Happy New Year!

What a whirlwind of a month! We had a great holiday and are enjoying some much needed time off. Time off here = get organized!!

Have a wonderful New Year! I have some thoughts on the holiday and my goals for 2009 that I'll post later - hopefully tomorrow. As for now - good riddance 2008! It's been one of the hardest of our lives. Here's to 2009!!

Happy New Year!

A good friend needs some prayers

I know that there aren't many reading this blog. But for those that are, please remember my friend and former boss, Mark Stagliano in your prayers. As you know, Mark and I were both laid off in February from what is now known as the evil place in Ohio. Mark scored another great job as a vendor rep selling to various retailers in New England. Well, this week Mark got news that his position was being eliminated again. So he is faced once again with the huge task of searching for a job. It ain't easy out here...I have a job, but it's not a steady paying job. I'm still looking while I try to make this work. There's not much to offer, especially in consumer goods sales. Retailers are going out of business left and right.

I'm asking for your prayers for the Staglianos. They live in Connecticut. They have 3 beautiful daughters who have autism. That's right, all 3 of them. Wife Kim is an amazing advocate for them and the rest of the autism community. She has her own blog, manages ageofautism.com and writes for the Huffington Post. She's a celebrity in the autism community - many look to her for information and support.

So - please pray for Mark, Kim, Mia, Gianna and Bella. If you know of anyone looking for a kick-azz sales guy in the New England area, I'd be happy to send you his resume. Please pray that he'll find something quickly and painlessly.

If you get some time, read Kim's piece on the Huffington Post. She's an awesome writer.

I've Been Tagged

Thanks to Melissa for tagging me -

8 TV Shows I Love to Watch:
1. LOST
2. The Office
3. Grey's Anatomy
4. Brothers & Sisters
5. Samantha Who?
6. Lipstick Jungle
7. 30 Rock
8. Gilmore Girl reruns

Favorite Restaraunts:
1. Coal Vines
2. JR's Steakhouse
3. Kincade's
4. Costa Vida
5. Gloria's
6. Chick-fil-A
7. PF Changs
8. Kenichi

8 Things that Happened Today:
1. Preston climbed in bed with us at 5:30 am. Thanks dude.
2. Bergen ate his first poptart. I like to start them early on bad eating habits.
3. Fought Preston to brush his teeth and get his shoes on.
4. Actually witnessed a new "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse".
5. Convinced Preston that a baked potato was far better than the sack lunch I didn't make today.
6. Dropped off Bergen at daycare and watched him scream again...fully knowing he'll have fun once I leave.
7. Drank about 32 oz of coffee which had little effect on my sleepiness. That's scary.
8. I talked to my Mom on the phone

8 Things I Look Forward To:
1. My birthday is Friday!
2. Baseball family party on Saturday - love the Muckdogs
3. Camping with said Muckdogs next weekend.
4. Christmas music - yes I know it's available now, but I'm a purist - not until after Thanksgiving
5. Getting my house decorated - the outside light are already hung!!
6. Thanksgiving at home this year.
7. Preston's basketball season
8. The weekend...doesn't matter which one...any weekend will do!!

8 Things on My Wishlist:
1. A commission check would be awesome
2. Kids who clean up after themselves! (har har)
3. New PDA (iPhone??)
4. Bedroom painted and new curtains
5. Texas Tech National Championship
6. Consistent trips to the gym
7. Healthy, happy kids and parents
8. A big family gathering - with everyone there.

If you are reading this, consider yourself tagged...

My Big Fat Greek Sunday

On Sunday, we went to the Mid-Cities Greek Food Festival with my in-laws. I swear, if I could change my heritage, I might choose Greek. Those folks know how to have a good time, and I do love me some Greek food. But after the Greek festival, we swung by the grand opening of German Deli - and there was a band, and chocolate, and gummi bears and brats. Suddenly I remember being German is pretty awesome too.

But back to the Greek festival...

There were lots of kid's activities - crafts, bounce house, petting zoo and the dreaded face painting. Every time we see face painting, Preston BEGS me to get his done. And every time, I say no. It's just nasty once he eats something, or it starts to wear off. Gross. But I was feeling rather festive, and said "hey yeah - go for it!" He chose Frankenstein (kind of ironic since that's what we use to call him when he was little - long story).

From the moment it started to dry, he started crying and screaming - "it hurts! get it off! I'll give you your dollar back just get it off!!!" So we ran to the car and started wiping it off with baby wipes. I've never seen him so relieved. I think it was kind of like a face mask feeling - tight. Poor kid.


And now he'll never ask to have his face painted again. Yes - high five!

The Return of Johnny Bravo

I'm working from home today. And when I say working, I really mean chasing Bergen, doing laundry and glancing at the Blackberry occasionally. I thought I would give you a glimpse into Bergen's latest obsession. Santa's Rockin'. I'm sure you aren't a Wiggles fan, but you seriously have to see Barry Williams on this clip. Dude done lost his mind. Or he got paid really well. It's a toss up. We all know the Wiggles are laughing their way to the bank. Hey! Must be the mon-ay!

These are some seriously sweet moves straight from "We're gonna keep on, keep on, keep on, keep on dancin' all thru the night".

Enjoy! And know that Bergen is running around the house saying "Tanta Taus hohoho".

Fartknockers

I was going to keep this story under my hat, but since TV Joe has told just about everyone, I better document it, because it leads to much funnier things. Hang with me.

About a month ago, Preston and I were in the car going to get Bergen. We were still in the neighborhood when I hear him say "dammit". (notice how I take the less offensive spelling...he's still my baby) I slam on the brakes, swing around and say "hey, did you know that's a bad word?" His eyes got really big as he said "no"...so I say "ok well now you do. Don't say it again, ok? That's a cuss word and I'll have to wash your mouth out with soap if I hear it again." Part of me is alarmed. He's 7 years old and uttered his first curse. But I remember learning the "f word" in the 2nd grade, so I blow it off, hoping he's learned his lesson. Let me just add that he didn't hear it at home, okay?! I may not be a perfect parent, or a perfect person for that matter, and I'm not saying I've never used the bottom of the barrel vocabulary, but we do keep it clean around the kids. I can't say the same for prime time TV. Since he won't fess up to where he learned this word, I'm going to blame The Biggest Loser.

Flash forward 2 weeks. I go to get Preston at school, get him in the car to learn he got a red at school. Red = really bad day. I ask for his folder, proceed to look at the conduct sheet to see that my dear, sweet 7 year old boy uttered the same word at school. Oh. No. First month of school and we've been branded *that* family. Great. So I haul his little tail home, where I give him a spanking. I then drag him to the bathroom, where I washed his mouth out with soap. Yes, I know - how very "A Christmas Story" of me. I explained that I had to clean his mouth since it was dirty from using a dirty word. Don't worry I used pure and natural soap. So then I told him to get back in the car. I hauled him back to school. When we pulled up, he says "what are we doing?" and I said "you need to apologize to Mrs Schultz. But first, let's ask Jesus to forgive you - get on your knees and pray." At this point, I was about in tears because his little prayer was so sweet and sincere. "Dear Jesus, I'm so sorry for saying that word again. Please forgive me. I'm so so so so so so so so sorry!" He was crying, and I was proud. So we went to see the teacher, where he apologized, and I learned that Mrs. Schultz is full of grace and I can only assume a child of God based on her treatment and sweetness with Preston. Well that, and she has a cross hanging in her room. She told him she forgave him, but it wasn't okay that he said that word. He needs to learn self-control now that he knows a word that he shouldn't repeat. Clever lady. You know I had to add "you've never heard mommy or daddy say that word, have you" to which he thankfully said "no". Gotta show the teacher a call to CPS was not needed. I think he learned his lesson because he hasn't said it again. And he makes me change the channel when bad words are spoken (like the one he said, or stupid, idiot, etc...thankfully he has not learned the really bad ones yet.) So that means no more Gilmore Girls while Preston's around.

So fast forward to last night. We have the Verizon dude coming to install stuff today, so of course I had to clean the house like the Queen of England was going to show up. Preston was in the shower, and I was vacuuming while Bergen followed me, causing damage along the way as usual. He's in what I call "dump and run" phase where he dumps things out, then runs off. Preston's legos were on the table and while my back was turned, Bergen climbed up to grab and smash. I quickly go to pick them up because, well, they are small and annoying and can go down a toddler's windpipe in an instant. That, and Preston would FREAK OUT if he saw it. I'm so frustrated by legos. I swear, they are all over my house. As I'm picking them up, I feel one of those cuss words brewing in my mouth. Instead, I said "fartknockers". Yes that's right, I said fartknockers. Don't judge okay? It's all I could think of. The second it came out of my mouth, Bergen repeats "fartknockers fartknockers fartknockers." Not in regular Bergen voice, but in his hilarious Cookie Monster voice. Hilarious. Can't wait to hear from his daycare teacher.

Things the child raising books don't tell you

There are some things you just have to learn on your own.

Toddler + leftover spaghetti + candy corn + trampoline = barf-o-rama

Consider yourself warned...

Travis Tritt - Great day to be alive (live)

As I shared earlier, my mom had a stroke about a month ago. She went into the hospital on a Saturday, and we spent the week with her, watching her get a little better, a little worse, a little dopey from some good tranquilizers and most of all - we watched her get really strong as she faced her mortality head on. My mom's always been really strong in my eyes. She's faced some pretty huge challenges in life with more grace and strength than she gives herself credit. This was no exception. The Friday after her stroke, she had a stint placed in her carotid artery. My dad and I waited with a few of her good friends while she went into surgery - hoping, praying, trying to stay calm. Thankfully, it went well and mom has continued to improve. She's in a little speech and occupational rehab. If you met her on the street, you'd never know she had a stroke. I'm impressed and inspired by her strength.

Anyway, so that Friday, after the surgery and mom was safe and resting in ICU, I took my dad to eat, then headed home. On the way home, I heard this song. It's always been a favorite of mine. That day it had more meaning...and I cranked it. I mean CRANKED it and sang it at the top of my lungs. Tears streaming down my face, I "howled at the moon - ah oooooh". I would hardly call Travis Tritt a praise and worship leader, but that Friday night in August, I worshipped like nobody's business.

Never Forget

September 11, 2001

I was in Virginia Beach on a business meeting - a line review with Coleman and the Navy. I was technically on maternity leave - Preston was 5 weeks old. This was an "overnighter". I had flown to Virginia and spent the night for an early am meeting. I had not seen my sales partner Mary since I had Preston, and we stayed up until 3 in the morning talking. On the 11th, we were in my company's satellite office. A coworker burst into our meeting to tell us what had happened. Our meeting came to a halt - I remember excusing myself every 20 minutes or so to go get myself together. Hormones...nursing...not good. Once we knew we were under attack, we closed our meeting and packed up. Packed up means - packing lanterns, stoves, tearing down tents and sleeping bags. Flights had been canceled, but thankfully my boss had rented a car, which we proceeded to "borrow and cross state lines". You know, ask for forgiveness later. We got out of town around 2pm that day. I just wanted to get the heck out of Virginia Beach - lots of bridges and tunnels, and quite honestly, one our major military hubs. I was scared to death, literally. We took turns driving. My boss got tired around 1am. My turn. Those who know me well know that I am not a night owl. But I drove - through the mountains of Tennessee with more adrenaline than I had ever felt. I remember the talk radio callers volunteering to "go kick some terrorist ass". Only it was a bit more racially explicit. I drove from 1am - 6 am or so. It took 25 hours to get home. We only stopped for fuel, food and breaks. When we approached Dallas, we headed to my house first. We lived in Lewisville. When I got home, I kissed my husband and ran upstairs to see baby Preston. He was asleep in his crib, peacefully. I then saw the TV. We had been in the car for 25 hours and had not yet seen images of the attack. I sank down into my chair and wept. I was sad, tired, terrified, relieved to be home and angry all up in one. It's two days I'll never forget.

I just heard on the radio - Kidd Kraddick (don't mock me, I've listened since Jr. High) said - remember all those promises we made 7 years ago and then quickly abandoned? Like not getting mad at the driver in who cuts you off, or spending time with your family, or getting in contact with friends more often? Let's take this day to remember those promises - the pride we felt in our nation and how we felt in the days and months after the attack.

And remember to pray for the families who lost loved ones in this tragedy. Go hug your kids and loved ones!

Slacker

It's not the first time I've been called a slacker...or the last. I had grand plans to share our lives with you - but when life turned into a Porsche (0 to 60 in 3.2 seconds), I just lost time. I'm not sure if things are slowing down, but I am going to make an effort to post more often. Not just for the 3 people reading this, but as a record of our life. I've said before, I'm not a scrapbooker - I wish I was and will someday put my pictures on paper, but in the meantime, I can keep up here.

So much has happened in the last 2 months - Preston had camps, Bergen went to see the Wiggles. They both had birthdays and are both growing so fast. Preston even started the 1st grade. We went ot Childress for Joe's mamaw's 90th birthday. Amazing. We also have had some hard times - Joe had a migraine headache that lasted 4 weeks. Before we got a diagnosis, he suffered quite a bit...including a trip to the ER and a neurologist. My mom had a stroke which led to vascular surgery. She's starting rehab. That was 2 weeks ago. Talk about a wake up call. There's nothing like the feeling of seeing your mom - your hero - laying in a hospital. Not fun. But she's doing good. We expect a full recovery, praise to God! He is so faithful. I started a new job...another gig where I only get paid if I sell something. If we can just hang tight for a few more months, this should be pretty good. And I love a schedule. Watch...now that I have less time than when I was unemployed, I will blog more. I just do better when I'm forced to get up and out of the house.

Almost everyday, I see something or experience something and think "I'm so blogging that". Like my drycleaner, who looks like Jeff Wiggle, or the crossing guard that is quite honestly the grumpiest looking old man I've ever seen. But hey, at least he's out there. My kids still crack me up with every word.

So life is good - it might be the hardest we've ever experienced, but looking around...still not too shabby.

Anderson Cooper Reviews Living Lohan (Regis and Kelly)

genius

Where's Your Joy?

It's been a ca-razy week. Preston has been at fencing camp for a few hours each morning. It sounds cool, but it was a total waste of money. There's about 30 kids in the class, and I think they have 4 swords. When I ask Preston what he did at camp he says "freeze tag" and "catch the bacon". We could have done that at home for free.

In the midst of fencing camp, it's been "sassy" week for P-Ditty. He's normally a sweet boy, but is gearing up for the "sassy sevens". No one warned me about "sassy sevens", but apparently, lots of kids get this wicked virus - both boys and girls.

Tonight was especially bad. So I asked Preston, "where's your joy?"...and he said "my joy took a summer vacation...it will be back when school starts...but don't even think about putting me in summer school!" I can only hope his joy will return with the first bell. Until then, I'll need to find that "sassy sauce" to cure this little virus. (sassy sauce = tobasco on the tongue)

Night night

High School Musical

Last night, we went to see High School Musical at Fair Park with some friends. Preston is a fan of the movies and TV Joe came home with some pretty great tickets, so off we went. We decided to catch a bite before the show and headed to Grimaldi's Pizza in Uptown. It's freaking awesome pizza. The boys were so excited. We sat at a table with bar stools. We let them order sugar-laden, caffeinated beverages. Which is when the Dr. Pepper jokes started. "Where does a jalapeno go when he gets sick? Dr. Pepper" That was the best one, but I will say the creative joke telling lasted about 15 minutes. Little boys are funny. After the pizza, we headed over to Fair Park for the big show. Both boys were acting like it was no big deal, for fear that they would not look cool in front of the other. But they loved it.

After getting settled in our seats, getting a little snack and a small glass of wine for the moms to suck down in order to tolerate the show, I busted out my camera to document the night. Snap, flash, done. From out of nowhere, appeared a theater attendant.

"You're going to have to delete that picture."

"What?"

"There's no flash photography during the show"

"Um, it's 7:45pm...there is no show."

"And I'm going to take your camera and you can pick it up after the show. Here's your claim ticket."

"WHAT? How about I just put it up and not use it anymore?

"No, we're taking all cameras. You can pick it up after the show."

"What about all those cell phones out there? Are you taking them up?"

"If they get caught."

It was at that moment I remembered there were 2 little boys with me, watching me. I handed over the camera and muttered the words "well, rules are rules."

So...no moment captured on film. But then again, after watching the show, I'm not sure I really want a memory. The kids liked it...I thought it kinda stunk.

Only in Teh-xus!

Preston spent the week at Adventure Daycamp at a local lake. He swam in the lake, went on a canoe, shot a bow and arrow, shot a bb gun, shot a "rifle" (aka air pump up gun thingy), played games, did a talent show, played on a water slide and ended the week with a pizza party. Oh to be 6 again.

Middle of the Summer

As I've stated in earlier posts, this is my first summer to stay home with the boys. I am working twice a week and the kids head to my in-laws for the day. Preston likes to go to Mimi's house because he has a friend next door and he has a ton of Legos and a pool. When you are six, that's like paradise. We've had a good summer so far. Preston took swim lessons the last week of May and he's swimming like a fish. I still watch him, but it's nice to know he can make it to the side of the pool now. I have him in camps every other week to occupy his time. The first was tennis and swim camp. I had some great pics from this camp, but I can't find the email anywhere. Trust me, it was precious. The camp was at a park in the next town over, and the pool there was 12ft deep and had a big diving board. Oh yeah.

Next was VBS. I volunteered to help in the baby hall. Since we had Preston, my church friends have been working VBS and tell me how fun it is and how they gabbed for 3 hours and served little snack and made little crafts. I was deeply jealous. I usually did not care that I was missing things being a working mom, especially since I always had really flexible jobs. But VBS...there was no way I could take a week to work VBS and I was always jealous. So this year, I got to help and gab with my girlfriends while serving little snacks and making little crafts. It was everything I wished for. Bergen had so much fun with his friends. He's getting so big and independent. By the end of the week, he did not even shed a tear when I dropped him off. Preston had fun at VBS - he was with the big kids since he's entering 1st grade. He started asking questions about becoming saved. I think we have some time to work it out with him. He's so little - we need to make sure he really understands.

We had a great 4th of July. Our cousin and his wife and daughter came to stay with us. It was awesome having a 2 year old little girl around. We watched Annie and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. She's adorable. We did this 4th of July old school - blow up pools and firecrackers. The kids had a great time - we had tons of good food, some awesome sangria and homemade vanilla pudding. God Bless America and thank you Lord for landing me in the south. Yee haw.

The rest of our days have been filled with "brotherly love". These boys fight like cats and dogs. I can really tell it's the middle of the summer because tensions are high and it's harder to entertain them outside. We hang out at the pool at the gym a lot. The other day I heard the following argument about some random toy.

B - "MINE!"

P - "MINE!"

B - "MINE!"

P - "MINE!"

B - "MINE!"

P - "MINE!"

B - "MINE!"

P - "MINE!"

B - "pweeze?"

Preston and I burst into laughter. It was the cutest thing.

It's moments like these that I praise God for this one summer. I'm ok if I go back to a real job because I have this one summer to hold on to. And I hold dear to the times when we go out with our friends to enjoy a glass of chilled white wine. I swear it's the best therapy out there. Cheaper and healthier than prozac, that's for sure.

New Sunday School Class

This post is more for my own documentation. It's another funny from Preston that I need write down before I forget.

So Preston promoted at church yesterday to the 1st grade class. Our church is doing some much needed renovations to the kid's area and they've moved all the kindergartners to the 1st grade a little early.

We got in the car yesterday and I was anxious to hear how it went. Here's how our conversation went:

me: How was your new Sunday School class buddy?

P-Diddy: Good.

me: What did you learn?

P-Diddy: It was cold.

me: Cold?

P-Diddy: Yeah, cold. I barely survived.

Hilarious.

The Ice Cream Invasion

We've had the hankerin' for some homemade ice cream around here. And if you know my husband, the standard ice cream machine from Target would not do. It makes the ice cream "too icy". So last Sunday after church and some lunch, we gathered our pennies and headed to Williams Sonoma for the Mercedes of ice cream machines. You don't have to use salt or freeze the bowl. Just dump it all in and turn it on. So far we've made chocolate and cinnamon. And we've gone through about 5 cartons of eggs. Not the whites...just the yolks. This machine makes some amazing ice cream. I'm going to make some frozen yogurt today - mint chocolate chip.

But I'm not telling you this to pimp out Cuisinart. You see, when we were opening the box and getting everything ready, Preston said, "This ice cream machine is gonna change our lives."

Is this child a Weir or what? Love it.

Preston Rocks

It's been a big couple of weeks for P Diddy. He's finishing up Kindergarten and the bell can't ring for the last time too soon in his eyes. He's ready for summer break big time.



We had the big t-ball tournament. The big, painful t-ball tournament. It was a massacre. Freakishly large kids on the opposing team. I thought our coaches were going to have strokes on the field. But the kids all had smiles on their faces. They couldn't care less, which is awesome about 6 year olds. They were totally there for the free trophy and pizza party. Saturday night we hooted it up with the Cardinals. We had pizza, cake, 5 hours of swimming and the trophies. Our coaches were amazing this season. Big ups to them. And apparently there's been a request for a Cardinal Dad's Calendar. Cute dads...TV Joe included and obviously at the top of that list. Way to go Cardinals - we're all very proud. It's a great team and we've made some awesome friends in the process. We have one more season together in the fall and we're all looking forward to coach pitch.

Preston's other big news for the weekend. He learned to ride his bike without his training wheels. He's growing up, y'all and it's freaking me out. He's so big and adorable. We're really proud of him. And yes, we're getting him a bigger bike. He's had a major growth spurt. You can see the pure joy on his little face.

Yesterday we went to Preston's Kindergarten graduation. It was just about the cutest thing I've seen in a long time. It's been a good year. We held Preston back because he's a summer baby. He's super smart, but I just really felt it necessary to give him a little head start emotionally and socially. I know we made the right decision, but I was worried this year would be difficult due to boredom. Preston's teacher was amazing - she challenged him with reading and extra work to keep him engaged. We made it this year thanks to Mrs. Guthrey. We're ready for the 1st grade. I hear it's a lot of pressure with homework and reading. It's crazy how kids are pushed these days.


So here's to Preston - my baby boy all grown up. I thank God every day for giving me this amazing kid!

If You Like To Eat...

I know...I'm MIA. Uninspired is a good description. It will come back to me, I assure you.

In the meantime, if you like to eat, you really, really need to go to Honeyed Hashette. My girl Janna has been busy making stuff like this.

Her husband won the lottery with this girl. And not just because she's a great cook. She's gorgeous, generous, hilarious and a great friend.

Guys...send your wife here. She's a rock star. Seriously...love you Janna! Come see us soon...but don't you dare show up empty handed!! :)

Trip to New York - deets to come

We just got back from an amazing 3-ish days in New York. Details to come...after I finish cleaning the house up.

Now...where's my haz-mat uniform?

One More Thing for Tonight

There is nothing on TV tonight. We don't watch American Idol. So I'm watching "Marie Antoinette" on cable. I saw this film when it was released in theaters. I thought it was really good. My friends thought it was really slow. I just wonder, was Marie Antoinette's life as decadent as portrayed in the film? Yes, the film is slow, but it's so pretty.

I'm Angered Today

I am angered today. Is that even a word "angered"? It is today. I have so many issues - I just don't even know where to start. I'm disappointed that I still have not heard back on a job I really want. I wish I would get a call. It's all consuming to me these days. I really want this job. I may have to go on anti-anxiety pills if this guy doesn't call me soon. I'm running out of brown paper sacks to breathe in.


I'm angered that innocent people have died due to contaminated medication from China. Really angered. My friends know I have a real issue that everything we use day-to-day is shipped in from China. Stupid things. The Juicy Juice I bought for Bergen last week has a stamp on it - "Product of China". What? Why was it necessary for the Juicy Juice people to ship freaking apple juice across the Pacific Ocean? Oh, that's right. Because big retail mega-store "W" has trained us to look for the "falling prices". But at what cost? Well, we have the Heparin contamination scandal. Dozens of people have died because the real ingredients of Heparin were just too darned expensive to use. Let's not forget the tainted dog food, toxic toothpaste and lead-filled toys. And the $2.99 a pound "fresh Atlantic salmon" that's dripping in antibiotics and waste. Why do we have to import everything? We're raising a generation of Americans who cannot make anything. Now, I'm not so angry about toys. I mean, the likelihood that a child would get lead poisoning from a toy is slim. I remember the toys we played with in the 80's were all made in Taiwan. I'm sure they were dripping in lead. But food and drugs? What the frack? The FDA never inspected the factory the heparin was made in. If we can't trust the FDA, who is our voice? Is it my doctor? While I love my doctor, there are cute phara-reps bringing him lunch twice a week. They are in sales. It's their job to convince them that their drug is the best. (disclaimer - I actually do trust my doctor)

I'm also terribly angered over this whole price of oil debacle. I took economics, I understand supply and demand. But I still get really pissed off when I fill up my tank, knowing that oil companies are showing record profits. I feel sorry for people who are skipping breakfast to pay for gas to drive to work. I'm so worried about how much worse it's going to get before it gets better. And how long will it take to get better when we are so dependent on other countries for everything?

Miley Cyrus has me angered a bit too. Well, not really Miley so much as Billy Ray and Mrs. Billy Ray. What the crap were they thinking letting their daughter take her top off for a photo shoot. She's 15. She can't make a rational judgement. She wants to be grown up. They thought the photos would be "artistic". Wow. I'm guessing they loved the pics until Disney saw them. Now they are embarrassed. I bet Disney does not let her out of their sight from now on. And Vanessa Hudgens can breathe a sigh of relief.

Whew - I feel a bit better. I guess I can drift to bed and wish hard that little pixies would come clean my house while I sleep. A girl can dream.

A Trip To The Zoo

I know what you must be thinking. This picture is blurry. Oh, but you are wrong. You see, this is how we saw the zoo on Wednesday. Preston's Kindergarten class took a trip to the zoo last week. I voluteered to be a chaparone. As soon as we arrived, his teacher told us to break into groups and meet back at 1:00pm. Sounds easy enough. So Preston and 8 of his bestest friends wanted to see the zoo together. Nine boys and free pavement. We RAN through the zoo. What takes an average zoo visitor all day took our group about 30 minutes to see. The moms just laughed. I was just happy to be out of the house. The weather was nice. The air was fresh. Well, as fresh as zoo air can be.

Preston's bestest friends. Me thinks the teacher is not paid nearly enough!!!

One sack lunch and a train ride later, it was time to go. We had fun together. We saw some pretty cool things, even if it was at light-speed!

I'm Still Out Here Y'all

Hello to my fans out there. There are actually more than one of you that miss me. I'm touched, really. Turns out being a SAHM is pretty demanding. Not only did we ditch the childcare, but my trusty housecleaners were also let go. I know what you are thinking. Spoiled rotten. But don't worry, I have a color-coded schedule for housekeeping. I just miss Fridays - coming home to a house that is 100% clean is really nice. Now just parts of it are clean at any given time. But that's okay.

When we last spoke, it was snowing and I had 2 sick kids and a sore throat. That sore throat turned in to strep. For those keeping score, that's 3 rounds of strep since November. One more and I get my tonsils out! Good times. Since then, Bergen got sick one more time, we had Easter celebration on Palm Sunday, we went skiing and I went on a field trip to the zoo with Preston.

Skiing was super fun. During Preston's spring break we were off to Crested Butte with our good friends and their 2 kids. Their parents own a house right near the mountain. This house was totally tricked out. I kept waiting for MTV to show up to do an episode of Cribs. We felt so lucky! Preston rocked his ski lessons. He and his buddy Jack went for 2 days. Let's just say, what Preston lacks in basketball, he makes up for on the mountain. He did so good!! Joe had a hard time keeping up with him!

On Sunday we went to ride snow mobiles. I big puffy heart snowmobiling! It's so fun and the kids had a blast. We rode to a little play area and were able to do some donuts and catch some air. Then we rode up the mountian, had a snow ball fight, made some yellow snow (but not me!) and rode back down. It was a 3-hour tour. Super fun.

Big ups to the Jeff, Ashley, Jack and Eva for letting us crash their spring break trip. They are awesome to travel with - the boys got along really well and Eva had TV Joe wrapped around her little finger.

See? We get snow!

Under all that snow are my pansies. We are getting a Texas-sized blizzare right now. Normally, this would thrill me, but I have 2 sick kids and my throat is on fire. Good times. I'm watching the news. The non-stop news, that is. They are breaking in on Oprah. Women all over the metroplex are pissed. Every shot has kids getting out of school without coats on, wearing shorts. I love Texas. Don't worry kids...it will be 80 degrees next week.

Stay-At-Home Mom...Week 1

Well, I made it through my first week as a stay-at-home mom. We'll call it SAHM. To be snazzy. You see, Monday morning, I was called for my weekly conference call at 9am sharp. Only it wasn't the team on the other line, but the president of my company. He had news that was "as hard for him to say as it was for me to hear". That's a laugh. In an attempt to finally run the company completely into the ground, he laid off the ENTIRE sales team. Let's see...no sales team...no sales. Am I missing something here? If someone can explain it...please do. Immediately we canceled child care, so I've been home for a week playing mommy. I have to admit, it hasn't sucked. My kids are sweet as can be. But I like to have a job. The blackberry is silent and it's kind of creepy. I'm on the job hunt - be sure to include me in your prayers that God will place me in the perfect position.

This is the first time I've ever stayed home. I've worked from home for 6 years, but not with kids around. It's different. I thought I'd share with you some things I've learned this week. Then I have to go take a shower. Yes, it's 4pm. What?? So I haven't gotten my groove yet. It will happen!!!

Observation #1 -
I wondered how to know when it was time to change my toddler from his pj's to day clothes. 10am, 11am? Answer? When he sticks his hand down the toilet...that's when.

Observation #2 -
Bill Rancic from The Apprentice season 1 is a total sell-out. He's on some lame iVillage cry fest on NBC and I swear I heard today "stay tuned for today's contest...guess that pilates pose." I'm not lying. Sellout.

Observation #3 -
I miss my blackberry. I mean, it's still here, but there's no email buzzing in.

Observation #4 -
The Doodlebops have some sort of magical power over childern. We've never watched the Doodlebops because I am TOTALLY creeped out by them. As "open minded" as I've become, these folks are just too *woo hoo* for me. But they came on today and I was on a call with a potential employer. The power they had over my child was too hard to explain with words.

So there you go. Good thing I love my kids. They've made the transition fun.

Have a good weekend!

Guys, if your woman is a SAHM, give her some props tonight.

You MUST Click on This

It's been a horrible day. I fell across this. You MUST click on it. I almost split a rib, busted a gut and piddled a little. Share it with your friends.

disclaimer - I don't speak spanish, so don't judge me for whatever commentary is surrounding the most hilarious thing you've ever seen.

Oh, and if you don't think it's funny, lie to me. I'm not joking when I say it's been a bad day.

Preston Rocked the House Today!

As I've posted before, Preston is playing basketball in the city league this year. He's on the Lakers. He's really good at stealing, guarding, passing and rebounding. He's never taken a shot. He played last year...never took a shot. It's scary to take a shot. I think he was just nervous about missing. Plus there are some really good kids on his team. If he gets the ball, he usually tosses it to them.

Today, I did not get to go. Bergen is still pretty sick. As Preston left for the game, I told him to shoot the ball today. No matter what. And it did not matter if he made it or missed it.

20 minutes in to his game I got a text message from TV Joe. Preston shot the ball, missed, got the rebound, shot again and MADE IT!!! Yea! I cried thinking of how proud he must have been. I wish I could have been there. TV Joe said the crowd went nuts. We've all been waiting for this day!

When he got home, I told Preston this was a life-changing day. He crossed the line from support player to scoring player. The smile on his face was amazing.

Go Preston! We are so proud of you!

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

This is for Janna, who introducted me to the world of food photography. Apparently food photography (or food p*rn, if you will) is the hot new thing for blogging. It's as addictive as the other p*rn, just not as destructive. Unless you count my cholesterol levels. Ha. The following is my first attempt. Let me know what you think.

I made Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies last week to take to a friend's house. They were a huge hit. I was a bit shocked because I am not a good cook, at all. Seriously. The best thing I make is Taco Soup. In fact, when Preston was inhaling his cookie, I said "Guess who made that cookie?". His answer? "Janna". So you would imagine my excitement when everyone raved about my cookies. Janna told me to post the recipe and pictures.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

makes about 2-1/2 dozen

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

1 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

1-1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

3 cups oats (quick or old-fashioned, uncooked)

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus a few more for good measure!

Heat oven to 350 degrees

Beat together butter and sugars until creamy.

Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.

Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Mix well.

Stir in oats and chocolate chips; mix well. (I do this by hand)

Drop dough on ungreased cookie sheet by the tablespoon full.

Bake for 10 - 15 minutes, depending on your oven. They need to be almost raw in the middle to keep their chewy texture. Remove when the edges start to look done. Even if they are a little raw, they will set as they cool.

The key to this recipe is the cinnamon. Today, I forgot the cinnamon in the first batch, but added to the second batch. It's crucial to make these bad boys delicious.

Enjoy!

Lent Update

Want to know how Lent is going? Rent Chocolat and fast forward to the part where Comte Paul de Reynaud the mayor is lying in the window of the chocolate shop. Ugh. Our house has been so stressful lately (Joe...flu, Bergen...bronchitis, Valentine's party...preparation) that it's been difficult to stay on track. Sweets are like prozac for me. It makes me happy. I wasn't raised to fear breaking Lent. Thank the Lord for grace and forgiveness!!!

If you haven't seen Chocolat, it's worth the rental fee. One of my favorite movies. Johnny Depp sure does own that pirate role!

Bergen is 18 Months Old!

Happy 18 Month Birthday Biggie B!

I would take your picture today and post it, but you are so sick with bronchitis (!!!) so I will spare you. Poor baby. 101.9 temp, runny nose and coughing. Who wants to babysit?? Kidding, only kidding. I have not left his side today, or that's actually flipped. He has not left my side. Let's just say it's been a very Wiggle-y day.

Bergen, in honor of you, here's list of some of your words. If I missed any, I'll add more later.

mommy, dada, bubba, Pressy (Preston), Nana, Grandaddy (ran dada), Mimi, Grandad, cereal, water (wawa), dog, cat, moo, light, night night, shoes, socks, airplane, shower (showah), bath, yea, hi, bye, cookie, made a mess, I'm done, all through, no, no-no, movie, please (psss), thank you (tay too), bed, bottle, milk, outside, swing, uh-oh, Elmo, baby, Mickey Mouse (me mouw), hotdog, Greg, Anthony, Jeff, Murray, Wiggles, one, two, I love you (i ov ou), amen


We love you Bergen!

TUESDAY!!!

Seriously? Tuesday - what's your beef with me? Can we get a stinkin' break here?

What did this Tuesday bring me? TV Joe has the flu. Please pray that he doesn't share the germs. None of us got that nasty flu shot this year. Don't lecture me. There's way too much bad press on the flu shot.

We covet your prayers. Biggie B does not need the flu after his fight with RSV last year. Thankfully Mimi is keeping him overnight tonight so I can sanitize the house.

Tuesday... I need to find a way to make you love me again...

They Deserved It

Preston is a fan of reality TV. His favorites are American Gladiator, America's Funniest Home Videos and Extreme Makeover Home Edition. He wants to be a Gladiator when he grows up, which is great because when he asks for an unhealthy snack, I can tell him, "Gladiators eat apples!" It works, for now at least!

Preston loves the big reveal on Extreme Makeover Home Edition. He's finally learned that these kids aren't "lucky" to get that awesome Star Wars room. They, in fact, will spend more time in a hospital bed than in the X-Wing fighter bed that Ty Pennington constructed with his bare hands. That was a hard lesson to learn. You see, our kids are spoiled. All of the kids around us are spoiled. My friend's kids are spoiled. I was spoiled growing up. I didn't get everything I wanted, and my kids don't get everything they want. But in comparison to the kids on EMHE, what makes our kids spoiled is the fact that they have a bed. Or their own room. Heat, water...basic needs covered. Lord willing, my kids will never have to wonder what's for dinner or if the blankets will keep them warm. I thank God every day for that.

Sunday night EMHE was on until 9pm, way past P-Diddy's bedtime. So we set the DVR to record the end so he could see the big reveal and the cool rooms. So yesterday after school, he got his snack and sat down to watch the big reveal. If you didn't catch Sunday's episode, it was about a man named Daniel, a Marine. He served in Desert Storm and felt led to re-up to served in Iraq this time around. (There's another post there about military personnel and their feelings on the war in Iraq, but I'll stay on track here.) He lost his leg in Iraq. He almost lost his life. But he fought hard and recovered...came home to his 4 kids and wife. He had a long road of rehabilitation. His wife became "overwhelmed" and left him with the 4 kids. He's now a single dad, 4 kids, 1 leg. This is one brave man. They lived in a split level shack where his kids shared a room. Yes, all 4 - boys and girls - sharing 1 room.

Ty and his crew came in to save the day, giving him a 1-story home that's safe and where the kids can finally be kids - run around and have their own space. Preston watched as each kid got their own room. Then Daniel (the dad) was shown his room. He was full of emotion throughout the entire the entire episode. Dude has every right - 1 leg, single dad - not to mention the tramas of war. This show was full of military pride and many of Daniel's Marine brothers were there for the big reveal. After it was all over, Preston came into my office with little tears in his eyes. He said, "that man, Daniel...he deserves that room. He deserves that house for everything he's done to protect us." Gulp. Then he gave me a big hug. It was seriously the sweetest thing I had ever heard. I just pray he remembers that feeling. I pray that I can help him remember other people's needs and that we are very blessed. I just love to see how his little heart is shaping.

Thursday is the New Tuesday

You may have caught my rant on why Tuesday has turned its back on me a few weeks ago. This past Tuesday was no different, but that's a whole other story. Aside from watching Jackie get booted from Biggest Loser, Tuesday was still, well...Tuesday. Poor Tuesday.


Now, it's all about Thursday!

Thursday has always been good to me. Back in the day, it was Cosby, Cheers and LA Law. When TV Joe and I were first married, and he wasn't so skinny and healthy, Thursdays meant good pizza and a night of Friends, Seinfeld and ER. Before this hideous strike, Thursdays were filled with competing, excellent television and thanks to the DVR, we never have to miss a thing. We love My Name Is Earl, Scrubs and The Office. I love 30 Rock (TV Joe can't stand Alec Baldwin so he refuses to watch). I love Ugly Betty and Grey's Anatomy is "appointment television" (Chuckism). Then came the strike. The dark, glooming strike. Yes I feel sorry for the people who are basically living off food stamps now because they haven't been paid in months due to no production. But I also feel sorry for ME! Yes, ME! I work hard all day, it's a fight to get kids to bed and I want to mindlessly watch while someone entertains me from 8:00 pm on. And as much as I love American Gladiators...it's not the same laughing at 'roided-up freaks as it is laughing at well written comedy.


Last week, everything changed. ABC and NBC held some goodness back and it's rolling out now!

Last week, we got the return of Lost. If you are not watching...shame on you. But aside from the premiere of Lost last week, we were dished Eli Stone. Did you watch Eli Stone? I LOVED it! But I love quirky, well written television. And, I love George Michael. Don't tease me, you know you sing along to "Faith" whenever you hear it. Jonny Lee Miller is so talented. This role was made for him. His dumbfounded, confused looks are priceless. Did you know he was once married to Angelina Jolie? I guess before Billy Bob Thornton? Girl's got skills. Anyway... The great Victor Garber is Eli's boss, and soon to be his father in law. I loved Alias so much. VG was so good as Jack Bristow aka spydaddy. Sigh...I wish I was Jennifer Garner.

(For those keeping score at home, clearly I did not give up ADD for Lent. I'm still random as ever. Yesterday's clarity was clearly a "God thing".)

Anyway...

I encourage you to check out this show. And if you missed last week, you can watch it on abc.com.

We'll also be recording Lipstick Jungle. I was not too impressed with Cashmere Mafia, and I hear they are pretty much identical twins. We'll see. Happy tubing! And check back tomorrow - I'm making dinner tonight and I might just have some "food p--n" to post. If I'm not Jennifer Garner, can I be Ina Garten? Could they be any more opposite?? See...there's that ADD again. Night night!

ps - Janna are you impressed with my word linky things?

Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday - The seventh Wednesday before Easter and the first day of Lent, on which many Christians receive a mark of ashes on the forehead as a token of penitence and mortality. (thank you answers.com)

I'm Southern Baptist. Notice how I said that without hanging my head in shame? I'm proud of my beliefs and of my denomination. I don't agree with everything that comes from the SBC, but the basic doctrine works just fine for me. First, the Bible is the inspired word of God. Period. Jesus died for our sins, rose again on the 3rd day, and in order for us to have eternal life in heaven, we physically ask Him to be our Savior, live in our hearts, and forgive us of our sins. (John 3:16, Eph 2:8, Acts 4:12, Romans 6:23) We, in turn, strive to live as He did. We fail, at times (ok a lot of the time), but thanks to the saving grace of Jesus, our sins our forgiven. I can feel His presence in me, even when I fail Him. It's what gets me out of bed everyday. That's the cliff notes version...if you want more information, I'd be happy to share more with you!

Moving on...

I had a wonderful youth minister in high school. Her name was Debbie. In the 90's, it was pretty controversial to have a female staff member at a Baptist church. Thank the Lord we rose above it because she taught me things I still hold close. She was raised Catholic and the spring of my senior year, she took us to the local Catholic church for Ash Wednesday services. The priest was kind enough to let us sit and observe this sacred service. We did not take communion, but we did line up to have the mark of the cross placed on our foreheads. It was a beautiful ceremony and I remember it to this day. She also took us to the Jewish synagogue to witness a Passover service. Equally beautiful, deep rooted in tradition.

It was at that time that I started practicing Lent. I think it is a really lovely way to remind myself of the sacrifice Christ made on the cross. I know that as Christians, we focus on the resurrection because that's where our faith lies. But as Mel Gibson reminded us, the road the resurrection was not easy. It's the greatest sacrifice ever made.

Today is the first day of Lent. I'm giving up something that will be difficult but not impossible. It's a personal decision. Every time I reach for this "thing" and turn it down, it's a sacrifice. Not at all like the sacrifice Jesus made for me, in fact, it's rather silly in comparison. But at least in my busy, hectic world, I can be reminded of my faith many times throughout the day.

Lost - It's Back Baby

If you have any taste in television at all, you're anxiously awaiting the season premiere of lost. We freaking deserve it - TV is gone to you know what in a handbasket. I watched "Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader" last night for pete's sake. I hang my head in shame. The writer's strike has got to end!

If you are a lost fan, click here to get a little sneak peek. Spoiler warning. And remember that E!Online is a great source for Lost info. I'm sure this is on ABC.com somewhere, but when I looked, I could not find it.

http://www.eonline.com/gossip/kristin/detail/index.jsp?uuid=5d90c5ac-d403-494d-965f-f74f7b6b0ce1

Sorry I don't know how to do that word click link thingy. Need to figure that out.

Enjoy!

Tuesday is NOT the same. Period.

It's Tuesday and I've got several issues with Tuesday. First is basketball practice from 6:45 - 7:45 pm. Preston is 6 years old. Seriously? He does not get home until 8:00 at least, then we have to hose him down and get him to bed. The kid does not wind down easily, so it's close to 9pm before he's asleep. I take issue with that.

Second is feeding this crew when there's 6:45 practice and TV Joe busts through the door just in time to make the practice. So kids eat whatever before practice and then we eat at 8:30 when the boys are in bed. Harsh, especially since I am trying to ween the kids off Sonic as a part of my New Year's Resolution/Year of Amy's Comeback. I have no idea what to make tonight. I'm thinking vegetable soup since it's FREEZING here.

Third - and here's the biggest. Every Tuesday I'm reminded that my girls are gone. My Gilmore Girls, that is. I miss them. Seriously miss them. Like I've never missed fake TV people before. Sure I can watch on ABC Family every morning at 10 or afternoon at 4, but it's not the same. I miss their wit, I miss their fast talkin', I miss the diner. I miss Kirk! I miss Stars Hollow. I want to live in Stars Hollow. I imagine they are all still living their life there. Lorelai and Luke are married and happy. Sookie catered the wedding and made the cake. When I see Obama on the news, I secretly look for a glimpse of Rory. We're getting a Sex and the City movie - who do I write for a Gilmore Girls movie? And for the love of all that is good...what were the last words suppose to be? Amy Sherman-Palladino left the show basically high and dry at the end of season 6. She's the one that made Lorelai end up at Chris's door. Darn her. And she said from the beginning that she knew the last sentence of the show's conclusion. I want to know!!!

So what's my replacement? Biggest Loser. I want to be the biggest loser. I'm a loser all right, but I want to be the biggest loser. I love this show. The drama, the sweat, the tears - Jillian's crazy mean psycho face. I can't decide who I want to win this year. Since there are teams, I don't know names. I can't remember names anyway. What a great world we would live in if I could just say - "hey pink team lady" instead of having to remember names. Anyway, I digress. So I'm kind of pulling for the pink team, since that mom is pretty old. I'm very impressed with her efforts. And I like the yellow team - mom and son. They rock the scale every week. I know I can't stand the black team. The rest are, meh. Take or leave. The host is Allison Sweeney from "Days of our Lives". Yeah, Allison use to be chubby, so I guess she has street cred. Maybe this week I'll watch without a bowl of ice cream in my hand. There's a concept!

Catch Up

Wow - 2008 is FLYING by. We have been very, very busy. I've spent a week in Atlanta and a week at the Dallas market. Life at our casa has been crazy. I feel like I need a life coach because I have zero scene control lately. But honestly, do I ever really have control of my scene. Yeah, no. So here's a rundown of what's gone on the last 3 weeks.

Event #1 - Preston's 1st Basketball Game

GO LAKERS!

Preston is playing basketball - this is his 2nd season. This year he is on the Lakers. He's #4. Last year, he was on the Mavericks and his team was full of circus freaks. And when I say circus freaks, I mean 5 year olds that could hit 3 point shots. Preston could barely dribble or shot at all. We've been practicing all year. So this year, he's on the Lakers and these 6 year olds are all fairly normal. None can shoot a 3-pt, but they can all hit the basket, dribble and run. Preston fits in just fine.

We lost our first game to the Celtics, but that's ok, because we got donuts and Capri Sun after the game. Put a donut in a 6 year old's hand, and he forgets all about a loss!

Bergen takes down a donut!

After the game - donut still in his chubby little hand! This is a sweet picture because normally, Bergen does not want Preston touching him.

Event #2 - Preston and TV Joe Went Skiing!

While I went to Atlanta, Preston and TV Joe headed to Breckenridge to put Preston in ski school and learn to ski. Preston was so excited - not only did he get to fly on an airplane, but he also got to spend some valuable time with his daddy all alone, which is wonderful. Preston went to ski school to learn some basic skills, then went up the mountain with TV Joe on Day 2. I think day 2 was a little tough for everyone involved, but they survived! We are going again this spring, so this was just a trial run.

Preston on the magic carpet

Preston skiing on the bunny slopes.

Check out the tongue - that's a grandaddy trait.

Preston in his long johns after a long day of skiing.

Event #3 - Master Bathroom Painting

We've been in this house for 4 years and counting. All 4 years, we've hated our master bath. It was yellow. We had this yellow in our old house and loved it. It looked horrible in this house. The problem is, the bath has so many angles and so much molding that neither one of us wanted to paint it ourselves. We found a guy who did it for practically nothing and nailed it out in 4 hours. Beautiful! So the first pictures are of the yellow.

Bergen models the yellow paint.

Paint choices

The next pictures are of the green paint. It's kind of sage green. Thanks to Janna for picking out the paint color. Janna rocks! She's so talented!!