..I'll be enjoying more of this..
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Not Me Monday: Stellan Style
MckMama started "Not Me Monday" as a way to let go of the feeling of perfectionism. This week, Natalie from "The Cline Family" decided we should honor her and Stellan by doing it "Stellan Style"! I agree! So..here we go!
This week, I did not turn on my computer every morning before I had even had my first sip of coffee to check MckMama's blog to see the updates on Stellan that had occurred overnight.
This week I did not have a dream where I was trying to log into Twitter to get the latest Stellan update only to wake up in a start that I was actually DREAMING!
I did not write Stellan's name on my front window in dry erase marker to send a picture to Stellan's Name Gallery, only to then spend the rest of the day keeping my kids from writing on the window with the markers.
I did not break down sobbing reading this post, yet laughing and cheering for her at the same time, it's about time she got PISSED!
I also, did not stop everything I was doing online to post the "Praying For Stellan" button on my sidebar the minute I saw it!
What about you?
This week, I did not turn on my computer every morning before I had even had my first sip of coffee to check MckMama's blog to see the updates on Stellan that had occurred overnight.
This week I did not have a dream where I was trying to log into Twitter to get the latest Stellan update only to wake up in a start that I was actually DREAMING!
I did not write Stellan's name on my front window in dry erase marker to send a picture to Stellan's Name Gallery, only to then spend the rest of the day keeping my kids from writing on the window with the markers.
I did not break down sobbing reading this post, yet laughing and cheering for her at the same time, it's about time she got PISSED!
I also, did not stop everything I was doing online to post the "Praying For Stellan" button on my sidebar the minute I saw it!
What about you?
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Stellan In The Sunrise
Are you like the hundreds..probably 1000's of others who have been reading Stellan's journey over the last few days?
MckMama had posted about Stellan's name gallery being reopened now that he is sick and in the hospital. After looking through the pictures that were sent to her before he was even born, I thought to myself..if I am inspired, I will make a picture to send to her.
This is what inspired me..
This is Stellan's name in the Sunday morning sunrise. God is good.
Click here to send your own image.
MckMama had posted about Stellan's name gallery being reopened now that he is sick and in the hospital. After looking through the pictures that were sent to her before he was even born, I thought to myself..if I am inspired, I will make a picture to send to her.
This is what inspired me..
This is Stellan's name in the Sunday morning sunrise. God is good.
Click here to send your own image.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Just What We Need For A Tea Party
I am really anticipating finding out the winners of the awesome giveaway's from the Ultimate Blog Party @ 5 Minutes For Mom! I am not sure I can stand to wait until tomorrow morning to find out whether or not I won anything...OH PLEASE LET ME WIN SOMETHING!! (Can you tell I love free stuff!) You can read my party post, and my top giveaway picks, here.
There are actually a ton of giveaways that go on in the blog world, all the time. I enter some, but not all. I mean if something doesn't peak my interest, why waste someone else's chance of winning who really wants the item? Right?
But today..I found something that I would LOVE to win!
Sales Addict, is giving away a PATCHWORK THROW!
It's so cute! Go check out the site, and enter if its something you'd be interested in winning..and if you're not interested, DON'T ENTER..seriously..don't ruin my chance! ;)
Have a great Friday..TGIF! And good luck!!
There are actually a ton of giveaways that go on in the blog world, all the time. I enter some, but not all. I mean if something doesn't peak my interest, why waste someone else's chance of winning who really wants the item? Right?
But today..I found something that I would LOVE to win!
Sales Addict, is giving away a PATCHWORK THROW!
It's so cute! Go check out the site, and enter if its something you'd be interested in winning..and if you're not interested, DON'T ENTER..seriously..don't ruin my chance! ;)
Have a great Friday..TGIF! And good luck!!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Flabby? No, Not Me!
Due to the fact that I am still hurting from the toothache..and due to the fact that I can barely pull myself away from "Twilight"...I am sort of at a loss of what to blog about today.
So until tomorrow, Go Check Out My Other Blog! All about my recommitting to fitness and what programs my husband and I will be starting on Monday!
So until tomorrow, Go Check Out My Other Blog! All about my recommitting to fitness and what programs my husband and I will be starting on Monday!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
He Lets Me Cry
This toothache I have is the worst I have ever had in my life. And let me tell ya, I've HAD toothaches! Apparently, after seeing the dentist yesterday, the tooth that broke has an exposed nerve and that is the reason for the intense pain. He prescribed me a pain killer to take until the tooth can be removed on Thursday, but it's really not helping. At least not at the dosage that he has prescribed.
Last night after getting home I immediately took one and started to get some relief. I was thrilled! Only 45 minutes later, after eating dinner, the pain was back and it was worse than before. I think more of the tooth crumbled or something and more of that nerve became exposed. Well, I ended up being convinced by my husband to take another dose after just 2 hours of taking the first, even those I am supposed to wait a full 4 hours. He told me that with as close to bedtime as it was I would want to get that pain under control so I could sleep.
Thirty minutes after taking the second dose, I was in so much pain that I ended up crawling into bed with an ice pack and crying so hard I could barely catch my breath. SB came back and talked to me about how awful I felt and just let me cry.
Once I had held the ice on my cheek long enough to numb me up a bit, I calmed down and thanked SB for just letting me cry.
He looked at me and said "Why wouldn't have I?"
And it hit me. I have an AWESOME husband. (not that I didn't already know) But he could have either ignored me and stayed in the family room or told me to suck it up and be quiet. But he didn't. He loves me, he knew my pain, and he just let me cry until I wore myself out.
Things like that are nice reminders of why I fell in love with him in the first place, and why I will love him for the rest of my life.
Oh and by the way..I'm still miserable. But hanging in there..
Last night after getting home I immediately took one and started to get some relief. I was thrilled! Only 45 minutes later, after eating dinner, the pain was back and it was worse than before. I think more of the tooth crumbled or something and more of that nerve became exposed. Well, I ended up being convinced by my husband to take another dose after just 2 hours of taking the first, even those I am supposed to wait a full 4 hours. He told me that with as close to bedtime as it was I would want to get that pain under control so I could sleep.
Thirty minutes after taking the second dose, I was in so much pain that I ended up crawling into bed with an ice pack and crying so hard I could barely catch my breath. SB came back and talked to me about how awful I felt and just let me cry.
Once I had held the ice on my cheek long enough to numb me up a bit, I calmed down and thanked SB for just letting me cry.
He looked at me and said "Why wouldn't have I?"
And it hit me. I have an AWESOME husband. (not that I didn't already know) But he could have either ignored me and stayed in the family room or told me to suck it up and be quiet. But he didn't. He loves me, he knew my pain, and he just let me cry until I wore myself out.
Things like that are nice reminders of why I fell in love with him in the first place, and why I will love him for the rest of my life.
Oh and by the way..I'm still miserable. But hanging in there..
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
I Put It Off Long Enough
So today really sucks. I have an infected/broken tooth and it HURTS! Ibuprofen works for a few minutes and then the throbbing, "just wanna shove my head under a pillow and cry" pain comes back.
So I'm not really in the happy go lucky blogging mood. So I'll just share a random thing for the day and you can comment and let me know your thoughts on it.
I've Joined The Cult.
I Just Bought The Book "Twilight".
Okay, go ahead and start commenting!
So I'm not really in the happy go lucky blogging mood. So I'll just share a random thing for the day and you can comment and let me know your thoughts on it.
I've Joined The Cult.
I Just Bought The Book "Twilight".
Okay, go ahead and start commenting!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Getting To Know You is FUN!
One more thing for today...
I found this and signed up to take part in it...YOU SHOULD TOO!
A GREAT way to make new bloggy friends! Thanks to Lynnette from Dancing Barefoot on Weathered Ground for putting it on!
I found this and signed up to take part in it...YOU SHOULD TOO!
A GREAT way to make new bloggy friends! Thanks to Lynnette from Dancing Barefoot on Weathered Ground for putting it on!
A Great Green Site!
A few weeks ago on my fitness blog I posted about a coupon site that provides coupons for a healthier you. I really do enjoy this site and still am using it.
Then a few days ago I was approached by another company that had seen my post and wanted me to be aware of their company and that they too provide "green coupons."
After spending some time on the SustainLane site, I knew I had to share with you all (and no I'm not being paid for this!). I am a "chewy" kind of mom. (Thanks to this blogger for making me aware of that!) So a site like SustainLane is really exciting for me because it is always nice to find new ways to go green and get healthier.
The site offers lots and lots of information from their homepage, but I wanted to point out two sections that I, as a mom, found the most exciting.
Green Saver Discount Coupons - with lots of catagories to choose from, including: Clothing, Home & Garden, Skin & Body Care, Baby, Pets, Food & Drink!
AND
Gorilla in the Greenhouse FOR KIDS! - a site for kids with cartoon episodes, activities, a blog and more to teach kids about the importance of going green!
I hope you all will check it out. Sign up for the site to receive their newsletter & to write reviews on the products (FREE!), and come back here to let me know what you think!
Then a few days ago I was approached by another company that had seen my post and wanted me to be aware of their company and that they too provide "green coupons."
After spending some time on the SustainLane site, I knew I had to share with you all (and no I'm not being paid for this!). I am a "chewy" kind of mom. (Thanks to this blogger for making me aware of that!) So a site like SustainLane is really exciting for me because it is always nice to find new ways to go green and get healthier.
The site offers lots and lots of information from their homepage, but I wanted to point out two sections that I, as a mom, found the most exciting.
Green Saver Discount Coupons - with lots of catagories to choose from, including: Clothing, Home & Garden, Skin & Body Care, Baby, Pets, Food & Drink!
AND
Gorilla in the Greenhouse FOR KIDS! - a site for kids with cartoon episodes, activities, a blog and more to teach kids about the importance of going green!
I hope you all will check it out. Sign up for the site to receive their newsletter & to write reviews on the products (FREE!), and come back here to let me know what you think!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
So They All Rolled Over & One (almost) Fell Out
Have you ever woken up hanging onto the side of your bed for dear life. Afraid if you make one more movement towards the edge of the bed you are going to crash onto the hardwood floor. Risk knocking over your nightstand, and end up with a lamp being smashed to pieces on top of your head? Well..that's exactly what happened to me last night.
My husband is an awesome dad. So awesome, in fact, that he has trouble saying no. I am a very sound sleeper and hear nothing in the middle of the night. Unless our dog is raising all kinds of hell because hes seen a raccoon or deer in our yard, then I tend to jump right up out of a deep sleep. But otherwise, I hear nothing. So when out kids sneak into our room at night asking to sleep with us..I miss out on that whole conversation. I have a feeling it goes like this:
"Daddy, can I ..."
"Go ahead and get into to bed."
Yes, my husband is a sucker when it comes to sweet sleepy voices. (I assume.)
So back to why I was hanging on for dear life. I woke up at 4am, with a major backache, clinging to the edge of my bed, and no pillow under my head. I started to roll over and got a bony elbow right in the boob. I tried to push that little pile of bones (Twinkletoes) over to get some room and ended up bumping right into SB. I then started pushing on him to get him to roll over, only to find out that Punk was on the other side of him!
I was a bit irritated by all of this. I don't like my kids sleeping in my bed, unless they are sick. Then, I don't mind having them close. But otherwise, they have their own beds..they need to SLEEP IN THEM!
When SB finally got out of bed around 6:30 to head off to work the three of us remaining were able to stretch out a little. (I only have a queen-sized bed and am seriously considering upgrading to a king after our night last night.)
But anyway...back to the story.
So, I woke up about an hour later, and immediately called SB on his cell to let him know that I was NOT pleased that he allowed BOTH kids sleep with us. I need my rest!! And I have a bad back!! I can't sleep squished up like I did.. ANYMORE!
Turns out..it was all MY fault. Well he didn't say that, but after hearing WHY they came and got into bed I realized, "Oops". They were scared because their rooms were too dark. We have an angel nightlight on our bathroom vanity that gives off a pretty nice glow and if I leave all the doors open..well they get a soft light shining into their rooms. Yesterday I had unplugged it to plug in my blow dryer and flat iron and..forgot to plug back in that darn light.
So when the kids came in complaining about being scared of the dark, SB DID in fact try to get them back to bed, and plugged the nightlight back in. But it was too late. They were upset and it was just easier forthe pushover him to let them sleep with us.
So I'm now recovering from a miserable night of sleep. I'm on my 8th cup of coffee, have taken 4 ibuprofen and am waiting for nap time. Oh that's right..I don't get to nap!
My husband is an awesome dad. So awesome, in fact, that he has trouble saying no. I am a very sound sleeper and hear nothing in the middle of the night. Unless our dog is raising all kinds of hell because hes seen a raccoon or deer in our yard, then I tend to jump right up out of a deep sleep. But otherwise, I hear nothing. So when out kids sneak into our room at night asking to sleep with us..I miss out on that whole conversation. I have a feeling it goes like this:
"Daddy, can I ..."
"Go ahead and get into to bed."
Yes, my husband is a sucker when it comes to sweet sleepy voices. (I assume.)
So back to why I was hanging on for dear life. I woke up at 4am, with a major backache, clinging to the edge of my bed, and no pillow under my head. I started to roll over and got a bony elbow right in the boob. I tried to push that little pile of bones (Twinkletoes) over to get some room and ended up bumping right into SB. I then started pushing on him to get him to roll over, only to find out that Punk was on the other side of him!
I was a bit irritated by all of this. I don't like my kids sleeping in my bed, unless they are sick. Then, I don't mind having them close. But otherwise, they have their own beds..they need to SLEEP IN THEM!
When SB finally got out of bed around 6:30 to head off to work the three of us remaining were able to stretch out a little. (I only have a queen-sized bed and am seriously considering upgrading to a king after our night last night.)
But anyway...back to the story.
So, I woke up about an hour later, and immediately called SB on his cell to let him know that I was NOT pleased that he allowed BOTH kids sleep with us. I need my rest!! And I have a bad back!! I can't sleep squished up like I did.. ANYMORE!
Turns out..it was all MY fault. Well he didn't say that, but after hearing WHY they came and got into bed I realized, "Oops". They were scared because their rooms were too dark. We have an angel nightlight on our bathroom vanity that gives off a pretty nice glow and if I leave all the doors open..well they get a soft light shining into their rooms. Yesterday I had unplugged it to plug in my blow dryer and flat iron and..forgot to plug back in that darn light.
So when the kids came in complaining about being scared of the dark, SB DID in fact try to get them back to bed, and plugged the nightlight back in. But it was too late. They were upset and it was just easier for
So I'm now recovering from a miserable night of sleep. I'm on my 8th cup of coffee, have taken 4 ibuprofen and am waiting for nap time. Oh that's right..I don't get to nap!
Friday, March 20, 2009
I'm Here For The Party!!
If you're not aware...it's Blog Party '09 time!!! I've actually taken part in past Blog Parties, when I blogged under another name, but this is a first for Kitchen Table Parenting.
Isn't it exciting! We can win prizes! We can get to know new bloggers. It's so fun!! I know that I have found a couple of my favorite bloggers through past parties and I am excited to add new ones to my sidebar after this year's event.
So...WELCOME! Take a seat at my kitchen table and lets chat!
I have snacks..
Savory Party Bread
Pumpkin Seeds
I have pizza:
Herbed Parmesan Pizza Dough
Red & White Sauce
I have dessert:
Sauteed Strawberries
For the kiddies:
Sugar-Free Gummi Worms
After you've indulged in all of my snacks...let me refer you over to my Fitness Blog so you can learn how to best work off those calories and maybe..if you take the step..make some money while you're at it!
No party is complete without a great discussion, right? So go here to put your two cents in about a new "friend" that is about to debut for our children.
I want to thank you for stopping by..dont forget to join the party at 5 Minutes For Mom for your chance to make new friends and win some prizes!
Feel free to hang out as long as you like, and leave me comments! I will definitely respond and keep the conversation going!
Just wanted to add in my prize preferences as I totally forgot to do it this morning!
The following are my top choices in order of preference..if I win and all are "taken"..then whatever I receive will be fantasic and I will absolutely LOVE, I am sure of it! All the prizes listed sound GREAT!!
1. 58 – Kitchen Aid Artisan Stand Mixer
Provided by: Moms Who Think
Prize details: From Amish Friendship Bread to Decadent Cheesecake and all the meals in between dessert, Moms Who Think has recipes you’ll love. We would like to donate a Kitchen Aid Artisan Stand Mixer to help make one lucky winner’s home cooking even easier. (winner’s choice of color, $349.99 retail value)
2. 119 — 2 Life journals (one for you, one for a friend) to guide Bible reading and study
Provided by: Mom’s Toolbox
Prize details: These Life journals will guide you (and a friend) through the SOAP method of journaling your way through the Bible in a year, or whatever time frame you choose. On April 18-19 I will be cycling from Houston to Austin in the BP MS 150 to raise awareness and funds for Multiple Sclerosis. Want to support my ride or learn more about why I am riding?
3. 49 – Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred DVD and The Biggest Loser Family Cookbook: Budget Friendly Meals Your Whole Family Will Love
Provided by: Pudget: Losing Weight On A Budget
Prize details: These two great tools will help you during any phase of your weight loss journey.
4. 68 – $30 gift certificate to Christian Book Distributors
Provided by: A High And Noble Calling
Prize details: A High And Noble Calling would like to encourage you in your role as a wife, mother, and homemaker by donating one $30 Gift Certificate to Christian Book Distributors for you to enjoy.
5. 80 – Crocheted Fat Bottom Bag
Provided by: Biz from Happily Thinner After
Prize Details: 1 (one) Fat Bottom Bag - Hand made (crocheted) in the color of choice and lined - value $50.
6. Any of the Target gift cards!
Isn't it exciting! We can win prizes! We can get to know new bloggers. It's so fun!! I know that I have found a couple of my favorite bloggers through past parties and I am excited to add new ones to my sidebar after this year's event.
So...WELCOME! Take a seat at my kitchen table and lets chat!
I have snacks..
Savory Party Bread
Pumpkin Seeds
I have pizza:
Herbed Parmesan Pizza Dough
Red & White Sauce
I have dessert:
Sauteed Strawberries
For the kiddies:
Sugar-Free Gummi Worms
After you've indulged in all of my snacks...let me refer you over to my Fitness Blog so you can learn how to best work off those calories and maybe..if you take the step..make some money while you're at it!
No party is complete without a great discussion, right? So go here to put your two cents in about a new "friend" that is about to debut for our children.
I want to thank you for stopping by..dont forget to join the party at 5 Minutes For Mom for your chance to make new friends and win some prizes!
Feel free to hang out as long as you like, and leave me comments! I will definitely respond and keep the conversation going!
Just wanted to add in my prize preferences as I totally forgot to do it this morning!
The following are my top choices in order of preference..if I win and all are "taken"..then whatever I receive will be fantasic and I will absolutely LOVE, I am sure of it! All the prizes listed sound GREAT!!
1. 58 – Kitchen Aid Artisan Stand Mixer
Provided by: Moms Who Think
Prize details: From Amish Friendship Bread to Decadent Cheesecake and all the meals in between dessert, Moms Who Think has recipes you’ll love. We would like to donate a Kitchen Aid Artisan Stand Mixer to help make one lucky winner’s home cooking even easier. (winner’s choice of color, $349.99 retail value)
2. 119 — 2 Life journals (one for you, one for a friend) to guide Bible reading and study
Provided by: Mom’s Toolbox
Prize details: These Life journals will guide you (and a friend) through the SOAP method of journaling your way through the Bible in a year, or whatever time frame you choose. On April 18-19 I will be cycling from Houston to Austin in the BP MS 150 to raise awareness and funds for Multiple Sclerosis. Want to support my ride or learn more about why I am riding?
3. 49 – Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred DVD and The Biggest Loser Family Cookbook: Budget Friendly Meals Your Whole Family Will Love
Provided by: Pudget: Losing Weight On A Budget
Prize details: These two great tools will help you during any phase of your weight loss journey.
4. 68 – $30 gift certificate to Christian Book Distributors
Provided by: A High And Noble Calling
Prize details: A High And Noble Calling would like to encourage you in your role as a wife, mother, and homemaker by donating one $30 Gift Certificate to Christian Book Distributors for you to enjoy.
5. 80 – Crocheted Fat Bottom Bag
Provided by: Biz from Happily Thinner After
Prize Details: 1 (one) Fat Bottom Bag - Hand made (crocheted) in the color of choice and lined - value $50.
6. Any of the Target gift cards!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Take Me Out To The Ball Game..
Punk is starting t-ball this year. He is so excited and has been out every warm day this week practicing throwing and catching with SB. It's so funny watching him pick up on his dad's way of talking.
"Hey Dad, that had some 'gas' on it didn't it!?"
So cute!
We got the call earlier this week from his coach letting us know that practice starts Monday and that he was to go in on Wednesday(yesterday) to get fitted for his shirt. We were also informed that SB would get to be the assistant coach, and let me tell you that was so exciting for me!
I really want us to be active in our kids activities. Not just become the parents that drop off our kid and show back up at the end to take them home. So by SB getting to be assistant coach, I know that we are off to a great start in supporting Punk and letting him know we are there for him ALL THE WAY!
Anyway, last night Punk and SB took off to go get sized for shirts and Punk had the BIGGEST SMILE on his face. He looked so grown up it about broke my heart. After about an hour or so and they hadn't shown back up, I started to get a bit concerned and called SB on his cell.
Me: "Where are you?"
SB: "Oh, we had to go to the other sports store to get his pants & socks because the other place didn't have his size."
Me: "I didn't know you were getting that stuff today?"
SB: "Yeah..well..Punk can be pretty persuasive."
(tell me about it!)
So they finally get home and Punk starts pulling his purchases out of his bag. Out comes black pants and red socks.
Me: "His colors are black and red?"
SB: "Yep..lucky boy!"
Me: "Lucky MOMMY..I wont have to worry about buying stock in "Spray & Wash" to keep his pants white!"
Let me just add that Punk's FAVORITE colors are black & red. If he had his way we'd paint our house black.
So, he is happy, I am happy. Let's PLAY BALL!
"Hey Dad, that had some 'gas' on it didn't it!?"
So cute!
We got the call earlier this week from his coach letting us know that practice starts Monday and that he was to go in on Wednesday(yesterday) to get fitted for his shirt. We were also informed that SB would get to be the assistant coach, and let me tell you that was so exciting for me!
I really want us to be active in our kids activities. Not just become the parents that drop off our kid and show back up at the end to take them home. So by SB getting to be assistant coach, I know that we are off to a great start in supporting Punk and letting him know we are there for him ALL THE WAY!
Anyway, last night Punk and SB took off to go get sized for shirts and Punk had the BIGGEST SMILE on his face. He looked so grown up it about broke my heart. After about an hour or so and they hadn't shown back up, I started to get a bit concerned and called SB on his cell.
Me: "Where are you?"
SB: "Oh, we had to go to the other sports store to get his pants & socks because the other place didn't have his size."
Me: "I didn't know you were getting that stuff today?"
SB: "Yeah..well..Punk can be pretty persuasive."
(tell me about it!)
So they finally get home and Punk starts pulling his purchases out of his bag. Out comes black pants and red socks.
Me: "His colors are black and red?"
SB: "Yep..lucky boy!"
Me: "Lucky MOMMY..I wont have to worry about buying stock in "Spray & Wash" to keep his pants white!"
Let me just add that Punk's FAVORITE colors are black & red. If he had his way we'd paint our house black.
So, he is happy, I am happy. Let's PLAY BALL!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
I Think She's CUTE!
So apparently an older version of Dora is set to release later this year. This way our daughters (and sons) who adore Dora can have her "grow" with them. As much as my kids love Dora, (Punk has kind of turned his back on her now that he's 5!) it saddens me to think that this little girl, who annoyed me to no end at first but whom I now love, would stop being a part of their childhood once they "outgrow" her. So for me, this new Dora is exciting and I can't wait to see how they market her and how she will become a part of our family.
But unfortunately, there are lots of moms out there who are in an uproar. They think that Mattel & Nickelodeon have "sexed" Dora up. I don't see it. I think this new version of Dora looks about like any other regular little girl as she grows up. Becoming aware of fashion, and wanting to try it out for herself.
Take a look at this pic and let me know what you think. When you are done here, you should go read the article that brought all of this to my attention.
But unfortunately, there are lots of moms out there who are in an uproar. They think that Mattel & Nickelodeon have "sexed" Dora up. I don't see it. I think this new version of Dora looks about like any other regular little girl as she grows up. Becoming aware of fashion, and wanting to try it out for herself.
Take a look at this pic and let me know what you think. When you are done here, you should go read the article that brought all of this to my attention.
Monday, March 16, 2009
A Good Day Turned Bad
Yesterday was a lovely/awful day. I woke up early with my kids as always and immediately started getting ready for church. I recently have recommitted to finding the right church for us so that I can continue my spiritual growth and raise my children up to love Jesus. SB informed me on the way out the door to head to work (that's right, my husband works on weekends..the OT is SO worth it!) that Punk had been up very early coughing and decided to head back to bed because he didn't feel well. I was concerned for him, but pretty upset. This meant that my goal to try a new church was squashed. I still went ahead and showered and got dressed "just in case".
At 9am, I called my mom, who had intended to join the kids and I on our new church adventure, and told her that unfortunately, it looked like I had to stay home. Once she found out that I was dressed she told me that since she hadn't started to get ready yet, she would come stay with the kids and I could go check it out and let her know if it was worth it to go back next week.
Let me just say, I was SO thankful for this and when she showed up at 10:15 I headed out on my merry way to attend the 10:30 service. It was WONDERFUL! This church does an amazing job at acknowledging visitors. They provide a packet of information on their church and after the service invite visitors to go to a reception in the church office where the Associate Pastor waits for you and answers all of your questions. (You even get coffee, doughnuts, and a coffee mug filled with Hershey Kisses to keep!)
Not to say I was swayed by the gift, but the other churches I had tried out last fall did NOTHING to acknowledge visitors. I had even filled out the visitor cards requesting more information and never received so much as a phone call! So THIS was JUST what I needed to feel comfortable and welcome.
I returned home so excited to share with my mom that not only did this church make me feel welcome, but the sermon was AWESOME, the people were friendly, and there were plenty of young families (which was majorly important for me since I have all these kids!). We then headed outside since it was warm and sunny and spent the rest of the afternoon walking around my yard checking out what plants were popping up. (This is my family's first spring in our new house so it's going to be surprise to see what landscaping we have.) Later, we decided to sit on the front porch to chat.
It was then that I started to get a few whiffs of natural gas. At first I just ignored it because I thought I was just smelling things, but then my husband came home and I asked him if he could smell it. He said no, but he had smelt it a few days before, but didn't think anything of it. My mom then said she could smell it and SB went to check the basement where the meter is and said there was an odor down there.
CRAP!!!!
So we proceeded to call the gas company's emergency line and they sent a technician out right away. Turns out our entire gas line from the street to our house needed replaced, as well as our meter. The man informed us that yes they would have to dig in our yard, but promised that it would be a small line dug and by the time they left we'd barely notice they had been there.
We spent the night without heat and hot water because of course they turned everything off, and awoke this morning a bit chilly, but otherwise okay and ready to have this mess taken care of.
About an hour ago the gas company showed up. With. A. BACKHOE!!
I now have a totally dug up yard, dirt ground into my carpet because they have to keep coming in to check things out in the basement. And a crying 3 year old because she is positive that the backhoe is going to crash through our house.
Fun times. Let me tell ya!
At 9am, I called my mom, who had intended to join the kids and I on our new church adventure, and told her that unfortunately, it looked like I had to stay home. Once she found out that I was dressed she told me that since she hadn't started to get ready yet, she would come stay with the kids and I could go check it out and let her know if it was worth it to go back next week.
Let me just say, I was SO thankful for this and when she showed up at 10:15 I headed out on my merry way to attend the 10:30 service. It was WONDERFUL! This church does an amazing job at acknowledging visitors. They provide a packet of information on their church and after the service invite visitors to go to a reception in the church office where the Associate Pastor waits for you and answers all of your questions. (You even get coffee, doughnuts, and a coffee mug filled with Hershey Kisses to keep!)
Not to say I was swayed by the gift, but the other churches I had tried out last fall did NOTHING to acknowledge visitors. I had even filled out the visitor cards requesting more information and never received so much as a phone call! So THIS was JUST what I needed to feel comfortable and welcome.
I returned home so excited to share with my mom that not only did this church make me feel welcome, but the sermon was AWESOME, the people were friendly, and there were plenty of young families (which was majorly important for me since I have all these kids!). We then headed outside since it was warm and sunny and spent the rest of the afternoon walking around my yard checking out what plants were popping up. (This is my family's first spring in our new house so it's going to be surprise to see what landscaping we have.) Later, we decided to sit on the front porch to chat.
It was then that I started to get a few whiffs of natural gas. At first I just ignored it because I thought I was just smelling things, but then my husband came home and I asked him if he could smell it. He said no, but he had smelt it a few days before, but didn't think anything of it. My mom then said she could smell it and SB went to check the basement where the meter is and said there was an odor down there.
CRAP!!!!
So we proceeded to call the gas company's emergency line and they sent a technician out right away. Turns out our entire gas line from the street to our house needed replaced, as well as our meter. The man informed us that yes they would have to dig in our yard, but promised that it would be a small line dug and by the time they left we'd barely notice they had been there.
We spent the night without heat and hot water because of course they turned everything off, and awoke this morning a bit chilly, but otherwise okay and ready to have this mess taken care of.
About an hour ago the gas company showed up. With. A. BACKHOE!!
I now have a totally dug up yard, dirt ground into my carpet because they have to keep coming in to check things out in the basement. And a crying 3 year old because she is positive that the backhoe is going to crash through our house.
Fun times. Let me tell ya!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The Cat Says Moo
So we're sitting at the KITCHEN TABLE yesterday morning and the kids were eating their cereal. With milk. Which to some of you may seem like "Okay, so...?" But my kids NEVER want milk in their cereal. They prefer it "dry".
But yesterday they wanted milk, so of course I was more than happy to oblige.
After finishing off his cereal. Punk was "drinking" the milk with his spoon and randomly yelled out "YUM! COW MILK!"
I looked up, laughed out loud and said, "Yeah..that's where milk comes from."
He replied, "No, it ain't." To which I laughed out loud again, because seriously? Ain't? Where did he learn that? That word most definitely is not in my vocabulary. Maybe he's heard his dad say it? I dont know. But so random!
Twinkletoes was in the process of putting her empty bowl in the kitchen and comes back to the table just a chuckling like she heard the funniest joke. I looked at her with that "what's so funny" look on my face and she squeaks out between giggles, "Milk don't come from cows! *hee hee* Milk comes from CATS!"
So I then proceeded to spend the next 15 minutes explaining to Punk that "ain't ain't a word and we ain't gonna say it"...and to Twinkletoes...well I tried explaining that yes, some milk comes from cats but the milk WE drink comes from cows. She continued to giggle. I think she thinks I was kidding. Maybe I need to start looking into preschools, because apparently, I "ain't" doing such a hot job of home preschooling these kids on my own!
But yesterday they wanted milk, so of course I was more than happy to oblige.
After finishing off his cereal. Punk was "drinking" the milk with his spoon and randomly yelled out "YUM! COW MILK!"
I looked up, laughed out loud and said, "Yeah..that's where milk comes from."
He replied, "No, it ain't." To which I laughed out loud again, because seriously? Ain't? Where did he learn that? That word most definitely is not in my vocabulary. Maybe he's heard his dad say it? I dont know. But so random!
Twinkletoes was in the process of putting her empty bowl in the kitchen and comes back to the table just a chuckling like she heard the funniest joke. I looked at her with that "what's so funny" look on my face and she squeaks out between giggles, "Milk don't come from cows! *hee hee* Milk comes from CATS!"
So I then proceeded to spend the next 15 minutes explaining to Punk that "ain't ain't a word and we ain't gonna say it"...and to Twinkletoes...well I tried explaining that yes, some milk comes from cats but the milk WE drink comes from cows. She continued to giggle. I think she thinks I was kidding. Maybe I need to start looking into preschools, because apparently, I "ain't" doing such a hot job of home preschooling these kids on my own!
Friday, March 13, 2009
Okay Lord, You Have My Attention
I've been needing to make some changes in my life. Nothing major...well something very major. But what I mean is nothing like moving or divorcing my husband! ;)
What I mean is I've been needing to refocus on my faith. I am a Christian. I love Jesus and I know that through him I have received Grace.
But I have not been very faithful to him. I have only been praying when I needed something, or when I remembered. Not good. I haven't been going to church because we have had reasons to search for a new one. Unfortunately, I have been using the "we're looking for a new church" excuse for over a year.
I need to refocus on Him. I need to get back to church. I need to trust.
Thanks to an amazing blogger that I have recently come across, my heart has been spoken to. I spent a couple of hours yesterday reading her blog and sobbing. Yes, her story is sad. Very sad. She has experienced more sadness than any one person should ever have to encounter. But yet she still trusts in Him. She still is reaching out to so many others when even the best of us may have turned inward and shut others out. I am in awe of her.
But the thing is. When I was reading her multiple posts. And like I said, sobbing. My heart was being spoken to. He was telling me that sure, she has great faith, but there is nothing stopping me from having that same kind of faith too. Except me. I'm holding myself back. He is there waiting for me. He has always been there. And I have not been meeting him in the quiet. Heck, I haven't been meeting him nearly enough in any situation.
So Lord, I am here now.
And for those of you wanting to know who this lovely blogger is. Just click on the box below. And make sure to have plenty of tissues available.
What I mean is I've been needing to refocus on my faith. I am a Christian. I love Jesus and I know that through him I have received Grace.
But I have not been very faithful to him. I have only been praying when I needed something, or when I remembered. Not good. I haven't been going to church because we have had reasons to search for a new one. Unfortunately, I have been using the "we're looking for a new church" excuse for over a year.
I need to refocus on Him. I need to get back to church. I need to trust.
Thanks to an amazing blogger that I have recently come across, my heart has been spoken to. I spent a couple of hours yesterday reading her blog and sobbing. Yes, her story is sad. Very sad. She has experienced more sadness than any one person should ever have to encounter. But yet she still trusts in Him. She still is reaching out to so many others when even the best of us may have turned inward and shut others out. I am in awe of her.
But the thing is. When I was reading her multiple posts. And like I said, sobbing. My heart was being spoken to. He was telling me that sure, she has great faith, but there is nothing stopping me from having that same kind of faith too. Except me. I'm holding myself back. He is there waiting for me. He has always been there. And I have not been meeting him in the quiet. Heck, I haven't been meeting him nearly enough in any situation.
So Lord, I am here now.
And for those of you wanting to know who this lovely blogger is. Just click on the box below. And make sure to have plenty of tissues available.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Sick Days. Then & Now.
I have been sick now for almost 2 weeks. I thought I was getting better, but now I think I am having a relapse. I think I have an infected vocal cord. Or maybe not. But that's just how it feels. Every time I cough there is a searing pain in one part of my throat. My voice is weakened. So I am trying not to talk. If you know me, you'll understand that this is virtually impossible. I love to talk. And I also have 3 kids, and a dog whom I have to yell at about 1000 times a day. So lets just say, it's been a long morning..already.
It's hard to get your point across when one child is beating on the other, or the dog is biting off their socks when all you can do is whisper (in a stern tone) "knock it off or you will sit in time out (go in your kennel)".
I wish I had a whistle.
So today we are just trying to survive. Or I am at least. I've decided to take a sick day and not do anything around here. Well I'll still dress & bathe the kids, make the meals, unload & load the dishwasher, take out that trash...but that's it. I swear. Toys all over the house, so be it. Beds unmade, oh well. Momma is sick and I need to rest.
Makes me wish I wouldn't have taken sick days as a kid for granted. When all I was expected to do was lie on my grandma's couch, get waited on and watch how ever many cartoons I wanted. And nap. Oh how I wish I'd have taken advantage of naps when I was able to take them!
In other news, I wrote a pretty great blog (if I do say so myself) about my choice to workout using the Beachbody programs on my other blog. If you're not in a rush, go check it out!
It's hard to get your point across when one child is beating on the other, or the dog is biting off their socks when all you can do is whisper (in a stern tone) "knock it off or you will sit in time out (go in your kennel)".
I wish I had a whistle.
So today we are just trying to survive. Or I am at least. I've decided to take a sick day and not do anything around here. Well I'll still dress & bathe the kids, make the meals, unload & load the dishwasher, take out that trash...but that's it. I swear. Toys all over the house, so be it. Beds unmade, oh well. Momma is sick and I need to rest.
Makes me wish I wouldn't have taken sick days as a kid for granted. When all I was expected to do was lie on my grandma's couch, get waited on and watch how ever many cartoons I wanted. And nap. Oh how I wish I'd have taken advantage of naps when I was able to take them!
In other news, I wrote a pretty great blog (if I do say so myself) about my choice to workout using the Beachbody programs on my other blog. If you're not in a rush, go check it out!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The Day I Killed My Blog Before It Ever Got Started
Today is one of those "beautifully deceiving" days. I got up this morning, and knew it was going to be chilly..but as the day stretched on and the sun began to shine, I started to get excited. It was going to be warm, AGAIN! I had visions of opening the windows, taking the kids outside, sitting on the porch, playing Simon Says, pushing the kids on the swing set, you get the idea...
But no.
It's cold.
And windy.
Which makes it feel colder.
This stinks.
So instead we're spending the day inside. The kids are sick. Ducky puked all over the kitchen floor and then went and got a dish towel out of the drawer and attempted to clean it up all by her little 18 month old self. It was cute. But not that cute.
I'm bored. They're bored. Now I am sure YOU are bored after having to read this. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. This isn't a great start for the new blog. But what can I say. Its cold. We're trapped in the house. I'm bored. So why shouldn't you be too?
But no.
It's cold.
And windy.
Which makes it feel colder.
This stinks.
So instead we're spending the day inside. The kids are sick. Ducky puked all over the kitchen floor and then went and got a dish towel out of the drawer and attempted to clean it up all by her little 18 month old self. It was cute. But not that cute.
I'm bored. They're bored. Now I am sure YOU are bored after having to read this. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. This isn't a great start for the new blog. But what can I say. Its cold. We're trapped in the house. I'm bored. So why shouldn't you be too?
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Welcome To The New Edition!
So let me do a quick intro to my new "mommy" blog edition to the "Kitchen Table" name. If your looking for fitness info, advice, or coaching information you're at the wrong place..you need to go visit my Kitchen Table Fitness blog.
That being said, let me introduce the "crazies" you'll find featured on this blog. There's me, Jen, the mom. SB, the husband. Punk, the 5 y/o son. Twinkletoes, the 3 y/o daughter. And last, but not least, Ducky the 1 1/2 y/o daughter. Oh and there's also our shed-crazy dog, Tag.
Stay tuned for the funny, heart-wrenching, wild, adventures of raising 3 kids in a small town in Ohio! Our extended family will make occasional appearances I am sure. They give us enough stories to last multiple lifetimes!
So take a seat at OUR "kitchen table" and let us entertain you!
That being said, let me introduce the "crazies" you'll find featured on this blog. There's me, Jen, the mom. SB, the husband. Punk, the 5 y/o son. Twinkletoes, the 3 y/o daughter. And last, but not least, Ducky the 1 1/2 y/o daughter. Oh and there's also our shed-crazy dog, Tag.
Stay tuned for the funny, heart-wrenching, wild, adventures of raising 3 kids in a small town in Ohio! Our extended family will make occasional appearances I am sure. They give us enough stories to last multiple lifetimes!
So take a seat at OUR "kitchen table" and let us entertain you!
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