Flybabies-March 14th-2005

I tried twice and nothing happened. ?? Whatever.

Yesterday was nice and relaxed, and DS had a happy birthday. The yellow cake was good with milk chocolate frosting and I managed to draw a dinosaur and write "Happy Birthday" on it with my leftover homemade icing. He couldn't blow out the candles though, took him several minutes. I was afraid he was spitting all over the cake and Mom wouldn't want any.

I skipped church, mainly because I was up til two baking and getting the crock-pot ready, so I had plenty of time in the morning to bake rolls and get ready for Mom's visit. For once, I was really glad I skipped. Usually I really want to go and it's disappointing if I can't.

Today I was awakened by my daughters who informed me DS3 had had a blowout all over his bed. So, started the morning with bath and some laundry. He seems to feel all right otherwise, but probably has a touch of stomach bug. We had planned to visit our friends this afternoon, but there goes that. I called and apparently her boys have it too.

I've already run out to the bank this morning before DH left for work to fix the checking account problem.

So...

PODA:
*Laundry
*Homeschool
*Maybe steam clean stairs later

Love y'all!

Susannah

I forgot I also need to:

-call the bra lady about getting a bra altered
-contact the property manager about two mysterious wet spots on the floor (not cat-related)

*** I can't do a personal blog at the moment so I am just sticking it in here!

So this last week I got to experience Spring Break with the kids. A whole week off with no docking of vacation days and the check still comes in the mail. Ah, the fun of working for a school district. I can't wait till summer!!!

We started out taking a little adventure to DH's famliys farm about 2 hours from home but it got rained out....I mean RAINED, and RAINED and RAINED out, not just a little sprinkle! So home we came but we did get a nice stop at the strawberry farm to pick our own strawberries so all was not lost. The boys totally got into the strawberry farm. Will go again!

DH goes back to work and the DSs and I head to Houston Garden Center. Hello, be prepared for some major planting. DH so missed this hint!!

Friday, I decide, yes, in fact I DO want that flowerbed in the back. That I have been wanting for oh TWO YEARS now. So we go get the tiller and with a smile on his face (you know it!) DH plows up the spot and here we go!

I replanted some hibiscus, my lemon tree, a cigar plant, some gerber daisies, kolancha, and some herbs.

I add to the mix lamb's ear (recommend this even just for a bit, the kids will LOVE IT!) red tipped phontenias, a bottlebrush tree, sweet broom, seeds for sweet peas and cloeus and sunflowers and something a friend gave me that I am still waiting on the name for so I can research it.

We also flagstoned our front walk!

It looks grand. I sat out there last night with some tea and just enjoyed it so much! I can't wait to add more as funds permit!

I love to garden! Makes my heart happy!

Oh and needless to say the outside of the house looks great but don't step INSIDE! You may not recover from the mess!

PODA:
THE FLOORS!!!!! they are the priority tonight.
THE BATHROOM!!!! second runner up in priority!
Not sure how much dirt stayed outside if you look at those 2 things!

Jana

They have strawberries, blackberries and peaches. It is called The Strawberry Patch. If you want their number I will send you a private message. They have a small picnic area and a small little pond with fish. They work out of a barn type building that sells several fruit related things. We have not been to Froberg's, funny enough since that is very close to us!

Jana

It sounds divine, I'm am just green with envy. Imagine, planting in March! We still have four feet of snow!

TADA
dinner: crockpot beef stroganoff, noodles, peas
that's it so far

PODA
dishes
read paper
laundry rotation (I decided to leave all the clean laundry except mine and DD's down there and the 3 big boys can darn well fend for themselves!)
read to DD
bed, bed, bed I'm still so beat

Susannah, I'm so glad the cake worked out OK, and it sounds wonderful!

Becky, you can get bras altered? I had no idea!

Jenny, I'm glad hay $$ is coming in.

Anne, I just love the smell of baking bread. It's my second favorite, right after baby necks.

Have a great night all,
-Jo

I want your garden! Ha ha! Can't afford it all right now, but I'd love to do it little by little. Have to copy down your plantings. I love lamb's ear. I'd especially love to flagstone our front pathway. Enjoy it to the full!

J.D. only had one more "episode" today. I hope that doesn't mean he's saving up for tonight. I only just got his blanket in the dryer. Did get the tub scrubbed this morning.

We had tacos for supper and I did do some homeschooling. Laundry, well.... Ahem.

Anyways, Emma is such a little pip. She's full of mischief these days. She was all over our bed a minute ago (and all over the cat, her favorite pasttime), and there's no way to keep her from climbing back up, so I put her in her crib long enough to do some internet stuff. Then she gets both knees stuck between the crib slats and starts wailing. DH had to come extricate her; I couldn't figure it out. Arg! The child never stops moving for a second, unless she passes out on the floor with her blankie. And she's always going vertical. Up, up, up! Monkey. Okay, now she's back on my bed banging on the cat with a big ol' locking washer. Nice. I marvel at that cat's patience. (Although she did bite Elias on the head and hiss at him the other night. She's never quite forgiven him, or us, for his toddler years. Yes, we really do strive to teach them "gentle.")

I got my freebies "bouquet" from the Old Schoolhouse magazine promotion. Lots of good free homeschooling stuff. Even a little abacus. How fun!

I can't do my flymail, because I can't get through to hotmail. It's been three days now. I shudder to see my in-box. Any other hotmail users having trouble? I get a screen saying "hotmail redirect in progress--please wait" then it times out. Bleah.

Well, I've got to do bedtime. Bleah. What a great attitude I have. I've been letting DH take it easy at home since he's having stress at work, but frankly, it's about time for his turn! End whining.

Love,

Susannah

Ok, Saturday: windy, but 83 outside. Leaves are comin' out everywhere and I though Spring is really here!

Today: 2 inches of snow, 6 more expected, schools are closed.

Anne, did ya'll get any of this snow?

Jana, WOW! That's some work!!! Pictures?

Susannah, puppies are more forgiving than cats.

Jamie Lea, cool on season passes! Yuck on Dr.

So, dinner was good last night. Thick steaks, baked taters, pound cake, salad, iced tea, lace tableclothes, and flower bouquets (I got to take one home!). Had the dinner in the library, the librarian was calling it Cafe Book. I helped clean up, then joined the school board meeting til about 9. Jeff said he would call when the meeting was over and I went to his parents, but I put the kids in the truck at 10 and headed out, sat in the parking lot for an hour. The kids watched Shrek on DVD in the truck to kill time (and put two of them to sleep). School board meeting FINALLY got out at 11:30!!! WOW! But, lots of things are being straightened out now (the business manager that quit a month ago had, on purposely, left things in a HUGE mess. I mean, we are looking at audits and if things had continued, the school could have come close to being shut down! Very vindictive person. ANYWAY...

I'm going to start a fire in the fireplace, make some hot chocolate, and veg out! LOL! Ok, I may get some work done around here. Kitchen is desperate for attention, so is laundry and the bathrooms.

I really am sorry I am cloggin up Flybabies with all my stuff but I can't do a blog or forum topic!

My family, Dh, DSs and I, is seriously thinking of becoming "a dog walker". My aunt has Jazz. You can see her on the link, just scroll down a bit. It is a great program!

http://www.guidedogsoftexas.com/guide-dog-screensavers.htm

Just had to share. It is a long process to even get approved......much like adoption, with home visits and such! I am excited. We are still getting feedback.

Okay, OT.

Floors done, Shaun, I was wanting your Roomba.
paid insurance bill.....setting up on direct debit!
Menus made, trying to eat out of pantry and freezer for the next couple of weeks.
Work is busy, we are cleaning out some outdated books. I am TRYING to leave them here and not take them home!

Jenny - SNOW???????
Susannah - way to go on the cake. BTW we don't have the money either. We really lucked out and got alot free. All the flagstone was free.....left over from a neighbors project and several of the plants were free!!! My mother bought us a birdbath too!!

Waves to all!

Jana

If this is out of character then you know he is a good kiddo. I think he will fully get the gest of HOW much trouble he is in and that will have a bigger impact then anything else. If this is the kid that was peeing on him, well then, that could explain some of it. If not, a true heart to heart will be necessary. Hear his side and then you and DH can take some time to figure out the punishment. Just let it digest before you "skin him alive", my mother used to say that when she was really mad at us!!!

Good, calming vibes coming your way!!!

Jana

Gosh Shaun, you give good advice! Have you ever considered another line of work?

Speaking of which, that is where I am so I gotta run.

Thinking of you Anne - y ou WILL get through this intact and so will your son.

Andrea

Very tough situation that of course you handled with Grace! I'll keep you guys in my thoughts and prayers for the situation.

Dentist appointment for Tony and Trey went well. Trey had a cavity so back on Thursday to fill that. Good news is they were able to do the sealants today, should keep him from getting anymore. Tony also has a couple cavities, but we expected that, he just got his braces off after a little over 2 years.

Bought a bubble blower today, Savannah and Trey are downstairs enjoying that.
Today's our anniversary, 10 years. I got DH a few DVD's he's been wanting. He sent me a beautiful bouquet of tulips in a nice cranberry colored vase, very sweet He also got me the 9th season of friends (what I asked for) Not going anywhere, just a nice dinner at home.

I have a Dr's appointment in the morning, then homeschool park day at 1:00. Tomorrow there celebrating the March birthday's so Trey will get a little party with some of his March pals. Should be fun.

I think DH just got home, I'll see you guys tomorrow.
Jamie Lea

And you handeled it so well.

One thing I value and treasure over and over these days is our kid's ability and willingnes to communicate with us, and a friend once told me if you want that to happen you have to have "two ears and one mouth." It's so true! I found the less I talk the more they will. It's so hard to keep an open mind and see their side when they are just plain wrong.

Speaking of which...
My DS13 left the battery charger plugged in since Friday. DH discovered a house full of smoke when he came home tonight because the wires had melted and the place they go into the charger was melting too. It came really, really close to burning the house down. This is the same thing that started the fire in the shop, and DH was so upset, it was almost like he was having flashbacks. DS can't stop crying. Yikes. I wish we could go out for chai tonight Anne.

TADA
dinner: corned beef and cabbage (crock pot again!)
that's it

PODA
read paper
dishes
bed

Goodnight Ladies,
-Jo

Hi all!

Enjoying a rare moment of quiet - DH is at a move, kiddos in bed, just me and the dog! (who needs to be walked)

Jo, how weird is that?! Gosh I'm glad you caught it in time.

Anne, you are dealing with a tough situation in a loving and appropriate way and Eric will benefit from it. He has two loving parents and is learning life's lessons - he will be better for it.

Heidi, boy those peppers sound good - do you do the hamburger and rice thing? Yum.

Worked M, and T, off tomorrow but in kids' classes, then Cubs, then two P/T conferences - no surprises I hope.

Good nite all -
Andrea

What kind of charger is it? Can you switch to a solar charger or disposable batteries? I know the latter aren't so great for many reasons, but they are better than a fire. Or is it for something that really needs charging and there's no other way to do it?

Heidi, yes, I'm feeling well otherwise. Thanks!

Have good conferences, Andrea!

Vonnie, I don't get the uniform thing, but your solution sounds good to me.

PODA:
-not much. Today is my first day off caffeine, and I'm seriously in withdrawal even though I cut down very gradually!
-if I'm up to it, get the car's oil changed
-put away the load of laundry I washed and dried yesterday

I have a friend (from another site) who wants to do scrapping on her computer. What do those of you who do that use? Sites? Programs?

I was feeling sorry for myself last night, and then I come here and find Anne is dealing with a major issue herself. And doing it well, as usual. Good for you and DH, Anne.

Well, three out of five kids were throwing up yesterday, but some good came of it. I got the recliner cleaned, which I'd been planning to do for a while anyway. Our Netflix came in the mail, so they got to watch cartoons on the couch. I didn't have to cook. We had popsicles for supper. (Two of them "tossed their popsicles" after, too.) Sheets and comforters from three beds got washed and dried. And three kids had a bath. So there's my ta da. Not bad! So far, the two littlest ones have escaped with just a few bad diapers. And I have escaped so far as well. May it continue to be so.

I've been planning next week's menu today, from the local sale flyers. I hope to avoid driving to Hartwell this week. Saves gas, and who knows if we're all the way over this bug. There's a skate day on Friday, but the truth is I really don't want to leave home. Even though we need to get out and the kids would probably enjoy it, the thought of managing five kids at a skate center, none of whom skate well if at all, just isn't appealing.

I might make up for it by taking them yard saling Saturday morning. If the weather cooperates.

Other than menu, the most I've done today is read to the kids and do some laundry. Not folding, though, of course. But at least it's clean!

Off to allrecipes. Later!

Susannah

Still tired. I think I'll have my iron checked tomorrow-and if anyone dares suggest pregnancy, you may find me reaching for your throat through the monitor! I did not drink the water!!!!

TADA
dinner: burgers and baked beans for the guys, veggie burgers for DD and Me
dishes
laundry
DD in shower

PODA
read to DD
fling by my chair
wash out the crock pot for chili tomorrow
bed

Anne, DS also copped to all and apologized...He and DH are making up/playing chess right now. I've suggested that maybe battery chargers are just not safe, and the guys all scoff at that thought.

Wow, Jenny, that's a lot of snow for you guys, isn't it? We are FINALLY starting to thaw and melt, but that+dirt roads=mud.

Vonnie, I love overalls on little ones. I love overalls on me too, but that's another story.

Becky, you sound so content and happy. I'm so happy for you.

Susannah, I've never had stomach upset kids, when mine get sick it tends toward headaches, strep throats, croup, sinus infections. I just can not imagine having two or three throwing up or other intestinal troubles at the same time. You are a true amazement to me.

Happy Anniversary, Jamielea! We will be 17 this year.

Andrea, how long do they give you for P/T conferences? Just curious, because I have heard of them as short as 10 minutes, and as long as 45.

OK, gotta go wash up DD
Bye,
-Jo

Been back at work since last Monday but am struggling doing the long hours again, mainly i think because for the previous 3.5 weeks i have been too unwell to really go out much and do much other than basic housework. So being back at work, and with the long hours has taken its toll on my poor old body so that now, among other things, i have a sore and painful back. On Tuesday night i bent down to pick something up off the floor for a patient and i realised i couldn't get back up again. Too a sick day yesterday and today am seeing my physio to see if we can get me into a workable state for Saturday's shift.
PODA:
scrub shower
vacuum (the dog destroyed my fav shoes and there isn't much left!)
dishes (there is a tonne)
washing
ironing
mop the floors
take my mother to the doctors for her blood tests

Hopefully will be able to catch a movie with the other half this evening if i am lucky.

I just want to go back to my usual fit and healthy self. I just hate being sick. I am around sickies all day, the last thing i want is to be sick myself.

Sorry to hear about your Dad and your granny but glad to hear that everythings ok now.

Thanks for all the Anniversary wishes

Jenny, I've seen a little bit of Nick and Jessica but I'm addicted to Real world/Road rules challenge I have the DVR set to tape all the new episodes.

Well I had the Balance test today. Did well up till the end when they put a mask thing over my eyes to make it totally dark and then poured warm water in my ears, thought I might pass out. Luckily she said that was a normal reaction. I get the "official" test results back April 9th but "un-officialy" they told me in the office that they think the Dr's first diagnosis of Meiners (sp) disease was on target. For any of you who don't know what it is, it sounds ALOT worse than it is. Basically just the vertigo thing I told you guys about. Anywhoo, glad that's over with.

Trey has a dentist appointment in the morning. Tony and Anthony are both out of school tomorrow so I might see if I can put them to work, need some stuff done in the yard.

PODA (for tomorrow)
*Morning routine
*trey's dentist appt.
*zone work
*boogie in trey's closet
*put together goodie bags for Trey's party
*go threw Savannah's clothes (put up what's to small)

My mom's leaving Sunday (day after Trey's party) We've had a very nice visit, (she's been here 2 months) I'm going to miss her and I know the kids will.

Well it's way past midnight, better get to bed before Savannah's waking me up See yall tomorrow.
Jamie Lea

I'm wearing GREEN! My John Deere shirt! I'm very Irish today!! LOL! Chance is going to wear last years St. Ps old navy shirt.

Jamie Lea, has it already been two months!! Wow, time flies!

Anne, move closer to me so we can hang out and do fun things like that together!! Are ya'll having Spring Break next week? You should come up for the 55th Annual Floyd Lions Club Jamboree!

Been at the school delivering notes to cheerleaders. Found out one transferred schools and didn't turn her uniform in!! Hopefully I can track her down still. Also did my school news for the paper. I have to run to town to get vegetables for a spring party dd7's class is having. I signed up for cupcakes, but teacher changed it. That kinda throws a wrench in everything, but I'm sure I may get something done. LOL!

ya'll have a great day!

Hey all!

Vonnie, I"m not that organized, but wish I was. I am often ironing in the am or choose something that doesn't wrinkle. Feel better!

Hi Anne - I am so impressed that you do all that baking. Wow! Bagels even!

Hi Heidi, I'm sure DD6 would love that project too, I'll have to save my egg carton. The school that I work at just wrapped up state tests too, very stressful for all.

Well, I have a 3 day weekend coming up - yay - then 2 days of work next weekend, then a 5-day weekend!

Check in later -

Andrea

The power adaptor for this computer has finally bit the dust, and I might not have time to get another until Monday. So I may not be on much until then!

TADA
*Dh and I bought deadbolt locks and installed them on the front AND back doors.
*Ate a wonderful, and free thanks to gift cards from DH's birthday, at Chili's. He had Fajitas, and I had Fajita Quesidillas. YUMMY!!!
*got veggees for DD7's party tomorrow. I don't have to do anything for DD5's party, it's a little boy's birthday and his mommy is doing everything!!!
*a load of laundry
*baths for all kids
*two down, one to go

DH is out reading essays for a contest the Lions club is doing. Actually, they are doing it at our old house that we are renting out still, so I'm anxious to hear how it looks inside now (the guy is a great renter, always pays on time, and has really fixed up the place). I'm just hanging out working on a database list for DH. Me and my lists! LOL!

See ya'll in the morning!

HI all-

Not much time - enjoy your day everyone -

Andrea

Lots going on lately, just buzzing by . . .

Jana, hope all is OK with your family now. What a lot all at once!

Talent show for the elementary school was tonight, DD5 played piano. It was so much fun! 75 kids were in the show, which is a big chunk of the school. The kids were all very respectful of each other and everyone cheered like crazy for each act, even for the kid who got up and sang a fairly tuneless rendition of "Twinkle Twinkle." My DD was the 2nd act, and some of the kids in her class cheered "Go Sophie Go!" when she first got onstage. I left feeling so great about our school community!

DD5 has also been invited to a meeting of the "Cheeseweasles" tomorrow at a little boy's house -- a group of the Kindergartners have been playing this game at recess for a while, so he's having a Cheeseweasles gathering. So I am looking forward to a low key morning after dropping her off!

DH is experimenting with cocktails lately, so he's out getting some exotic ingredients. Hope I can stay awake until he comes back! If the rest of the week is any indication, he can expect to find me snoozing on the sofa in a few minutes.

Happy weekend everyone!

Shaun
"Home is where you can say anything you like, 'cause nobody listens to you anyway!" -- anon.

Guess what I'm doing the night of my 10th wedding anniversary?!?! We lucked out and got tickets to U2 in Minneapolis (show sold out really fast), so we'll go to the show and then stay in a fancy downtown hotel after. Yippee!! (Mom said she would come out to stay with the kids.) I've never seen U2 in concert, so I am very very excited.

Sorry about the hair-cutting, Jo. It's a kid rite-of-passage I think. My DD and her best friend did it to each other *during* preschool while the teacher wasn't watching. (?!) I don't blame you for being upset, I know I was too.

Hope the rest of you are having a good weekend -- I gotta get some work done and then clean up the house for the sitter tonight (don't want to be reported to social services, y'know )

Shaun
"Home is where you can say anything you like, 'cause nobody listens to you anyway!" -- anon.

Just jumping in really fast for a quick flyby while Alexa entertains herself in her pack and play. We have had a busy week- DH was on vaca- he put down a Wilsonart wood floor in my kitchen into the den area. I love it! He is the most patient man alive being that he isnt really handy but he learned what to do and picked away at it all week. It looks so great!

Jo, I am sorry about DD's hair. I would be so so pi$$ed off also!! I hope you let your niece's momma know how mad you are

Anne- I am sorry for what you are going through with your Ds. I have absolutely no experience in this area but it sure sounds like you are handling it well. Not exactly the same situation but my Dstepson was caught with something he should not have had ( some pot) when he was 14. It seemed he was hanging out with different kids and wanted to be cool. I know you cant blame the other kids for what your child does, but he did realize that he didnt want to be like them and he is back to normal now. (somewhat LOL .. Anyways I think 14 is a hard age self exteem wise for boys.. Hang in there- this too shall pass....

Jamielea sounds like you had a nice visit with your MOm. I hope your feeling good- did they give you anything for the vertigo?

OK gotta be quick- Dh will be back with lunch in a minute and I am supposed to be getting the kitchen back in order. Wanted to say Hi! to you guys fast!!!
Heres a week tada:
~put down kitchen floor. (Well really Dh did it but I helped a little)
~sent out baby shower invitations for Dsil
~traded in our truck since the lease was up. We got a Nissan PAthfinder- I love it!!
~walked to library with Alexa and finally got a library card. I ahve lived here 6 years.
~went out to dinner with Dh ALONE for the first time in 9 months 3 weeks
Thats about it. Oh and another tada- tomorrow is my 5 year quitting smoking anniversary. WOOHOOO One of the best and hardest things I have ever done. :)
Have a great day Love Jack

DN is 5 and she was jealous of DD's ponytails, so she cut them off and cut her bangs all the way up on her forehead, they are about a quarter inch long. DD never had bangs before. We took her down this morning to have it repaired as much as possible. It looks better, but it is super short, and I think she just looks odd. She is pretty upset too. DSIL made her DD come down for the haircut this morning and pay for it. She also was going to make her DD get the exact same haircut, but I wouldn't let her. They are 4 and 5 years old. We did have a long talk though about jealousy and better ways to handle it. And asking grownups first.

TADA
meal planned
haircut
groceries
laundry
dishes

PODA
laundry
laundry
laundry
DD's room
dinner: sirloin tips, mushrooms, broccoli

Have a good one friends!
-Jo

Jo, sounds like her mom did the right thing! Quite irksome, that. Elias cut himself a bald spot a week or so ago. Thank goodness for boys and buzz cuts. They actually look better with all their hair cut off.

I'm not going to church today. I feel all wrong in the tummy. Yet, if I don't lose it today I'll wonder later if I wimped out. Ew, and somebody needs his diaper changed, too. Not sure I'm up to this.

I bought some dinosaur manipulatives at that yard sale a couple of weeks ago, and 3yo DS has done nothing but beg to play with them since I trotted them out the other day. But I am determined to reserve them strictly for homeschooling. I have precious little (besides videos) that will keep the boys occupied during that time. I know a gold mine when I see it.

I regret, now that I am feeling "off," that I went to my mother's yesterday. But it was for good cause; she needed help getting her computer back in the house and hooked up again. She can't bend real well right now. Friday night, she bailed us out by coming over to watch the kids while I took DH to the ER for a severe headache. It turned out to be a bad migraine (doctor tested reflexes & etc.), but ever since my dad we are leery of severe headaches. DH has never had one this terrible before, even though he's had sick migraines very occasionally. They pumped him full of 5 different medicines via IV and I was wondering how on earth I was going to get a 180-lb. guy back out to the car when it was all over. They ended up wheeling him out.

Okay, TMI, I guess. Sorry.

As for today, I guess I'll catch up the laundry (what else?) and read up on classical homeschooling some more. I'm thinking about introducing Greek this coming year. DH can teach it since he knows koine Greek. I found a promising curriculum last night. As for the standardized testing, I ordered the booklet and started DD8 on it Friday. It was like pulling teeth. We haven't even made it to a math lesson yet and already I'm seeing weaknesses in the spelling section. Erg. But the good thing is, she's getting practice matching the test question and filling in the answer bubbles, and the test administrator told me that was a major thing she needed to be familiar with. It's just like the ITBS format, too, which is helpful.

Made it through the diaper. Whew!

Well, I'm off to do some exploring. I sure hope someone updates the Corner today in their off time. It's been good reading lately.

Love,

Susannah

Hi!! Glad you made it through the diaper!! I hope you and your Dh are feeling better today. Hang in there- you are my idol in the Mommy area thats for sure!!! Bye Love Jackie

Susannah, it's VERY good to stay home from crowded places like church when you feel off. You might not lose it, but if an old person or little kid catches whatever you have-- yikes.

I'm kind of drifting through the day. I really need to get some laundry done, and feel pretty off myself. Mostly just tired. DH and I went to an absolutely dreadful birthday party for my cousin's two-year-old yesterday, and I'm still recovering.

The kids and I made it to church. DH stated as I was putting on my jacket to head out the door that he didn't want us to go to Sunday School so I could come home and get Chance from him. Well, the kids WERE going to Sunday school because I needed to go get some groceries. So I ran around madly getting Chance dressed to go with me. And we were supposed to be there early today so the girls could carry palms in! Tried putting him in the nursery, he lasted 5 minutes when the lady walked him into the church. They didn't even TRY to take care of him!! Let me tell you, it was a lovely service. I have no idea what the sermon was about or ANYTHING, it's all just a blur with a few songs. DH says I should just stay home from church anyway, but that just pisses me off for him to say that. I'm not in the best of moods today. Can ya tell? LOL!

I'm also a bit grumpy about something else. When people are finding out I'm pregnant, I'm getting a strange look from people and sometimes "I'm sorry!". Susannah, was this a reaction you got? They don't seem to believe me when I say this is a planned pregnancy.

We will probably go to Jamboree practice for a little while. The big Cheerleaders will be practicing too, and I need to talk to their coach. Chance hasn't napped yet, so if I time it just right, he will fall asleep in the truck, giving me an hour or so to visit with people. I got the girls room cleaned yesterday, picked up Chance's, and a load of laundry. I think I discovered where Chance put the holder for the toilet paper. I think it's down the toilet, it's overflowing with every flush. I stuck my hand in as far as I could (and almost didn't get it back out!!), can't feel anything. I'm afraid I will have to take the whole damn toilet out. For now, that toilet is off limits.

I'm not motivated today, just ranting. Thanks, Jackie, for the kind comments on my hard work! LOL! That made me smile.

Have a nice weekend.

HI everyone!

Loved your post Anne - you are so right about the church thing. We are in the process of changing churches (sadly) and those are things that matter! The lasagna is the best - it is totally from scratch, not even jarred spaghetti sauce, but very manageable to make. So far it has fed our dinner party of 4, another dinner for our family, and lunches for DH and I tomorrow at work.

Jenny E, gosh that sounds like a rough morning, but I don't get what Jeff was saying about Chance and S.S.

Susannah, hope you are your old self soon!

DH made a Quick Cassoulet tonite and I made a salad and will make homemade croutons (from a baguette) to go with it. It is from Rachael Ray's 30-minute cookbook, love most of those recipes and they are pretty quick.

I got quite a bit done today, including sheets, dust mopping, laundry, church, Zone, and some scrapping!

Oh - I made a major faux pas at church by congratulating a lady who I thought was pregnant, when she had actually miscarred. She was only about 3 weeks along when she shared the news and I heard it through the grapevine. Awkward to say the least. How bad is that, for any of you who have been through it?

Must run -

Andrea

Andrea, SS is after the service at our church. The girls love to stay, but there isn't really a class I want to join in (there is no one my age), so I usually just run to walmart and get groceries, then come back to get the girls. Jeff had things to do and wanted me home as soon as church was out. Well, I needed to get a few groceries, so I would be that much longer anyway. That's why I took Chance with me instead.

Anne, where in Texas did you go?

Had fun at Jamboree practice. My plan worked, Chance slept for a while, I watched the cheerleaders practice in the New Gym, Jamboree Practice in the old gym, and practice for the gospel show in the cafeteria (the girls have been asked to sing in that one!! They are going to do "Jesus Loves Me"). Had too much fun visiting. LOL! A mom, her 6th grader and my girls are going to the Spirit Competition together, and we have decided we are having a pajama party with all the cheerleaders! That should be fun!!

Have a great night, see ya'll in the morning!

Beautiful sunny day today -- 30 degrees of course, but lovely sun!

We also got the whole family to church today, and for once DH liked the new pastor's homily. (The new pastor's style is a lot different from the pastors we've had before, so it's been an adjustment. I like it!) And we got to put Iris in the nursery! Of course it helps that no one else was in there. Our nursery just can't get enough volunteers. Parents don't like to do it -- and they do ask for a huge commitment. If you're already doing something like singing, lectoring, serving communion, participating on committees, doing sunday school, whatever, it is quite a lot to be in the nursery once a month as well.

Wish I could respond to everyone, but I am so sleepy I keep reading over ya'lls posts and then thinking, now wait, who said what ? . . .

Will be thinking of you Susannah, that things calm down and you feel "on" again!

Anne, you will love your Roomba if you get one! I am just waiting for mine to recharge after doing the living room/play area, so that I can turn it loose on the disaster in the kitchen (flour and baking powder everywhere!).

Shaun
"Home is where you can say anything you like, 'cause nobody listens to you anyway!" -- anon.

I tried starting a new thread, but didn't work. LYNNN!!!! HELPPPPP!!!

The wind is blowing horrible today. 25-35 MPG with 45-50 gusts. There are tumbleweeds racing across the pastures, and just bleh. It's supposed to be in the 60's, but I'm not going out there!!

I have a problem. I can't ever get a handle on the hot spots throughout the house. I have a huge corner of stuff in my bedroom. I have no surface exposed on the dresser or old entertainment center in there, or nightstands. I really HAVE to do some major cleaning in there. And since that is the zone this week, clean in there I shall! I have to throw things away. Like the zippered cases that my new quilt and pillow shams came in. I'm saving them for just in case I need them. Cute gift bags from 2 Christmases ago. A couple of Christmas gifts! LOL! A sample diaper that came in the mail Lord knows how long ago (which was already too small for Chance). Ok, that can go in the baby's stuff. Also, tons of spare change in a couple of coffee cans. Think I'll roll those up and use them for my Alb. trip. Oh, and Chance has somehow removed and then lost the access card for the satelite dish in my room. So, the only thing he can watch in there now is his video tapes. Hmmm, where on earth did it go!!!

Speaking of Alb. trip, I told DH about the slumber party. He told me to take the camera! LOL! He has a "crush" on the only senior on the squad. Chance has a crush on her, too. It's very funny. I keep reminding him that he could actually be old enough to be some of those girls' father. No, he's not a pervert (at least, not that kind), I think he just misses his high school days sometimes. The old remark brings him back down to earth (he's just 32!).

Well, my toast is gone, I better do some work. I hope to have a big TADA later! LOL!

I am **officially** now a Mommy. I have been puked on! Alexa has had diarrhea on and off yesterday that I thought was from her teeth. She was fine coloring eggs just some bad diapers and 3 outfit changes. Woke up at 4am to screaming and a very messy cribby. (sorry tmi!) She has a fever and she can only keep down small amounts of Pedialyte mixed with water. And I have learned I will never be as prepared as I think I am. Of course I had no Pedialyte, tylenol or motrin in the house. Bad Mommy!! I never thought I would say I miss my very active little girlie but I am so not used to this mush girl I have been holding since 4am. I have to work tonight only 5-9pm but I already have a stomache ache thinking of leaving her. And I think she has separation anxiety?? LOL... And Susannah I have thought of you lots today- this is our first real sickness and I have read about you going through it lots. I hope everyone is feeling better by yo.

So quick tired waves to everyone!!

No real tada except
~washed lots and lots of pukey laundry
~got dressed for work
~ate a healthy lunch after I realized I ate about 6 pieces of Pudgies chicken last night without even noticing! I will get back on track this week!
~dishwasher running right now
~ribs defrosting to throw in crockpot for boys tonight
Thats about it. I hope I make it though the day :)Love Jackie

WE have something going every single day for the next 8!!

TADA
for last night:
totally caught up on the laundry
DD's room
dishes
sink
stove
counters
floors
bathrooms
cleaned out van
sorted and handed out clean laundry
watered plants

for today:
made chili for scout pot luck
dropped off the last of Mom's tax stuff to her accountant
payed bills

PODA
read paper
choir
read
bed

Jackie, I hope Alexa feels better soon.

Anne, you are one brave woman

Jenny, I got a similar thing when I was pregnant with DD because the boys were so old. Everyone just assumed that she was from a second marriage...I mean, yes, she was unexpected, but it was noones business how/why or anything else...people are just so nosy and no it all about pregnancy. It's weird. Don't worry about it-you sure know what you're doing.

Susannah, I hope you are feeling better too.

Shaun, you are our official Roomba mother (aren't I punny?)

OK, I'd better go get a grip on my sanity and get through the rest of the day...

Bye,
-Jo

It seems that the past 3 or 4 days, I cannot get onto the site for several hours at a time, usually in the mornings. Maybe it's just me...

We have the "sickies" now. DD came home from my Mom's yesterday with a 101.6 fever. After meds, juices, sleep, it finally went down last night. Poor baby slept from 4 p.m. yesterday to 7 a.m. this morning, getting up only a few times.

We're about to get slammed by some bad weather. They're talking strong, straight-line winds and hail with the strong possibility of tornadic activity. I just got a lecture from DH about getting in the hall with blankets, pillows, covering our heads, etc. I know he's concerned, but I've lived in Alabama for 37 years & I definitely know the drill with tornadoes.

Well, I'm not going to take the time to post my PODA. I've got to go find the battery-powered radio, flashlight and get DD dressed into some playclothes. I hear the thunder rumbling now.

I'll check back later (assuming I have power and can even get on this site!).

Vonnie