Today I turned the big 3-5. My friends tried their hardest to bug me about it, but since they are older than I am it didn't mean much.
This morning my parents made the hour trip (one way) to take me (and Hubby and Peanut) out for breakfast. Unfortunately, we had made plans a week ago to have our cable upgraded to digital this morning so only Peanut and I went. Hubby stayed home to wait for the cable guy who (big surprise) didn't show up until an hour after we had returned from breakfast. My parents were able to visit for a couple of hours...for the first time in about a year.
So, the morning went well. Then I became annoyed with Hubby.
I don't expect much for my birthday and my presents can be very simple. The minimum I ask for (which I explained to Hubby when we were dating) is a cake (small and simple...a cupcake would make me happy), a "Happy Birthday" (can be said by a card) , and a small gift (doesn't need to be much...Hubby cleaning the house would rock my world and probably get Hubby a "gift" himself). So you can imagine my delight when there was no cake, no "Happy Birthday" (verbal or a card...which could have been grabbed from the card box I keep), and Hubby looked at me and said, "Would you like to go shopping today?" "I didn't know what to get you for your birthday!"
Oh...I was SO not happy. We have been married for 10 years and we dated for 5 years before that! And he still doesn't know what to get me????
So I went and sulked. I did try to do it so he didn't know...honestly. Usually, I'd do it out in the open and I'd usually throw in a "fit." Now that I'm mature, I decided to keep it to myself.
I think I did pretty good to...I went into the bedroom and pretended to read a book.
When I was done I told Hubby we could go shopping, but I couldn't think of anything I needed (although I told him there were plenty of things I want). I asked him what he had thought about getting me. He said he wanted to get me a 46" flat panel, LCD television but we'd had a talk about this and couldn't decide if we wanted it mounted or on a credenza and if we wanted to spend all of that money.
So, we went and looked at t.v.s. I am now the proud owner of the above mentioned television (which was a LOT more expensive then planned because they didn't have the one we wanted in stock) and a beautiful credenza.
I am very happy with my gifts (unlike the cake, it doesn't add inches to me...unless I watch it a lot) and, needless to say, so is my hubby. I think the gift was for me (hahaha!).
I wonder what I'll get next year...a convertible?? A new house??? I can't wait!!
Until next time...
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Not On The Carpet!
Everybody has one of "those moments" that they become "famous" for...even if that fame is contained to family and friends. As you grow up these moments can stick or new ones may take their place. My new "moment" occured Friday. I can just hope it doesn't stick.
Friday evening, my mother had everybody (all five of her sisters and their spouses, all of my cousins and their families, my siblings and their families, my sister-in-law's parents, and my grandmother) over for a family celebration. Normally, it would have been a Christmas party, but with an aunt receiving the wonderful news that she did NOT have breast cancer as orginally thought and a cousin who just finish basic training and is expecting to get shipped to Iraq by summer...mom called it a "Family Celebration." Whatever you called it, it was so nice. For once...there was no arguing and everyone was there.
Anyway, my cousin R.D. was there with his little girl A. who is 2. A. is the most adorable little girl. She is VERY loving. Anyway, A., along with all of the other little ones, was dancing in the living room to some music that my mom had playing. Well, her grandma had given her some food that she was eating while she danced. All of a sudden, A. fell down to the floor and grabbed her chest. We all stopped and asked her if she was ok. She didn't answer but she got up and seemed ok (she doesn't talk much). Everyone else went back to their conversations, but I was sitting off by myself (it was the only chair available) watching the kids. I noticed that A. kept tapping her chest, so I called her over. She climbed up on my lap. I looked at her and something didn't seem right. So I said, "A.! Say, "Daddy!" Say, "Daddy!" My aunt, A.'s grandma came over. I told her that I didn't think A. was breathing right, but I didn't know if it was that she just wouldn't speak to me...being as shy as she is. My aunt grabbed her, yelled for my brother who is a paramedic, flipped A. over and started whacking on A.'s back. I stepped to the side. When I realized (my first "Duh!" moment) what was going to happen if she spit the food up, I apparently started to channel my mother (granted the woman is not dead and was in the other room...so maybe it was just my "Barb" moment). I looked at my aunt who was still whacking on A.'s back and said (are you ready...this is my "moment"), "get her off the carpet!" With that, I ran to the entry way which is tiled (and easier to clean), rolled back the rug and gestured to my aunt to bring A. Thankfully, I was the only idiot Friday and everyone ignored me. Moments later, A. was breathing fine (I'm not sure if anything ever came up or what happened)...there was no mess (at least a big one) to clean up...and it started to register with everyone what I had done.
My mom was horrified that I would be seemingly more concerned with the carpet than my little cousin, but in my defense...I am my mother's daughter. It wasn't that I wasn't concerned about A., but I also knew how my mom handles any kind of mess on her carpet and the entry way was only 3 steps away from where we were.
So...that was my moment. I'm hoping it won't "stick." I'd hate to be reminded every year about the time I was willing to sacrifice my little cousin for a clean carpet. I may have to make a deal with my mom not to ever again repeat the story of how she "fed" my brother on his 1st birthday a plastic clown head (from his cake) on a spike (she had given it to him so he could lick of the frosting and he stuck it in his mouth spike first...which she quickly removed from his mouth).
Hope your holidays are safe and "moment" free.
Until later...
Friday evening, my mother had everybody (all five of her sisters and their spouses, all of my cousins and their families, my siblings and their families, my sister-in-law's parents, and my grandmother) over for a family celebration. Normally, it would have been a Christmas party, but with an aunt receiving the wonderful news that she did NOT have breast cancer as orginally thought and a cousin who just finish basic training and is expecting to get shipped to Iraq by summer...mom called it a "Family Celebration." Whatever you called it, it was so nice. For once...there was no arguing and everyone was there.
Anyway, my cousin R.D. was there with his little girl A. who is 2. A. is the most adorable little girl. She is VERY loving. Anyway, A., along with all of the other little ones, was dancing in the living room to some music that my mom had playing. Well, her grandma had given her some food that she was eating while she danced. All of a sudden, A. fell down to the floor and grabbed her chest. We all stopped and asked her if she was ok. She didn't answer but she got up and seemed ok (she doesn't talk much). Everyone else went back to their conversations, but I was sitting off by myself (it was the only chair available) watching the kids. I noticed that A. kept tapping her chest, so I called her over. She climbed up on my lap. I looked at her and something didn't seem right. So I said, "A.! Say, "Daddy!" Say, "Daddy!" My aunt, A.'s grandma came over. I told her that I didn't think A. was breathing right, but I didn't know if it was that she just wouldn't speak to me...being as shy as she is. My aunt grabbed her, yelled for my brother who is a paramedic, flipped A. over and started whacking on A.'s back. I stepped to the side. When I realized (my first "Duh!" moment) what was going to happen if she spit the food up, I apparently started to channel my mother (granted the woman is not dead and was in the other room...so maybe it was just my "Barb" moment). I looked at my aunt who was still whacking on A.'s back and said (are you ready...this is my "moment"), "get her off the carpet!" With that, I ran to the entry way which is tiled (and easier to clean), rolled back the rug and gestured to my aunt to bring A. Thankfully, I was the only idiot Friday and everyone ignored me. Moments later, A. was breathing fine (I'm not sure if anything ever came up or what happened)...there was no mess (at least a big one) to clean up...and it started to register with everyone what I had done.
My mom was horrified that I would be seemingly more concerned with the carpet than my little cousin, but in my defense...I am my mother's daughter. It wasn't that I wasn't concerned about A., but I also knew how my mom handles any kind of mess on her carpet and the entry way was only 3 steps away from where we were.
So...that was my moment. I'm hoping it won't "stick." I'd hate to be reminded every year about the time I was willing to sacrifice my little cousin for a clean carpet. I may have to make a deal with my mom not to ever again repeat the story of how she "fed" my brother on his 1st birthday a plastic clown head (from his cake) on a spike (she had given it to him so he could lick of the frosting and he stuck it in his mouth spike first...which she quickly removed from his mouth).
Hope your holidays are safe and "moment" free.
Until later...
Thursday, December 21, 2006
10 EATING TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
I don't know who wrote this...I've received it twice as a forwarded e-mail. It makes me chuckle each time I read it.
10 EATING TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can and quickly. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an "eggnog-aholic" or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas. Not sure what the thrill is...rather drink my mom's whiskey slush she makes for the holidays! Now THAT is worth blowing calories for!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand-alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat. Again, not a big fan of gravy, but it does make me smile (reminds me of the people I know that already do this.)
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission. Even better is cream cheese and/or sour cream!!! Full Fat!
5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello???
Amen!!
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
I can't wait to share this with my Dr. as my reason for decreasing my visits to the gym!
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position your self near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again. Uh oh...I've been busted!!
8. Same for pies. Apple, pumpkin and mincemeat -- have a slice of each. Or, if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all costs. I mean, have some standards. Hmmm...I've never had fruitcake, but I hear they soak them in rum. Can anything soaked in alcohol be bad?
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Reread tips. Start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner.
Remember this motto to live by: "Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body. But rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO what a ride!" My philosophy on life!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!
10 EATING TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can and quickly. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an "eggnog-aholic" or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas. Not sure what the thrill is...rather drink my mom's whiskey slush she makes for the holidays! Now THAT is worth blowing calories for!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand-alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat. Again, not a big fan of gravy, but it does make me smile (reminds me of the people I know that already do this.)
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission. Even better is cream cheese and/or sour cream!!! Full Fat!
5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello???
Amen!!
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
I can't wait to share this with my Dr. as my reason for decreasing my visits to the gym!
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position your self near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again. Uh oh...I've been busted!!
8. Same for pies. Apple, pumpkin and mincemeat -- have a slice of each. Or, if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all costs. I mean, have some standards. Hmmm...I've never had fruitcake, but I hear they soak them in rum. Can anything soaked in alcohol be bad?
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Reread tips. Start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner.
Remember this motto to live by: "Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body. But rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO what a ride!" My philosophy on life!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
I Survived!!
I've once again survived the annual classroom holiday party. This year, however, I am really proud of myself for doing so.
I survived 15 spills (we rarely have spills), 3 small children terrified of Santa, 2 temper tantrums (only), 1 sibling visiting with a parent that ate a classroom book and 2 "oops! I didn't make it to the bathroom in time" accidents involving solid waste (unfortunately they both happened to same poor little guy who NEVER has accidents). Did I mention that I had to do this twice?
Overall, it wasn't a bad day. I love to see the students with Santa (although I feel bad about the ones that are terrified of him). It brings back some wonderful memories from my childhood.
My most embarrassing moment today: I went to pour myself a cup of fruit juice because I was incredibly thristy. As I was doing that I said to myself (out loud), "Man! I need a drink!" Then, I realized that I had two moms standing near me and was so embarrassed! Thankfully, I knew one mom really well and the other started laughing. I quickly explained I meant I needed something to drink because my throat was so dry...which was true!
Second most embarrassing moment today: At lunch my coworkers were talking about birthdays near the holidays and how you get "screwed" out of presents. One of them looked at me and asked (because my birthday is Dec. 28), "Ann, do you get screwed on your birthday?" My mouth flew open and just as I was getting ready to spit out a really wise-ass comment, I noticed that "Santa" was sitting with us. I decided my reply was not appropriate for mixed company (especially since this nice man was a co-workers father-in-law who was so sweet). I guess my verbal response was not needed, because they all started laughing and said, "We got it! We can hear your thoughts!!!" More like read my facial expressions. Oh well.
Tomorrow is our last day before break! Must go and get rested.
Until later...
I survived 15 spills (we rarely have spills), 3 small children terrified of Santa, 2 temper tantrums (only), 1 sibling visiting with a parent that ate a classroom book and 2 "oops! I didn't make it to the bathroom in time" accidents involving solid waste (unfortunately they both happened to same poor little guy who NEVER has accidents). Did I mention that I had to do this twice?
Overall, it wasn't a bad day. I love to see the students with Santa (although I feel bad about the ones that are terrified of him). It brings back some wonderful memories from my childhood.
My most embarrassing moment today: I went to pour myself a cup of fruit juice because I was incredibly thristy. As I was doing that I said to myself (out loud), "Man! I need a drink!" Then, I realized that I had two moms standing near me and was so embarrassed! Thankfully, I knew one mom really well and the other started laughing. I quickly explained I meant I needed something to drink because my throat was so dry...which was true!
Second most embarrassing moment today: At lunch my coworkers were talking about birthdays near the holidays and how you get "screwed" out of presents. One of them looked at me and asked (because my birthday is Dec. 28), "Ann, do you get screwed on your birthday?" My mouth flew open and just as I was getting ready to spit out a really wise-ass comment, I noticed that "Santa" was sitting with us. I decided my reply was not appropriate for mixed company (especially since this nice man was a co-workers father-in-law who was so sweet). I guess my verbal response was not needed, because they all started laughing and said, "We got it! We can hear your thoughts!!!" More like read my facial expressions. Oh well.
Tomorrow is our last day before break! Must go and get rested.
Until later...
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Done Shopping!
Yipeee!!! I'm done Christmas shopping! I just finished tonight at 8 p.m. Now I only have to:
*finish addressing my cards and get those sent out tomorrow morning
*wrap all of the presents I have at the house
*get 24 chocolate reindeer suckers made by Tuesday (and wrap 24 presents for the kids at school by Tuesday)
*make carmel corn, fudge, sugar cookies, 2 different types of dessert dips, cucumber sandwiches (the sandwiches are supposed to be for tomorrow)
*pray like crazy that all of the presents ordered on-line (including those ordered today that promised delivery by Dec. 22) will arrive by Friday...except for the gift cards that need to be here tomorrow (they were supposed to be bought at the store but hubby was put in charge and decided to do things his way. Oh well, they are for his family).
Well, since I still have cards to address and addresses to look up I must go.
Until next time...
*finish addressing my cards and get those sent out tomorrow morning
*wrap all of the presents I have at the house
*get 24 chocolate reindeer suckers made by Tuesday (and wrap 24 presents for the kids at school by Tuesday)
*make carmel corn, fudge, sugar cookies, 2 different types of dessert dips, cucumber sandwiches (the sandwiches are supposed to be for tomorrow)
*pray like crazy that all of the presents ordered on-line (including those ordered today that promised delivery by Dec. 22) will arrive by Friday...except for the gift cards that need to be here tomorrow (they were supposed to be bought at the store but hubby was put in charge and decided to do things his way. Oh well, they are for his family).
Well, since I still have cards to address and addresses to look up I must go.
Until next time...
Spamalot
Tonight (this morning) will be a short post, but I felt like sharing.
Today hubby's brother and his brother's girlfriend came to visit. This has been planned for some time as we were going to see Spamalot. Originally, we were going to take hubby's dad who is a HUGE Monty Python fan and we also invited the rest of the family. Unfortunately, my father-in-law and his wife are in the process of moving to Ohio where he recently started new job and no one else was interested.
Anyway, if you haven't seen Spamalot you absolutely MUST see it! It is hysterically funny! I attend many plays/musicals and have enjoyed 99% of them. However, I have never enjoyed one so much I said, "It's over already?" I think it might have been shorter than other plays that I've seen, but still...it flew!! Granted I am a Monty Python fan...although I don't consider myself a huge fan...but I think this play is better than the movie it is taken from.
Ladies, if you have a man that shies away from the theater (but loves to watch women who are scantily dressed) you might be able to drag him to this. Let him know that there are a number of scenes where women come out in very small costumes. In one spot, a model-looking blonde walks across the stage a couple of times in nothing but white underwear (with bra or bustier...sp?), garter belt, stockings and heels.
In addition to finding the show really funny, I also loved the brightly colored costumes, props and backgrounds. Not everything was bright, but there were a lot of bright colors. And the actors and actresses were fabulous!! The woman the played the "Lady of the Lake" has a voice that blew me away!
So, if you are looking for a way to spend an afternoon or evening with a lot of laughs...give Spamalot a try. If you decide to see it...enjoy!
Until later...
Today hubby's brother and his brother's girlfriend came to visit. This has been planned for some time as we were going to see Spamalot. Originally, we were going to take hubby's dad who is a HUGE Monty Python fan and we also invited the rest of the family. Unfortunately, my father-in-law and his wife are in the process of moving to Ohio where he recently started new job and no one else was interested.
Anyway, if you haven't seen Spamalot you absolutely MUST see it! It is hysterically funny! I attend many plays/musicals and have enjoyed 99% of them. However, I have never enjoyed one so much I said, "It's over already?" I think it might have been shorter than other plays that I've seen, but still...it flew!! Granted I am a Monty Python fan...although I don't consider myself a huge fan...but I think this play is better than the movie it is taken from.
Ladies, if you have a man that shies away from the theater (but loves to watch women who are scantily dressed) you might be able to drag him to this. Let him know that there are a number of scenes where women come out in very small costumes. In one spot, a model-looking blonde walks across the stage a couple of times in nothing but white underwear (with bra or bustier...sp?), garter belt, stockings and heels.
In addition to finding the show really funny, I also loved the brightly colored costumes, props and backgrounds. Not everything was bright, but there were a lot of bright colors. And the actors and actresses were fabulous!! The woman the played the "Lady of the Lake" has a voice that blew me away!
So, if you are looking for a way to spend an afternoon or evening with a lot of laughs...give Spamalot a try. If you decide to see it...enjoy!
Until later...
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
A Wonderful Day
Today has been wonderful. It wasn't perfect, but it was still wonderful. Peanut woke up early this morning in a great mood. Work went smoothly. When I picked up Peanut from the sitter's house, he'd had a good day and he had taken a nap.
When Peanut and I got home, we were able to play outside for a while...the otherwise overcast and cold day was briefly sunny and cool (for about an hour). While we were playing in the yard, a squirrel ran by Peanut with a piece of bread. We were able to stand there and watch the squirrel search for a place to store his bread, dig his hole, cover it, and leave. Peanut was amazed! We followed this with a short walk around the block.
Peanut and I made dinner together. It was so fun! By the time hubby got home from work we were all ready to go shopping. Okay...you need to know that I NEVER go to the mall after Thanksgiving. I try not to go to any store after Thanksgiving unless it is the grocery store. So going and taking Peanut...not high on my list of favorite things to do. Well, I couldn't have asked for a better kid...well behaved, followed directions, happy...hubby was the cranky one (but even he was too awful).
I now have only hubby's step-dad, my grandma, Peanut's sitter, a friend of mine and Peanut to buy for. The first three are getting gift certificates that hubby will pick up tomorrow. My friend and Peanut will be finished sometime next week. First, I have to figure out what to get them!
So, now I'm off to bed (before midnight!!!). Until next time...
When Peanut and I got home, we were able to play outside for a while...the otherwise overcast and cold day was briefly sunny and cool (for about an hour). While we were playing in the yard, a squirrel ran by Peanut with a piece of bread. We were able to stand there and watch the squirrel search for a place to store his bread, dig his hole, cover it, and leave. Peanut was amazed! We followed this with a short walk around the block.
Peanut and I made dinner together. It was so fun! By the time hubby got home from work we were all ready to go shopping. Okay...you need to know that I NEVER go to the mall after Thanksgiving. I try not to go to any store after Thanksgiving unless it is the grocery store. So going and taking Peanut...not high on my list of favorite things to do. Well, I couldn't have asked for a better kid...well behaved, followed directions, happy...hubby was the cranky one (but even he was too awful).
I now have only hubby's step-dad, my grandma, Peanut's sitter, a friend of mine and Peanut to buy for. The first three are getting gift certificates that hubby will pick up tomorrow. My friend and Peanut will be finished sometime next week. First, I have to figure out what to get them!
So, now I'm off to bed (before midnight!!!). Until next time...
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Catching Up
Well, the peanut had five good days in a row. He even did well on Saturday when we drove to Toledo, OH to have Christmas with hubby's dad's side of the family...in a hotel lobby. Of course, this year I do have to say that dinner reservations were made for 6 pm instead of 7 pm which made a big difference. We also had a private room for dinner...although the place was empty. Just these couple of things made a huge difference. Thank you family!!
Yesterday I stayed home from work. I was feeling sick...from nerves. I have so much to do with so little time to do it that I make myself sick worrying about it...while putting it all off. I know that most of the stuff on my "to-do" list is stuff that doesn't NEED to be done, such as: making cookies, making candy and other holiday baking, sending cards, and making sure that every Christmas decoration I own is put out.
Hubby says I need anti-anxiety medicine. I told him I just need a husband that helps out. That probably wasn't totally fair of me to say because he does do some stuff (washes his laundry and sometimes Peanut's, takes out the garbage, hung the Christmas lights...only one strand, gets the "stuff" out of the attic, and other tasks when asked...a minimum of 3 times.
But seriously, I think it'd be great to be my hubby during the holidays. I do all of the shopping for presents (last year I even had to buy mine). I do all of the cooking (he will go get fast food if he needs to "cook"). I send out the cards (although I realize he doesn't understand why we do cards at all...or have a tree...or lights...etc.). He is also incapable of scheduling any activities with his family...even though I post a large calendar in the kitchen listing all of the activities for each family member with time, etc. I even note when I want a night with nothing planned.
From where I'm standing, being my hubby during the holidays is wonderful.
Well, since I have lots to do, I need to get going instead of increasing my anxiety.
Until next time...
Yesterday I stayed home from work. I was feeling sick...from nerves. I have so much to do with so little time to do it that I make myself sick worrying about it...while putting it all off. I know that most of the stuff on my "to-do" list is stuff that doesn't NEED to be done, such as: making cookies, making candy and other holiday baking, sending cards, and making sure that every Christmas decoration I own is put out.
Hubby says I need anti-anxiety medicine. I told him I just need a husband that helps out. That probably wasn't totally fair of me to say because he does do some stuff (washes his laundry and sometimes Peanut's, takes out the garbage, hung the Christmas lights...only one strand, gets the "stuff" out of the attic, and other tasks when asked...a minimum of 3 times.
But seriously, I think it'd be great to be my hubby during the holidays. I do all of the shopping for presents (last year I even had to buy mine). I do all of the cooking (he will go get fast food if he needs to "cook"). I send out the cards (although I realize he doesn't understand why we do cards at all...or have a tree...or lights...etc.). He is also incapable of scheduling any activities with his family...even though I post a large calendar in the kitchen listing all of the activities for each family member with time, etc. I even note when I want a night with nothing planned.
From where I'm standing, being my hubby during the holidays is wonderful.
Well, since I have lots to do, I need to get going instead of increasing my anxiety.
Until next time...
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Two Peanut Stories
My son, who will turn 3 in January, drove his first "car" on Friday. He took four of his friends for a joy-ride in the babysitter's van. Hmmmm...if this is what he's doing before he's 3, I'm terrified of what he'll do when he becomes a teenager. Apparently, the babysitter was trying to load the children (there were 5) into her van. Because the weather was so bitterly cold on Friday, she decided to turn the van on and let it run. I'm not sure how everything went down, but I do know that the sitter was trying to strap in one of the younger boys (about 1 1/2 years old). While she was doing that, Peanut jumped up in the driver's seat and pretended to drive (he does this all of the time no matter what you do). In the process of "driving" the van, he slipped the van into 'drive.' He then proceeded for a couple of feet and drove through a chain link fence/gate and into the babysitter's backyard. Luckily, no one was injured and the van only has a vertical dent that is a perfect impression of the 2 inch wide metal pole that was part of the fence/gate. The gate had the most damage, but nothing that wasn't easily fixed. The babysitter didn't tell me this (she told me no one and nothing got hurt), Peanut did. I have to admit that I thought that this was funny when I heard about it (right after I confirmed that everything and everyone was alright). I did not laugh, but I really wanted to.
On Thursday, Peanut and I had run some errands and on the way home I asked him what he wanted for dinner...tuna fish or sloppy joes. He replied that he wanted tacos. I tried to explain to him that I did not have any money on me to pay for tacos (from Taco Bell which is where he loves to eat). As we continued the drive home, we drove by a Taco Bell. When I had driven by it, he said, "Momma! I said I want tacos from there!" I once again tried to explain why we couldn't have tacos. His reply..."But Momma!! That's what I wanted! Momma...I am so disappointed in you." I was able to hide my giggles this time also.
Well, before I fall asleep, I need to be off.
Until next time...
On Thursday, Peanut and I had run some errands and on the way home I asked him what he wanted for dinner...tuna fish or sloppy joes. He replied that he wanted tacos. I tried to explain to him that I did not have any money on me to pay for tacos (from Taco Bell which is where he loves to eat). As we continued the drive home, we drove by a Taco Bell. When I had driven by it, he said, "Momma! I said I want tacos from there!" I once again tried to explain why we couldn't have tacos. His reply..."But Momma!! That's what I wanted! Momma...I am so disappointed in you." I was able to hide my giggles this time also.
Well, before I fall asleep, I need to be off.
Until next time...
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
'Tis the Season
Christmas. I love it...most of the time.
For my family, Christmas starts 1-2 weeks before Thanksgiving. Yes, that's right. Thanksgiving. This is not really by choice. If I had my way we would start the day after Thanksgiving. However, we can't usually do that due to everything we have going on.
We start "celebrating" (more acurately...preparing for) Christmas before Thanksgiving by putting up the inside Christmas decorations. I refuse to put up the outside decorations until after Thanksgiving...I don't want my neighbors leaving hate mail!
The day after Thanksgiving, hubby usually works and Peanut and I spend a day playing. That evening, one of my favorite friends holds an annual party that I try very hard not to miss (he lives out of state and I only see him on this day each year). The next day we travel across the state to see the in-laws and come home on Sunday.
The following weekend usually consists of taking my son to my dad's work Christmas party and to our adoption group Christmas party. This year we added a trip with my brother and his family to the tree farm to cut down a tree for them. I wanted Peanut to have the experience that is a major part of my childhood memories. Next year I'd like to have a real tree, but I'm not sure it is practical for our family.
The second weekend of the month is taken up with a trip out of state to celebrate with hubby's father and that part of the family. This year, everyone has been absolutely fantastic, and we are traveling to a central location (although this "central location" is 1 1/2 hrs from our house and 2 1/2 hours or more for everyone else) and eating at least an hour earlier than normal to meet the needs of Peanut. Usually, this is the side we get the "Granny Death Letters" from and tons of drama. This year it is gone. Yippee!!!
The following weekend should have been fairly relaxed, but that would be asking too much. We are having company (hubby's brother and his girlfriend)...this is NOT the problem. I love these two and wish they could visit more often (hubby and I started dating with my brother-in-law was in 5th or 6th grade and it's been wonderful watching him grow up into the great guy he is today)! But I digress...the stressful part of the weekend is due to the fact that we are going into the city to see a play (1/2 hr. drive) and our babysitter for that weekend has cancelled. The only person available is my mom who lives an hour away. This means driving an hour up to drop off my son, driving an hour and a half back to the theater, then making the 2 1/2 round trip drive back up to my mom's after the play to pick up my son (no...she won't keep him overnight). Yippee. Five hours on the road (if the traffic and weather co-operate) then a couple of hours sitting through the play. Hubby offered to make the trip up (hopefully, he'll remember that he said he'll do this and not get all pissy when the time comes to make the trip). I suggested we all ride up to pick up Peanut, that way our visitors can see a part of the state that they haven't seen in years.
The weekend after that will hopefully be "relaxed." At this point we are planning on staying home (making one trip to my parents in order to visit my cousin home on leave from the service) and taking care of last minute items for Christmas. However, I expect this to all be blown away because we still have to work in some time to spend with hubby's mom and that side of the family (makes me thankful my parents are still together...4 Christmas' would drive me nuts).
The last weekend of the month is MINE!!! I will be doing what I want! It's my birthday and New Years. As of right now, I have no plans and will probably keep it that way. The most we'll do is invite friends in for movies, drinks, snacks, and to watch the town's fireworks from our front porch.
Actually, this year is going to be less stressful than last year and I am SO grateful!
Happy Holidays (if you celebrate them) and may you be safe, happy and healthy (regardless of your beliefs).
Ha
For my family, Christmas starts 1-2 weeks before Thanksgiving. Yes, that's right. Thanksgiving. This is not really by choice. If I had my way we would start the day after Thanksgiving. However, we can't usually do that due to everything we have going on.
We start "celebrating" (more acurately...preparing for) Christmas before Thanksgiving by putting up the inside Christmas decorations. I refuse to put up the outside decorations until after Thanksgiving...I don't want my neighbors leaving hate mail!
The day after Thanksgiving, hubby usually works and Peanut and I spend a day playing. That evening, one of my favorite friends holds an annual party that I try very hard not to miss (he lives out of state and I only see him on this day each year). The next day we travel across the state to see the in-laws and come home on Sunday.
The following weekend usually consists of taking my son to my dad's work Christmas party and to our adoption group Christmas party. This year we added a trip with my brother and his family to the tree farm to cut down a tree for them. I wanted Peanut to have the experience that is a major part of my childhood memories. Next year I'd like to have a real tree, but I'm not sure it is practical for our family.
The second weekend of the month is taken up with a trip out of state to celebrate with hubby's father and that part of the family. This year, everyone has been absolutely fantastic, and we are traveling to a central location (although this "central location" is 1 1/2 hrs from our house and 2 1/2 hours or more for everyone else) and eating at least an hour earlier than normal to meet the needs of Peanut. Usually, this is the side we get the "Granny Death Letters" from and tons of drama. This year it is gone. Yippee!!!
The following weekend should have been fairly relaxed, but that would be asking too much. We are having company (hubby's brother and his girlfriend)...this is NOT the problem. I love these two and wish they could visit more often (hubby and I started dating with my brother-in-law was in 5th or 6th grade and it's been wonderful watching him grow up into the great guy he is today)! But I digress...the stressful part of the weekend is due to the fact that we are going into the city to see a play (1/2 hr. drive) and our babysitter for that weekend has cancelled. The only person available is my mom who lives an hour away. This means driving an hour up to drop off my son, driving an hour and a half back to the theater, then making the 2 1/2 round trip drive back up to my mom's after the play to pick up my son (no...she won't keep him overnight). Yippee. Five hours on the road (if the traffic and weather co-operate) then a couple of hours sitting through the play. Hubby offered to make the trip up (hopefully, he'll remember that he said he'll do this and not get all pissy when the time comes to make the trip). I suggested we all ride up to pick up Peanut, that way our visitors can see a part of the state that they haven't seen in years.
The weekend after that will hopefully be "relaxed." At this point we are planning on staying home (making one trip to my parents in order to visit my cousin home on leave from the service) and taking care of last minute items for Christmas. However, I expect this to all be blown away because we still have to work in some time to spend with hubby's mom and that side of the family (makes me thankful my parents are still together...4 Christmas' would drive me nuts).
The last weekend of the month is MINE!!! I will be doing what I want! It's my birthday and New Years. As of right now, I have no plans and will probably keep it that way. The most we'll do is invite friends in for movies, drinks, snacks, and to watch the town's fireworks from our front porch.
Actually, this year is going to be less stressful than last year and I am SO grateful!
Happy Holidays (if you celebrate them) and may you be safe, happy and healthy (regardless of your beliefs).
Ha
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