What the Hell Wednesday ~Stiff neck, No job and some Golf

It's Wednesday. Aka: WineWednesday, Humpday, What the Hell Wednesday. When you're done here go visit Elle and Stacy and find some more great WTHW posts.

I woke up the other morning with stiff shoulders and neck. I blame it on too much sleep, What the Hell? I went to bed Sunday evening at 8:30 and didn't get up until 7 am Monday morning. So I was a little stiff from being in bed so long. I was trying to stretch it out and heard a pop. Hubster cracks his neck all the time and I joke that he's going to break something. About an hour after the "pop" my shoulder/clavicle felt like I broke something. Sharp pain whenever I moved. Fortunately some ibuprofen did the trick. I'd of felt pretty stupid if I was really injured after all the crap I've given Hubster over the years.

It's supposed to be warm the rest of the week and all next week for Spring Break. It may be time to get out the golf clubs and pick up some used golf balls and take the kids to an open field or the driving range . Boog got golf clubs last year and has only used them in the front and back yard. What the Hell? It may be a good way to burn some energy. Who knows, he may like it. I'm a little scared of the two of them swinging clubs but with some concrete rules we'll be okay, right?

Today is Hubster's last day of employment. What the Hell? He has an offer but is waiting for one more company (that he really wants to work for) to make a final decision. Fingers crossed it all works out. He'll be off the rest of this week and possibly some of next week too. The kids should enjoy that.

Puddin Pop had her final ballet class yesterday and they let the parents come in to take pictures. She was a ham. What the Hell? She usually listens pretty well but with me in the room she wanted to do anything but. You can see her in action here. It was all super cute and I took a ton of pics.

That's it for me this WTHW. Now go see the ladies at Blue Monkey Butt. Tell them I sent you.

Preschool Ballet~ Wordless Wednesday

I can't resist this one. Sorry.

What do you get when you give a group of 3-4 year old little girls Wings?

Do you get Fairies and Butterflies?

NOPE.



Bats.

They Made a Wine Just For Moi

Seriously.

While perusing the ever growing wine section at Target last week a label jumped out at me. I almost didn't catch it. The label on this bottle is totally me. If you don't believe me ask my brothers. My dad may know a little about this too, as do my friends, but I don't want to tarnish my reputation.

Here it is...

the story
Have you ever dated brothers? Worn leather pants to a wedding? Paired white wine with red meat? Then you just might be a mischief maker. You keep us up after bedtime on a school night. You change your hair color like most people change their socks. You make lives more complicated, but less boring. You'll be in the stories we tell our grandchildren. You love trouble. And we love you.

How does it taste? Yum! Pepper and cherries. It has a beautiful garnet coloring and has a lingering finish of cocoa and spices. I mentioned that I like the full bodied wines to pair with food. Something with less characteristics is still good...to me, for sipping without food. Tonight I made some BBQ ribs, corn on the cob and fresh fruit salad and I wanted to test the complexities of this wine against the fair. On it's own it's very tasty and filling. I think that's why I like the lighter bodied wines for just drinking. If I'm not eating, I don't want to feel stuffed...after a couple glasses of wine.

The wine faired well with the ribs, nothing special, the sauce may have overpowered. I really enjoyed this Cabernet with the salad. Romaine, tomatoes, yellow pepper, bacon and a balsamic vinaigrette. They complimented each other nicely. The Dove Peanut Butter and chocolate I had for dessert also paired well with Middle Sister's Mischief Maker.

This is a company up-to-date with computers and marketing. They have their own blog where each of the wines (characters) talk about their lives. It's a good read and a fun way to learn about wines and their processes.

$10.99 is a reasonable price for such a full bodied wine and I will definitely purchase this again. I'm looking forward to trying their other varietals.

Undercover Boss, Food Revolution and Spring Break~ Random Tuesday

Ready for some Random? Keely does it best. I enjoy it though. Read here and then stop by The Un Mom for more Randomness. I always learn new stuff on Tuesdays


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Does anyone else thing the Amusement Park guy on Undercover Boss looked like George Clooney?
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I'm still looking into life insurance rates. Why can I get some projects/tasks done so quickly and drag me feet on stuff like doctors appointments for me and getting myself covered?
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I hate being at a stand-still. Spring Break is next week and Hubster still has not found out a for sure on this new job he really wants. He's 99.9% sure the job is his but then start dates and compensation have to be worked out. The also mentioned having him spend two weeks at the corporate office and off site visiting a client (two separate trips). Looks like the kids and I will be staying close to home. Thank Goodness Busch Gardens will be open. Did I mention that his current job ends TOMORROW?
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I like to gamble. My parents just spent the weekend in Vegas and all they talked about was the wonderful food they ate and the great wines that went with them. Hmmmm. I know they gamble. Must not have won.
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Did anyone else watch Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution? I was so sad to see all those first graders who didn't even know what the basic vegetable were. I also made my first grader try to guess with them. He stumbled on the eggplant and turnip but knew the rest. I then took my three year old to the fridge. She knew what a tomato and potato were. The Romaine and yellow pepper stumped her. I'll admit that neither of my kids will eat salad...yet. Boog will eat lettuce and tomato on tacos so we try to have those at least once a month. They see me eat salad at least 4 times a week. I can't wait to see how the rest of his time in West Virginia pans out.
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That all I've got. I think I used up my WTH's for tomorrow but it's okay. Life deals out WTH's all the time.

What to do when the kids are both in school

Every once in a while I start to think that when Puddin Pop starts school I will go back to school myself. I just have no idea what I want to get a degree in. It's not really important I guess in my SAHM status, but having a degree is always something that I thought would have.

I was looking, the last couple days, at different schools offering an online degree. I think this would be the best alternative at this point in my life. The quiet times during the days with both kids in school would be ideal for studying.

I was looking into Western Governors University for their online teaching degree. Teaching would be ideal to match up with the kids schools schedules and even in a part time capacity would bring extra income into the household. I've never thought about becoming a teacher but my neighbor does a LOT of substituting at our kids school and seems to enjoy it. She also has the opportunity to say no. The biggest benefit to this degree would be the refreshers on the subjects that the kids will soon be learning so I can better help them with their homework.

What, if any, degree do you have and are you working in that field?

Pineapple Upside-down Martini

O.M.G.

Hubster went out to dinner with his soon to be ex-boss the other night and they decided to say their goodbyes over a butter slathered steak at Ruth's Chris. I had the leftover fillet for lunch today. Yum. Hubster rarely drinks but when in Rome... They decided on Pineapple upside-down Martinis and tonight we tried to recreate the recipe. Hubster called the restaurant and was told (by the manager) that the bartenders don't come in until 5. Shame on him. He looked up recipes online and then we created our own. I may have to use this nordic track coupon code because I'm pretty sure between these drinks and the bread maker my neighbor gave me, Wii Fit isn't going to be enough. Maybe because I've now let it sit for over a month. Anyway, here's the recipe we came up with...

Pineapple Upside-down Martini

3/4 oz Vanilla Vodka
3/4 oz Amaretto
1/4 oz coconut rum
3/4 oz pineapple juice
splash of grenadine

Mix together first 4 ingredients over ice and shake. Strain into a chilled martini glass and top with a splash of grenadine. Enjoy!

Tastes just like the cake. Who needs dessert?

My how things change

Oh how things change once you have kids. Today was one of those days where you realize how much life has changed and what's most important in your life.

Puddin Pop and I took a little trip to Target. The tax refund showed up in our account this morning. I'm not a big shopper but every once in a while it's nice to just go look and be able to pick up some things just on a whim.

Before kids, tax refund day would find me with a couple girl friends picking up some Davidoff cigars, or other varieties, and heading to our favorite Sushi restaurant for dinner and drinks. Then they stopped letting us smoke cigars, but that's a different story.

Today I went to Target in the hopes of splurging on myself with a new pair of khaki pants...for work. I never found a pair. I did manage to spend $250 and for myself purchased 2 bottles of wine ($10 each) and a box of Swifter pads. Extravagant, right? The kids each got a game, for the Wii (for Boog) and PP got a new game for her Leapster. They were on sale. I bought a couple of rainy day projects for Spring break, and then got the kids new PJ's, socks, flip-flops, and some new shirts. I also picked up two movies for Movie Night that were only $5.

While I don't enjoy shopping for myself, shopping for the kids and getting little surprises is a blast. Who knew?

What are You Thinking, Freddie?

Dear Freddie,

My precious 3 year old daughter is in L O V E with you. She told me so. She had a dream last week and came down in the morning to inform me that you kissed her. I asked her why you would do this and she said it's because you like her. She also let me know how much she enjoyed the kiss. Did I mention she was 3?

My concern is the conversation we had on the way to her ballet class on Tuesday. She started by reminding me about the kiss from last week. She then proceeded to ask me if I would buy her a wedding dress so she could marry you. I must have missed you asking but she was pretty determined that she was going to have you for her own. I think she said "I'm never going to let him go."

At some point she must have remembered another dream. One that didn't turn out so well for her. Then the tears came. I asked what was wrong and she explained that in another dream you wouldn't kiss her. I asked her why and with tears in her eyes she said "He broke up with me."

Keep in mind that all this information was given to me in a 20 minute drive to her ballet class. She went from super excited to super sad in the matter of minutes and I would like to know how you could break her heart like this? I'm sure it won't be her last heart break but it is definitely her first. What do you have to say for yourself?

A concerned Mom

PS~I was a little shocked to find out that you are 17. Are you using arcona? I'm pretty sure her father is going to put an end to this when he finds out how old you really are

The Squeakquel Soundtrack ~ I Gotta Feeling You're Gonna LOVE It

We received a copy of Alvin and the Chipmunks The Squeakquel Soundtrack as part of the #WBWord team. The kids were so excited when we found out we'd be getting it. We haven't seen the movie yet but it's on our list for Friday Night Movie Night. They loved the first one and were singing the songs for days so I knew this soundtrack would be a BIG hit.

It arrived on Friday. Friday was such a beautiful day. As soon as Boog got home from school we opened the package and threw it in the cd player. Puddin Pop was dancing all around the living room and demanded there wasn't enough room for her brother to dance with her. I guess the girl needs space. No Problem. I mentioned it was a beautiful day, right?. I grabbed the surround sound speakers and put one in each opened window and Boog and I went out and danced in the front yard. Music blaring, dancing in the yard...it was Friday. We had so much fun Puddin Pop couldn't resist coming out and joining us. It was like taking adipex without prescription. All that dancing is great exercise. Gets the heart pumping and really just makes you feel good all over.
There was plenty of room for everyone in the front yard. Boog even called over his friend from down the street. They wanted to see how far they could get from the house and still hear the music. No neighbors complained.

I love to dance around with the kids and I usually make them listen to 80's music so they were thrilled to have music of their own, sung by chipmunks, to dance around to. The soundtrack covers all favorites...

1. You Really Got Me - The Chipmunks (feat. Honor Society)

2. Hot N Cold - The Chipettes

3. So What - The Chipettes

4. You Spin Me Round (Like A Record) - The Chipmunks

5. Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) - The Chipettes

6. Bring It On - The Chipmunks

7. Stayin' Alive - The Chipmunks

8. Song - The Chipettes (feat. Queensberry)

9. It's OK - The Chipmunks

10. Shake Your Groove Thing - The Chipmunks

11. Put Your Records on - The Chipettes

12. I Want To Know What Love Is - The Chipmunks

13. We Are Family - The Chipettes & The Chipmunks

14. No One - The Chipettes (feat. Charice)

15. I Gotta Feeling - The Chipettes & The Chipmunks

This is one I highly recommend if your children like music and you're tired of the "kiddie" songs. No one can resist the sound of singing chipmunks. It's infectious. I think I'll put it in now for a little morning pick-me-up. It's that good. You can get your own copy here.

We received the soundtrack and other compensation to facilitate this review. The opinions and dancing are 100% mine.

WTHW~ Work, Idol and Hot Sauce

If you haven't started already, now is the perfect time to jump in on the WTHW fun. Stop by Elle and Stacy and play along.



Yay for Hump Day! The week is half over and the weekend is on the way. That's how I used to feel. Now it seems as though I'll be working on the weekends so my excitement is diminishing. What the Hell? I enjoy my get-me-out-of-the-house job but last weekend it was in the high 70's both days and I watched it through the windows and that kinda sucked.

A friend of mine posted on FB that she had put soap in her child's mouth. I'm not judging. I wouldn't do it. What struck me as odd was all the other parents who chimed in with similar stories. What the Hell? I couldn't tell if it was a competition of most creative ways to stop a behavior or a way to release some guilt and take comfort that others had done the same. Someone mentioned hot sauce for talking back and I have another friend who uses hot sauce for lying. What the Hell? Some people just don't tolerate spicy things. Even if it stops the behavior right then and there does anyone feel guilty when the kid is screaming the next day in the bathroom as it leaves their body or is that just a lingering reminder of the bad behavior?

I did so many things while pregnant that I would've never done otherwise. I made it to every appointment, took my prenatal vitamins even though they made me very ill (the second time around) quit smoking and drinking and read up on all the parenting advice I could get my hands on. Why now would I want to start inflicting unnecessary pain to these children I gave it all up for? I'll admit my kids are still little and I may change my mind when they become teenagers but What the Hell? That's where I'll stop.

What the Hell is going on with some of the Idol contestants? I had such high hopes for Andrew but I'm thinking he did peak with Straight Up and we'll never see that out of him again. Crystal remains my favorite girl, by a mile. My favorite boys are Big Mike and Lee DeWyze. I think that will be the top 3. The rest fall very short.

I haven't had any new or interesting wines lately. What the Hell with a capital W. T. H. I meant to stop at Total Wine yesterday on our way home from Ballet but I needed to go to the grocery store too and didn't have time for both. I'll need to make the trip before the weekend because I'm getting a little bored with the same old stuff. Any suggestions?

Now head on over to Blue Monkey Butt and find some more WTHW posts.

What's Better than Chocolate?

You know what's better than chocolate?

Chocolate with Peanut Butter. It's my favorite. I add Peanut Butter to my chocolate ice cream since the rest of the family likes the plain 'ol chocolate variety. I've also been known to get a big spoonful of Peanut Butter and then coat it in chocolate chips. It's something I crave. The combination is perfect. Chocolate and Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter and chocolate. They were meant to go together.

When the people at Mom Central and Dove Chocolate were looking for volunteers to try the new Dove Peanut Butter filled promises, I jumped up and down waving both arms screaming "Pick Me, Pick Me"...and they did. Yesterday I received this in the mail...




There may have been another bar and a couple more Promises that disappeared before the picture got taken. The kids begged me to open the box the minute they saw it in the mailbox. I thought about claiming the box was for Hubster so I wouldn't have to open it in front of them. They didn't know what was inside. I then realized if Hubster got in on the action that would be one more person I would have to share with...so we opened the box.

Holy Smokes. These are the smoothest, best combo of chocolate and peanut butter I have ever tasted. No lie. The chocolate is like silk and the peanut butter is buttery smooth. I gave the kids some spiel about needing to take pictures and "review" the chocolates and then hid them after they went to bed. I'm hoping they forget about them. I don't want to share.

The kids know I have a chocolate stash. They found it. I got tired of them always asking me for some so I moved it. They're sneaky though. If they even think they smell chocolate they come sniffing. I once got caught with a random flake melting on my hand and convinced them it was just age spots. Momma is serious about her chocolate. They have their own.

I enjoyed the other bar last night with a glass of wine and the two went together beautifully. I can't wait to put the kids to bed tonight. Is it time yet?

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of DOVE and received samples DOVE Milk Chocolate with Peanut Butter products and a gift certificate to facilitate my review.

My opinion would be the same if I had bought them myself. If you don't believe me try them yourself!

Zits, Bacon and Spikey Poop

More Tuesday Random.

Head on over to The Un Mom (when you're done here, of course) and link up or find some other random.

I was a little apprehensive about my post yesterday. Do you ever post something and then wonder if you should un-link it from twitterfeed or networked blogs. I don't mind posting about my adult acne issues here, but do I really want all my relatives and high school friends reading about it? I actually came away from it better off as several people commented that they had the same issues. Looks like I'll be the guinea pig for the group. I'm checking into different home remedies and will post which acne treatment works best. I'm trying NOT to go go to a Dermatologist.

Why is bacon taking over the world? I opened my msn homepage and saw this...

Click on that cupcake and you'll find some even more bizarre bacon stuff. What did I miss? I see bacon everywhere I just missed the how and why of it's popularity. Anyone want to fill me in?

My 3 year old was using the bathroom yesterday and decided to tell me that sometimes she has spikey poop and it pokes her on the way out. She wanted answers as to why this happens. I couldn't stop laughing long enough to give her one. She asked me to leave her alone.

I joined a new blogger group. Jen from Redhead Ranting started Tribal Blogs and all the cool people are signing up. It's only been live for a week or so but I've already gotten help on tagging photos. I think this group is going to be fun and a great resource. Check it out.

That's all the random I've got this Tuesday. Now go and check out the others.

I'm Not Proud

Confession time.

If you are easily grossed out, stop reading now and come back tomorrow...or the next day.

I've mentioned before about having an acne problem. I'm over 40 people, I should be done with this. I never had a problem as a teenager and I think this is the Universe's way at getting back at me. I've tried everything, but, the biggest problem is me. I think it stems from my mother insisting I remove (squeeze) blackheads off her face. I did it religiously as a kid under the assumption that with her MS she couldn't do it herself. I have never had a blackhead as a result. I would never let it get that far. My hands are constantly on my face and any "bump" gets closely examined to insure it never turns black. Enough of the gorey details. You get the idea.

Every remedy I've used insists that keeping your hands off your face is the key. I need something beyond that because I've tried, I can't do it. I googled best acne treatments and came up with a couple home remedies that use oatmeal and egg whites (two separate remedies) and think I will try those next. I will keep you posted as to what works, if either. I know I can't be the only one.

If you have other suggestions I'm open. I've tried "real" meds like ProActiv with no luck. I'm more prone to cysts than zits so any help is welcome. What do you use?

Teaching Responsibility~ Baby Steps

I had a lot of responsibility put on me as a child and I think that adds to my lack of "wanting" to do these things now. I know some people who take pleasure in keeping an immaculate house and doing the laundry perfectly. That's not me. I do the laundry, I do the cleaning, but immaculate has never and probably will never be my goal. I also never "want" to do it.

My children do not have chores. They are expected to pick up their toys when they finish playing with them and they are good at clearing their plates from the table when we're done eating. That's about it...for now. I think a lot of the reason they aren't required to do more is because, not enjoying it myself, I don't want to take the time to re-do it after they "try". We'll get there.


Right now the kids are asking for a new puppy. I'm solely responsible for the dog we have. Partly because I'm the only one who let's her out and feeds her and partly because she won't let anyone else do these things for her. She will literally stay next to my bed until I get up to let her out and feed her. I'm 99% of the time the first one up, but on the rare occasion that I want to sleep in, the dog is right there nagging me to let her out, even though everyone else is downstairs and has already put food in her bowl. Yep. I created this monster and would NOT like to do it again with a new puppy. So....


We're practicing responsibility with plants. I love the Dollar section at Target. I bought these plants just before Valentine's Day and PP and I planted them in their cute little pots. There are two different kind of flowers and the one barely growing is supposed to be strawberries. Twice a day the kids are responsible to water them (baby steps). A week ago they looked like this...

Then I went away for 4 days and Boog was left in charge. Today they look like this...

Not too shabby, right? He did an excellent job in making sure they got watered. I think teaching responsibility with something that is fun and interesting is a good place to start. Sure. We need to teach them about all the not-so-fun things that need to be done, but why can't they get the hang of responsibility with something that will keep their interest? Then when it's time to make the bed every morning we can remind them of how well they did growing the plants and that inner pride will motivate them for the less-than-fun parts of life.

We'll replant them outside in a couple weeks when the weather is going to stay nice. Boog asked about plant vitamins to make them grow big and strong. I had flash-backs of the prenatal vitamins I took to get him to grow "big and strong". I think this lesson in responsibility was a good choice. Here's hoping we get flowers by Summer...and a puppy shortly after.

I Have a Ghost and It's Messing with the Wrong Person

I have a ghost. It has to be a ghost. This ghost is messing with the wrong woman. Let me explain...



Last night I was finally relaxing trying to catch up on some recorded shows that I missed last week while I was out of town. Everyone was in bed. I was alone downstairs, on the couch, watching Fast Forward and sipping on a glass of wine. My stemless wine glass was sitting on a cushioned ottoman in front of me. All was quiet except for the TV. Then I heard a "ting"... like the ting of a small pebble hitting a window...except it was closer. Upon closer investigation I saw this...




Yep. That's my stemless wine glass. Out of nowhere it just cracked? I'm not buying that. It's only been hand washed (due to our dishwasher not working for the last two years) and there is no excuse for this.

Dear Ghost,

I'm not afraid of you and don't mind if you hang around but you must follow some house rules:

1. 9pm and after is ME time, as in Momma time, as in leave me alone with my wine, quiet time. If you have problems sleeping take some sleeping pills and work it out.

2. My wine and wine glasses are off limits. Mess with anything else you'd like, clean the house, wash some dishes, do some laundry, build with Legos, whatever, just stay. away. from. the wine.

Follow these simple rules and we'll get along just fine.


Shelly

Stop Celebrity Gossip.

Enough Already!

Why is Celebrity Gossip such big business?

I'm tired of hearing about all the cheating spouses, the drug overdoses, the partying habits and all the other bad choices celebrities make. Why do we care so much? Does it make us feel more human? Does it justify our bad choices? Can they shop for Paparazzi Insurance like we shop for cheap car insurance? I think it would only be fair. If they're in it for the money can't they be paid to report nothing?

I understand that these people put themselves in the spotlight by their choice of career, but can't we just enjoy their works? Why must we know every detail of their lives? I don't think it's fair and if we stop buying the magazines selling it, and stop watching the shows showing it, maybe it will all go away. It's just too much.

On the other hand, I love Reality TV. I like watching the "Nobodies" on Survivor and how they react to their situations. I LOVE helping find the next big music star on American Idol (although I never vote). I like watching people get lost and perform amazing stunts in Amazing Race, and I have been caught on a rainy afternoon taking in a re-run of Wife-Swap. Yes it's someone else's dirty laundry (literally) but they put it out there. That makes me feel normal. Not hearing about poor Sandra and her good-for-nothing hasband (hopefully).

What's your take?

Tropicana Juicy Rewards ~Great for Spring Activities

It's officially SPRING!

Things I like about Spring...

Having the windows open. Hearing the door chime with neighborhood kids coming to take my kids outside, hearing the birds chirp in the morning, flowers blooming and leaves growing back on trees. A cup of coffee on the porch before anyone gets up. I love everything coming back to life and getting outside to enjoy it. We love to go to the Zoo, the Living Museum, and Blue Bird Gap Farm to feed the animals.

Tropicana OJ has put together a program to help us save on things we already enjoy doing. You buy their products, get a reward code under the cap, plug them in at the Juicy Rewards site , and you can redeem the points for things-to-do in your area as well as discounts on different popular retailers such as Adidas and Coleman. The site is easy to navigate and is broken down into categories such as Health and Sports, Theme Parks and Zoos, and Fun for Everyone, and more. You just plug in your zip code, determine how far from home you want to travel, and if gives you a list of discounts in your area with the amount of points needed to redeem. We plan on using a free kids ticket to the Zoo this upcoming week with the weather being so nice. The coupons are only good (at least for the Zoo) for 15 days from printing so I would suggest printing them the day of to ensure getting your rewards. Printing them in advance and then getting rain on the day of the planned trip would spoil the fun.

If you already buy Tropicana for your family I would strongly encourage you to spend 5 minutes to sign up for their rewards program. If you are buying some other type of juice, it may be time to switch. I like to purchase from companies that give back and Tropicana also offers an option of using your points to protect the Rainforest. 3 points donated will save 100 square feet of Rainforest. To date, over 4.5 million square feet have been rescued through The Juicy Rewards Program ..and the juice is good.

I wrote this review while participating in the Tropicana Juicy Insiders Ambassador program by Mom Central on behalf of Tropicana. I received 12 free Juicy Rewards points and a $50 Visa gift card to use in redemption of the points and to facilitate my review. The opinions are 100% mine.

Do you Schedule Chores?

Still frazzled from my trip to Raleigh. I hate coming home and seeing all the things I am behind on. My fridge needs cleaning and all the science experiments removed. Actually, I need to remove the leftovers before they become science experiments. I'm behind on laundry even though I did five loads while I was gone...for my brother who can't lift anything more than 5 pounds. I have to work all weekend and got nothing much accomplished today.

I'm thinking of developing a line of promotional calenders that have all the crap we hate to do printed right on them. Laundry, of course, would be listed 7 days a week. So would Happy Hour. The rest would be fill-it-ins. Dust_____, Vacuum_____, Clean_____, Mop_____. That way people could fill in exactly what they want to tackle each day. The beauty is, you can fill the blanks with "nothing" to ensure goal archival.

Anyone want to order one?

Finally Home

After 3 long days in Raleigh looking after my little brother, Puddin Pop and I are finally home. Why is travelling with a pre-schooler so exhausting? I used to enjoy road trips...by myself. When I first moved to Virginia it seemed like every couple months I was making the 12+ hour drive home to Michigan. It was a breeze. I was single. Now I go less than 200 miles to Raleigh and it feels like I've been travelling for days.

I actually left early knowing she'd fall back asleep in the car on the way down. I should have done the same on the way back. She needed to pee. She was hungry. She needed a milkshake. She needed something cold to drink that wasn't her milkshake or bottled juice. She was bored. She was hot. She talked non-stop. She fell asleep 10 minutes before we got home. I enjoyed the quiet for almost 2 whole minutes before my phone rang. I'm I the only one with this kind of luck? I'm not a huge fan of talking while driving either but it was my dad and I knew he was checking to see if I made it home okay, so I answered.

Raleigh was a little tough being cooped up in an apartment. We did get out a couple times and PP got to get her picture taken with the Easter Bunny. I'm always amazed with all the ideas they come up with to get you to buy the photos. I thought about getting custom mouse pads for the grandparents but then thought that everyone is moving to laptops with built in mouse pads so I thought they'd be useless. I did splurge on a key chain and snow globe. The snow globe was only $8 (of course I had to buy a sheet of wallets to have the pics to put in it)and it's plexi-glass so I don't have to freak when she walks around the house with it. Look...



How cute is that? And of course with the snow...

I think it was a great $8 spent and will last longer than a mouse pad. We got a mouse pad with our house on it when me bought our home (from the realtor). It's disgustingly (it's a word) dirty but I can't seem to part with it even though we no longer have a use for it.

I'm glad my brother is doing better. I'm glad Hubster has support to help him with Boogie. I'm glad my best gal took the trip with me. I'll be thrilled when she can sit back, relax, enjoy some music on the radio and take in the view...quietly.

WTHW~ Doctors, Facebook beats Google and the Easter Bunny

Another addition of What the Hell Wednesday. Bought to you from Raleigh this week. Puddin Pop and I came down to take care of my brother and will be heading home tomorrow. If you're playing along or just want to read some funny stuff, head over to Elle and Stacy's Blue Monkey Butt and check out some other WTHW posts.

So. Darling brother had surgery on some herniated discs to relieve the pain and tingling in his arm and fingers. He was told his neck would be sore for weeks but the arm and finger pain would be relieved immediately. WRONG. His arm still aches, his fingers are still tingly, he has a massive headache and all of this over shadows the neck pain he is supposed to have. What the Hell? On top of that we can't get the doctor to call us back to explain. Not feeling the love at the moment.

What the Hell? It's St. Patrick's Day and I neglected to bring anything green for PP or I to wear. If you see us refrain from pinching due to our circumstance. ..or just pinch me as it is totally nor her fault. She had a bad mommy...at least in the planning and packing department. That's all I'm claiming at this moment.

I saw yesterday that Facebook took over the number one spot on Google from Google. What the Hell is up with that? I guess when you can post your questions to your friends rather than in a google search the answers are more believable? I've noticed people posing their questions and getting tons of responses. Usually someone "looks it up" and posts the link. The others just leave random comments, hence giving all the extra links to FB. It's more fun that way too. Just saying.

We went to see the Easter Bunny yesterday. Not something we usually do but we found ourselves at the mall...with the bunny...and no line. Just as we were coming up on the "area" a group of teenagers ran up to the bunny. What the Hell? They took at least 15 minutes to get their pics and didn't purchase anything. Should this be allowed? They did allow for personal pics to be taken, which I know some places do not. I think I now know why. We bought a key chain and a kick-butt unbreakable snow globe.

Slow week. Low drama. I actually slept until 8:15 this morning. What the Hell? Don't tell Hubster he'll think I'm on vacation.

RTT~ Scars, Lung-age, and the High Jump

Got up at 5am yesterday morning and drove to Raleigh. Day Light Savings sucks. My brother's surgery was postponed from last week to this week and he feels like dirt. To repair two herniated discs in his neck they went through the front. They had to move all the parts in the middle out of the way to get to his spine. Not sure how that makes it easier but it does make for a pretty cool scar.

(warning: gross picture coming up)

I haven't seen a cut like that since a boy I knew skated over the throat of another boy I knew. Makes him look tough, right? That's what I keep telling him.

Hubster is losing his mind, literally. He can't remember anything lately and I hope the doctor's get it figured out 'cuz he's about to make me go mad.

Doctor's can now use a spirometer to quickly check the "lung age" of their patients who smoke. Really? As if getting old isn't enough you now want us to know the age of our internal organs? I'll pass.


We always pre-mix our salads for Girls Night In. Why does it taste so much better that way? I can't eat my salads any other way now.

Both kids had some sort of stomach virus on Friday night. It lasted long enough to keep us parents up but had no lingering affects on them. They were up and ready to play at 6:30. It left me contemplating anything I put into my mouth. Imagining it coming back. I ate very little.

When I was in Junior High (We didn't have middle school.) Someone (I have no idea who) made me believe it would be a good idea to high jump. I sucked. One girl on the track team was REALLY good and no one else wanted to do it. I said "sure". While I was awful at the sport, I assure you I never did this.

Now click the button above and Head over to The Un Mom to read more random posts.

Date Night~ Need Help

Tonight is Date Night. This is a new concept to Hubster and I. So much so that I think I may need to send both of us invitations for the next one. I booked the babysitter over a week ago and we both have been caught trying to decide what movie we are going to watch for Pizza and movie night with the kids...our usual Friday night gig.

We have so many new restaurants that have opened around us that we haven't tried yet. I just get excited about eating a meal, while it's hot, without cutting someone else's food or encouraging them to eat. It's the small things in life that excite me.

So now we need suggestions. What are your favorite restaurants? I'll eat anything, he's more of a steak and potato guy. He suggested Joe's Crab Shack. We always have fun there. I just want to try something new. I'm adventurous like that.

Now accepting all suggestions.

Proudest Mommy Moment

"I'm going to cry."

That was one of my status messages on Facebook yesterday. I didn't actually cry...but could of. I think, no, I know. I witnessed my proudest Mommy moment to date.

Boogie is participating in jump rope for Heart with his school. He and the neighbor were going door-to-door in the cul de sac to get the neighbors to sponsor him. She had gotten sponsors the day before. He was so excited that that he was raising money for the Heart Association since his Papa has a bad heart. He was also excited about the prizes he would get. He's 6.

As the two older kids were going door-to-door, Puddin Pop came and asked me for some money. I had a good idea what she wanted it for but just explained that I didn't have any cash in my purse. She headed upstairs. The next part is why I wanted to cry. She's 3. She has no concept of money amounts. She went to her bank and took out two bills and took them to her brother. He gladly accepted. She said "I want to support you too" and handed him $20.

I'm so proud of this sweet little girl for emptying (almost) her bank to give to her brother. We'll replace the money when no one is looking. I'm also proud of my son who is, for the first time, taking steps to help others. Most of his past donations have been from us and his grandparents. Now he's taking an active roll in soliciting donations.

I remember as a kid going door-to-door (which they're really not supposed to do now. Good thinking we know all our neighbors) every year to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy. My brothers and I would walk for hours collecting change in a coffee can. Our parents would then take us to the local TV station to drop off the money during the telethon. I love that both kids got into collecting donations. Makes a Mommy Proud.


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Speaking of donations. I registered for Relay for Life yesterday and we need ideas for fundraising at the site. We thought about making something (we haven't decided what yet) to sell. We thought food would be a good idea, I'm just not sure how hard it would be to get the permit. Last night I thought about a chocolate dip bar. We could do fruit kabobs and set up a chocolate fountain. Do you think people would pay a couple dollars for some fruit dipped in chocolate on an all night walk? Suggestions are welcome.

Positive Reinforcement with My Job Chart

Getting the kids to pitch in and help is sometimes an issue at our house. They never want to help when asked but ALWAYS want to help when I don't ask (or want it). If I'm in a hurry to get the dishes done and dinner on the table you can bet they will be right the begging to help. If I ask them to set the table they either ignore me of politely decline "No thanks". I'm doing this all wrong.

We were having some issues with Boog getting his work done in school. It's not too hard for him, he just was too busy talking and prohibiting others from doing their work. He got moved to a desk by himself. We also gave the teacher permission to have him do his classwork at recess time, while the other kids were playing. It only took a couple days for him to get back on track. He had to spend a month at a table by himself as a consequence for disrupting others.

During this ordeal we came up with a reward chart. It hadn't worked in the past, maybe due to age, but he totally bought into it this time. He received one star for each day he completed classwork, stayed on green (their behavior system) and completed homework without hassle. After 10 stars he got a trip to the dollar store. It took him 2 weeks due to illness and a yellow day, but he was really into it and would come straight home, do his homework and mark his star. I think this is going to be a good tool to start giving him more responsibilities.

My Job Chart is the simplest tool I have found to create such charts. I can even assign tasks to Hubster (just don't mark him as parent). From tasks as simple as making beds, brushing teeth and combing hair. This tool makes it quick to assign daily and weekly tasks for young and older kids (and husbands) to tackle. You can set up tasks and award a point value to each one. You can use the tasks they have already listed as well as add your own. For Hubster you could put tasks such as "Pick up tuxedo for friends wedding." You then set a goal and a reward for achieving it. For busy working moms with older children, you can even get e-mails and/or texts when each job is completed. I love the thought of future trips to the grocery store, alone, and getting a text that says "Dinner is started." Or "Laundry is put away." Isn't that every Mother's dream?

I've always believed in positive reinforcement and feel this tool will keep me focused on just that. With clear expectations, everyone wins. No more asking 100 times. Progress will be rewarded. Simple as that.


I am being compensated for my review of My Job Chart. The opinions are not based on that compensation. The thoughts are 100% mine.

Not Fashion Savvy. Too Old to Start Now

Let me start by saying I'm not very fashion conscious. Never have been. I see something I like and that looks comfortable and I buy it and wear it. Even if nobody else would be caught dead in it. Just ask my High School chums. I've never cared. I'm also not a shoe person. I know. You're shocked. It's okay.

How are we supposed to keep up with trends anyway? In my book there are casual clothes and formal clothes. You can also sort by season. Winter clothes and Summer clothes. Now we have Islamic clothes and urban clothing. We also can find such categories (especially when one shops online) as Nightclub clothes and Trendy clothes. It's all too much.

I'm a simple person. I like it or I don't. I don't buy something because everyone else is wearing it, or drinking it, or using it. I also don't avoid things I like because others dislike it. I really should be that simple. Shouldn't it?

Whatcha Eating? Wordless Wednesday

Delayed Titling, Bad Singing, and Too Many Pictures

Another Wednesday and more What the Hell moments. I've called it therapy before and I won't stop now. If you'd like to get some stuff off your chest, link up with the rest of us over at Elle and Stacy's Blue Monkey Butt. It feels Goooood.

I've noticed over the last couple months with my participation in WTH Wednesday and Random Thought Tuesday that I no longer title my posts before I write them. What the Hell? I sit down and empty my brain, re-read and then decide on a title. Does anyone else find that to be the better way?

We'll be down to the top 12 on American Idol after the Thursday results show. I had read in some forums that people are thinking this years contestants are the worst ever. I hope they didn't taint my brain because after the last couple weeks I'm beginning to think they are right. What the Hell ? It seems like almost everyone is singing way off key most of the time.

I've mentioned before that the acne I didn't get as a teenager has been haunting me since, gosh, I think since I moved to Virginia. What the Hell. I'm not above doing a shameless plug:

Dear makers of blue light therapy,

I would be willing to test and review your product. I'll even do before and after pics.

Call me.

Today is picture day. AGAIN. What the Hell is with all these pictures. When I was a kid we got one shot at it. Now we have picture day, class picture day, casual pose picture day and whatever else they come up with. Why would I order a class picture if I'm getting my first grader a yearbook (which we also didn't have at the elementary level)? Anyone else find this annoying?

I'll end my rant there and encourage you to share your What the Hell moments.

Surgery, Crystal Bowersox, Chef Ramsey and the President~ RTT

If it's Tuesday, which I've been told it is, it must be time for some more randomness. Random is good. Helps to get out the bits of thoughts swimming through my head. If you're playing, head on over to The Un Mom when you finish here and link up.

I didn't go to Raleigh last week as my brother's surgery was postponed. He had an upper respiratory infection and they didn't think it would be a good idea to do neck surgery. I have to agree. The surgery is rescheduled for this week and I'll be headed that way Sunday or Monday.

Does anyone watch Kitchen Nightmares? I've recently caught a couple episodes and they crack me up. After spending 17 years as a restaurant manager I can relate to some of these bone-heads who have no clue. Strike that. I can relate to Gordon's frustrations with the no-clue-boneheads. That last girl who bought a business (restaurant) after completing business school was laughable. Who thinks this is a good business venture when you know nothing about restaurants? I'm amazed the staff stayed around. Hopefully they got the epson tm-t88iv printers with their new computers. I'd like to know how they're doing now.

American Idol is dwindling to the top 12. Crystal Bowersox is my pick to win it. I just hope she can stay healthy to complete the competition.

60 degree weather yesterday. Puddin Pop and I planted some flower and strawberry seeds. Hope we don't get another cold spell before they sprout. We put some inside too, just in case.

I'm just finishing up my Ambassadorship with The View. It was a lot of fun tweeting during the shows. Now I'm a Juicy Insider (I know, sounds kinda pornographic) for Tropicana. They have some great savings on things here local. You get codes on qualifying purchases and can use the points for discounts on travel, lodging, museums and more. If it stays warm I'm going to take PP to the zoo this week. Free child admission with an adult ticket. It's always nice to save money on things you'd buy or do anyway.

Boog was helping the neighbor pick up some broken porcelain on her sidewalk yesterday. She told him if he continues to be this helpful and nice he just may find himself in the President's office someday. He thought that was cool. I have to say that I want my kids to do what ever makes them happy and be successful at it. I've never dreamt of my kids rocking the Oval office. Just sayin'.

Feelings of Guilt

Do you ever just want to run away?

I'm having one of those days. Under appreciated and Fed-up. I'd like to do a New York job search just to go for a couple days and get away from the noise. I don't really want to live in NY, but a vacation, alone, might be nice...and Hubster keeps hinting about me getting a job.

It's no one's fault, really. I'm still feeling like dirt and screaming kids at 7:00 in the morning, coupled with Hubster upset because they woke him up is a little too much to bare right now. I'm supposed to be on my way to Raleigh to take care of my brother who was supposed to have surgery this morning. It got postponed to next week and I'm feeling a little anxious that I won't be able to help him out. Hubster took today and Monday off so I could go this week but now it's not happening. He can't take the days off next week so I'm kinda stuck. All this together has me a little short tempered and unsympathetic to the needs of my family. I'll shake it off.

I always end up feeling guilty when I'm short with the kids. Not that at times they don't bring it on themselves. I'm just usually such a laid back person that I know it must seem to come out of nowhere to them. What's good one day sends me over the edge on days like today. Should I try to hide my true emotions (as if I think before I explode)? Or is it good for them to see that Mommy has feelings too? Do I need to explain why I might be a little short tempered? I usually like to, to ease my guilt, after I've calmed back down and assessed the situation. How do you handle it?

Work, Snowday and Funny things Kids Say~ WTHW

Another episode of What the Hell Wednesday. I missed last week with a case of the bluey blues. I was just feeling yucky and unmotivated, What the Hell? But I'm back with a vengeance and joining the ladies at Blue Monkey Butt for more Wednesday fun. Get some stuff off your chest and join in.

I have a (very) part time job. One day a week (sometimes two) I venture away from my family for some quiet adult time. It's a store that is mainly frequented by men. It's a relaxing atmosphere even when busy. Some of the guys even try to flirt, What the Hell? So I had this guy over the weekend who was chatting me up and when it came time for him to check out he made some comment about hoping his credit card would work and asking if he could use mine if it didn't. I told him I didn't have any credit cards to which he replied, "You must be married. Did hubby cut you off?" What the Hell? I'm sure this happens but I'm not a huge shopper and can not imagine being married to someone who would "cut me off." Just saying.

It's March 3. I live in Virginia. It's a SNOWDAY! What the Hell? I have pictures of the kids from previous years in shorts...in January. My daffodils were already coming up. Now they are covered in snow. Fortunately the kids are playing nicely so far. It's only 9 am. Fingers are crossed.

I watched The Parenthood last night. I cried. Several times. What the Hell. This is going to be a really good show if they keep it up.

I had hope of a wine review tonight while the kids and Hubster were at church for choir practice. Due to snow it may not happen. I will only say WTH to that one as I don't want to say the "H" word in the same sentence as church. Just doesn't feel right.

Speaking of Hell. Pudding Pop enlightened me on the way to dance class yesterday. She said, "Mommy. When you are bad, bad, bad, you go down, down, down." I say "Oh really?" She says "Yep. All the way down to the devil." It was almost as if she was going to break into a song. She also told me that nice people go "up.". I asked where she thought she would go..."up", Mommy?..."up", Daddy?..."up". Ashley (the dog)..."up". Her brother?..."down, down, down" (again with the song) I asked why. "Because he is always mean to me." What the Hell?

Giving Children a Head Start

I do not have life insurance.

Hubster does, through his current job but we are unclear as to whether the new job (when he gets one) will carry this same benefit.

Both kids have the Gerber Grow-Up Plan. Have since birth. If my parents had done this for me, I'd have insurance now too.

We have the 3x policy for both kids. For $112 each year (each) they have a policy worth $5000. For that same $112, the policy will be worth $50,000 when they turn 21 and at the age of 28 the policy will be worth $150,000. I can not think of a better gift to give my children when they become adults. To know they will have these policies for life and the rates will be inexpensive enough for them to maintain makes me feel like I've done something that will benefit their future families. My grandchildren.

For the money and feeling of security you can't beat it. We insure our homes and our vehicles and use sites like goodsamers.com to insure our recreational vehicles. Why not Child Whole Life Plans with GerberLife? It's worth every penny just in Peace of mind.

Undrcover Boss, Olympics, Toast with Love~ RTT

Has anyone seen Undercover Boss? The idea is that CEO's of companies go into entry level positions to see what really happens within their companies and then they can report back to their Directors and make changes to better their businesses. First off, that pig from Hooters should have been fired. Period. I would also like to know how they can get another season out of this. People, if a new employee comes in to try out an entry level position and is doing a documentary about it (camera crews are following them around), you may want to find a picture of the "big boss". Chances are it's him/her. These individuals are putting on safety glasses and hair nets and jumping right in. They're usually pretty bad at it too.

The Olympics were great. The final game between USA and Canada was an edge of the seat nail-biter. I hope in light of the loss, team USA can be proud of what they achieved and of the medal no one expected them to win. Great job Guys.


I'll be spending the weekend in Raleigh taking care of my brother who is having neck surgery on Friday. I really appreciate Hubster taking Friday and Monday off to allow me to do this. I know my brother is a little scared of the surgery and the amount of time they expect his recovery to take (5-6 weeks) I may just have to bring him home with me.



Whenever Hubster makes chocolate milk for the kids they think it rocks. Puddin Pop wanted to know why it tasted so good. He told he he made it with love. He actually adds sugar. Who does that? So when Puddin Pop wanted toast for breakfast yesterday morning she insisted I put "love" in it. I did.

That's my random for this Tuesday. If you've got some random thoughts ready to get out of your head, post them on your site and link up with all of us over at The Un Mom, or The Bitchin Wives Club which for some reason in my browser still comes up as The Un Mom.

The Return of Rainbow Brite

We're you a Rainbow Brite Fan? Unfortunately I was a little old for their first run but I have friends that are huge fans. Now, having a daughter, we can share the experience together. Hallmark has put together Rainbowbrite.com where you can meet Rainbow and all her friends, watch videos and play games.

The characters are so colorful and fun. My daughter and I spent some time on the site and with the cd we were sent. At 3, she really loved the videos but found most the games to be too difficult. I think she had just as much fun watching me play though. With a variety of memory, and skill games, the ultimate goal is to Help Rainbow Brite and friends return the color back to Rainbow Land.

I'm not sure why in matching games kids always want to flip the cards they've already flipped. I remember trying to teach my son to flip new cards while playing memory and playing the game on the computer with PP was the same thing.

The new Rainbow Brite Fashion Doll and accessories are now available at Target and Toys R Us and are sure to please young girls and their Mommies. Puddin Pop has already requested one for her birthday next month.

I was sent CD's for my daughter and to give out to friends courtesy of Mom Select and Hallmark. The opinions are mine.