Southern Sayin' Of The Month

I live for the light of a full moon. -me

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

My Favorite Part Of Christmas!



Everyone has their favorite tradition or part of Christmas, and mine is Christmas morning. I remember when I was a child, my brother and I would wake up sometime during the night (think 3 or 4 am), sneak into the living room, survey the goods, eat a bit of candy, then go back to bed for a few more hours. We just couldn't wait to see what Santa had brought!

Now that I have my own babes, this continues to be my favorite part of Christmas. I love seeing the joy on their faces when they discover something that they asked for, and then the surprise when they find something that they didn't. This is Monkey's 4th Christmas and Bug's 1st, so we're not yet to the days when they wake us up. And sadly, the RedHead and I aren't smart enought to just let them sleep...we had to wake Monkey up because "we" couldn't wait to see what Santa had brought!

Another tradition we've started since Monkey was born is to have my Mama over Christmas morning and the RedHead cooks breakfast for us. We had delicious Biscuits and Gravy and a pastry braid. Then after breakfast we open up the family gifts to each other. It was a wonderful Christmas season, and I hope everyone had a great one as well!

Check out these cuties!



Wednesday, December 23, 2009

A Few More Pretties...

Since my blog seems to be the place where I've made my Christmas list this year (they're only wishes...no gifts since we're really trying to save for this), I thought I'd share a few more pretties I'd like to have one day.

Oh, and don't visit Etsy unless you have a couple hours to waste. You WILL become addicted; it's like craft crack...one visit and you're hooked!

Sassy Trio Fabric Rosette Bib Necklace


Black Rosette Headband


Lumiere Candleholders These are great because they are all $4.95 or less each!


Now, on to bake cookies for Santa!

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

It Was A Wonderful White Weekend!

Well, the weatherman didn't disappoint this time! We got about 3 inches (which may seem like nothing to some, but trust me it's a lot here) and I had two happy boys here at our house! The RedHead and my Monkey went out sledding Friday night while it was still snowing and then again on Saturday morning. They had the best time! We live near a golf course with some great hills for sledding; I know they made some wonderful memories together! As for me, I went out and took the Bug for about 10 minutes Friday night, but that's just about all a baby can handle. So we cozied up inside and ate bowls of snowcream. It is my absolute favorite thing about snow!

Then Saturday night the RedHead and I went out to eat for our 6 year anniversary. We ate steak and lobster and had adult beverages and I didn't have to spoon feed anyone, or take anyone to the bathroom or wipe anyone's mouth and it was good (even if we did talk about them pretty much the whole time).

Sadly, the snow is pretty much all gone. Just slush and patches of ice...nothing to make snowcream with! But now we are getting ready for the big day. I'm pretty sure my shopping is done and I plan on making one more batch of party mix for the neighbors (and us to munch on) and of course, cookies for Santa. Then we can spend time with our families, celebrate the birth of Christ, and watch the wonder and joy on our babes' faces Christmas morning. Merry Christmas to you all!

Here's my party mix recipe...which is the best! I just dare you to make it. You'll be hooked!

This makes 2 9x13 pans.
Wheat Chex
Rice Chex
Honey Nut Chex
Honey Nut Cheerios
Pretzels (sticks or twists, your choice)
21 oz can of Planters Deluxe Mixed Nuts (I like Deluxe b/c I always pick around the peanuts anyway)

Layer the above ingredients into the two pans and then drizzle the following mixture on top.

Melt together on the stovetop:
11 Tbls butter
6 Tbls Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Lawry's seasoning salt

After putting mixture on the cereal, stir to mix and then bake for 1 hour on 200 degrees, stirring every 15 minutes. Enjoy!!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Fingers are Crossed!


We've got our sled, snow boots, milk-vanilla-sugar (for SnowCream), cocoa and marshmallows, plenty of junk food, and one eager little Monkey! Now all we need is for the snow to fall. Forcast is calling for 1-8 inches (way to nail it down Mr. WeatherMan), so my fingers are crossed for a White Weekend!!

Oh, and I know I asked for a BlendTec, but I ammend that because I found these little beauties...if only they had a "little" pricetag too!
Frye Carson Boots in Berry

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Fast Approaching

Ready or not...here it comes!


It seems hard to believe that Christmas will be here next Friday! This season has felt oddly different, cut short for some reason. The RedHead and I have both dealt with the loss of a grandparent in the past month, and I think our attention has been averted to them (and rightly so). However, I decided to get my rear in gear on Monday. The tree is up, presents are wrapped, stockings are hung, and the baking has begun! Here's a few treats I've been making!


I've made Pecan and Cashew Turtles, Party Mix, and Rice Krispie treats (these were for my Monkey's preschool party, so they've already been demolished). Oh, and here's my Monkey at his performance. When they sang "Jesus Loves Me" I just about melted. It was so sweet!


We had also decorated the RedHead's cubicle at work for a contest and he won! Yeah, we probably spent a bit too much time on it, but it did look great! Sorry, no pic. But I do have a pic of the goodies that were in the gift basket he received for winning! I am glad someone remembers some of the traditional Christmas gifts like we always had in my house growing up, nuts, fruit, and orange slices. (The only thing missing was some creme drops and cheese...that was my Mamaw's favorite)


Mmmm...sugary!

The RedHead and I aren't exchanging gifts, just dinner out together for our anniversary/Christmas present, but if I were getting a gift, I'd like this!
BlendTec Blender

And finally, for your viewing pleasure, a few pic outtakes as I tried to snap a pic for our Christmas card.


Wednesday, December 9, 2009

There's a New Angel In Heaven

I haven't posted anything lately, mostly because I didn't have anything to say. I've been at the hospital with my Mamaw a lot; she fell last week and broke her leg and it was her time to pass. I felt better that she was being kept comfortable, but I could just see how tired she was. I thought that I had said my goodbyes, but then yesterday evening something told me to go see her again. I stayed for several hours, thought I was going to leave, but again I had the feeling that I should just stay. So I lay there with my Mama and my uncle and we were "still and quiet" (as my Mamaw would say) and she took her last breath. It was a special moment, quite close to God, and I am thankful that I listened to the feeling that told me to stay.

I am re-posting an entry that I posted back in August.

Dreams

Lately I've been having a lot of dreams about my Mamaw. I'm not sure why these memories are invading my dreams, but they are there (at least a little snippet) each night. My mother, brother and I lived with my Mamaw for about 3 1/2 years after my parents divorced and even when we moved into our own house we spent a great deal of time at my Mamaw's. She is a woman I've always looked up to, aspired to be like, and who helped shape my childhood. These are my dreams at night:

I dream of sitting on the stepstool in the kitchen watching her make homemade biscuits and leaving a bit of dough out for the "rat" to eat. I loved that salty sweet dough.

Laying on her bed, the cool clean sheets, and looking at her curtains covered in red roses.

I dream of warm baths with a bar of Ivory soap.

Sitting on the porch swing drinking sweet tea or snapping beans.

I dream of her feeding me "soaky bread" which is toast dipped in coffee (I personally attribute my love of coffee to the fact that she started me on it when I was only 3!)

My Mamaw sitting in her chair crocheting a beautiful doilie.

I dream of days when it stormed and we had to unplug everything and go lay on the bed. "Be still and quiet" she would say.

The multitude of switches that woman had hid around the house...in her chair, on top of the fridge, they were always within her reach.

I dream of her giving me a dustrag and a can of Pledge and setting me to work dusting/polishing the furniture.

Watching HeeHaw...enough said.

I dream of her sweeping the sidewalk, vacuuming every day, hanging sheets on the line, ironing baskets of clothes. This woman could clean.

Most of all I dream of her and her house. The way she smelled and the way she looked. I dream of the way I knew her house, how no other place has ever felt more like home. I don't know why I'm dreaming of these things, but I'm sure glad I remember them.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Just when I thought I was ahead...

I have the habit of working, working, working to get caught up (and sometimes a bit ahead) on whatever I'm working on (cleaning, laundry, lesson planning, my Christmas shopping), but then I stop and when I look up I'm behind again. I'd really like to work steadily and stay ahead, but that's just not how I operate.

I thought my house was clean...but now it's not.

I thought I was making good progress on my holiday shopping...but I still have a lot to do.

And let's not even talk about holiday decorations. I still have pumpkins on my stoop and scattered around the house. But I know it's coming. The sudden urge to deck the halls will hit me and I'll get it done. Until then I guess I can go ahead and at least throw out the pumpkins.

On a completely different note, I'd like to thank Short Southern Momma for leaving me this award!


I'd like to pass it on to a few other ladies who I enjoy reading!

The Tale Of A Southern Belle

Her Southern Charm

Sunday, November 29, 2009

I Think I Need A Winter Nap Now!

I can start by saying that Thanksgiving was a success. Entirely too much food was cooked and consumed, making me most thankful that I don't have to eat like that everyday! We had two dinners, one with the RedHead's family on Thanksgiving night and then lunch with my family yesterday. I spent my time in the kitchen making bacon-wrapped cocktail wienies (the most delicious little things ever...I'll put the recipe at the end), pecan pie, pound cake, and sweet potato casserole. I really enjoy being in the kitchen making all of these goodies, but I lack the willpower to not overindulge in them which is why I don't make them too often!

On Friday, Black Friday, I went to Walmart at 5am to take advantage of a few sales that we had scoped out earlier. It was crowded for sure, but nothing like what I've heard of in other cities...this is where it pays off to live in a small town. I was there for about an hour and was able to get everything on my list: a GPS, new bath towels (my favorite deal at $4), a toy for the Bug, and several toys/clothes for our AngelTree child. Everyone was in good spirits and very polite. I can happily say that I had a great experience, although I was a bit baffled by the women pushing around carts carrying no less than 15 crockpots or 6 RockBand game systems. What is that about???

Friday evening some friends of ours had an oyster roast, so the RedHead and I got to go out for a little adult time while my Mama kept the babes. It was much fun and I got to catch up with a lot of my highschool friends that I haven't seen in a long time. Oh! And I tried my first oyster...not raw, but steamed. It wasn't that bad (I gave it a generous dollop of cocktail sauce) but I don't think it's something that I'll be too anxious to eat again.

I think it's time for a long winter nap after such a busy Thanksgiving celebration, but I keep thinking I'm forgetting something. Oh yeah, now it's time to get started with Christmas!! Guess I'll sleep after New Years.

Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Wienies


1 package Center Cut Bacon
1 package Beef Cocktail Wienies
Brown Sugar (how much is up to you, but aprox 1 cup)

*Cut each piece of bacon into 3 pieces.
*Wrap each wienie with a piece of the bacon.
*Line them side by side on a jelly roll pan.
*Cover with brown sugar. You can use less or more (I tend to go with more), but make sure that there is at least a thin layer covering all of the wienies.
*Bake at 350F for 30 minutes or until all of the sugar has melted.

These are delicious and so easy to make!
(Image courtesy of recipetips.com because sadly I didn't take a picture before we devoured them.)

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Giving Thanks


There's a lot for me to be thankful for this year...probably too many things to list, so here's what I am thankful for in this moment.

My Bug baby who is sleeping on my lap right now.
A kind, loving husband who is working right now so that I can be at home with our babes.
My Monkey who has increased my daily smile count 100% since the day he was born.
The fact that my Monkey still takes 2-3 hour naps each day.
A pecan pie cooking in the oven.
Having a safe home to live in.
My mama, who helps us with the children whenever we need her (for this I am doubly thankful).

These are just a few of the blessings God has given me and I am thankful for each and every one. Happy Thanksgiving.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Can I Get A List Please?



I know I've mentioned my affinity for lists before, and even proposed that I would abandon my list making...well, that lasted all of a week. Okay, maybe I only made it 2 days, but I tried. Now I'm in full on list mode as I work on my Christmas shopping list and currently my house updating list. The house list is taking precedence because 1-I had to start by doing some intense dusting and cleaning of baseboards/molding before the painter could start and 2-I'm really getting motivated by the idea of selling our house so we can begin building!

First on the "prepare to sell" list was to get some rooms in our house painted. We have tried our hand at painting ourselves, but it just isn't our thing. So, we're having our foyer, living room, dining room, and both bathrooms painted. Luckily, we have found this guy that is VERY reasonable and was available immediately. I think that he'll be done in the next 2 days, so then I can begin putting my house back together again. Then I have a few "decorative" projects that I want to do, so here's my shopping list:
-new shower curtain
-new towels
-shelf for bathroom
-lamp for kitchen
-large frame (because I want one of these. Check that chalkboard! Except smaller because I don't think I can make my own frame)
-possibly a rug for the living room (I need something pretty, but cheap...taking suggestions)

I think I'll stop there because this is going to cost moola and I'm I shouldn't spend too much if we're just going to sell it in a few months.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Forgive Me Friends...This Week's Confessions


I'm going to purge a bit and share with you my 7 weekly sins (nothing too juicy I regretfully admit).

Confession 1: Let's get the dirtiest confession out of the way first. I am loving Britney Spear's new song, 3. And I think she's a really good singer. And I dance to it in my car. (This is bad; it should count at 3 sins really.)

Confession 2: I like to say that I'm hanging on to the last 5 lbs of baby weight because I'm nursing, but I really know that there's only one real reason...Reese's PeanutButter Cups.

Confession 3: I love pink and green...I love Lilly...but I refuse to buy it for 3 reasons. 1-too expensive 2-a girl with double Ds doesn't do strapless 3-my hips are always too wide for those shift dresses (see confession #2)

Confession 4: I stink at staying on budget. I haven't stayed on budget since I went out of work. And the RedHead knows this. Boo! :(

Confession 5: I told my Monkey that we were out of icecream because I wanted to eat the last serving while he napped, Bad Mommy!

Confession 6: I'm totally planning on buying a back-up frozen pecan pie just in case mine doesn't turn out well. (Atonement for future Thanksgiving sin next week.)

Confession 7: I haven't shared with any of my friends or family that I'm blogging. It's no big deal, but I just didn't want to tell anyone when I started. I'm thinking the RedHead may know, so maybe I'll share with others soon.

There they are, this weeks confessions. Anything you want to confess? Oh, and please don't crack on #1, I'm fully aware of how bad it is!

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Popcorn or Peanut Butter

...my two lunch choices. I'm none too happy about the fact that I can go to the grocery store and buy a hundred dollars worth of grocerys and only get dinner covered for maybe 4 nights. Breakfast-covered, snacks and drinks-covered, lunch-bread and peanut butter or a bag of popcorn, ugh. I've tried planning my meals and clipping coupons but inevitably I end up with the same "cheap" meals (pizza, pasta, veggies and rice, pintos-greens-cornbread) and then the coupons entice me to buy stuff I don't really want or even need just to save $0.35?!

I'm taking any suggestions because I've done a bad thing and ended up going WAY over the food budget by going out to eat because I don't think I can eat another plate of spaghetti for dinner or bowl of popcorn for lunch. If you know of any tried-and-true cheap dinners please share immediately! My budget and taste buds will thank you.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

A Little Something To Look Forward To

The RedHead and I have started talking about the reality of beginning to build our "forever home" in the next year or so. We have looked through houseplans and magazines and books for the past two years, and I think we've found a winner! We found it about a year ago and just put it aside to revisit when the time was closer for us to begin building. Well, we're almost there.

The plan is to start by having some updates done to our current home; new front stoop, new flooring in the kitchen and bathroom, and new paint in the dining and living rooms. We have been working on a few things a little bit at a time (new stove, kitchen sink, bedrooms painted) so hopefully it will help our house sell quickly.

Once the updates are done we will list our house (most likely in early spring) and then start construction. I am sooo excited about this step, but I know what it means. Going back to work. Blah. That, I am not ready to think about. I know that it is 9 months away, but time passes so quickly that it will be here in no time. I have to keep telling myself that this is my "little something to look forward to!"

Click here to see 0ur Forever Home!

Oh...and imagine it with an extended front porch that comes out even with the garage and goes across the front of the house. And one (not 2) large garage door. Exterior will be a bit altered to look more like this picture. Ok, I'll shut up now!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

A Man to Emulate

My husband's grandfather passed away this past Saturday, so we've been away for the past couple days to attend his visitation and funeral. I have to say that I sadly didn't get to know his grandfather very well...we only see his grandparents a couple times a year since they live further away, but what I witnessed in his passing spoke volumes about the man he was.

I had the honor of standing in the line to receive condolences from those who came to pay their respects at the funeral home and I bet I shook no less than 500 hands that night. Then yesterday, at the funeral, I heard moving words spoken about him, the works he did, and the faith he had in the Lord. As a veteran, he had the Honor Guard there to do their part in the services. The shots rang out and Taps was played; it was a special moment.

Even after his death, he is touching people...it made me want to know that I will be remembered in the same way, and so may my husband, and that I will raise children who leave their mark on this world. I want to be known for giving more than I received, treating others fairly and kindly, and most of all I want to be known for my faith. He was a man to emulate.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

God was listening...

With Halloween past, the crazy rush to get to Christmas has already begun. Hey wait...isn't there another holiday in there??? Oh yeah, THANKSGIVING! I know the Christmas season is wonderfully fun, but I'm just the kind of gal that likes to enjoy my holidays in order (not taking a pause from the Christmas celebrating to have Thanksgiving dinner).

While I do eat my turkey before I put up my tree, I will admit I like to get a head start on my shopping. Usually I'm super excited about hitting the mall, some small shoppes, and online stores to find just the perfect gift. But this year something feels different. For one, I am not working this year so umm...the budget is definitely different.

I absentmindedly remember saying a little prayer (more to myself than actually to God) that I wish I could find a gift that would be great for everyone so I wouldn't have to spend so much time shopping and could enjoy the holiday season doing the things I love with the people I love. Oh...but God was listening, even to my mutterings! That's when I saw bloggers start posting about Water For Christmas. I read their posts, researched the cause, and then thanked God for showing me the perfect gift. I am doing donations for my friends and family and hopefully learning about this cause will prompt them to continue the giving. Water for Christmas beats a knick-knack, a sweater or gift card any day!

So if you're looking for the perfect gift, here it is!

Friday, November 13, 2009

A Lesson In Sharing


Everyone in our house has been practicing the art of sharing this week. Unfortunately, it was icky nasty germs that have been shared among the four of us. It started last Sunday when my Monkey started going downhill after church. By Sunday evening he had a fever and a stuffy little head cold. His fever ran through Monday morning and by Tuesday he was back to being his normal self (with only a cough left).

Monday night the RedHead started feeling bad...same symptoms...same virus...same cough...better by Thursday.

Then came the Bug. She got sick throughout the day on Wednesday and as of today, she's still at it. She's just a hot mess of snot, tears, and sneezes. It's absolutely pitiful (and a bit gross the way she insists on either eating or smearing the snot all over her face as soon as she sneezes). Yeah, I've been carrying around nasty tissues for the past two days, but I've also had to resort to wiping her face with a sock, burp cloths, and my shirt (don't judge...it's better than having her finger paint her face with it). I'm hoping tomorrow is her day of recovery!

And me? Well, I've been trying to fight it off with every vitamin and fluid I can put in my body. I do feel a little bad at night and in the morning, but through the day I'm good. I just hope no one "shares" with me. It's one lesson I don't want to learn.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Ladies Night

I had the pleasure of going out Friday night with two of my bestest friends and I realized something...at the age of 27, I am old. Now I still feel young in many ways, but as far as having a night out on the town I am a total granny! I tried, I really tried, but I was starving by 8 (our reservation time), yawning by 10, and checking my watch every 10 minutes at 12. The watch checking was because I had totally not planned to stay out that late. I had told the RedHead that we had dinner reservations at 8 and so I would probably be home by 10 or 10:30. And when I did send the text to let him know that we'd be out late...no repsonse. He was already asleep. He's old too.

I am proud to say that I was able to keep up--champagne, a bit of dancing, a good time, but the next day I was so unbelieveably tired. And so I knew I was old.

And there was the fact that out of everything that night I was most excited about the food. I had a BLT--Fried Green Tomato, Applewood Smoked Bacon, fresh organic greens, and spicy mayo on wheatberry bread with SweetPotato Fries! MMM! I even told my Mama and the RedHead that we should go back there for dinner soon. We just have to go early before all those hooligans show up!

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Pediatric Purgatory

The Bug's 6 month check up was supposed to be yesterday, but we got stuck in what I call Pediatric Purgatory. At our pediatrician's office you check in from your car at a call box and if you're lucky they will tell you which room to go to (all room doors are on the outside of the building). If you're unlucky, you will sit in your car with a screaming, sometimes sick baby until they call your cellphone to send you to a room.

All was going well when I pulled up and was sent directly into a room. Sweet! We'd be out of there in no time! And then we entered Pediatric Purgatory...

I proceeded to spend the next hour and a half in a room the size of a jail cell with an impatient toddler and an infant. Oh, and did I mention that she hadn't napped? After about 45 minutes, I'd given my Monkey a full on lesson on the solar system that decorated the room, and we'd exhausted the snacks and entertainment I'd brought along. I enlisted him to help me entertain the Bug who was beyond irritable, just wanting to nap which also means wanting to nurse.

I think I nursed her 3 or 4 times while I was there. She'd be drifting off to sleep and in would come the nurse who I would realize later was trying to fill the time before she had to tell me that the doctor wasn't coming. We weighed her, measured her head, measured her length, and filled out a developmental survey. After about an hour and 20 minutes they said the doctor was called to the hospital and wouldn't be coming back. I every so politely inquired about the 6 other providers (3 of which are newly hired to specifically prevent this from happening because it has been a complaint of patients for a while)and not one was available to see her. Not even for 5 minutes to do a once over and give the go ahead for her vaccinations.

I was told I had to reschedule...for 2 weeks from now. So I (not so politely) told them that this was unacceptable and now we're going back tomorrow. I'm sure this isn't the most interesting story, but it's one that I've experienced too many times. I think I'll be looking for a new doctor and leave Pediatric Purgatory behind!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

In My Kitchen


There are a few things that you will always find in my kitchen. They are some of my favorite things, yet simple things.

1.Chocolate Syrup--My absolute favorite! I love it on icecream, to dip fruit in, and the best...chocolate milk.

2.Butter--I feel like I'm buying butter all the time, especially this time of year when I do a lot of comfort food cooking. Margarine may be just as good, but I don't want to know. Butter is southern and so am I.

3.Goldfish--Yeah I know, not very interesting. But I'm a Mama and if you're a Mama then you have goldfish in your kitchen.

4.Frozen Fruit--I don't always have fresh fruit (I'm terrible about letting bananas go bad) but I do keep frozen fruit. Peaches and berries are my favorite and they are a great snack.

5.Standard Baking Ingredients--I have only recently seen the benefits of having these ingredients on hand, but they have saved the day when my Monkey is bored and we want something to do. We just look up a sweet recipe and then we have something fun to do together. Warning: None of them are healthy and you may have to deal with a sugar high and crash as a result of using them!

My list includes: Butter (already mentioned)
Flour, Sugar, Brown Sugar, Confectioners sugar, Heavy Cream, Vanilla extract, Baking Powder, and Baking Soda. There's so many things you can make with these ingredients.

What's always in your kitchen?

Monday, November 2, 2009

Halloween Cuties

Babies dressed up in cute costumes is just too much, I love it! Yeah I know they're uncomfortable, but they just look like scrumptious little bugs, animals and punkins! The Bug was in and out of her costume for the car ride which was very fun for a 6 month old(real thoughtful Gymboree for making a costume for an infant that you can't buckle in a carseat!) but she was very gracious about it.
Just look at the preciousness!


It took us 2.5 hours to visit 5 family members! Don't worry, they made up for the lack of houses visited by giving my Monkey lots of goodies. The kid got candy, a glow stick, money, apples, raisins, cards, and a milkshake coupon. Infinitely better than the old candy we would have gotten at some houses.


We then went to a friends Halloween party and the kids had fun and stayed up extra late (in hopes that the time change wouldn't have them up at 5:30am). It was a Happy Halloween!

Friday, October 30, 2009

Costume Contemplation

I thought the other day how much my idea of celebrating Halloween has changed since I've had children. I remember when I could rock a sexy fairy costume, or when a group of friends and I dressed up as Girl Scouts in college. But since having the babes no costume has been even slightly sexy.

This saddens me.
I kinda wanna be a hot mom. Fluffy yes, but still hot.

I wonder how well received a fluffy french maid would be in our neighborhood as I tote around a three year old and six month old (because no one is having an "adult" party this year because everyone I know is knocked up and alcohol is half the fun).

Oh well, maybe next year I won't be fluffy...or knocked up. And I can be a hot french maid.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Tell me again why I'm not paid to do this?

I love being a Mommy...I REALLY love being a Mommy. I want it to be my full time job (and it is for this year) but the problem is that it doesn't pay. I know women have said this for years, it's just now I am faced with this as my reality and I'm a little frustrated that it's not a paying job. I know people say to make sacrifices, cut back, and whatnot, but to be financially responsible in raising our children and preparing for their future I will most likely have to go back to work next year.

And then there's the fact that I'm not entirely sold on going back to my previous job. I was a teacher and I love teaching, however...that is only a tiny part of the job. If that's all it were I'd go back in a heartbeat. But it's politics, and micromanagement, and uncompensated duties that often end up leaving my own children with the short end of the stick. If anyone has any suggestions for jobs where I can utilize my degree in elementary education or a job where I can work from home, please share.

I'm ready to scratch my eyes out from looking at careerbuilder and monster.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Ramblings

This is just a run down of what's been on my mind this week:
-Remember not to even "jokingly" show your 3 year old son a cheerleader costume on the off chance that he will decide right then that he will be nothing other than a cheerleader for Halloween rather than the agreed upon firefighter. He's since offered 3 other options; a buzzy bee, candy corn(my mama's suggestion), or a cowboy(my last ditch suggestion since he has to dress up in western wear for his preschool fall festival anyway). Cowboy it is.

-I'm rereading The Party by Sally Quinn...one of my favorite books!

-Bug has absolutely no interest in sleeping through the night and I have absolutely no interest in letting her cry it out (...yet).

-I am excited about joining the church we have been visiting for the last few months.

-I have been to two covered dish dinners in two days and cooked for the RedHead's office covered dish...I'm cooked out for the week. Except I've already bought all the stuff to make Cinnamon Bun popcorn for Monkey's preschool teachers as their Halloween treat. Guess I'll keep on cookin'.

-I am ready for a day; pack the kids up and hand deliver them to their grandparents so I can sleep for 12 hours or go get a massage or finally get my house clean. I'm leaning towards A or B, C can wait.

-I'm wondering if no one reads your blog if it's like talking to yourself? Like in the way crazy people talk to themselves like someone is there listening to them...

-I like elipsis and I can't stop using them...even if I wanted to!

Friday, October 23, 2009

My Little Punkins'

I have a real thing for putting my kids in pumpkins. I just think it's so darn cute, and I'm sure I'll put every babe I have in a pumpkin. I don't feel the same way about staging photos with them in a stocking or present box or Easter basket or anything else...I just love a kid in a pumpkin (did I mention that already?) Here's the Bug in her punkin'.


And here's my Monkey in his punkin' circa 2006.


Couldn't ya just take em' out and bake em' up in a pumpkin pie?!

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Pumpkin Pickin'

*Monkey refusing to have his picture taken...can you even see him? Head to toe orange (his favorite color) had him lookin' like a little punkin!

On Saturday, my Mama, the babes and I took a day trip to the mountains to get our pumpkins. Yes, there are plenty of pumpkin patches a lot closer, but it just isn't the same. The day was wonderful...the 2 hour drive went by quickly with Bug napping the whole way and my Monkey entertained with the beautiful colors of the changing leaves and the mountains in the distance. The temperature continued to drop as we climbed the mountain and as we made our stop at the pumpkin patch we were greeted with the first snow flurries of the season. Yes, in fall, not winter. We quickly picked out our pumpkins (I selected two for the Bug because I'm not sure which she'll be able to fit into) and Monkey picked out two for himself.

We then did a little scenic driving before we went to lunch at a Japanese restaurant. And here's where I killed my Monkey's desire to be a fire fighter for Halloween. He got a bit scared when the chef lit a fire on the grill, and smart Mommy tried to comfort him by reminding him that he was going to be a fire fighter for Halloween and that the chef knew how to safely make the fire,so there was no reason to be scared. Well, he fixed that right up for me by declaring that he would NOT be a fire fighter; he'd rather be scared of the fire. He now desires to be a Buzzy Bee...great. We don't have a Buzzy Bee costume in our dress up clothes, so I guess I'll have to find a way to make a Buzzy Bee.

We ended our trip by getting some mountain apples and then a trip to Kilwins where my Mama and Monkey ate icecream (yes in snowy weather). I opted for one of their monsterous caramel apples covered with pecans and chocolate. It was heavenly! A great fall day!

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

I Can See Where This Is Going...(straight to my hips)

I love Fall cooking just as much (if not more) than Summer cooking. I love the fresh vegetables of summer, but Autumn and Winter food is what warms my soul. I stumbled across the recipe blog site Our Best Bites and it has inspired me to get to cookin'. So far, I've made the Cinnamon Bun Popcorn, the Creamy Corn Chowder, and the Apple Dumplings. Which, wow!, the Apple Dumplings were SO easy and possibly the most sinful food I've ever eaten! I really wish I had taken the time to take a few pictures, but it never crossed my mind until I was elbow deep in soup and dumplings with icecream. Thanks to these two incredible women I am pretty sure that last 10 pounds of baby weight will be with me through the winter. (But hey, I'm not complaining as long as I get to eat delicious food like this!)

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

A Holiday

I'm on holiday!! It was a bit difficult making it through the summer while all of my friend's and their families were off on their vacations to the beach. I kept thinking, just 3 more months, 2 more months, 1 more month until I'll be on the beach looking out at the blue gray waves. October actually better suits my mood...not too hot, a little more gray, decidedly less crowded. We changed it up and decided to stay at a high rise (rather than the inlaws place) and I was a bit skeptical at first. We mostly decided to do it so we could spread out, leave our crap on the floor and not feel guilty about it, and the number one reason...the water park! For a family with a 3 year old, this trumps all. As I type this, the RedHead and my Monkey are downstairs in the lazy river or going down water slides. My skepticism was immediately put to rest the moment we entered our 12th floor suite and I looked out over the balcony at the endless ocean and felt the salty breeze on my face. I think we've found our hotel for the next 5 years...or 10. So now I'm going to get off of this computer and go enjoy my holiday.

Friday, October 2, 2009

This made me smile

It made me smile even though it's sad...and often true.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Why I Love Preschool

I know us mothers like to spout off reasons to send our babes to preschool...to prepare them for Kindergarten, to improve their social skills, to allow them time with children their own age, to give them a break from their siblings, but I know the truth.

Those are just added perks...what I really love is:
*getting to run my errands with one less child
*letting the Bug take her morning nap while I sip coffee and surf the Internet uninterrupted.
*tidying up the house without someone going right behind me and undoing what I've just done.
*getting to have another preschool mom over and actually have adult conversation (not to be confused with "playdate talk" where you have to keep one eye and one ear on the children).
*getting to do my Bible study in peace

These are the real reasons I and, I hazard to guess, many other moms love preschool!

Friday, September 25, 2009

How I Love Online Shopping...

Being trapped under a nursing baby for the past 5 months has afforded me the chance to discover many new online stores, much to my RedHead's dismay. I don't actually do a lot of purchasing (guilt about spending money when I don't have a job gets the best of me), but I do love to fill my online shopping cart with my wishlist of items. My new favorite site is www.horchow.com and what I'm loving right now is this . Maybe for Christmas...

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Daily Favs

These are my two favorite things today...

1. Feeling so proud of my Monkey as he swam by himself. This coming from the boy who stood at the door, face pressed to the glass screaming for me to save him on his first day of practice 2 months ago. Now he LOVES it and I'm so glad I bribed encouraged him to stick with it (costing me $1 a lesson without tears).


2. The Bug's fat baby feet! I could just kiss them all day long!

Sunday, September 20, 2009

"Simple Enough"

"This should be simple enough." These are often the words that go through my mind before a disaster...before I attempt a new recipe, a home improvement project, or as it was most recently, an outing with the children. We had a birthday party to attend, so the plan was to make a quick trip to the mall to get a gift. I had already picked out a cute dress online and was going to zip in and pick it up from the store and be back home in time for lunch. Now here's what really happened...

First, the skys darkened, the heavens opened up and it poured rain-- which is always fun (especially for a 3 year old boy who happens to LOVE puddles).

Then the Bug (who went on a hunger strike before we left home when it was convenient for me to nurse her) decides 5 minutes into our visit that she's now ready to eat. Soooo, I find the closest department store with a mother's room and I feed her.

Now, it wouldn't be any fun if my Monkey didn't decide to pitch his own little fit as he got a case of the "gimmes." But I quickly settled that by threatening to paint his back porch red calmly explaining to him that we were only shopping for the birthday gift.

45 minutes into the "quick trip" I had fed the Bug, put my Monkey in his place, and entered into the store to get the dress. Of course...they were out of her size. This was going well!

We spent the next hour going from store to store trying to find a gift we could afford, but was still cute. And as we went from store to store, we had a lovely friend join us. Enter the mall walker. Her route and our timing must have been in sync because she passed us 3 times. And when I say "passed," I mean walk right up on our heels before stomping around us only to cut back RIGHT in front of the stroller. (Excuse me, but the mall is for shopping...and I don't like being stalked by an enthusiastic senior who about plows me and my toddler over in her attempt to burn a few calories). I swear my patience grew 3 times that day because I succeeded in not speeding up the stroller as she cut back in and accidentally clipping her heels.

We did end up finding a beautiful little dress for a great deal, had pizza at the food court, and both babies fell asleep on the way home. See, it was simple enough.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Easily Obsessed

I am, by admission, someone who is easily obsessed. Sadly, it is often over material things, but I am also known to obsess over life issues (my career, my babes, my body, my health, and on and on) as well. Once an idea/desire/fear enters my mind, it often never leaves until I can somehow settle it. I'm just not the "let it go" kinda girl. Here's a few memories of my obsessions...(ok just 2 because I ended up being long winded...it's a southern thing).

*My engagement: This was an immature obsession. I dated the RedHead for 5 years (we started dating in high school) and come my sophomore year in college I began to obsess about when he would pop the question. I wasn't really concerned with the ring so much, just "when" we would be engaged. Now I can think back and say, "Ok, I was only 19...what was the rush?" However 5 years seems like an eternity when you're dating at that age. I would constantly set myself up for failure. EVERY holiday or special date I would suspect that this was going to be the day...and it wasn't. When I'd finally forced myself to quiet this obsession (I say quiet because I definitely didn't give it up, I just didn't talk his head off about it anymore) it happened! It was a big surprise! It was Easter Sunday (my junior year of college); we had been to church and were eating our Easter lunch when he gave me my "Easter basket" full of candy and down at the bottom was the ring box. Right there at the kitchen table in front of my mama he asked me to marry him. I will always think he is the most wonderful man for this act alone. My mama loves the RedHead like he is her own son and for him to allow her to witness his proposal was such a kind gift. ---Fast Forward: We were engaged a year and a half, married right before Christmas (the church was beautiful with the tree, poinsettias and wreaths!), and are now the proud parents of two babes!

*"THE" purse. For a long time I wanted a Louis Vuitton. When I say wanted, I really mean lusted after this purse. I am a purse whore, sad but true, and I know this is a character flaw. But I still wanted the purse. I spent many hours on the Internet looking at all of the styles, trying to figure out how I could afford one, what was I willing to give up to get this purse. I just knew I'd love it and it would go with everything! I finally picked out a style, the Trouville, and came up with a game plan to get it. I would get a credit card (with no interest for 12 months) and pay a monthly payment until it was paid off. Then the big day came! I was going to drive to a larger city the had a LV store in their mall and get my purse! Well, having researched every aspect concerning style, payment, etc...I happened to neglect one detail. I drove all the way to the mall, walked my happy self into that store, asked for the purse, and guess what...no purse! It was out of stock. Very anticlimactic. I promptly came home (very ill) and placed my order on ELuxury. It came about a week later and I have carried that purse like nobody's business. And I did pay it off with no interest. And I was right, it does go with everything! I know you thought this story might have been about a lesson learned, but sometimes a woman knows what she wants and she's right (even if it is just a purse).

Friday, September 11, 2009

I Remember...

I remember walking across campus...
I remember the cool weather of the mountains that September day...
I remember the whispers, the tears of strangers passing by...
I remember my confusion...
I remember sitting in the auditorium...
I remember my professor entering...
I remember his tears, the fear in his voice...
I remember leaving the class, going to the Student Union...
I remember calling my mother...
I remember seeing those terrible images on the television...
I remember the feeling in my gut, the sickness I felt knowing that this was real...

I remember many things, my list goes on. Snapshots are what I remember; my life that day was lived in snapshots. Here we are in 2009 and I still feel like I haven't processed what happened. I still remember everything in snapshots, not a fluid memory or recollection. I think I can only handle it in small pieces. Today, I want to say that I remember those who lost their lives, gave their lives, and lost loved ones that day (9/11/2001).

"O God, listen to my cry! Hear my prayer! From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety, for you are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me. Let me live forever in your sanctuary, safe beneath the shelter of your wings!" Psalm 61: 1-4

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Lists

I have to admit, one of my favorite things in life are lists. I like to make a list of chores to do, errands to run, groceries to buy, people to call/email, projects to complete, wish lists, etc... I do write down many of my lists, but many of them exist only in my head (mostly because I think people will think I'm neurotic if they find my lists everywhere). Something about making a list is so comforting. I can tick things off, note my accomplishments, and see how my time was spent. When I was a teacher (I guess I really still am...I'm just on leave for a year) I made lists on a daily basis. I would jot them on the white board or on one of my MANY notepads (another obsession). But...I am trying, while I'm at home this year, to give up some of my lists.

I am trying to reduce my stress and live by what I feel like doing, not what is on the list. This is a HUGE challenge for me because as much as I hate it, part of me enjoys stress. Hmmm...not sure if "enjoys" is the right word, but I have a tendency to create stress in my life by taking on too much or as my husband has put it many many times, "taking everything too seriously." Once again, I have to praise my husband for supporting our family while I stay home this year. It is such a gift to be able to have this time with my children, and it is one job I know how to do without a list!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Life With a 3 Year Old

When you live with a 3 year old you will learn the following lessons:

~"Go Fish" is a complicated game in which said toddler gets to draw a card every time regardless of whether it is actually his turn or not.

~You will be called in to observe and compliment his poo on a daily basis.

~You will hear your own words thrown back at you and you will have not power to dispute them because you must admit that you say it all the time. "You need to follow the rules." (He will make up his own rules and insist that you follow them.) "Shhhh...just a minute please." (You may use while doing housework or while on the computer, but for a toddler works just as well as he watches cartoons.)

~He will recognize a beer or wine bottle and proclaim to anyone he meets that, "Daddy drinks beers, and Mommy drinks wines."

~(This one is more of a warning) If you give your child a nickname, such as Monkey, you better be prepared to deal with your child wanting anything and everything with a monkey on it. This goes for a favorite color as well...imagine my (and his) delight when I found an Orange shirt with a Monkey on it for his first day of Preschool!!

(same monkey is on his shirt...too cute!)

Wednesday, September 2, 2009



Things I've Learned While Nursing...

Two of the bloggers I enjoy reading have recently posted about nursing. I have to say that I am in complete agreement with these women. Although the Bug is my second child, she is the first one that I have nursed.
~sidenote~ My Monkey was born 9 weeks prematurely so we had quite a bit of feeding issues with him and I ended up pumping and bottle feeding for a long 8 months so he could have breastmilk.
In the short 4 months that she has been here and I've been nursing her, I have never had so many sideways glances, look-then-lookaways, and outright stares. I'm not sure what is so novel about the idea of breastfeeding, but people are always intrigued/confused/uncomfortable (just to name a few reactions) when I go to nurse her. Many of my friends have also breastfed their babies, but not one that I can remember would nurse in public. I made the decision that I wold feed my baby when she was hungry and I wasn't going to worry if we were at at restaurant, at the coffee shop, the pool, or wherever. Now, I'm just saying...if my baby is hungry, who are you to say she can't eat. Hell, most everyone eats in public at restaurants so get over it! I'm also very lucky to have the most supportive mother and husband who have always encouraged and supported my nursing. I just wanted to add my two cents on the subject.

On a lighter note; a few things I've learned while nursing:
1. Ain't no paci like a mama paci 'cause a mama paci got milk! (*thanks Coolio*) I spend the better part of some days serving as paci to the Bug.

2.Practically every shirt you have will be stretched out beyond recognition due to shoving a growing infant underneath them.

3. Your babe will grope you, pinch you, and pummel you all in efforts to get your boob to give them more milk! ...and it usually works.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Time to Celebrate

I turned 27 this week and I'm ready to celebrate. I happen to love birthdays, as I love any excuse to have a drink and eat cake! On my birthday my Mama took me and the babes out for lunch and cupcakes (mmm!), Mexican dinner with the family last night, tonight I am going out with two of my most favorite girls for dinner and drinks, then tomorrow it's birthday date night with the RedHead at Bonefish! I know a birthday is technically just one day, but I tend to celebrate all week. As much as I look forward to the cake (and I do plan on having cake or dessert each time I go out), I look forward to the drinks equally. It was mango margaritas at the Mexican restaurant, I'm sure we'll be drinking champagne tonight, and half the reason I chose Bonefish for our date was to drink their pomegranate martinis. Geez, I sound like a lush! Guilty as charged... I've figured out that with two babes, you have to take your good times when you can get them. It isn't often I get to go out without them so I'm milking this birthday for all it's worth! Happy Birthday to me!

Monday, August 24, 2009

Fleeting Feeling

I've had a feeling the past couple weeks as many of my friends prepare for a new school year. I've been missing them, missing setting up my classroom, missing those few precious lunches on the workdays before school begins, missing the excitement-nervousness-anticipation. It is a fleeting feeling, because when faced with the invitation to return I immediately said no and wondered if I came across as wanting to come back. I know that a few weeks in I'd be that same stressed woman, often having to complete schoolwork and planning rather than being there (really there) for my babies. I would not give up this year for anything, but that feeling was there, so I know that I will want to return to teaching (hopefully I'll be ready next year since we've only planned for me to take a year off). While I'm home this year I hope my friends will keep me in the teacher loop, let me still gripe with them, celebrate with them, and be a teacher with them...

Ballerina Mom

"Whenever she stood in line at the bank or while waiting for the bus, I noticed her feet. The right always in front & perpendicular to the left just so. Even after two children she still dreamed of being a dancer." --Brian Andreas (Strange Dreams)

This quote describes me perfectly. I have always wanted to learn classical ballet, but just never had the opportunity. I was involved in many other activities, but never in dance. I'm sure my mama would have let me, but I never even asked. So now, as I approach my 27th birthday, as a mother of two, I have decided to fulfill that dream. I started to research it on the Internet to see if I could find a studio that offered beginner adult classes and I was surprised to find quite a few. I chose one that offered a class that would accommodate our family's schedules the best and called to enroll. I went two weeks ago and observed a class. It was perfect! Two days later I went and invested in a pair of ballet slippers, leotard, leggings, and skirt. (I really didn't need the entire ensemble, but if I'm going to do it I might as well go all out!)

Then last week I went to my first class. I opted against the complete outfit (may look like I'm trying too hard) and just wore the leotard and some yoga pants. I do plan on wearing my skirt soon; it's just precious. The class went very well and it was wonderful to do something just for myself that made me feel like my own person. I am very used to fulfilling the roles of mother, teacher and wife, but this just made me feel like me. I'm anxious for my class this Wednesday (my birthday!), it's fun being a Ballerina Mom.

Monday, August 17, 2009

Bonding

Tonight the Bug and I had a little mother/daughter bonding time. Bug has a fussy period sometime between 7 and 9 each night (usually for about an hour). Tonight the RedHead had my Monkey over at the golf course grooming him to become the next Tiger Woods when all hell broke loose!

The girl started screaming for absolutely no reason. No paci. No nursing. No walking around the house, so we went outside (but not before I poured myself a generous glass of Pino Grigio). We sat on the front step, a naked baby except for her diaper and a drinking mother. We listened to the summer sounds and she quieted. I thought, "Ahh, we can sit here and relax and have a little mother/daughter bonding time." Well, that lasted all of 5 minutes, enough for me through half of my glass of wine, and she was cranked up again.

So I buckled her into her carseat, put her in the car and off we went. Car rides are wonderful for putting babies to sleep. We rode around listening to Snoop Dogg's "Drop It Like It's Hot" until she was out. That's all the bonding we need, just me the Bug and Snoop.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Mirena Can Kiss It

This bleepin' IUD known as Mirena has totally f'ed (I know, very ladylike dropping the f-bomb) up my system. I'm anxious, overwhelmed and have developed adult ADD. I won't even bother with the other side effects... Trying to decide if (I had to retype the word "if" 3 times because my ADD made it come out as fi, iff, and ife) I want to stick it out or have the devilish thing removed. If anyone has comments, advice or encouragement please let me know. Going to self medicate with a margarita (maybe 2) for the time being.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Feeling a Little "Southern Desperation"

I'm havin' a yard sale. Yep, doesn't get much more Southern than that. Take all your old junk and try to sell it in your front yard to people who want to talk you down from $2.00 to $0.75 on an old alarm clock (yes I do have an alarm clock for sale). Actually, the yard sale was my friend's idea and we're having it at her house, but I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to sell some things and de-clutter the house a bit. I'm hoping to make enough money to buy what I need for my newest hobby...ballet!

Here's where the bit of desperation comes in. I went and observed a class yesterday and I plan to start next week, but I have to come up with the money to pay for my first 4 classes ($40), shoes ($20-30), and at least one outfit (leotard, skirt, tights: $~60) If I can make $150 I'll be set! I don't actually know that I had that much stuff to sell so I've resorted to including things that I really don't know that I want to part with yet. Not things that I've used recently or will probably ever wear again, but I'm just not ready to throw them out. Normally I would take what doesn't sale to Goodwill, but I've already warned the Redhead that I will be returning home with any of my junk that doesn't sale. Anyway, wish me luck! Got to get back to tagging an old humidifier, cd changer, and about 20 pairs of baby/kid shoes...

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Dreams

Lately I've been having a lot of dreams about my Mamaw. I'm not sure why these memories are invading my dreams, but they are there (at least a little snippet) each night. My mother, brother and I lived with my Mamaw for about 3 1/2 years after my parents divorced and even when we moved into our own house we spent a great deal of time at my Mamaw's. She is a woman I've always looked up to, aspired to be like, and who helped shape my childhood. These are my dreams at night:

I dream of sitting on the stepstool in the kitchen watching her make homemade biscuits and leaving a bit of dough out for the "rat" to eat. I loved that salty sweet dough.

Laying on her bed, the cool clean sheets, and looking at her curtains covered in red roses.

I dream of warm baths with a bar of Ivory soap.

Sitting on the porch swing drinking sweet tea or snapping beans.

I dream of her feeding me "soaky bread" which is toast dipped in coffee (I personally attribute my love of coffee to the fact that she started me on it when I was only 3!)

My Mamaw sitting in her chair crocheting a beautiful doilie.

I dream of days when it stormed and we had to unplug everything and go lay on the bed. "Be still and quiet" she would say.

The multitude of switches that woman had hid around the house...in her chair, on top of the fridge, they were always within her reach.

I dream of her giving me a dustrag and a can of Pledge and setting me to work dusting/polishing the furniture.

Watching HeeHaw...enough said.

I dream of her sweeping the sidewalk, vacuuming every day, hanging sheets on the line, ironing baskets of clothes. This woman could clean.

Most of all I dream of her and her house. The way she smelled and the way she looked. I dream of the way I knew her house, how no other place has ever felt more like home. I don't know why I'm dreaming of these things, but I'm sure glad I remember them.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Summertime

These are a few of my favorite things (summertime edition):
1. Fresh vegetables (I like mine fried of course because we are in the South darlin')--fried okra, squash, green tomatoes

2. A tall glass of sweet tea or homemade lemonade.

3. Lazy days spent in the cool of the house because it's just to hot to even think of moving.

4. Babies in bathing suits (their little chunky thighs are irresistible!)

5. Sundresses. Light, airy, short sundresses.

6. No cook meals (too hot to turn on the stove) cucumber sandwiches, salads, cereal with fresh berries or peaches.

7. Dairy Queen: a butterscotch dipped cone of icecream (where I live our DQ is only open for the summer months) I've been getting these since I was a little girl and lived so close that I could walk there every day.

8. Cookouts with good friends...tasty food, kids playing, laughing.

Summertime is my favorite time.

Sunday, August 9, 2009

All Vacations Are Not Created Equal

Gone are the days when a vacation was really a vacation; when I could relax, shop, eat. I really enjoyed our trip to Boone, but with a 3 year old and a 3 month old, I spent most of my time coming up with creative ways to entertain my Monkey and have a bit of fun myself (which of course must be scheduled around nap and nursing times). Monkey managed to rack up on souvenirs...a basketball and shirt from the ASU bookstore, a mini Curious George (to be his other monkey's, also named George, friend) from Mast General, and a Life Is Good monkey shirt from a shop in Blowing Rock. Overboard a bit with the monkeys...maybe?....nah. We ate icecream from Kilwins, played in the park, swam in the pool, went to the Tanger shoppes, and ate at Knights on Main (my fav!). We did much more eating out, playing and shopping and managed to squeeze it into 3 days!

However, I did not relax. Vacations of relaxation are a thing of the past; now we're on to action packed vacations designed to entertain the babes because if I even thought of relaxing I'd surely be met with my Monkey's declarations of boredom (not really articulated as such yet, but his constant pestering of me would indicate so). Though I long for one of those relaxing holidays, I wouldn't trade this weekend with my babes for anything!

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Dinner Time

It's 10:03 and I'm eating my warmed over red curry Thai chicken because when I first attempted to eat it at 7:00 the Bug decided to pull a new trick out of her hat! It's called the scream so loud I shame my mommy into leaving the restaurant trick. I'm not talking a little whining or even a short burst of piercing screams, but continuous wails that echoed through the restaurant. Nothing would calm her and I couldn't get the check quick enough.

(Side Note: If you are even thinking of trying to console my screaming baby, don't be surprised if I come at you like a Mama Bear. If I can't calm her, what makes you think that a perfect stranger trying to talk to her 3 inches from her face would do any good? Yes I'm talking to you Miss Thai Restaurant Waitress!)

By the time I got her and my Monkey out of the restaurant and into the car I had pretty much broken a sweat and I don't want to even guess what my blood pressure was. I never once had this experience with Monkey so even though I'm a second time mom this is a new one for me. But here I am....Finally enjoying my dinner and no worries because tomorrow I will be in Boone (my home away from home) enjoying icecream from Kilwins, breakfast at Melanie's, and fun in the park with my babes!

PS- I also considered stopping at the package store for a bottle of Firefly Sweet Tea, but my motherly instincts told me that dragging your two kids into the ABC store wasn't the best idea...damn motherly instincts!

Miss Manners says, "Dont' Brag!"

Well I guess I learned my manners lesson the hard way this time. If you're a mom then you have heard the following question approximately five hundred thousand six hundred and eighty-two times: "How's she (or he) sleeping?" You will also hear variations of the same question: "Is she sleeping through the night yet?" or "Does she nap well?" People are obsessed with how babies sleep and I'm sure I am asked this question at least twice a day.

My Monkey began sleeping through the night when he was 4 months old (which was just fine because he was two months premature so at 4 mo, he was really 2 months adjusted age). Well, with the Bug (she was only 1 month premature) I kind of expected her to begin sleeping through the night between 3 and 4 months, but I wasn't going to get my hopes up. So...about a week ago she started sleeping a solid 7 hours and I was happy to appease those so concerned with her sleep habits by saying, "Why yes, she is sleeping through the night. I know...she's such a good baby." I guess I was boasting a little too much because the Bug decided to teach me a manners lesson. DON'T BRAG!

The past two nights she has decided to resume her mid-night feeding at 2am (at least I have my chocolate milk to look forward to at this time!). Lesson in point, when your baby starts sleeping through the night just pray, keep your fingers crossed and say, "Yes she is sleeping through the night. We just hope she keeps it up." But never, and I mean never, brag!

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Happy Thoughts

Some days you just need a happy thought (or ten) to keep you going, to give you something to look forward to. Here's my happy thought list today.

1. The fun size butterfingers that I have hidden in my top drawer (these are not for sharing!)
2. A backrub from my hubby (the Red Head)
3. A hot bath and a good book.
4. A top-shelf margarita on the rocks. Make that a Jumbo please!
5. The Bug's smile!
6. Naptime.
7. A glass of chocolate milk.
8. My Monkey's hilarious comments. **Not 20 minutes after I typed this, My Monkey called me into the bathroom and said, "You want to see how much poopy I did? Are you proud of this poopy Mommy?" Such a cutie!
9. Cupcakes.
10. A trip to the mountains in 2 days!!!

These things keep a smile on my face.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Use No. 127

Babies have many uses...they can help you end a phone call with a telemarketer as they exercise their piercing cry, they can help you out of most any type of situation that you'd like to escape because they either need to be fed, diapered, or put down for their nap. But this morning I discovered use No. 127 (for this use, baby must be in her carrier). They can help you exit a restaurant after you've spilled an entire cup of coffee in your lap. That is how the Bug helped me this morning.

Everything was going just great; my Monkey started back to his swimming lessons and made it through with minimal whining so we decided to celebrate with his favorite breakfast, "drits." We ate our food and then out of nowhere I just dropped the freshly refilled coffee cup in my lap. Luckily we were the only table in the back section of the diner so I mopped up what I could, but panic set in as I tried to figure out a way to exit without everyone seeing me (it totally looked like I wet my pants). That's where the Bug and her monstrous carrier came to the rescue. I just lugged that thing in front of me and it hid my "accident"! Thank you Bug, thank you Graco for making an enormous carrier that, when strategically placed, can hide anything!

Sunday, August 2, 2009

A Proper Introduction

Every Southern Belle deserves a proper introduction, and although mine doesn't include a list of brags I thought it necessary to share a bit about myself. I am a mother of two who is now a stay-at-home mom (on leave from my job as a teacher). I have a 3 1/2 year old son, my Monkey, and a 3 month old daughter, the Bug. I have an obsession for all things southern...sweet tea, southern hospitality, good manners (which I admit to forgetting frequently), and good food! I have been reading others blogs for quite some time now, but never had the urge to write for myself. Until now. What I experience everyday as a woman, wife, and mother has prompted me to start writing.



After the birth of my first child (my Monkey) I stayed at home 5 months before going back to work. It was then that I realized that 5 months wasn't long enough. Not having the luxury to quit my job at that time, I went on working but we promised each other that when we had our next child I would stay home for at least a year. This past April the Bug was born, so our plan is for me to stay at home through the next school year and then return to work....we'll see.


I see this year at home as a gift; a chance for me to grow my children and reconnect with myself. After teaching (-code for being mommy to 20 six year olds) for five years I feel that I've lost some of myself. I want to focus on returning to the things that make me happy, return to myself.

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