No Such Thing As a Perfect Picture

After sifting through the pictures that were taken around Christmas time, I have come to the conclusion that there is no such thing as a perfect picture. Someone is always looking away, has their eyes closed, or is making some sort of goofy facial expression. In light of my realization, I am still going to post the imperfect pictures because, in a way, it makes them perfect...

Little Readers

I am so happy that my children love books already. I have so much fun watching them read. Some people may think I am weird, but I love seeing them flip the pages and jabber to themselves.

High Flyers

You really had me fooled...

Tiger,

You cannot begin to understand my disappointment, sadness and feeling of betrayal. I truly thought that you were the one athlete, the one celebrity, who wouldn't let us all down. I thought you were a great role model for kids, an ambassador for the sport; man, was I wrong! You had the world at your disposal and now you just threw it all away. You have tainted the game of golf with your disgusting behavior. If I were Elin, I would have come after you with more than a golf club. I am ashamed that I was so loyal to you for all of these years. You really had me fooled.

No longer a fan,
Kat

Can't Shake the Funk

I am just in a funk lately. I don't know if I am coming or going. I am always doing something at the very last second. I now have a new nickname of "P-Po" because I am 'perpetually pissed-off.' Am I really this unorganized, cranky and "isolated" as some may refer to me as? I just need more time. Do you think that is on sale at the mall right now?

Busy

Before your life gets busy, you really think that you are...busy. I've never known Busy before, but now I do. He is here to stay. I have this nagging feeling that his twin brother, Busier, is going to visit soon.

Bass Ackwards

If today I were offered another job, in another school, most likely in another district, I would have easily said yes. It wasn't the kids...not at all! I have felt so unsupported regarding my "duties" as a teacher that I was ready to say some words that wouldn't have earned me any brown-nosing points...but I held my tongue.

Happy Halloween!

Good Weekends Make It Hard

Good weekends make it hard to go back to work.

We had a great weekend filled with pumpkin carving, lots of pottying ON the potty, a birthday party, a nice outing to get Pull-Ups and lots of dancing time with my munchkins. Josh and I got to watch a movie together and I didn't even have any masters homework, so I got to relax a little. I just had such a great weekend, that it made it hard to come back to work today.

New Family Photos

I like Photo Booth too!

Thanks, Becky, for the inspiration. I didn't know (or look) if my computer had the program on it until I saw your photos. I will get pics of the kids on here as soon as they wake up from their nap.

I hope I never forget...

I hope I never forget…

…the time spent dancing in the kitchen,

the stories at bed time,

the giggles in the bath tub

and even all the silly splashing that goes with it.

I hope I never forget…

…how my kisses can make anything better,

the look in your bright eyes as they look to me for answers,

your willingness to hug me in front of others,

and the importance you instill in me.

I hope I never forget…

…the feel of your tiny little hand as it holds mine,

your excitement as we run down the sidewalk,

your delight as you fly “more higher” on the swing.

I hope I never forget…

…the way your honesty makes me laugh,

how you can make anger disappear,

and how your hugs are my favorite thing in the world.

I hope I never forget...

...how much fun it is to be a "horsie,"

your messy face after blueberry pancakes,

your infectious excitement after going potty ON the potty,

and your dramatic facial expressions.

I hope I never forget…

…how precious your time is as a child,

and how precious mine is as a parent.

Falling By the Way-side

I can already see that my blogging days are falling by the way-side. There is much competition with keeping the house in "showing" shape, masters homework and classes, work, homework from work, and most importantly, keeping up with my babies. Sorry to the few of you who may read and actually enjoy it. I'll try my best...

Bumble-Bee

In preparation for this new school year, you would think that I should be calm as a cucumber since I planned all new curriculum last year and I am not pregnant this year...but I feel as though I have been doing the "Flight of the bumble-bee" for the last week or so, and it continued today.

I don't know what it is but I feel so much busier than last year! Take today for example: since I teach 8th grade, I had no classes in the afternoon, so I should have had plenty of time to get stuff done. NOPE! I have no idea what I did or where the time went, but I do know that I was buzzin' around somewhere.

At home, it's the same. I buzzed around with the kids, then made supper, sent a few emails, gave tubbies, bedtime, workout, made lunch for tomorrow, shower, school planning, made spaghetti (tomorrows supper since I have masters classes all night), checked laundry, did dishes, and now I am finally taking a break to check out all of the "1st day of school" posts. To think, its only 11:36...what else can I 'bumble-bee' into the last 24 minutes of today?

*I also like the bumble-bee analogy because it reminds me of when Joslynn sings, "I bringin' home-a baby bumble-bee, won't a mommy be a proud da me, I bringin' home a baby bumble-bee...ouch, stung me!" She is so dang cute.

The End

So, it's been thirteen weeks since Tony Horton and I started seeing each other seriously on a regular basis. He and I would meet every day for about an hour, and on some nights it was for about an hour and a half. Each time we met, things would get a little hot and sweaty...

Don't panic, I'm still in love with Josh, I am talking about P90X! Shame on you for thinking that...

I started my "90 days" on June 1st. My original goal was to start and finish the P90X program. (For those of you just tuning in, Tony Horton is the trainer who created the program.) Many of you read my blog More Than Disappointing about 6 weeks into it; I was struggling with my progress (or lack thereof). I reevaluated and decided that I really wanted to complete my original goal. So, here I am, 13 weeks later.

Here are a few of the things that I am happy with after this crazy endeavor: I loved the "me" time I had. I love to work hard and sweat and feel that fatigue in my muscles that is a "good sore." I do admit, my arms look good. My abs have a long road to run yet, but they are getting there. I am pleased with myself for the simple fact of completing my goal.

While Tony will hold a special place in my fit heart, there are some things that I am disappointed about: I did these extreme work outs for 90 days, spending a minimum of 1 hour per workout for 6 of the 7 days in the week and I weigh exactly the same as I did 13 weeks ago. There were 39 days were I "double-dipped" and added another workout on top of the P90X routine and I still wear the same size clothes. Of those 39 days, I played sand volleyball for 8, walked for 11 and ran for 20!

I love to workout; it's my stress reliever and time to myself, so I would never say that this was time wasted, but if you are frustrated about trying to lose weight, or just fit into different clothes...come talk to me. If 90 days of extreme workouts won't change things, I don't know what will...

I'm thinking that Tony and I might not see each other as seriously in the future, but that doesn't mean we aren't still friends and bump into each other from time to time...

The Waiting Game...

Josh and I put in an offer on some land that we like. Okay, there's no use trying to hide it...land that we LOVE. We are both trying SO hard not to get too excited because we pretty much expect our offer to be rejected, but there is always that tiny glimmer of hope, right? We are now playing the waiting game...

I did better than I thought I would!

I've never...

Sometimes I think that you can learn a lot about a person by things they haven't done, rather than the things they have done...

Here are a few of my "nevers"...

• I've never...belonged to a gym, although I'd love to meet with a personal trainer someday.
• I've never...dyed my hair. That's too high maintenance for me.
• I've never...eaten Lucky Charms. (Yes, Holly, I hear your gasp.) I'm more of a Cheerios kind of gal.
• I've never...ran more than 13.1 miles at one time...and to be honest, I don't know if I want to.
• I've never...broken a bone. I hope I never do. I've just had a few bad sprains.
• I've never...tried any kind of drugs. Never had an interest in that sort of thing.
• I've never...been on a cruise, or visited NY, California, the NW coast, Australia, or Spain...or any of the other places on a long list that I'd LOVE to visit someday.
• I've never...been canoeing in the boundary waters. I'd like to someday.
• I've never...been fired from a job.
• I've never...liked scary movies. I'm a big chicken.
• I've never...been good at keeping plants alive. It sucks! I love plants, but I just need my grandma's green thumb.
• I've never...had fake acrylic nails put on. When I was about 14 I decided I wanted real, long nails and stopped biting them.
  
• I've never...been wakeboarding or surfing. I want to try both.
• I've never...been good at designing anything that goes into a house...carpet, curtains, you name it.
• I've never...sent a text message. I'm not sure if I'll convert to the texting revolution.
• I've never...liked yogurt. It's the texture.
• I've never...liked sleeping on lots of pillows. Mine is flat like a pancake.
• I've never...been good at confrontation.
  
• I've never...loved like I love now.
  

Belated Copycat

I know that August is 1/3 over with already, but if anyone is interested in what the Stewart's are/have been up to...read on.

August
1: Family Reunion
2: New swing-set delivery, thanks to grandpa/dad!
3, 4, 5, 6, 7: Grad class, volleyball league, Dad's birthday
8: Birthday gathering for dad
9: Baby shower
10, 11: Grad class
12: Dentist, volleyball league, work at school since I have a class on the 20th
13: Hang with the kiddos while Josh is golfing
14: Grad paper due
15/16: Hopefully something fun with Josh and the kids
17: Josh has to work
18: Work at school
19: Orientation for masters program, VB league, Josh works again
20: Moodle training (so I won't be at South when the ING people come)
25: Cookie Lee Party--invitations soon to follow...
21-24, 26-30: yet to be determined. I am sure there will be some time spent at school putting away science supplies I didn't get to in June, hopefully a date with Josh in there somewhere and lots of time spent outside on the swing-set with the kids.
31: I really don't want to talk about it right now...

Land!

Josh is constantly on the computer looking at houses and land. Our hope is to sell our house next spring and move. I sometimes hate looking so early like this because then I want something different, and I want it now! So, the other day, we ended up driving around looking at houses and lots and found some land that we REALLY like, and of course, just like I was worried about, I am very excited and attached. We would love to build a house, but don't know if we can afford to build what we want along with the price of a lot. As much as I am trying not to think about it, that is all I can think about.

Creepy Guy At the Park

I wanted to get out of the house, so Joslynn and I went to the park this morning. She LOVES the park and we get to be outside and so I thought it was a great idea. I hadn't been to the St. Cloud Rotary Park for over a year, so I thought I would go there and check it out again because it has the splash park and I wasn't sure of the hours, so I thought I can check out the details while we go there to play.

We got there at like 10:15 and we were the only ones in the entire park. It was really nice and peaceful. The weather was beautiful, so I am surprised we were the only ones, but it is Sunday morning. For those of you who are unfamiliar: in the park, there is a big sand-box area that houses all of the playground equipment, then there is the little splash pool fenced in behind that, and even behind the pool there are some nice indoor bathroom facilities. Surrounding the park are some fields and tennis courts, so it is quite spacious.

We were having a nice time together on the swings when I noticed a man walking across the field. I didn't think too much of it, since it is a public park. As he came near the bathrooms, behind the pool, I noticed him again, but thought that maybe he was just there to use the bathroom. Initially, my instincts put me on high alert. He just gave me the "creeper" vibe. I was purely judging on appearance so I internally scolded myself because I do try to give people the benefit of the doubt, but there was just something about this man, alone in a park, that made me feel uneasy.

I continued to push Joslynn on the swing as I watched this guy like a hawk. He circled the exterior of the bathrooms about 8 times, stopping briefly each time to look our way. He then slowly walked around the pool toward the playground area. He stopped by a garbage can, which from my view was also perfectly in line behind a tree, so it made the whole situation feel even creepier; it was like he was hiding from us for a moment. He proceeded once more to come around the perimeter of the playground area, almost coming in behind us now. I really had butterflies in my stomach at this point.

I was carrying a little bag with us that had a diaper, wipes, water for Joslynn, but I had also put my keys and phone in there. I started to go into "getaway" mode and thought to myself, 'If I really had to get away fast, I would be fumbling around in the bag for the keys', so I grabbed it and put the keys and phone in my pocket; the rest is easily replacable if we need to leave the bag behind.

As this creepy man stood and watched us for about 20-30 seconds, a million things were racing through my head. I was secretly planning our escape route. I was also thinking that I'd really like to say, "What the hell are you looking at?" But my better judgement told me not to provoke anything. After a LONG 30 seconds, he turned away and eerily meandered his way out of the park. The hairs on the back of my neck could relax...a little bit. For the rest of the time that we were there, I felt paranoid; I was constantly looking over my shoulder.

Now, I feel somewhat guilty because I have no idea if I were rightfully judging this man or not. He may have been homeless. He may have been bored and was just wandering around. He may have had some kind of disability and didn't realize that his behavior was throwing up huge red flags to me. On the other hand, I won't ever apologize for going into "mama bear" mode to protect myself and my child. I hate the fact that we live in a city...in a world, where I have to worry about things like the creepy guy at the park.

Anyone Got $1400 Layin' Around?

Here's the story...

I'm starting my Masters in the fall. As part of a requirement of the program, I have to take 6 elective credits. My plan is to take these 6 credits in August so that they are finished before I start my program.

I spent the better part of 2 days filling out all of the nauseatingly boring and repetitive paperwork for MN GI Bill, Post 9/11 GI Bill, and my FAFSA for Federal Aid so that I can somewhat afford to continue my education. After all of the reading, research and filling out forms I was pretty confident that my going back to school wouldn't be THAT much of a financial burden on us. I couldn't have been more wrong.

I got an email today saying that my 6 summer credits wouldn't be covered by the VA because they are for "continuing education" and not "degree seeking." I was shocked and really mad at the same time! How am I supposed to get my degree without these 6 credits that ARE A REQUIREMENT!?

So instead of thinking that I would only need to pay for about $450, I will now have to pay $1400. Aggghhhhh! I hate all of this paperwork/money/government b.s.

Where Have All the Bloggers Gone?

...seriously people, I need something to read!

Shh...Don't Tell Mommy

Hey all...its me again, Jackson. I know that I said that I would post again when I was walking, but I have a little secret that I wanted to share, so don't tell mommy...

...the thing is, I think that walking is over-rated. First of all, it's tough work to learn how to do that. Second, my left leg is being really stubborn and goes out to the side like a duck foot. Thirdly, I'd have to actually do it! Who wants to do that when I can be held and carried everywhere I go? Yeah, yeah, I crawl and everything; isn't that good enough? I know that mommy and daddy really want me to walk, but I'm pretty content with how things are right now. They have NO idea, so this needs to stay between you and me...

My Birthday Party

Hey all...Jackson here. My birthday party was a week ago, and the weather was great! We hung outside for lunch in the garage and then opened presents on a blankie in the backyard.














The cake was really yummy. Mommy made it really pretty too. Her friend did the same thing, so she got the idea from her. Mommy thinks that hers doesn't look as good as TelegaWoman's, but I still thought it was really yummy. I had a lot of fun hanging out with my cousins and my grammas and papas. I got some cool new toys that are really fun.













Since the party I am growing and changing every day. Today I got a new booster seat so I sit at the big table with Joslynn and mommy and daddy; it's pretty neat! I am trying to say "mama," "ball" and "done" with my words. I am saying "more," "please," "eat," and "done" with my signs. Before you know it I'll be chasing after that sister of mine. (When I do...I'll post again and include pictures.)

YES and NO

YES, my first concert was fantastic! NO, my spirits weren't dampened by the freezing cold weather.

YES, it was cold, dreary, windy and did sprinkle/sleet a little bit. NO, it didn't feel like July at all.

YES, I was wearing layers; six to be exact. NO, not even the six layers kept me toasty warm all night.

YES, Sheryl Crow was amazing! She engages everyone, she's gorgeous, and, obviously, she has incredible talent, both singing and playing guitar. YES, I think I have a mini crush on her. NO, I'm not leaving Josh.

YES, I ate lots of bad food. NO, I don't feel guilty about it.

YES, there was a guy who was so annoying that he almost spoiled my 'Sheryl' experience. I really wanted to punch him in the face. NO, I didn't, but I was tempted.

YES, I am definitely going to another concert soon. NO, I'm not sure who or when, but I'd love to see Sheryl Crow again.

YES, this was a great 'date' for Josh and I without the kids (overnight away from them for the first time.) NO, I didn't cry. But, YES, I did miss the little munchkins.

My First

Tomorrow I am going to lose my concert virginity; I'm so excited! In my 27 years on this planet I have never been to a concert before. Tomorrow, I am going to Moondance Jam in Walker, MN to see (my favorite!) Sheryl Crow...Journey is also playing, and I'm really not even sure who else, but I am so excited that I'm almost nervous! Keep your fingers crossed for nice weather!

Decide. Commit. Succeed...

...that's the motto of the company that sponsors my P90X workout program. I decided that I had decided on this goal, I already committed 6 weeks to this and if I want to succeed I am going to stick it out. Holly was right; I would be mad at myself if I didn't finish it.

I have started my seventh week with a smile and the mindset that I will finish the 13 week program and if I feel like changing something up (like I've already been doing) then I will...and if I don't see the results that I had hoped for when I reach the end, then, what else can I do, right? Maybe Mary was right too...maybe my goal (for my noticed change) is/was unrealistic...a girl can dream right?

Thanks for all the comments of suggestion and encouragement. I appreciate it!

More Than Disappointing

It has been six full weeks since I started my summer goal. My goal was to start my P90X workout program this summer, AND finish it.

Along the way, during these 90 days, I was hoping that maybe I'd lose the extra 4-5 pounds I've gained recently, to have my clothes fit better and to maybe look a little better in summer wear. Is that so much to ask? Here's my dilemma...Not only have I not lost the extra 4-5 pounds...I've gained about 4-5. My clothes do NOT fit any better, and I really don't look any better in anything summer-ish. I figure that I spend about 8 hours a week working out. That's a full work day just spent sweating! While I love my workouts, I am more than disappointed in the progress (or no progress) that I've made.

I know that I haven't been eating THAT bad. And I'm also not looking for the "you've gained muscle" excuse to explain this huge disappointment. I do a wide variety of activities such as core strength, cardio, arm & leg weight training, yoga, ab work, karate and my own added running, walking & volleyball.

So, let's explore my options...

1. I can stop doing P90X and NOT complete my summer goal.
2. I can continue with my goal and stick out the next 6 weeks and hope for a miracle turn-around in my progress.
3. I can change my goal completely and replace my workout with something new.
4. I can choose not to wear summer attire and bypass that problem.
5. I could try to drastically change my diet...but that's not the best option, I can tell you right now.
6. Secret option #6 that has yet to be suggested by a wonderful friend.
   

You can vote in the poll.

Happy Birthday To Me...

Hey everyone! I'm one year old today! Just think...a year ago today...almost at this time, I was born! I think that it was about this time (4:10) last year when mommy started pushing me out. I didn't want to leave, but she made me come out. I do like it out here (and so does mommy). I am learning all kinds of cool things. I don't have the knack of walking yet, but I do sign "more" and "please" so that I can tell mommy and daddy when I want something. I am also doing a little thing that mommy calls "scrunchie-face." Here, I'll show you a picture...That's me this morning. I'm really excited for my birthday party tomorrow. Mommy gave me a sneak peak (taste) at my delicious cupcakes. I can't wait to dive into it tomorrow! I'll be sure to show you all pictures after and to tell you all about it. Here is one final picture before I go...

Just Rain Already

If it is going to be gloomy and humid...just rain already! The clouds are teasing us...I don't know if we are going to get any rain. Maybe I'll try my rain dance. We'll see if that works.

Bye-Bye Ba Ba

Yesterday Jack had to say bye-bye to his ba ba (bottle). We are now strictly on sipee cups! Yea! I have a tote full of bottles, nipples, a bottle drying rack, binkies, chew toys, formula to-go containers, etc...One more tote that I need to find a place for, however, I am happy to have both Jackson and Joslynn in this next stage together. Joslynn is already in a big bed. Now, the next big one...potty training.

Yes, I can!

A Friends Music Quiz



Score: 92% (11 out of 12)

Andrea, I just Googled it instead of using the link...I got the "Smelly Cat" lyric one wrong...I've never heard that verse before...We should really get together to watch some episodes and play from 'Friends' trivia.

I LOVE Blueberry Pancakes!

Mommy, I just wanted to let you know....I LOVE your blueberry pancakes! They are so yummy...(and really fun to get messy in.)

Soft Water Inquiry

We are looking into getting a water softner. We've been trying to tough it out thinking that maybe we can get by with the nasty, hard city water until we move, but we are thinking that having soft water could really help out the itchy twins and their terrible skin issues. Here are the questions that I have for those of you who may have a softner or know someone who does...

1. Brand names? Recommendations?
2. Cost?
3. Did you buy one or rent one?
4. Where did you buy/rent it from?
   
5. Do you also have a filter on top of the water softner?
6. Did you notice a difference?

If you have any input you feel would be beneficial you can comment or email. I appreciate any help.

I Have News Too!

Hi there! My mommy was really tired when she posted my sister's news about her new big bed, etc... Who can blame her? I am tired too because my big sis kept everybody up last night until about 3am. So, now that mommy is refreshed she can give a good update on what's going on in my pictures here. Above, you will see me standing behind one of our "walk along" toys. I'm trying really hard to walk with it, but I am really top heavy and fall down a lot!
Yesterday I fell on my head or bumped it into something about 4 times in an hour, but ramming my head into the door frame was the icing on the cake. Mom and dad called it a "goose-egg" but I think they are talking about that bump on my forehead above my left eye. It's bigger than it looks in the pictures, and now there is a cool blue and purple bruise there, but it hurt really bad. I even cried...
"Awwww, mom! Do you have to take a picture right now?"
This last picture doesn't even show how big it really got because my massive head continued to swell up, but I wouldn't hold still for anymore pictures...I've got places to crawl to and mischief to make...

P.S. If you want to know more about the pictures in my sister's recent update read on. She is a big girl now, that's what everybody keeps saying, so mommy and daddy went to get her a big bed yesterday. She got a cool Dora comforter and a snazzy bed rail. I can't wait until I get a big bed...

Joslynn likes to dance, and on Sunday she was being very silly and dancing like a maniac so mommy took some pictures of her showin' her moves.

My sister also likes to work out with mommy and daddy when they are in the workout room. She likes to walk on the treadmill, do pull ups or use the cool stretchy bands. She is pretty strong, but she better watch out in a month or so when I am able to chase after her...I'm not puttying up with any more of her bossiness.

Joslynn's News

Joslynn got a "big girl bed" with Dora on her comforter. She was a dancin' maniac and was working out with daddy. I'd write more but I am busy praying that tonight in the Dora bed goes better than last night...

My new bed

Under The Couch (Part 2)

It's been a while since I dug out all the junk from Under The Couch. When I was doing my super-cleaning yesterday here's what I found:

• 1 chew toy
• 1 Elmo magnet
• 1 Tupperware lid
• 1 play spoon
• 1 real spoon
• Magnetic letters: V, I & D
• 1 hot dog...thank God it was a play one
  
• 1 Cheerio...this one was real
  
• 3 potato chips...again, more play food
  
• 9 books

It's quite interesting what collects under there...

What I Accomplished Yesterday

I got a LOT done yesterday. It always feels good to share your accomplishments, my list is below. Why didn't I blog about it yesterday? That's the one thing I didn't do...

1. Got dressed and had breakfast
2. Changed diapers, fed kids, got them dressed and off to daycare
   
3. Exercised for an hour
4. Showered
5. Started first load of laundry
6. Cleaned out the frig
7. Loaded dishwasher and ran it
   
8. Picked up toys
9. Vacuumed entire upstairs including moving all furniture except for dressers and TV armoire.
10. Started second load of laundry
    
11. Shampooed all rugs in upstairs (my attempt to "de-Maynie" the house)
12. Started third load of laundry
13. Ate lunch
14. Scrubbed kitchen floor (on my hands and knees)
15. Scrubbed bathroom floor
    
16. Showered again
17. Started fourth load of laundry
18. Went to Walmart for more cream for one of the itchy twins.
19. Went to Cashwise for groceries
20. Unloaded groceries
21. Picked up kids at daycare
22. Played with kids
23. Ate supper
24. Bathed the itchy twins
25. Played with kids some more
    
26. Played volleyball
27. Showered
28. Went to bed
    

Two-Kid Day

People ask us all the time, "Are you going to have more kids?" or "Do you want more children?" or from pushy-er people, "When are you going to have more?" While these are questions that have complicated answers, today I had a simple one. Today is just a two-kid kind of day.

It started off with a 4:50am wakeup courtesy of our own rooster: Joslynn. I blogged earlier about the need for sleep, so this post should come as no big surprise. After doing some stuff around the house, I brought Jack to the Surgical Center for his ear tube surgery. Yes, that is both of our children now, within the course of a month. Four ears and $1100 (after insurance) later, we better not have any more ear issues!

All day long Joslynn was super whiny; throwing fits and crying for no reason seemed to be her calling card today. Jackson cries when Joslynn cries because maybe he wants to be like her, or maybe he is scared when she cries; either way, they are both crying, a lot.

Bath time was the icing on the cake. We have a specific bath regimen for the itchy twins (since I just returned from the dermatologist with the rooster yesterday). So, to give you some background on the bath situation: Joslynn is in the phase of hating bath time and cries and screams the whole time. Sounds like fun huh? Yeah, if you have any help on this one, we could use it. Some more background...Jackson has a hard time with #2 so he bears down and pushes and grunts really hard and his face turns red so you know when he is trying to go...

Okay, back to the original story. To save on time, I thought, 'let's put the kids in the tub together.' About 3 minutes into the bath, Jackson starts doing his "poop face." This is already after we had to clean out the tub once because he was messy when Josh took his clothes off and didn't realize that there was #2 on his toushy. So, I quickly grab the little guy and wonder, 'what do I do with him?' I'll set him on the potty chair. So I set the naked little man on the little potty chair where he does his business as Joslynn is screaming bloody murder. Fast forward another 15 minutes and Joslynn is still fighting the good fight whether it is physical or just crying because she doesn't want to have anything to do with bath time, brushing hair, putting on lotion, etc...

Play time after baths was okay, but Joslynn persisted to take each toy away from Jackson and/or cry for no apparent reason. Bedtime went fairly smooth...although she is crying in her crib for the second time already tonight; its 11:37pm.

Will she go back to sleep okay? Will she wake up her brother?....

I couldn't love anything on this planet more than I do my children and bless their sweet little hearts, but this is why today has been a two-kid kind of day. I don't know if we are going to have any more children or not, I guess only time will tell, but for now two is okay.

Late Weekend Post

The pictures will show you:
-This weekend we ventured out to the Dam Festival in Little Falls.
-Joslynn liked the parade a lot.
-She also enjoyed the mini petting zoo.
-The kids got a new (old) wagon from grandma and grandpa.
-Both of them LOVE ice cream!

Help! We need some sleep!

How do you convince a two year old to go back to bed at 4:55am? Joslynn has been getting up at that time lately, not like it is any different than normal, but seriously child! We need some sleep! I was an idiot setting my alarm last night for 5:45 am thinking that I might actually "sleep in" until the alarm went off, since I have an appointment early today with Jackson.

Here's our dilemma:

1. The kids share a room, so if you let Joslynn cry in her crib she will scream until she wakes up Jackson who likes to sleep in in the morning.
2. She is too young to sleep downstairs in her own room.
3. We are not going to let her stay up any later because she has a bedtime of 8pm which gets stretched many times closer to 8:30. Even when she stays up later, she is up at the same time.
4. She takes one nap a day in the afternoon.
5. She's running around constantly with her 10 second attention span so you'd think that she is tired.

For a while, we just said, 'she's an early riser, I guess we'll have to live with that' but now we just need some sleep. Any suggestions from those with little ones?

Moms don't get breaks...

Even though I was going out for the evening with a friend of mine, I was still a mom the whole time. In fact, before I went out I precooked dinner for Josh and the kids so that it would be less chaotic for him alone. Then, just as we were leaving, I could see that Joslynn was possibly going to cry and throw a fit upon my departure, so I thought maybe if I helped warm up dinner and get her in "food" mode that she would be distracted enough to not make a big deal of my leaving. So, I quickly got kids in their seat and highchair and got food rollin' in the microwave, pacified Jack with some finger foods for a minute or two, got milk sipees out and waved goodbye from the foyer. No crying...that's a good sign!

My friend and I went to Mongo's for dinner. Mmmm...I LOVE Mongo's! I think I could eat there everyday if I had the time and money. Over dinner we discussed mostly mom stuff, since my friend is expecting her first baby this fall.

After dinner we proceeded to the mall to search for some gifts and essentials. I was searching for father's day stuff and she was looking for birthday and bridal gifts. My shopping trip was much more successful than hers. I found cards for my dad, Josh's dad and also some stuff for Josh (which I can't elaborate on until after Sunday.)

After roaming the mall for a while we left and headed to Cash Wise because I knew that Joslynn had like two drops of milk left. God bless my friend for being so easy going. We walked in to get milk and left with half a cart full of groceries. As we walked through the juice aisle, she said, "It's amazing, even though you aren't with the kids, you are still in 'mom mode.'" I replied with, "As a mom you will have a constant tally in your head of how many diapers, wipes, formula, and other essentials you have in the house." We finished our shopping and headed for home.

After this "night out" I realized a few things:

1. My friend is awesome for several reasons. Not only is she patient and understanding, but the fact that she appreciated my 'mom mode' reinforces the fact that she is going to be a great mom herself. This friend is also the kind of friend that you can still have a good time with when you are doing ordinary things like shopping for bras or strolling through the grocery store. I love her!
2. My "night out" was a nice break from being a mom, even though moms really don't get breaks...

All moms out there...I salute you.

Reasons Why I Love My Dyson

Oh, Mr. Dyson, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways...

1. Cat hair
2. People hair
3. Dust bunnies
   
4. I hate sweeping
5. more cat hair
6. Rice
7. Sand
8. Finely shredded cheese...everywhere!
9. Crumbs, crumbs and more crumbs

...and my final reason for loving my Dyson so much...

10. When you are having a Goldie Hawn, Overboard moment, it works great for vacuuming off the table (minus the banana peel).

Goodbye to a fuzzy friend

A bittersweet end to a good friendship has come today. Maynard, or "Maynie" as we call him, our cat, has gone to his new home today. We recently found out that Jackson is allergic to cats so we knew that we would have to find him a new home. He really is a nice kitty. He likes to be by you, so whatever room you are in, he tends to follow. He sleeps at the foot of the bed, kind of like a puppy. Joslynn loves him and Jackson does too, even though he can't touch him. He's been a great companion for the past 5 years and I am very sad to see him go. I am hoping that his new "mama" will love him and give him a lot of attention.

The sad part is...I am losing my pet of 5 years. He always seems to know when I am sad and need somebody. Joslynn will miss him, and I think it will be hard for her to understand that he is gone. Another sad thing is that my children don't have a pet either. I think that children, (and all people) really benefit from having an animal around. I am sad that they no longer have that.

On the bright side, my son will no longer be bombarded by cat hair (nor will we), but his reason is more of an issue since he is allergic. Also, I hope that Maynie can bring joy to an old lady and her grandchildren just as he has done for us. Goodbye fuzzy-pants!

2 weeks down...10 to go

One of my biggest goals for the summer is to start and finish my P90X workout videos that I have. If you have even been bored flipping the channels, you may have seen it on an infomercial. There is this guy, who looks like a Ken doll, his name is Tony Horton. He's awesome. Anyway...I wanted the workout program after Joslynn was born and actually got through 3 1/2 weeks of it until I found out I was pregnant with Jackson (no wonder I was draggin' ass.) I figured that if I want to do the full 12 weeks, now would be the time to start since it takes at least one hour a day, 6 days a week for the workouts. Lord knows that I don't have that much time during the school year; its hard enough during the summer! I am officially done with two weeks; wish me luck on my next 10 weeks!

Four years and counting...

Today is Josh and my 4th wedding anniversary. My how the time flies. Let's take a peek back (literally) four years...=It rained on our wedding day...supposedly that is good luck...
Because of the rain, all of our pictures are inside...
Our friends and family still tell us that is was the most fun they've ever had at a wedding...
After four years with this man, he's still the one I'm saving all my dances for...

Update From the Man On the Move

Hi everyone! It's me again. I have been doing more and more lately, so I have some things to update you on.As you can probably see from the pictures, I have quite a few chompers now. I have two on the bottom and two coming through on the top. I have about 4 others that want to break through any second. Man, that hurts! It does cause me to drool like a St. Bernard though...

About a week ago I decided it would be a good time to do some really cute stuff, so I revealed some new tricks all on the same day. First, I waved "hello/bye-bye" on my own. I then went on to do an incredibly cute 'fishy face' and to top it all off, I finally started to crawl! I know, I know...better late than never! It's amazing how much happier I am now that I can get around and grab my own toys. I found the book cabinet in the dining room. I even opened the door by myself! Mommy gave me an "Uh-oh" look when she saw me do that.I like to throw my sippee cup on the floor and make a mischievous face after I do it. I know how cute I am, so I think I can push my luck a little...

My sister has a new favorite thing...watering the plants and the lawn. She too likes to push her luck by "accidentally" spraying mommy or daddy. We think its hilarious!
My sister has a profound love for black olives. She thinks it's especially funny when they are on her fingers like an alien. I can't wait until I am big like her and get to do fun stuff with my food.

Mommy and daddy are done with having students for the summer, but I know that they are going to be busy. Both of them are going to be taking graduate classes and doing lots of things related to work to keep up with all of the demands that their jobs throw at them. Mommy is planning to start her Master's in the fall, so she is trying to get ready for that. Daddy just finished his, so he is really happy about that.

I think I overheard them talking about some fun things that they wanted to do this summer like: take us to the zoo, the splash park, and just play outside in our sandbox and little pool. Maybe we can go to grammy and grampy's house and swing some more. I like that.We are still looking for a good home for Maynie, so if you know anyone who needs a very nice kitty, please call my mommy. He makes me really itchy, so I am not supposed to touch him; he's so cute though, that I want to grab onto him and feel his fuzzies.

We have to go to the doctor again soon. The doc has to check out my ears because I have owies in there that need to be fixed by putting tubes in, just like my sister.

Mommy and daddy are playing in a sand volleyball league on Wednesday nights, so that may make it difficult to get to some of the BBQ leagues that they wanted to go to...so we'll have to see if we go to some other ones.

Mommy and daddy celebrate their four year wedding anniversary next week, so I think they might be going on a date while my grammy babysits my sister and I. We like it when grammy and grampy come over. Mommy and daddy already got eachother their anniversary presents: they are going to a concert in July. It is the first concert that my mommy will ever go to. She is really excited because one of her favorite singers will be there. I'm glad that they will have fun, but I think that I will miss them that day.

This summer will be a fun one, because its really my first full summer since I was only born last year...which means I get a birthday party very soon! I'm so excited! My sister's party was super fun, so I can't wait to see what mommy and daddy plan for me.

I better go and take my nappy now, so I'll update you again soon!

Luau Girl & Superman

Luau Girl: "So, did you have a good time last night, Superman?"

Superman: "Yes, I did. How about you?"

Luau Girl: "I did! I didn't have to work very hard because my person was drinking some liquids that were in a BIG glass. I didn't want to upset her by having some of her beverage overflow and be wasted, so I just hung out on one of the tables."

Superman: "Me too. I got to kick back and watch the party from a distance. My person was also drinking from a BIG glass, and sometimes, a very small one that was only one swallow...I wonder what that was all about?"
Luau Girl: "I'm so glad that we got to get out and do some celebrating. It was long overdue."

Superman: "I agree; our people needed a good night out on the town. I think that they had a really good time. Your person had some fun dancing and visiting with her co-workers and friends. I saw her shakin' her money maker on the dance floor...she's got some nice moves!"

Luau Girl: "Yeah, she does like to get her groove on. I saw your guy visiting with some of the other people. He seems like he was having fun visiting, and I even saw him doing some shooting! Good thing that was only a play shotgun...(no police involvement tonight!)"

Superman: "I think one of the ditzy blonde bartenders confused me with you and put your person's drink inside of me...so I was happy to help out, but I hope I didn't barge in on your territory."

Luau Girl: "No problem whatsoever. I'm glad that you were there for her. I was able to give her some water at the end of the night to make sure she had enough of the 'good' fluids so she didn't feel sick the next day."

Superman: "Man, we really gotta look out for those people don't we?"

Luau Girl: "Yeah, if we don't....who will?"

Superman: "So, maybe I'll see you at the next party? I'd like to hang out again."

Luau Girl: "I'll be there."

Is It Really So Hard?

Is it really so hard to say "Thank you"???

Over the weekend I was at Sam's club and thought to myself...'I should get a big bag of mini-treats for my students. It will be a good way to get them to participate at the end of class on Monday and Tuesday as we wind ourselves down with our last lab.'

I happily checked out with my other items and looked forward to sharing the goodies with my students.

Monday came: Students participated well, but I don't really remember a "Thank you" standing out in my memory. That's sad...

Tuesday came: My second class of the day had a few students in it who were so ungrateful that they had the gall to argue with me as to why it was "unfair" that they didn't get more!!! That's REALLY sad, and incredibly infuriating! On the bright side, I had 4 students say "thank you." Would you believe that 3 were boys, 1 was a girl; 2 were special education students, with one of them being EBD! But again, only four?!? Again, sad...

I just felt defeated at the end of class. The sense of entitlement that some people have is appalling. I didn't realize when I came to work this morning that I owed so many people so much.

"I Two"

We recently celebrated Joslynn's 2nd birthday. It's hard to believe that I have a two year old, let alone 2 children! She is so cute when she says, "I two" as she tries to hold up 2 fingers. (That's tough for those little fingers.)

Here she is wearing her "Happy Day" birthday crown. She got all kinds of great toys and books and money for her piggy bank. Thanks to everyone for coming and celebrating with us for her special day!

Jealous

Jackson may have some jealousy issues with his big sister...

Joslynn started it all by having exzema, peanut and egg allergies. Jackson must have thought that she is just a cool big sister, so he wanted to be just like her. He too has those same allergies and skin issues.

Joslynn just got tubes in her ears about a week ago. Previously she was fighting one ear infection after the other. Jackson must have been jealous of all her delicious medicine because he too will be needing tubes in his ears; the poor little munchkin was on two back to back rounds of antibiotics to fight an ear infection. We just went in yesterday and he still has fluid on his ears.

If only we could convince him that he doesn't have to be jealous of these things...

Need To Recharge This Battery

Maybe you know the feeling...

It creeps up on you, and one day you stop and think to yourself, 'How did it get like this?'

You recognize it because...

You're just not yourself. You can't organize anything to save your life. You forget anything and everything. You suddenly have no time management skills. Patience? What's that? Sanity? Don't have any of that either! Your somewhat decent eating habits were thrown out the window weeks, if not, months ago! Work out? Oh, is that what I used to do? No wonder my ass is extra jiggly lately. Short tempered....yeah, just a little bit. Frustrated. You know it! Frustrated because you don't want to have arguments with 4 students in one day. Frustrated because you just want some time to organize yourself enough to get your bearings. Frustrated because you hate that nagging negativity that has been hanging out, but you just can't make go away. Yes, yes, and yes!

I just need June 4th to come really fast so I can start recharging this battery...its almost drained.

Those Three Words

Today Joslynn continued to melt my heart by precisely articulating those three little words..."I love you."

She said it and looked at me with that beautiful, innocent, loving 'light in the eyes' smile of hers and I just squeezed her right back. Its moments like those that make you never want to let go.