio. Mike Lange has some awesome phrases. Not one of them makes sense, except for maybe "Elvis has left the building". Here's a link to a few of his most common, but my favorite is one I heard this morning. "Well, shave my beard with a rusty razor!" See, makes no sense.
4 - Fill in the blank - the world would be a better place if ______ left the planet.
Stupid people. Enough said!
5 - How do you take your coffee or tea?
Like my man - hot and strong!
Until next time....
Through Hell and High Water
For once I actually planned out how this day would go. I should have known things rarely go as planned.
Chris has been talking for weeks about this code camp that he was going to. Code camp is a big conference type thing for computer geeks like him. It was free, too! Where are the free blog conferences at?!?
Anyways, today was the day. This conference was from 8-5, but didn't really start until 9. Since I had to drive him there, I asked last night what time should we leave. He said a little after 8. So I set my alarm for a little before 8. I planned on throwing on some sweats, driving him, coming home and get ready to take the kids to their soccer games. 7:20am he wakes me up and says it's about time to go. WTH?!? My alarm's not going off for another 20 minutes!!! We stopped at the coffee shop on the way so things were good - he was forgiven.
I come home to get the kids ready for their games. I also had to get them ready for pictures prior to the games. I parked halfway between the library where the pictures were being taken and the field. We would do GG's pictures, walk down to watch her game, walk back up to the library for Little Dude's pictures, and then back down to the field for his game. Except the organized chaos for the first picture session, all went well. For the games, no one keeps score so everyone wins.
Oh, and did I mention it was barely 40 degrees? And I forgot to bring gloves for everyone? I think I have frostbite!
After the games we cam home for lunch and headed out to the craft store. I found this awesome sweater pattern and I am determined to crochet myself a sweater. I've never crocheted clothing, so wish me luck.
Except for a few minor bumps in the morning, all was going pretty close to how I planned. Chris sends me a text while at the craft store that he's ready to come home. I planned out what I thought would be the easiest route to get to where he was. Little did I realize just how bad the storms Friday night were!
My plan - take Road 8 to Road 5, turn up Road M, cut up Road B to BR, and the rest was pretty much a straight shot.
Halfway down Road 8, I realized it was closed. Probably trees or power lines down. So I couldn't get to Road 5 from there. I turn around, take a few back streets and finally come to a light ready to turn onto Road 5. Traffic is at a stand still! Ok, if I make a right, take a few more back streets, I will end up on Road M in a round about way. Finally I'm on M and approaching Road B! But wait! There's police tape I see. Crap! Turns out there's at least 2 huge pine trees covering Road B. Continue down Road M, which leads back down to Road 5. Sitting in traffic might have been the better option. I would have ended up in the same place in probably the same amount of time!
At this point I have beeped needlessly at many people and possibly taught my kids a few choice words. But I figure I can go towards downtown, get on the Boulevard, and that will take me straight where I need to go. Doesn't it figure that I miss my turn off the Boulevard!!!
I knew I was in Oakland, and that's where I needed to be, but there are one way streets everywhere! I finally figure it out but see that there's no parking. I circle the building where Chris is twice. I'm sitting at the stop light next to his building in the middle of texting him so he could meet me outside. Just then someone knocks on the passenger window! Holy crap! I'm being carjacked!!!
Calm down! It was Chris telling me to unlock the door.
And I apologize if my driving directions, or lack of, was a tad confusing. I might be proud to say I'm from Pittsburgh, at least when it comes to sports (minus baseball - our cat outside plays better than the Pirates!), but I'm not about to give out the actual street names from these parts. I don't need a stalker!
Unless you're going to shower me with gifts and make me famous. Then we can talk!
Until next time....
Chris has been talking for weeks about this code camp that he was going to. Code camp is a big conference type thing for computer geeks like him. It was free, too! Where are the free blog conferences at?!?
Anyways, today was the day. This conference was from 8-5, but didn't really start until 9. Since I had to drive him there, I asked last night what time should we leave. He said a little after 8. So I set my alarm for a little before 8. I planned on throwing on some sweats, driving him, coming home and get ready to take the kids to their soccer games. 7:20am he wakes me up and says it's about time to go. WTH?!? My alarm's not going off for another 20 minutes!!! We stopped at the coffee shop on the way so things were good - he was forgiven.
I come home to get the kids ready for their games. I also had to get them ready for pictures prior to the games. I parked halfway between the library where the pictures were being taken and the field. We would do GG's pictures, walk down to watch her game, walk back up to the library for Little Dude's pictures, and then back down to the field for his game. Except the organized chaos for the first picture session, all went well. For the games, no one keeps score so everyone wins.
Oh, and did I mention it was barely 40 degrees? And I forgot to bring gloves for everyone? I think I have frostbite!
After the games we cam home for lunch and headed out to the craft store. I found this awesome sweater pattern and I am determined to crochet myself a sweater. I've never crocheted clothing, so wish me luck.
Except for a few minor bumps in the morning, all was going pretty close to how I planned. Chris sends me a text while at the craft store that he's ready to come home. I planned out what I thought would be the easiest route to get to where he was. Little did I realize just how bad the storms Friday night were!
My plan - take Road 8 to Road 5, turn up Road M, cut up Road B to BR, and the rest was pretty much a straight shot.
Halfway down Road 8, I realized it was closed. Probably trees or power lines down. So I couldn't get to Road 5 from there. I turn around, take a few back streets and finally come to a light ready to turn onto Road 5. Traffic is at a stand still! Ok, if I make a right, take a few more back streets, I will end up on Road M in a round about way. Finally I'm on M and approaching Road B! But wait! There's police tape I see. Crap! Turns out there's at least 2 huge pine trees covering Road B. Continue down Road M, which leads back down to Road 5. Sitting in traffic might have been the better option. I would have ended up in the same place in probably the same amount of time!
At this point I have beeped needlessly at many people and possibly taught my kids a few choice words. But I figure I can go towards downtown, get on the Boulevard, and that will take me straight where I need to go. Doesn't it figure that I miss my turn off the Boulevard!!!
I knew I was in Oakland, and that's where I needed to be, but there are one way streets everywhere! I finally figure it out but see that there's no parking. I circle the building where Chris is twice. I'm sitting at the stop light next to his building in the middle of texting him so he could meet me outside. Just then someone knocks on the passenger window! Holy crap! I'm being carjacked!!!
Calm down! It was Chris telling me to unlock the door.
And I apologize if my driving directions, or lack of, was a tad confusing. I might be proud to say I'm from Pittsburgh, at least when it comes to sports (minus baseball - our cat outside plays better than the Pirates!), but I'm not about to give out the actual street names from these parts. I don't need a stalker!
Unless you're going to shower me with gifts and make me famous. Then we can talk!
Until next time....
Warriors
Jane over at Adoption of Jane does a meme every weekend called Weekend Warriors. It's a meme for parents of special needs kids to link up and for parents of non-special needs kids to learn more.
When I see this, it brings me back to a past job and a little boy. I wasn't quite sure if this boy would be considered special needs but this definition makes me think he is/was...
"it is a legal term applying in foster care in the United States, derived from the language in the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997. It is a diagnosis used to classify children as needing "more" services than those children without special needs who are in the foster care system. It is a diagnosis based on behavior, childhood and family history, and is usually made by a health care professional."
copied from wikipedia
When GG was a baby and we realized that I needed to return to work, I found a job at a child care center downtown. I worked in the 2 year old room. There were roughly 30 kids in this room and 5 teachers. In general we were in charge of the safety, care, and education of all of the kids. But each teacher had a group of 5 or 6 that they were primarily in charge of. In my group, I had a little boy, Alex. Alex was in the care of his foster mom and he came from a bad, bad place. He was abused and neglected, and that resulted in many issues with him. He had behavior problems, social skill problems, and a big delay with his speech.
It took a lot of patience to work with Alex. His temper tantrums were huge and they happened quite often. They resulted because he never really learned how to play with other kids. Not that 2 year olds actually play together, but even parallel play was difficult for him. He was also a hitter and a biter. Coming from violence, he probably didn't know another way to deal with his emotions. And his speech delay meant he couldn't verbally express how he felt, unless it was through screams. I also had to deal with him hitting, kicking, and biting me. I told you it took a lot of patience!
Now please don't take this as Alex is a bad kid, because he was far from it. He was so sweet and so loving. He refused to leave at night until I gave him a hug. Every single night! His foster mom also told me that he talked about me all the time. It's not that he couldn't talk - he could, just not very well. He usually spoke in 1 or 2 word phrases. I will never forget one day in particular. It was nap time and, as usual, Alex would not go to sleep. He loved to help adults (I think he trying to seek approval) and he seemed to be afraid to miss something. I would lay with him, rub his back, but after a while I gave up. I had lessons to prepare and paperwork to do. He would usually end up sitting at the table with me and the other teachers. We were cutting things out for a future art project. Alex would point at each thing because he wanted to know what it was. I can't remember what I was holding, but I knew it was purple. I told him this, and he repeated "Purple". I was so excited. That was huge!!! It's moments like that which make you realize that all of your patience has paid off.
I left this job shortly before Alex had moved on to the 3 year old room. For a while I kept in contact with some of the teachers. From what I know, Alex had made great progress and his foster mom had officially adopted him.
I hate when we lose touch with people who meant a lot to us. I can only hope that he continues to do well.
Until next time....
When I see this, it brings me back to a past job and a little boy. I wasn't quite sure if this boy would be considered special needs but this definition makes me think he is/was...
"it is a legal term applying in foster care in the United States, derived from the language in the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997. It is a diagnosis used to classify children as needing "more" services than those children without special needs who are in the foster care system. It is a diagnosis based on behavior, childhood and family history, and is usually made by a health care professional."
copied from wikipedia
When GG was a baby and we realized that I needed to return to work, I found a job at a child care center downtown. I worked in the 2 year old room. There were roughly 30 kids in this room and 5 teachers. In general we were in charge of the safety, care, and education of all of the kids. But each teacher had a group of 5 or 6 that they were primarily in charge of. In my group, I had a little boy, Alex. Alex was in the care of his foster mom and he came from a bad, bad place. He was abused and neglected, and that resulted in many issues with him. He had behavior problems, social skill problems, and a big delay with his speech.
It took a lot of patience to work with Alex. His temper tantrums were huge and they happened quite often. They resulted because he never really learned how to play with other kids. Not that 2 year olds actually play together, but even parallel play was difficult for him. He was also a hitter and a biter. Coming from violence, he probably didn't know another way to deal with his emotions. And his speech delay meant he couldn't verbally express how he felt, unless it was through screams. I also had to deal with him hitting, kicking, and biting me. I told you it took a lot of patience!
Now please don't take this as Alex is a bad kid, because he was far from it. He was so sweet and so loving. He refused to leave at night until I gave him a hug. Every single night! His foster mom also told me that he talked about me all the time. It's not that he couldn't talk - he could, just not very well. He usually spoke in 1 or 2 word phrases. I will never forget one day in particular. It was nap time and, as usual, Alex would not go to sleep. He loved to help adults (I think he trying to seek approval) and he seemed to be afraid to miss something. I would lay with him, rub his back, but after a while I gave up. I had lessons to prepare and paperwork to do. He would usually end up sitting at the table with me and the other teachers. We were cutting things out for a future art project. Alex would point at each thing because he wanted to know what it was. I can't remember what I was holding, but I knew it was purple. I told him this, and he repeated "Purple". I was so excited. That was huge!!! It's moments like that which make you realize that all of your patience has paid off.
I left this job shortly before Alex had moved on to the 3 year old room. For a while I kept in contact with some of the teachers. From what I know, Alex had made great progress and his foster mom had officially adopted him.
I hate when we lose touch with people who meant a lot to us. I can only hope that he continues to do well.
Until next time....
Suggestions are Advisable
Thank goodness the black cloud has disappeared. As a matter of fact, things started going uphill after that moment, thank goodness.
Little Dude and I decided to take a walk yesterday afternoon to enjoy the nice weather while it lasted. I wish we would have had more time last night so GG and I could have walked to our Brownie meeting, but we get back from picking Chris up around 5, have dinner, and rush to the meeting by 6. The Brownie meeting was rather amusing. It also helped to reinforce the fact that I am not as young as I'd like to think. We are working on the Girl Sport patch, so exercise has been the topic for the past 2 meetings. We stretch and then do activities like throwing and catching. I use the excuse that these girls are smaller than me and that's why they are so flexible. Can we just stick with that, please? And by the way, giving 1st and 2nd graders balls to throw and catch inside is NOT a good idea! I thought someone would lose a limb!
The conversations these girls were having while they were throwing and catching were funny! I don't think they realize how loud they are. And some of them seem to talk just to talk. I realized during these conversations, that I am really tired of hearing about Justin Beiber and Hannah Montana. Oh, and the Twilight stuff. One of the girls is obsessed with it! I'm not sure if that's something an 8 year old should be obsessed with, but I'm not a Twilight person. I could be wrong.
We also asked the girls for ideas for field trips now that we have the money in from the cookie sales. I guess that question was a tad too general. The responses we got were Disney and Hawaii. Sorry, we didn't sell THAT many cookies girls! So then they came a little closer to home and suggested the zoo or Kennywood (local amusement park). I can maybe see the zoo because they do have group programs, but I am NOT going to be held responsible for a bunch of girls at a big, crowded amusement park! Me and the other leader suggested a horse riding thing, which was a huge hit, and then a few places involving food. Food always works!
So if you ever have to ask a group of girls where they want to go, give a few suggestions first! Open-ended questions are not the route to go!
And now it's Friday and I am so glad for that. This whole week was crazy. But what week isn't when you're a mom?! If we weren't running around, someone was sick. So I have declared today a quiet day.
Ok, maybe not since Little Dude is freaking out over yet another bug.
Until next time....
Little Dude and I decided to take a walk yesterday afternoon to enjoy the nice weather while it lasted. I wish we would have had more time last night so GG and I could have walked to our Brownie meeting, but we get back from picking Chris up around 5, have dinner, and rush to the meeting by 6. The Brownie meeting was rather amusing. It also helped to reinforce the fact that I am not as young as I'd like to think. We are working on the Girl Sport patch, so exercise has been the topic for the past 2 meetings. We stretch and then do activities like throwing and catching. I use the excuse that these girls are smaller than me and that's why they are so flexible. Can we just stick with that, please? And by the way, giving 1st and 2nd graders balls to throw and catch inside is NOT a good idea! I thought someone would lose a limb!
The conversations these girls were having while they were throwing and catching were funny! I don't think they realize how loud they are. And some of them seem to talk just to talk. I realized during these conversations, that I am really tired of hearing about Justin Beiber and Hannah Montana. Oh, and the Twilight stuff. One of the girls is obsessed with it! I'm not sure if that's something an 8 year old should be obsessed with, but I'm not a Twilight person. I could be wrong.
We also asked the girls for ideas for field trips now that we have the money in from the cookie sales. I guess that question was a tad too general. The responses we got were Disney and Hawaii. Sorry, we didn't sell THAT many cookies girls! So then they came a little closer to home and suggested the zoo or Kennywood (local amusement park). I can maybe see the zoo because they do have group programs, but I am NOT going to be held responsible for a bunch of girls at a big, crowded amusement park! Me and the other leader suggested a horse riding thing, which was a huge hit, and then a few places involving food. Food always works!
So if you ever have to ask a group of girls where they want to go, give a few suggestions first! Open-ended questions are not the route to go!
And now it's Friday and I am so glad for that. This whole week was crazy. But what week isn't when you're a mom?! If we weren't running around, someone was sick. So I have declared today a quiet day.
Ok, maybe not since Little Dude is freaking out over yet another bug.
Until next time....
Black Cloud Over My Head
It's been a heck of a week and this black cloud is just the icing on the cake, so to speak.
Monday GG was "sick" and stayed home from school. Sick is in quotes because she wasn't all that sick. She was fighting a cold last week and her asthma kicked in over the weekend. She barely slept Sunday night so I figured staying home Monday would be good for her. She is doing much better now, thank goodness.
Tuesday I woke up and thought I was going to die due t lack of oxygen. My head was so stuffed up it wasn't even funny! I tried 2 different cold medicines and steamy showers, but nothing helped. Luckily by the time I went to bed I had somewhat cleared up. At least enough to breathe a little better so I could sleep.
And then yesterday, Chris was sick. But that is both good and bad. Good because we didn't have to get up early to take him to work. Good because I didn't have to take Little Dude with me to drop GG off at school - he could just hang out a bit in his jammies. I did take Little Dude to story time at the library, but was able to drop him off at home before the PTA meeting. Those meetings are always much better when I don't have to chase him. He has a buddy there and they like to chase each other and they tend to get pretty loud. I still wasn't feeling all that great yesterday so I decided to skip my Girl Scout leader meeting. Those meetings are mentally exhausting and I just didn't have it in me to sit through it. The nice thing ~ I was able to stay home and watch all of the hockey game. Too bad they lost! I'm predicting the Pens got the loss out of the way and will win the next 4 so they can move on to round 2.
Last night I also had to finish our taxes. Talk about last minute, right?! I always make sure I have extra copies of the forms. I roughly fill out one and then copy those numbers onto the forms that get mailed. Chris was going to sign the forms this morning so I could mail them out. We had a few issues that really ticked me off before I could mail the forms, but thankfully everything is in order now. I hope! I'm always afraid I screwed something up. I used to rock at math, but I've been out of school a while, so my skills have declined a bit. Or a lot!
And now for the icing on the cake...
It was one of those things where you say "Of course this would only happen to me and on a day where I am NOT in a good mood". I was standing in the front yard debating on if I should put capris on since it is supposed to hit 80 today, but was still a little chilly at the moment. All of the sudden something hit me. I thought maybe a bird flew overhead and did his business on my head. Wouldn't be the first time! But no, it was rain. Everywhere I looked the sky was blue. Not a cloud in sight except for the dark, gloomy one right over my house. I hope that wasn't an omen for what's to come the rest of the day!
Until next time....
Monday GG was "sick" and stayed home from school. Sick is in quotes because she wasn't all that sick. She was fighting a cold last week and her asthma kicked in over the weekend. She barely slept Sunday night so I figured staying home Monday would be good for her. She is doing much better now, thank goodness.
Tuesday I woke up and thought I was going to die due t lack of oxygen. My head was so stuffed up it wasn't even funny! I tried 2 different cold medicines and steamy showers, but nothing helped. Luckily by the time I went to bed I had somewhat cleared up. At least enough to breathe a little better so I could sleep.
And then yesterday, Chris was sick. But that is both good and bad. Good because we didn't have to get up early to take him to work. Good because I didn't have to take Little Dude with me to drop GG off at school - he could just hang out a bit in his jammies. I did take Little Dude to story time at the library, but was able to drop him off at home before the PTA meeting. Those meetings are always much better when I don't have to chase him. He has a buddy there and they like to chase each other and they tend to get pretty loud. I still wasn't feeling all that great yesterday so I decided to skip my Girl Scout leader meeting. Those meetings are mentally exhausting and I just didn't have it in me to sit through it. The nice thing ~ I was able to stay home and watch all of the hockey game. Too bad they lost! I'm predicting the Pens got the loss out of the way and will win the next 4 so they can move on to round 2.
Last night I also had to finish our taxes. Talk about last minute, right?! I always make sure I have extra copies of the forms. I roughly fill out one and then copy those numbers onto the forms that get mailed. Chris was going to sign the forms this morning so I could mail them out. We had a few issues that really ticked me off before I could mail the forms, but thankfully everything is in order now. I hope! I'm always afraid I screwed something up. I used to rock at math, but I've been out of school a while, so my skills have declined a bit. Or a lot!
And now for the icing on the cake...
It was one of those things where you say "Of course this would only happen to me and on a day where I am NOT in a good mood". I was standing in the front yard debating on if I should put capris on since it is supposed to hit 80 today, but was still a little chilly at the moment. All of the sudden something hit me. I thought maybe a bird flew overhead and did his business on my head. Wouldn't be the first time! But no, it was rain. Everywhere I looked the sky was blue. Not a cloud in sight except for the dark, gloomy one right over my house. I hope that wasn't an omen for what's to come the rest of the day!
Until next time....
I Can't Wait to Sink My Teeth into These!
2 posts in one day! Isn't that breaking some kind of blog code or something? Guess what? I don't care! I warned you here that I go crazy for my sports and hockey playoffs start tonight! I'm not sure if I'll be home to watch the game and that really ticks me off. But I think I might play sick to get out of my meeting. In my defense, I am fighting a bad cold. No one needs to know I'm feeling better, right?
But anyway, Chris is also home sick today. Don't you love when the school germs brought home are shared throughout your house? Fun times let me tell you! So this morning I was sent on a mission to buy popsicles for the husband. Aw... poor baby! Although I guess I really shouldn't make fun of him because I was acting like a little kid yesterday when I felt life total crap!
I love the bakery at our grocery store. They always have such cute stuff and when I'm there, I cruise through to look at everything. Well, I came across these beauties...
I just HAD to get them!!! I have turned GG into quite the little Pens fan, too, so I know she will go nuts when she sees these after school!
The cashier apparently thought they were adorable, too. And I think they are, too, but was there really a need to show every employee around us these cupcakes? Probably not. All I really wanted to do was get my son from the playroom and get back to the car. My coffee was still in the car!!!
Until next time....
But anyway, Chris is also home sick today. Don't you love when the school germs brought home are shared throughout your house? Fun times let me tell you! So this morning I was sent on a mission to buy popsicles for the husband. Aw... poor baby! Although I guess I really shouldn't make fun of him because I was acting like a little kid yesterday when I felt life total crap!
I love the bakery at our grocery store. They always have such cute stuff and when I'm there, I cruise through to look at everything. Well, I came across these beauties...
I just HAD to get them!!! I have turned GG into quite the little Pens fan, too, so I know she will go nuts when she sees these after school!
The cashier apparently thought they were adorable, too. And I think they are, too, but was there really a need to show every employee around us these cupcakes? Probably not. All I really wanted to do was get my son from the playroom and get back to the car. My coffee was still in the car!!!
Until next time....
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