Today...

I am wearing... my "frumps", as my husband affectionately calls them.  Frumps are basically any non-sexy, comfortable clothes.  At the moment it's a pair of pajama pants and a t-shirt. 

I am wondering... if I forgot anything important that is school related.  It's becoming more difficult to keep track of three boys in school.  Everyday, three agendas need signing, homework needs sorting, snack days need planning, certain clothing needs to be worn on a certain day, certain items need to be sent in for certain events, and money is always needed for something.  Joey is in chorus and now plays the trumpet.  That comes with keeping track of practicing, making sure he's prepared, and having him dressed appropriately for every concert he sings at in school.  It's a lot.  I miss things sometimes.  I try really hard not to, but I do.  There are still two more girls to add to the school mix.  Phew.

I am thankful for... well, everything!  It's thanksgiving week, so it's been on my mind.  We have so much to be thankful for.  When I start to complain, I count my blessings, and it makes the complaints seem ridiculous.  I'm so very thankful.

I am overwhelmed by... I actually don't feel overwhelmed by anything today!  Really!  Now I feel the need to mark this date down in the calendar!

I am eating... plain Cheerios with my girls, no milk, while watching Bubble Guppies.  I'm also drinking a cup of coffee from the Keurig with Bailey's Cream Brulee creamer.  No, there is no alcohol in it.  Gross. 

I can hear... the Bubble Guppies, obviously, but I can also hear Gracie breathing.  She's all up on me.  She's getting big.  She's not a baby anymore.  It makes me sad and happy all at once.  Her breathing floods my heart with memories.

I am going... to try my "Rain Jet" Rainbow attachment at naptime.  I am anxious to see how it works on the ceramic tile, hardwood floors, and white vinyl in the kitchen.  I am going to try it, if I don't take a nap.

I am hoping... my friends burden feels lighter today.  She is amazing and beautiful and does things I could never do. 

Around the house... it's a mess.  I don't clean over the weekend because we're so busy.  When Monday comes, it's a war zone, hard hats recommended.  Usually I'm tired on Monday because of the busyness, which makes the cleaning even harder to accomplish.  I did clean out the fridge and scrub it already.  Score one for the mom.

One of my favorite things... worship music.

Random pictures for sharing... (I hope they stay best friends forever)

The Case of the Missing...wait for it...

this blog is intended for women only.  be advised. 

GRANNY PANTIES!  For crying out loud, where are all my granny panties!?  I suspect my husband has been secretly stealing them and throwing them out.

There are two occasions that call for granny panties; that magical time that comes once a month, and after delivering a baby.  Since I will never again deliver a baby, I just need my buddies for my period.  Period.  Am I grossing you out or do you feel me on this?  Holla!

Besides, my granny panties aren't all that bad.  They are the Hanes bikini briefs that don't ride up.  I think they say "no wedgies" on the package actually.  Really though, who feels sexy during that time of the month?  Anyone?  Why must I wear sexy underwear then?  My husband disagrees.  He hates the grannies.

Granny panties are on my shopping list this week.  Do you wear the grannies?

Five Question Friday

1.  What's the last thing you spent too much money on?

Sigh.  My newest member of the family...Mr. Rainbow Vacuum.  I'm frugal.  I don't purchase items with such big price tags.  But, after seeing this...

I decided we must have one.  It sweeps, and washes hardwood floors, and shampoos carpets, and purifies my air, and much more.  It was worth every penny.  That's what I keep telling myself.

2.  What celeb chef would you like to make you dinner?

I don't even know how to answer.  I love cooking shows.  I love Top Chef, Hell's Kitchen, and everything on Food Network.  With all of the cooking shows I watch, you'd think I'd like to cook.  I don't, not at all.  So, if I could have a celeb chef cook me dinner, I'd have to pick Wolfgang Puck.  He's cute, he's got an accent, and he says it like it is.  OK, or Gordon Ramsey for the same reasons.

3.  Where do you hide things when visitors pop over, or do you let them see the "real deal"?

If you pop over without giving me a five minute warning, you're getting the real deal.  If I get the five minute warning, I will at least sweep up the cheerios, throw any loose toys back into the playroom, and get any dirty dishes shoved into the dishwasher.  If I did that quickly enough I also like to wipe down the tables.  They're always dirty.  I have five kids.  My house is never spotless.  Never.  Let me really emphasize that, NEVER!  I think most of our friends and family love us in spite of our dirty houses.  If not, oh well.

4.  Who is your oldest living family member?

I'm not 100% sure.  Candy, if you're reading this, I apologize.  I think it's my great grandmother in Florida.  Grandma in Florida is her name.  She lives close to the beach and I think she's in her nineties.  We use to stay with her and my great grandpa when we went to Disney.  She's Polish and likes to feed people.  As old as she is, she's still young in spirit.  Now I feel compelled to see if I'm right about this answer.

5.  What is your favorite DQ treat?

Gosh, we don't go there much.  We once this year after pumpkin picking and spent over $30 bucks on ice cream for the seven of us!  When I was a kiddo, it was the peanut buster parfait.  I remember saving all of the fudge and peanuts for the end, and then wanting to puke because I was so full.  I prefer the local ice cream stand or plain ol' Mickey D's for a cone.  I do like the new "mini" blizzards, but the price is a rip-off.  Sorry.  It's true.

Happy Veteran's Day!  Enjoy the long weekend!

Five Question Friday brought to you by fivecrookedhalos.blogspot.com

Christian Gets Grossed Out!?

Christian is having a hard time staying in his seat on the bus.  He likes to bounce up and down and talk to the girls behind him.  This is a problem.  I decided to reward the positive behavior, instead of repeatedly disciplining the bad behavior.  If he behaves all week and does not get in trouble, he gets to have a friend over on Friday. 

Christian is super excited about this.  He happily hops off the bus each day and tells me how well he did.  He's three for five.  Yesterday, he rambled off the names of everyone he wanted to come over on Friday.  Based on the number, I'm guessing it was the entire class.  Well, maybe not the whole class.

He said he did not want to have *Bernardo over.  I asked him, why?

"I don't want *Bernardo to come over because he is really gross!" he emphatically said.  He was adamant and very serious.  This was no joke to him.  I then asked him why *Bernardo was gross.

"He chews on his fingers and he spits out his gum!" Christian explains.

I don't really see the big deal at this point.  All kids are gross.  What kid doesn't do something like this?  My kids do this!  How nasty could *Bernardo really be?  Before I could finish my thought or say another word to Christian, he blurts out, "AND HE LICKS HIS LUNCHBOX!!"

His voice shrieked and his lips curled with disgust.  He was completely grossed out.  I found it comical.  I've never seen the boy grossed out before.  He is gross.  All of my children are gross.  Why was this boy freaking him out so much?  I was biting my lip so I did not laugh out loud.  This conversation lead to a discussion about making sure to include everyone, even lunchbox lickers. 

I have a sneaking suspicion he may throw the whole challenge, just so he doesn't have to risk a play date with *Bernardo.  We'll see.


*Names have been changed for anonymity.

Wordless Wednesday

 BROTHERS FOR LIFE!    

BATTLE BANANA

"Time to Tighten the Reigns" lead to "Battle Banana" this morning.

 I woke up feeling refreshed and happy to see the sun shining.  Joey was just rolling out of bed and the other two were on the couch watching TV.  Like everyday, I gave them two choices for breakfast.  Today, they could have cereal or a granola bar and a banana.  Joey picked cereal.  Jadon and Christian picked the latter.  They all sat at the table and began eating.  I got the girls out of bed and came back down to check on them.  Joey had already put his bowl in the sink and the other two were sitting there fooling around.  A half of a banana sat in front of both of them.

I told them both to eat their bananas.  At that moment, I had declared war.  Battle banana had begun.  I had no idea what I had just gotten myself into.  Jadon began freaking out.  Really freaking out.  Christian's eyes filled with tears as he sat there quietly, inwardly freaking out.  Joe hadn't left yet, so I cheated and sent them upstairs, with their bananas.  I was really trying not to lose it.  If you've read any other my other posts, you know Jadon is my strong-willed child.  He debates every issue, and not quietly.  Today was no different. 

The two smallest boys marched into my bedroom.  I told Joe what was going on, as if he hadn't heard.  I'm sure he was irritated.  I was irritated.  My pleasant morning was taking a turn for the worse.  He sat on the edge of the bed and told the boys they would be eating their bananas.  I stated my case and reminded the boys they chose a granola bar and banana for breakfast.  I began reciting the following in my head...They like bananas.  They eat them all the time.  I wasn't asking them to eat broccoli.  I just want them to eat half of a stinking banana.  There are starving kids all over the world that would love a banana.  Why on earth does this have to be so difficult!?  Shut up, Amy.  Do not feel guilty.

I went down stairs to pack their backpacks.  I knew they would not be coming down anytime soon.  I knew they were going to miss the bus.  If we were going to tighten the reigns, they had to eat the banana.  Joe was doing the tigntening this morning.  Jadon was screaming and was completely out of control.  "The banana is slimy!  It smells like milk!  It's turning brown!  I'm not eating this stupid banana!  I hate bananas!  You're so mean!  I'm going to throw this banana at you!  This is disgusting!  I'M NOT EATING THIS STUPID BANANA" he screamed uncontrollably.   Christian was still sitting on the floor, quietly refusing.  He was being just as defiant, only without the noise. 

I went upstairs to check on the progress.  Nothing.  I lost my patience and yelled.  Then I cried.  I stink, I know.  I left the room, knowing I was not helping my husband.

Joe came down a few minutes later and got them new bananas.  (I suspect he would have made them eat the slimy bananas if he did not have a dentist appointment to get to.)  Jadon and Christian each ate half a banana.  They did not die. 

I felt bad that I wimped out and made Joe deal with this nightmare before work.  I need more patience.  I need to not yell and just follow through. 

I got the kids in the car and drove them to school.  I kissed them and told them I loved them before they got out.  I also told them I didn't like their behavior this morning, and said tomorrow will be better.  I am hopeful. 

I am NOT a Child Anymore

After a deep cleaning session upstairs, I made my way downstairs.  I got about three steps down, when I stopped.  A light bulb turned on in my head.  A smile formed on my face.  I quickly hopped back to the top of the stairs.  The kids were quietly watching TV.  I stood at the top, staring down the eleven steps.  Should I do it?  I had to do it.  My stomach was doing somersaults.  The somersaults made me feel like a wuss.  I felt like an old, boring, adult.  This was not acceptable.

At this point I threw all caution to the wind and sat at the edge of the steps.  I counted to three in my head and gave myself a slight shove off the top step.  I began to slide down the stairs on my butt, squealing like a kid as my tush banged against each step.  My descent happened way faster then I thought it would.  I slid down really fast, in spite of trying to slow myself down with no avail.  As my butt hit the hardwood floor on the bottom, I screamed out in pain.  Jadon came running over to see what happened.

I explained to him what I had just done.  After all, I remember sliding down stairs all the time as a kid. This memory is what spurred the idea.  He should have this experience as well.  Jadon couldn't understand what I was explaining, so I showed him.  Again, I flew down the stairs on my butt.  He giggled with pure delight as I slid down.  I grabbed on to the railing and hoisted my fat off the ground.  My behind was already hurting.  What was I thinking?  I am not a child anymore.  I am a grown woman!  I can't be sliding down stairs.  What if this leads to early onset arthritis or something?  At that point I was feeling completely ridiculous.  I am not a child anymore, but I certainly do not want to be an old, boring, adult.  I climbed those stairs and did it one last time.

My butt hasn't felt the same since Saturday, but I have no regrets.

Time to Tighten the Reigns

Do I need to go any further to explain today's title?  I'm hoping that you already know exactly what I mean, and go through this with your children.  For weeks we can have happy, well behaved children, and then, "BAM!"  They're gone.  Actually, it's more like a gradual shift to the monster children.  Yesterday, was the "BAM!"

Jadon and Christian began the day battling.  They fought over t-shirts, who had more cereal, who got to brush their teeth first, and who's t-shirt was "cooler".  Jadon shrieked and screamed while Christian just cried.  Joey worked his mouthy magic on me.  He rudely talked back to me about something so stupid, I can't even remember what it was.  Elia whined about almost everything and Grace just bopped around instigating everyone.

The boys were off to school and I had to run to the store.  About five minutes in, Elia had a major breakdown and started screaming.  I was dragging her by the hand to get to the check out and I ran into a friend.  It never fails.  Every time my kids are demonstrating monster behavior, I bump into someone I know.  I made no apologies and said, "She's bad.  We're going home to bed."  As I stood in the check out line, Gracie began to throw whatever she could reach onto the floor while screaming.  I wheeled those two to the car and angrily placed them in the car seat. 

The afternoon was more of the same.  Jadon came home with a note in his agenda because of some poor choices at school.  Joey fought with me about his homework.  The other kids ran around like wild animals.  My hero got home and for some stupid reason we went out to dinner.  Big mistake.  We ended up shovelling our meals as the girls yelled and whined. We played referee at the table.  It was a disaster.

 I looked at Joe in the car and said, "It's time to tighten the reigns!"  He knew it.  He's good about keeping them tight.  I fail sometimes.  Maybe if I keep them tight, even during the picture perfect happy times, we wouldn't unravel so badly. 

Today, I'm on a mission.  I will let no bad behavior slide.  I will get my happy, well behaved children back.  Until then, they're in time out!

Mama Mia?

Mama Mia, yesterday, about 9PM.

A few hours prior, I was telling my husband about Elia's annoying whining, as I headed out the door to take Jadon to football.  I needed a break. 

Elia's becoming somewhat of a "princess" and very demanding of things going exactly her way.  It's her way, or no way.  She expresses this with a dramatic, "What!?" and a whine.  I'm not having it.  She spent a lot of time on the stairs yesterday, serving her two minute time outs.  At some point during the day, she was resting cutely, and quietly, on the couch.  I snapped a picture because she looked so beautiful.  A few moments later, she went away and the drama queen returned.  She debated why it was not time for a nap.  Cute went out the window.

I came back from football refreshed.  I watched my boy happily running drills with his teammates. As I carefully listened, I could hear him giggling as he made a tackle.  I stared at the trees and breathed in the crisp, fall air.  It was a good break.  Joe was putting the princess to bed when we got home.  She was whining as he got her ready.  I gave her a kiss and she angrily trampled off to bed. 

I went into my room and plopped into bed.  I was reading and channel surfing at the same time.  Mama Mia was on.  I'd never seen it and I didn't know anything about it.  It didn't look exciting, so I turned the channel.  A while later I recalled the channel and saw this....

There I am, blubbering, uncontrollably.  Sobbing.  I picked up my phone to look at the picture I took earlier, and cried.  She's slipping through my fingers, right now.  Every day.  I can't do anything about it either.  It was a gentle reminder to myself, how fast it goes.  Today I have more patience for the drama.  I'll keep this video on hand, for the next time I need reminding.

You Heard It Right

I emptied Joey's backpack the other day and discovered a spelling test. He got a 95%. I told him he did a good job. He took a look at it and realized he got another one wrong, and the teacher didn't mark it. The word was "tiger" and he spelled, "tigger".

He asked me to put the test back in his folder, so he could tell the teacher he should get a 90%. I told him I was proud of him for making a good choice. His response, "Thanks, Mom. I'm really trying to improve my life."

Don't Question the Poop

I was just thinking recently how poop-free this house has been lately.  Big mistake.

Elia had the pee-poo Tuesday, which dripped down her chubby legs and all over the living room floor.  Hooray for hardwoods.

Christian came home from school Wednesday with his pee-poo clothes in a bag.  If they weren't a new pair of shorts I would have tossed them in the trash.

Wednesday night, the girls were in bed having a hay day.  There were shrieks of excitement and a lot of bouncing.  Then I started to hear, "Ewe!"

I ignored it for a few minutes and then Elia began screaming for me.  "Mommy!  Gracie is disgusting!  Gracie has poop!  Gracie is nasty!" 

I was still ignoring it at that point, until I heard, "Mommy!  Gracie has poop in her eye!"

You've got to be kidding me.  Sure enough I opened the door and get slapped in the face with the smell of poop.  This is what I see.

This was not pee-poo.  This was thick, playdough-like, poop.  It was on the walls and all over the crib.  I gagged as I cleaned her up.

This morning, upon opening the girls door, Elia was lying on her stomach surrounded by a brown colored sheet.  She was covered to her neck in poop.  I picked up her pillow and it was no longer white.  I threw that thing right in the trash.

Moral of the story: If your home is poop-free, don't question it, unless you want to play with it for the next week.

Relay for Life!

The countdown is on!  My office will be participating in Relay for Life on June 11, 2011.  We will celebrate, remember, and fight back against this disease.  Please visit my personal fundraising page for more information.  Together, we can make a difference.  I'm asking for you to partner with me in this event.

FRIENDS, Please consider making a donation.  Every dollar counts.  Whether it's $20, $10,  $5, or $1...it makes a difference.  If you make a donation of $5 or more, a luminary bag will be made on your behalf.  This will be in remembrance of a loved one who lost the battle.  Leave a comment with the details and  I will be sure to prepare a bag in their honor.

Click on the link below to make your secure donation. Thank you in advance.

http://main.acsevents.org/goto/apasinski

T-Minus 30 days...

...until I turn 30. Thirty.

That is all that is on my mind at this moment.

Five Question Friday

1.  Do you apologize to your kids?

You betcha.  I wish I didn't have to, but I'm only human.  It's usually on my "P M freakin' S" days.  It's the days I roll out of bed on the wrong side.  I can probably guarantee my kids know when it's one of those days.  Thankfully, they always accept my apology.  I spend the next hour feeling guilty before I remind myself that I'm not a bad mom.  I usually confess my behavior to my husband as well, just to have him remind me too, that I am not a bad mom.

2.  What color are your nails right now?

Blue.  Bright blue.  I was feeling patriotic, being Memorial day weekend and all.

3.  When you were growing up, how difficult was it for you to stay home sick? (As in, did you have to vomit or just say "I don't feel good?)

I can't remember back to my elementary years, after all, I am almost thirty!  Ugh.  But from what I can remember I just had to say I didn't feel good.  No fake vomit, no hot washcloth on my head to make me feel warm, and no crazy moaning noises.  Thanks mom.  As for my kids, if they are staying home, I want to see puke.

4.  When is the last time you bought a new comforter for your bed?

Joe purchased a new comforter about 10 months ago.  He staged "Operation Take My Life Back" and went on a shopping raid.  At this time we were still sharing a bedroom with Gracie, who was 9 months old.  I did not want to put the girls in a room together, for fear they wouldn't sleep well.  One day, Joe wasn't having it anymore.  He went on a shopping spree for new items for our bedroom and kicked the baby out.  The comforter he bought was thick and red.  I must say I was scared of "Operation Take My Life Back" but the girls slept fine since day one.  It was nice to be alone again.

5.  Favorite Website(s)?

I don't know if I have a favorite?  OK, if favorite is equal to the one I check most often, the it's facebook.  I feel a little dirty admitting it.  I had this conversation with another mom awhile back.  She felt like she was on it to much and was considering deleting her account.  I honestly don't spend a lot of time on the site.  It's normally just to post a new blog and quickly see what's going on.  However, for the moms that use it all throughout the day....Good for you!  We all know how it is, especially with new babies, to feel completely out of the loop.  You have little adult conversation and certainly not as many outings.  If facebook helps you feel connected to the "real world" and keeps you sane, check it all day woman!  I'm now going to head over there to post my blog and see what everyone is doing today, lol.

Bloody Nose?

Elia was throwing a tantrum last night.  She was protesting bed time.  I was winning.  As she sat her plump behind on her Dora potty ring, red stuff poured out of her nose.  I grabbed a tissue and immediately placed it on her tiny nose.

She continued to cry about not wanting to go to bed.  I was becoming concerned about her bloody nose.  I removed the tissue and as she cried more red mucous came out of her nose.  Then I smelled something familiar.  Playdough.

It was not a bloody nose.  It was red playdough.  She said she didn't eat it.  She said she didn't stick it up her nose.  I think she lied.

Wordless Wednesday

Oh, the Horror!

Nap time. Sacred time. Quiet time. A chance to regain my sanity. The pick me up I need to make it through the rest of the day. Some days it's a cup of coffee. Other days it's a phone call to a friend. Sometimes I lay out in the sun, but let's face it, there is no sun. Nap time. Just say the words and moms all over the world smile. You know you feel me on this one.

On this particular day, nap time would involve my guilty pleasure, Grey's Anatomy. I don't care what anyone has to say about it either. I love it. My husband doesn't, which is why I DVR it. So, I've got my coffee in hand, the girls are quiet, and I turn the TV on. Happily I scroll through the list and click on the season finale of Grey's.

Something weird is happening. The "Please Wait" scrolly bar thingy is taking way to long. Relax, it's fine, you're overreacting. Longer still and the words are still there and the scrolly thing is not stopping. "Please Wait" is still on my TV. I swear it is laughing at me as I begin to panic. Then to my horror, the following is displayed, "Playback failed. No audio/video data packets received from server."

What!? What the heck is a video data packet and why weren't they received from my server! Are you kidding me. This is the season finale people! Are Mer and McDreamy going to get the baby Zola? Is the clinical trial going to be trashed? Who is going to be named Chief Resident? Is Lexy going to go back to McSteamy? Are Hunt and Christina going to stay happy in love? Is Teddy going to Germany or staying with her husband? What will become of Karev? I can live without knowing what happens to Torres and Robins, I'm over them. Kepner is even starting to grow on me.

I already admitted it was my guilty pleasure, don't judge. I got ahold of myself. I went to the living room to try that TV. Oh no, it happened again. Remain calm. I reset the buttons on all of the receivers and waited. And waited.

I hit the play button and as the picture came on I was giddy. All was right in the world, almost. One minute and 37 seconds later, I heard Elia. She was awake. I would have to wait until bedtime to find out the fate of my peeps at Seattle Grace. I cannot be disturbed during Grey's.

Mother's Day Gifts

I know Mother's Day has come and gone, but I did not get to discuss all of the beautiful handmade gifts that I received from my kiddos. One in particular, is out of this world. It's my favorite. It's the best.

In case you can't read it, it says, "I like when my mom sings Pink Floyd."  OK, sometimes we sing Pink Floyd together in the car.  I checked out some of the other kids pictures and sentences. They said things like, "I like when my mom...makes pancakes, reads a story, kisses me, takes me to the park, buys me things.". Jadon's proclamation of his mom totally made me smile.  His other sentences included, "I wouldn't trade my mom for food," and "I love my mom more than football." 

Christian said I weigh 10 pounds and that I am as pretty as a princess.  He ended his paragraph by saying, "I love my mom because she is my best friend."

Joey made a picture with an acronym for "Mother" as follows,
Mommy I love you
Outstanding chef (which I am not at all)
Totally Awesome
Heart
Enjoy
Rock On!

These handmade mom gifts are irreplaceable.  (Stop singing Beyonce, I'm trying to be serious here.)

Five Question Friday

1.  Do you and your spouse go to bed at the same time?

If we are both home, yes, always.  Last night we checked in at 8:00.  We got through The Big Bang Theory before I dozed off around 9:00.  Please note, it took an hour to get through the show because we had to keep pausing it to tell the children to be quiet.  Thank heavens for DVR's.  When you have kids, you take what you can get.  I need to go to bed with my husband.  Most nights I need a good chest to lay on and remember I have him for life, and we're in this together.

2.  What kind of facial hair do you like on your man?

Um, none, mainly because he can't grow any.  OK, he can grow some.  He would never be able to do a full on facial anything.  He has certain areas in the beard area that just don't produce hair.  It's cute.  Really, I prefer him smooth.  It's not fun making out with a porcupine.

3.  What's the worst vacation you've ever taken?

Is this a trick question?  We haven't done many "vacations" per say.  We've done camping and mini-getaways.  If I have to answer...when Joey was just one year old, we had the new parent bug, and thought we must make all kinds of good memories that our one year old would never remember.  We smartened up real quick when the other kids came!   Anyway, Joey was in love with The Wiggles.  Joe and I thought it would be so much fun to take our little guy to Toronto to see them live.  Yeah, like I said, we smartened up real quick.  We did the long drive with a toddler to Toronto and arrived at a lovely Bed & Breakfast hosted by a sweet, old, loud, woman.  Joey did not sleep, at all.  Every time we looked at him his big blues eyes were staring right back at us.  When Joey finally dozed off it was about 10:00 in the morning.  The sweet, old, loud, woman, banged on the door to our room about seven different times for various reasons, and woke him up every time. 

The next day we were exhausted  I read the tickets to the concerts wrong and we ended up being almost a half hour late to the show.  The show we drove for hours to see.  After the show we had plans to visit a huge indoor play place.  The place was closed that day for maintenance.  I think I had my period and remember sobbing each time something didn't go as planned.  Joey did say "the wiggles" perfectly that day.  That was the highlight of the trip.  I just might have done it all over to hear him say it again.

4.  What's the first blog you ever followed?

Honestly, when I started blogging, I had no idea how popular it really was.  Honestly.  And I like to think I am a pretty techie person.  The first blog I actually clicked "follow" on was "The Glitter and the Gray"  I don't know how I found it, but I liked it.  It was real life.  It was exactly why I had wanted to blog.

5.  Do you like amusement parks?

I don't like them.  I LOVE them.  I love them.  I still get scared though.  And I still have not gone on the Superman roller coaster at Darien Lake.  My hubby does not like scary rides.  He says they are from the devil, but he goes on them with me anyway.  Another reason I love him.  Last year we got the boys to do some of the big rides.  It looks like I have some up and coming amusement park lovers.  That's exciting.  Amusement parks make me feel like a kid again.  When you're pushing 30, it's good to feel like a kid again.

Mother Nature, You are a Tease!

I previously wrote a post titled, "My name is Amy, and I'm a Complainer". I've been trying not to complain. Trying.

We live in Buffalo. I should be used to the weather. Friday, we finally got a gorgeous sunny day. We followed it up with six days of cold and rain. Why must mother nature be such a tease. She gets us all excited by flaunting her goodness and rips it right out from under us. She causes us to pack up all of our sweaters and break out the flip flops, only to leave us freezing.

The kids get out their bikes and are finally able to unleash their madness. Then they are stuck unleashing their madness on me, bouncing off the walls for the next week because of the rain.

I think I've had enough. Please stop teasing me.

You Heard It Right

Welcome to another edition of "You Heard It Right."

Today's message comes from Christian. 

"Mommy!  I had the most super, best, really good, awesome, really, really, super good day!"

"Really.  Why?" I asked.

"Because I was good and got a dinosaur sticker from school!" he continues with pure delight.

I told him to go get it so I could see it.  He runs and grabs it and happily presents it to me.  The small circle sticker was smaller than a dime.

"Isn't is awesome!?" he squeals.

"It sure is!" I agree.

My five year old could not wait to get in the house to tell me about his super awesome sticker.  The sticker was the highlight of his day.  It made his day.  Oh, to be five.  I instantly forgot about the cold, rainy, weather and how depressing it was making me, and took pleasure in the sticker story.

TEN YEARS, Whoa Baby!

Today I celebrate my ten year anniversary.  I try not to brag too much about my amazing husband, which is hard.  I can't help it most times.  I don't post everything he does for me on facebook or tweet about his constant choice to put me first.  Same goes for him.  He keeps it to himself as well.  Yesterday, however, he posted this as his facebook status, "Ten years ago was the day before my wedding. My brother and I were discussing the things of life. It occurred to me then (and still baffles me today) how such a beautiful woman who had everything going for her would choose me. Somehow I duped her in to believing that being with me for the rest of her life was her best option. WHAT A SUCKER! I wish I could reciprocate the peace, love, and joy that she brings me."

I cried as I read his proclamation.  Knowing that amidst all of my flaws and shortcomings he can say I bring him peace, love, and joy, makes me so happy.  As a wife, that is truly my heart.  He does reciprocate all of those things right back to me.  And he probably does it better.

I will never forget our wedding day.  I was standing in the back of the sanctuary peeking through the blinds as Joe and his groomsmen came out.  The beautiful Prior girls were singing "From This Moment" as my girlfriends began walking down the aisle.  At that moment I felt so completely sure about following them down the aisle, and walking into my future with Joe.  Ten years, 5 children, and everything in between, whoa baby!  It hasn't gotten old, and I pray it never does. 

Joe is full of so many good things.  He is loving, he works hard for his family, he loves God, he is a man of uncompromising integrity, he loves people, he makes me laugh, he is trustworthy, he is patient, he is a dreamer, he is my best friend.

I won't apologize for my mushiness today.  Ten years only comes around one time.  Joe planned an overnight getaway to Salvatore's and is taking me to see Wicked.  It was supposed to be a surprise, until I kept bugging him about buying tickets for the show.  Since I wouldn't leave him alone, he cracked.  I felt bad that I ruined his surprise.  I should have known he had already bought them.  That's just the kind of husband he is.

At our last overnight at Salvatore's.  Happy 10th Anniversary to my Lover.

Wordless Wednesday

It Truly is the Little Things

I'm learning more and more it's the little things that count. It's the times you pause from the craziness, to take in life's joys. I was just talking to a friend this morning about it. It's easy to wish for bedtime to come, a baby to finally walk to make things easier, or summer to come to enjoy the outdoors. We are always looking forward to the next season in life. This is especially true in the trials of motherhood. Trust me girls, I am right there with you!

Today I decided to tackle the dressers and closets in order to "switch seasons". This is no easy undertaking. First I must empty and store the winter clothes and then pull out the spring and summer. Before I can put those clothes away they all need to be washed. Multiply this by seven people! I spent the entire day organizing, doing laundry (twelve loads, no joke), folding, and putting clothes away. It was not fun. I don't like housework. Who does?

The girls came in from playing outside and I cleaned them up for bed. I searched around for Elia's nuk. Finally, I found it shoved in the corner below her crib. We were down to one nuk. She only uses it at nap time and bedtime. It was on my list of things to do, but I didn't have a sense of urgency yet. Twice before I mentioned getting rid of the beloved nuk, but she was not having it.

Today, when I picked up the thing I noticed it was cracked and filled with nasty, bacteria ridden, spit. I suggested maybe we should throw it out because it was very yucky. She said OK. I was in shock. Really? Really? Let's see how far we can go with this. I told her how proud I was of her and that she could do the honor of throwing it in the garbage. She happily skipped to the can with a smile on her face and threw it out. I continued to praise her and tell her what a big girl she was. I also told her we would go to the store and pick out a big girl surprise for making the decision. She was thrilled. Her precious little face could not contain the excitement.

I put her back into bed and she told her sister the entire story, word for word. She told Grace, and grandma, and daddy, and the boys, and Grace again.

It truly is the little things.

Happy Mother's Day! The winner is...

KRYSTINA CLABO! Congratulations! Krystina's favorite mom moment, "My favorite mom moment was when my mom tried to spit her gum out my passenger window while she was driving. We both were laughing so hard at her valiant effort that the gum ended up in my hair. Boy do I love her. Happy Mothers day to a sharp shooter mom."

Thanks for all of your funny and heartfelt moments. My favorite moment(s) will forever be when each of my five beautiful children were placed on my chest after delivery. Nothing will ever to compare to those first precious moments with them.

Enjoy your day with the ones you love! Happy Mother's Day to you all. You are each amazing in so many ways! I hope you take time today to forgive yourself for the mistakes you have made and focus on all you have accomplished in motherhood. I know I will. I'm certain the good far outweighs the bad.

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Puke in a Bucket

My firstborn turns 9 tomorrow. Nine. Every birthday causes me to reflect on the actual births. Most of the time it is sentimental stuff that makes me cry. Tonight I'm reflecting on my husbands crazy shenanigans.

Fast forward through all the gory details to coming home with my son. My husband tells me I have to see the video footage. He turns it on and I am puzzled to see my house. It is a wide angle shot of the front door. It stays this way for a minute and out the door comes Joe. He holds up the rubbermaid bucket I used for cleaning floors and smiles at the camera. The bucket was filled with regurgitated Wendy's chili from the night before. (I did not eat chili in the third trimester of any other of my pregnancies.) Joe comes back in the camera shot a moment later after dumping my bucket of vomit in the woods. My toilet was occupied by my rear end that was spewing pee-poo at an uncontrollable rate, which resulted in the bucket. He smiled at the camera as he passed and went back in the house. A few minutes more go by and the door opens again. Here I come. My face is scrunched into a what appears to be a crazy person straight out of a horror movie. Joe has me by the arm somewhat dragging me to the car. I waddled along with him. My contractions were two minutes apart at this point.

I had no idea the camera was set on the front of the car. He smiled at it again before he shut it off. Puke in a bucket captured on film.

MOTHER'S DAY GIVEAWAY!

Mother's Day is almost here. I have an awesome gift to give one mom!

My friend over at beCAUSE jewelry designs has graciously offered one of her beautiful necklaces to giveaway.

"The sterling nest of pearls is a great choice for mothers, this nest is crafted using sterling silver wire, intricately woven around your specified number of fine freshwater pearls. Included is the 16.5" sterling chain. 10% of profits will be donated to the Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo maternity ward."

Here's how to make it yours: Up to FOUR entries/person!

1.  Comment on this post and share your favorite mom moment!
2.  "LIKE" PoopInACandle.com on Facebook**
3.  Follow my blog**
4.  Post my giveaway on your facebook page or blog**
** Make sure to let me know in your comment that you did these!

Need a last minute gift for your mom?  Would you like your hubby to make sure you get this necklace?  Visit beCAUSE jewelry designs and place your order by Friday and get it delivered on Saturday!  (local delivery/pick-up only)

The winner will be selected by random.org on Mother's Day! With your permission, I will share some of your comments on my Mother's Day blog post.

Where's the Poop?

It's everywhere. Fear not. More poop is coming. Thank you for asking.

Life has been oh so busy. It was on my "to do" list to get back to the blog today (along with getting back to the diet). I don't even know where to begin, but I will keep it simple.

As I folded eighteen loads of laundry this morning, I listened to my girls play "Ring Around the Rosie" eighty-eight times. I kept peaking into the kitchen to catch a glimpse. They were still in their pjs, with their hair all a mess. That's common for a Monday. They giggled and laughed as they turned in a circle. Gracie would yell, "Again!" each time they fell. Elia would jump to her feet and push her curly hair out of her face and resume the game.

"Ring Around the Rosie, pocket pull-a posies, atch-es atch-es, we! fall! down!"

Back up they stand and do it all over again. So many thoughts run through my mind as I watch them. I think of how happy I am that another baby snuck into the family. I hope that they will be best friends forever. I pray they will always feel this happy and joyful throughout their lives, amidst the good times and bad. I wish for them to one day watch their children like I am right now. I close my eyes and try to burn this moment into my brain with the many others I wish to never forget.

I go back into my room to fold some more. Forget it. I'm going to play until I get too dizzy to stand.

Five Question Friday

1.  If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I would be more like Martha Stewart, or June Cleaver, or any other woman that likes to cook and clean.  It is not my passion in life, however, it's a necessity.  My crockpot is still unused.

2.  Write about a time when you got lost.

I'll have to verify this one with my mom, but I have a tidbit or a memory about being lost at Darien Lake.  I think I was 7ish?  It was a rainy day and I think I had a yellow raincoat on.  I remember feeling super scared and completely frozen.  I don't know how long I was alone or how long I was standing in the rain.  In all likelihood it could have been 2 minutes.  That is my one memory of being lost. 

3.  Camping or 5 star hotel?

Hmmmm.  If it's just me and my man, 5 star hotel.  If it's with the kids, I pick camping.  This summer we took three camping trips with the boys.  Not only was it super affordable, it was way more fun than any hotel trip would have been with them. 

4.  Have you donated blood?

Yes, many times.  I am O-Negative and they are always calling me because I'm a universal donor.  I haven't done it in awhile.  I almost gave blood in the mall a couple of weeks ago, but it just didn't seem sanitary.  It was weird.  The next time I hear about a blood drive I'll go.  I should probably do it more often.

5.  Do you have a budget or do you 'fly by' most months.

We have a budget.  Last year we were able to set all of our bills to auto pay, which was a momentous occasion for us.  All of the bill money goes into a separate account and whatever is left goes into another.  That is the money we use for groceries, gas, and entertainment stuff.  We probably still spend more than we should.  Of course, all of the kids will get full scholarships to school, so we'll be fine.

I Will Eat the Chocolate

My alarm went off at 6:45 today.  While in the shower I decided, I will eat chocolate today.

Let me back up.  It was a whirlwind of a morning.  I got the kids off to school and got myself and the girls ready.  While I was finishing my makeup, five minutes before I had to leave, I realized the girls were too quiet.  I opened my bedroom door and the girls were painting each others nails.  OK, they were trying to.  It was everywhere.  Yippee.

I had to be in Lancaster for a training course at 10:00.  Immediately following the training I had to rush over to school to run the Niagara Chocolate sale.  Today we had to sort through all the orders that came in and organize them for parent pick-up.  Like last year, I am "watching what I eat."  I've been sticking to the healthy stuff.

Last year, the very kind delivery man gave us a stack of chocolate bars before he departed.  Last year, I had enough will power not to eat them.  Today, I was going to eat them.

We unloaded the entire truck and I signed the paperwork.  It was at this point last year the kind man gave me chocolate.  I waited for a moment, in case he forgot, and he said, "Have a good day."

What!?  No chocolate bars?  I was going to eat the chocolate today!  I decided it was better he didn't give me the chocolate.  I seriously would have eaten them all.

About an hour later the Niagara rep came in to see how everything was going.  She did not come last year.  Before she left she handed me a bag of chocolate.  Score.  Wait, no.  I made it this far.  I was not going to eat the chocolate. 

I got in the car to head home.  At this point I am exhausted.  I ripped open the box of chocolate covered pretzels and stuffed them in my mouth.  Life is good.

Wordless Wednesday

*I promise to write some words, soon*

Five Question Friday

1.  Have you ever had surgery?

No, knock on wood.  I did come very close after delivering Elia.  For some reason my placenta decided it did not want to come out the easy way.  Before I knew it my doctor my backup doctor's arm was inside me up to his elbow.  My husband handled that delivery great, until that point.  He dug around for what felt like eternity, until he was finally able to remove the entire placenta.  The nurse just kept telling me to hang in there.  If they could not remove it I would have to be taken to the emergency room and cut open.  Thank God for epidurals.  The recovery from that delivery was the worst.

2.  Ever ride in an ambulance?

No, knock on wood, again.

3.  How are you in a medical emergency?  Panicked?  Calm?

PANICKED!  A few of the minor injuries that turned me into a crazy woman; Jadon cutting his head on the toilet, Joey's croup fit, Christian's "confused" episode, and Grace's high fever.  I must give myself credit though, because during Elia's stay at Children's Hospital, I think I was a bit of a Rock Star.  I remember Joe kept telling me how good I was doing.  I think in the severity of that ordeal the mom in me was able to hold it together for her.

4.  Do you have a garden?  Flowers or Veggies?

I do not.  Joe does.  He is more Martha Stewart than me.  Really.  He has taken great pride in our yard and it's appearance.  He thoughtfully purchases the flowers each year and carefully places them throughout the yard.  He has the green thumb.  I kill things. 

5.  When did you move out of your parents house?

When I was 19, right before I got married. 

Wordless Wednesday

Today...

I am wearing... a new flowy top from NY&Co.  Someone didn't show up for an appointment last night and I was irritated.  This lead me to the mall to pick up some 7/$25 undies at Victoria's Secret and a new outfit.  Shopping made me feel better.  Don't judge.

I am wondering... when I will be able to open my windows, and keep them open.

I am thankful for... my husband.  He is able to encourage me like no one else can.

I am overwhelmed by... my dirty bathroom.  Today, there are cocoa pebbles everywhere.  The boys tried to dump their leftover cereal in the toilet and missed horribly.  Now mixed in with the pee are disintegrating cocoa pebbles.  Toothpaste is splashed on the mirror and sink.  Underwear and dirty socks are on the floor.  Someone squirt hand soap everywhere and Christian opened an entire box of Dora band aids.  I don't know if I am motivated enough to clean it right now.  I may just shut the door.

I am eating... a Smart Ones Sante Fe Rice and Beans frozen meal.  I like this one because it leaves me feeling stuffed, as opposed to feeling like I ate a diet meal in four fork fulls.

I can hear... my girls singing along to the Fresh Beat Band.  "We had a great day, lalalalala la!"

I am going... to grow thicker skin.  Somehow.

I am hoping... that Christian is having a blast on his first field trip.  He's going to see Junie B. Jones at the Theater of Youth, followed by a pizza party.  I signed up for this field trip with Joey.  It was awfully boring.  I missed out on the zoo that year.  Now I know not to volunteer on the first field trip.  They save the best for last.  Rookie parenting mistake #403.

Around the house... the new crockpot Joe bought me is still sitting on the counter.  He came home with it about three weeks ago after I kept complaining about the broken one.  I've yet to use it.  I'm uninspired.  I've got a freezer full of meat in the basement, a crockpot staring me in the face, and no motivation to throw anything in there.  What should I put in the blasted thing?  It's supposed to make my life easier yet I feel so much pressure.

One of my favorite things... flowers for no reason.

Random picture for sharing...

Impromptu picture attempt before seeing Santa.  The Santa one was way better.

Things I Hate

Welcome to my newest blog topic...Things I Hate.

This morning I served waffles.  I had to run the four slice toaster three times to make enough food for my brood.  I stood their thinking, I needed to see if anyone sells a bigger toaster.  Even if it was a six slice I would be able to do one less round of toasting.  This though, is not what I hate.

I hate cutting up food for my children.  I cut twelve waffles into bite size pieces for the kids.  Since Joey has been able to chew, I've been cutting food.  I am in no rush for them to grow up, but I seriously can't wait until they can work their own forks and knives.  I cut up waffles, chicken, apples, steak, hot dogs, and pancakes.  I cut up pork, cake, pizza, turkey, and oranges.  Multiply all that cutting by five and I'm ready to put it in a blender and serve it in a cup.

Wordless Wednesday

BE SCARED!  Yuggie gets in on the action this year!

Homework

Joe's helping Joey with his homework. 

Joey asks, "What's a contraction?"

Joe says, "When you put two words together to make a shorter one."

I overhear this from my room and yell, "NO IT'S NOT!" 

It's the worst pain in the world prior to pushing a child out of my female parts.

You Heard It Right

Joey came home from school and told me that his teacher wrote "hell" on the board.  I was like, what?!  It turns out the teacher was writing "hello" and paused briefly causing twenty third graders to bust a gut.  I asked Joey, "What did the teacher say?" 

Joey got serious and said, "He told us to act our age."

This lead to a discussion on inappropriate words.  The three boys began piping up about all the naughty things they have heard at school.  To my surprise no swear words came up.  They giggled and tried to outdo each other.  I bit my lip so I wouldn't join in on the laughter.  We then talked about how important it is to always do and say the right thing. 

A few seconds later Joey spoke up again and said they were talking about balls on the bus and all of the boys were laughing.  I think my eyes were bulging out of my head at that point.  Surely, he did not know what they were talking about.  I tried to play it cool. 

"What is wrong with talking about balls", I asked inquisitively.

He pops out of his chair, motions with both hands to his midsection, and YELLS, "You know mom, BALLS!"

I nearly fell over.  He said it so emphatically, almost gyrating his pelvis to emphasize his little boy parts.  I just had to walk away at that point. 

Five Question Friday

So, I thought it was Thursday.  It's not.  Here's FQF instead.  If you missed the blog about balls because I thought it was Thursday, check back tomorrow and I will repost.  I'm trying to keep up with Five Question Friday weekly.

1.  Have you ever testified in court?  For what?

Thankfully, no.  I'm very hopeful that it will remain no.

2.  Do you still have your wedding dress?

Of course!  Unfortunately, the basement flooded during the dreaded "October Storm."  My dress survived.  It's a little discolored now, sniff.  Really though, what am I ever going to do with the thing.  I had it in my head that one of my girls would wear it.  Let's face it, they are not going to wear it.  So, there it sits. 

3.  Is there a special place you like to go when you're happy, sad, stressed, etc.? 

Good question.  I don't really have a special place.  Maybe I need to get one?  I find the bathroom is the closest place to my sanctuary, and that's just wrong.  I do like to be on Joe's chest.  God designed our men to have a perfect place for us to nuzzle our heads into.  Do you know what I'm talking about?  It's like my head nuzzles perfectly onto his chest.  I like to go there for various occasions, I guess. 

4.  If you have kids, do you let them sleep with you?

Heck to the NO!  My bed is for me and Joe.  That's it. 

5.  Do you watch late night TV?

I feel like this is turning into a blog about my husband.  We watch late night TV.  Well, it's more like shows we DVR'ed.  Not "late night" TV.  I think of Letterman or infomercials when you put it that way.  We like House, How I Met Your Mother, The Big Bang Theory, and Food Network.  OK, I like Food Network.  He likes FOX News.  Late night TV is our time together.

His Perspective

I got a text from my husband yesterday.  It said, "I have a great addition to your blog.  It will highlight the differences between the way husbands and wives look at things.  Call it His Perspective."

My immediate reaction was, Heck To The NO!  This is my blog.  There will be no blowing me in.  Face it, that's his plan. 

Then I concluded this may be a great idea.  We all know men and women think totally different.  The whole point of this blog was to keep it real.  I guess it's only fair to give my man the chance to offer his perspective if he so wishes. 

I'm a little scared but I think it will be great.  Look for "His Perspective" coming soon.  I bet he can't wait to offer his perspective on some of my posts like, "P M freakin' S", "Happy Valentine's Day", or "He Found It."

What do you girls think?  Should we allow some testosterone on PoopInACandle.com? 

Wordless Wednesday

He Took "IT" Out!

My phone rang last night while I was in a training class.  I didn't recognize the number, but knew it was someone in my area.  On my way home from class it rang again.  I was on another call and couldn't answer it.  They did not leave a message.  I googled the number but it was unlisted.  The phone rang again at 8:37 while I was in the bathroom.  I assumed it must be important and dialed back.

I learned it was a parent of a little girl in Jadon's class.  Crap.  Did I forget to send in the napkins for the party?  What day is it?  Did I miss St. Patrick's Day?  Did I forget to send in snack?  Was their a birthday party over the weekend?  I was trying to think of what the three phone calls could be related to. 

There was a pause and then I felt myself sinking into my bed as she stated the reason for the call.  My sweet, comical, precious Jadon, had done the unthinkable.  He showed his plump little behind and wiener to the little girl in his class, on the bus.  Oh, My, God!  I didn't even know what to say.  While I was mortified, I was also laughing a little on the inside because I know he doesn't fully understand how you absolutely cannot do that!  He does now.

It turns out, Jadon had a minor accident near the end of the day and was telling this girl he got pee in his pants.  He obviously wasn't embarrassed about it.  The girl began to question him and tell him she didn't believe him.  He insisted he did.  She insisted he didn't.  So, what's a boy to do?  He yanks his pants down and shows her his stuff!  I don't know how that would prove the point.  I'd tell her to feel my pants?  I don't know.  Either way, he took "IT" out, on the bus.  (Any Seinfeld fans feel me on this one?)

Really, I was mortified.  I apologized profusely and assured her we did not encourage this behavior and keep our parts in our pants at home.  My mind was racing thinking about what kind of family this woman must think we are. 

I hung up the phone and told Joe to go get me some chocolate and onion rings.  After about five minutes I was over it.  I decided I didn't care how bad of a mother that mom thought I was.  So my kid took "it" out.  Worse things have happened.  We talked to Jadon this morning and I can guarantee he won't do that again. 

 He is 6.  He is a boy.  He is still innocent. 

With a face like his, it's hard to be mad.

Dental Hygiene Month?

February was dental hygiene month at school.  February was also the boys regular check-ups at the dentist.  This home is filled with 9 new toothbrushes, 27 kid friendly floss thingies shaped like Buzz, 6 rolls of regular floss, and about 12 mini tubes of bubblegum sparkle toothpaste.  We've got dental products coming out of our ears mouths.

So, it was dental hygiene month.  There is something not very hygienic about 5 kids swapping brushes and flosses.  It's disgusting.  My husband keeps his toothbrush on top of the medicine cabinet where no one can find it.  God forbid if it touches one of the kids toothbrushes. 

The boys have opened every tube of toothpaste.  Why?  They are all the same flavor.  I've been cleaning the sparkly blue stuff off the shelf, out of the sink, off the counter, and from the mirror. 

Grace and Elia have also been carrying around the toothbrushes.  Grace sucks and chews on it while drool pours down her chin and unto her clothes.  She then paints the wall with the wet bristles.  I know what you're thinking, take the toothbrushes away.  If we didn't have seventy-two thousand, I would.  I think the kids are stashing them under their pillows or something.  Of course I'll also admit the toothbrush also keeps Grace entertained for hours.  No joke.  At least her teeth are clean?

This week Joey also admitted to me that he dropped my toothbrush in the toilet.  My husband started laughing.  He knew my toothbrush fell in the toilet and didn't tell me.  They said they used really hot water to clean it.  I'm brushing with a Snoopy toothbrush temporarily.

Hooray for Dental Hygiene "Nasty" Month.

Five Question Friday

I'm joining other blogger moms in "Five Question Friday."  Every Friday there are 5 random questions to be answered.  Since I'm not doing that well in the creative department lately, here you go.

1. Do you know what your real hair color is?

Yes.  It's dark brown.  I didn't color it for almost 6 years.  Then, I got some highlights.  Now I remember why I didn't color it.  It's too much freakin work!

2.  Do you plan ahead for summer, or fly by the seat of your pants?

A little bit of both.  We usually plan three camping trips.  The rest is one day at a time.  However, we usually come up with something to do everyday.  Otherwise, I'm counting the days 'til it's back to school!  We do love summer fun!

3.  What is your favorite meal to cook?

Is this a trick question?  I don't think I have one.  I hate cooking.  Alright, if I have to answer it's gotta be breakfast for dinner.  Eggs and bacon and pancakes and french toast.  Mmmmm.  It's pretty hard for me to mess that one up. 

4.  Do you get offended for not by not receiving thank you cards.

No way.  (Of course, I've been guilty of not sending them)  I know how busy my life is and I realize that goes for other people too.  Unless I bought someone a nasty sweater or tampons for their birthday, I'm fairly certain they appreciated my gift and just forgot to thank me.  I'm good with that.  No thank you needed.

5.  How did you meet your best friend?

I met him at a party.  He chased me around a friend's house spraying me with water.  I did not like him then.  I love him the most, now.