Tellin It Like It Is

Seeing Double!

2009-08-13T16:59:00.000-07:00

This is Suzie...my mom's new foster rescue greyhound! Chunky is in love and calls them both his sisters! They take Chunky for walks and try to eat his lunch...but it is all good!

Make A Wish

2009-07-31T18:16:00.000-07:00

When I asked Chunky what he wished for...he wanted a new fast red race car. My wish is for a better week to come for everyone! It seems that everyone around me is having a harder time than usual. Maybe it is the weather, maybe getting ready for school, or big life changes about to occur. We have wonderful weekend plans and I am hoping to get a head start on a good next week!

The Dog Days Of Summer

2009-07-30T17:07:00.001-07:00

Five Points Fire Museum

2009-07-21T18:17:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we visited The Five Points Fire Museum in town. It used to operate as a working fire station, but now houses 2 antique fire trucks that the kids can play on, old uniforms for the kids to dress up, and lots and lots of bells and sirens. Did I mention how loud the bells were in such a small building. They also had antique fire toys (hundreds of them), old dispatch radios, fire hoses, and historical pictures of the city. It is a great little treasure in the city that we have found. I am sure we will visit often due to Chunky's love of all things police, fire, and paramedic related!

Walking With Dinosaurs

2009-07-13T17:20:00.001-07:00

The mommy TRex comes to protect her baby!

The colors in the show were so beautiful!

Chunky enjoying his way overpriced spinning TRex toy

Chunky and his daddy standing by oversized ticket

After the show, we went to a place that had bumper cars. He loved that he could drive!

On Saturday, to celebrate my birthday and as a gift to Chunky on his birthday we went to Indy to go see Walking With Dinosaurs. It was a 2 hour show put on by the British Broadcasting Company. It featured life size dinosaurs that could move and interact by themselves all around the arena. We winded up being in the front row center which was a major blessing. I thought Chunky might be scared, but he was not at all....except for when the TREX came out. It was very, very, very loud. Actually, I was a little scared too! Chunky said some hilarious things while watching the show. When I commented on the dino's tale moving he thought it was because he had to potty. When the set "caught on fire", he yelled for Fireman Sam and a fire truck! When the dinos were fighting, he called for the Rescue Heroes. We all had a great time!

I Held You Then.....

2009-07-07T18:51:00.001-07:00

When God first blessed me with you

I still hold you now!

Happy 5th Birthday Chunky!

I hope all of your wishes come true!

I can not believe that five years ago, God blessed me with your life. I sometimes try to imagine what my life was like before you arrived, but honestly, I don't really remember a time when you were not with me! Five years have led to many changes in our lives. I remember when you could not lift your head, and now you do back flips off the slides at Monkey Joes! Five years ago, both of your great grandparents were with us, celebrating your birth, and now they are in heaven watching you grow. Five years ago, your other great grandmother lived right down the street; now she lives thousands of miles away. Five years ago, we battled the New Orleans sun and heat and now you get the chance to play in the Indiana snow! Five years ago, your Paw Paw Tommy held you in his arms and carried you proudly, now we visit him at the nursing home. Five years ago, your Godmother Sam watched me try to figure out what to do with you, and now she is getting the chance to raise two beautiful girls. When you watch videos of yourself as a baby and see our old house and your Manny and Ita's house, you ask if we can go back. When you see the pictures of the parks we used to take you to, you ask if we can go there. Sometimes it kills me. Five years ago, you could not speak, and now.....well you don't stop! When you came into this world, you weighed a whopping 6 lbs 7 oz. Today, you weigh 38.8 lbs thanks to all of the pizza that you eat! Time changes things. Today, my prayer for you is one of thanksgiving for every single day that God has given us with you. I am so proud of you for all that you have accomplished. You always want to play with your friends, you adore cars that make noise, and always want to cook with your Mommy. You are a polite young man who loves baseball, fireman, bulldozers, your new police car shoes, and most importantly God. I love to hear you pray and I am sure that it puts a smile on God's face to hear your sweet voice! I hope that you have a wonderful birthday tomorrow and a great year as you start school!

Welcome Girls!

2009-06-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry the pictures are so small, but you can see how sweet my two new godchildren are! I can't wait to spoil them and hug them, and watch them grow! I just hope they are more well behaved as teenagers then their mother and I were! Sweet dreams Sophie Grace and Jasmin Andrea. Please keep them in your prayers that they will grow to be big and strong and they will know the love and power of our God!

How To Grow Tomatoes

2009-06-17T18:15:00.000-07:00

First, you grab the tray of plants that you started with seeds.

Next, you dig a hole.

Then, you water the plants.

Grab a drink after all of your hard work !

Finally, shower yourself and all of the blog readers!

Just Call Him "Chunky McQueen"

2009-06-12T20:41:00.000-07:00

"Drivers, Start Your Engines!"

Cutting those corners kinda close

Getting the hang of it!

Look out! Woman driver on the loose. Good thing they have seatbelts!

Hanging out with Dad on a Friday afternoon at the track!

Today, we had to take Chunky to get a recheck at Riley. After fighting almost a hour of stupid traffic over construction (five guys standing on the side of the road, 4 of them smoking), we made it to his appointment just in time. Like, with one minute to spare. Everything looks good and then we were off to the track! We are trying to link visiting the dentist with fun things so he won't grow up to be a big weenie at the dentist like his mother is :(. So, we found the track, in the middle of the Indy ghetto and had ourselves a fun evening. I was slightly nervous about letting Chunky drive by himself. The height requirement is 43" and he is 42", but they let him go and he was so proud of himself and his highly skilled driving. We had both tracks to ourselves due to being in the middle of a work day which probably was safer for everyone. We finished the day off by eating at Joe's outside on the lake. It was the perfect day and now my belly is full, Chunky is sleeping and all is right with the world. We shall see what tomorrow brings!

Riley Rocks!

2009-06-10T18:15:00.001-07:00

Chunky having fun in the waiting room before surgery.

Holding mommy after being given a nice dose of sleepy medicine.

Off to the O.R.

The wagon ride to the car!

Last Wednesday was Chunky's surgery. I know this post is a little late, but I wanted to make sure I documented it for him. I sooooo wish we lived closer to Riley Hospital. They took every precaution to make sure that this was a good experience. When you enter the hospital, you get one of these neat red wagons. All of the waiting rooms have awesome toys to play with like fisher price houses, race car tracks, and aquariums. When they took him to get his vital signs, they gave him a toy to take home, while in the surgery holding area, they have a huge set of cool videos to watch. They lent him a game boy that he was able to take into surgery and had a huge closet of toys to play with while waiting. They make sure to clean all of the toys between patients. The nurses were awesome, kind, and patient. They gave him some "sleepy" medicine, which helped transition him to surgery and waited until he was asleep to give him his IV. They also kept us informed while waiting, through our cell phones so we could go eat. The worst part of the whole experience was trying to take his temp under his arm. (He thought it was going to be a shot???) Overall, everything was awesome...minimal pain and crying and he is no longer scared of the dentist. Again, I say Riley Rocks!

Long Fun Weekend!

2009-05-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

I love love love 3 day weekends! We always just get so much more done around here. We started off with Chunky's first real TBall game. He did very well for his first game (of course Dad helped quite a bit!) Then we visited the grand opening of Monkey Joe's and to our surprise we got in for free! Chunky spent 3 hours nonstop and would have gone for several more hours if not stopped! He even attempted several front and back flips off of the way high slides! We finally finished stripping the flower wallpaper from his room and got his room painted, decorated, and a new race car fan installed. He loves his new and improved room! We also spent some fun time at the zoo, checking out the beautiful new butterfly exhibit, and ended with a relaxing train ride. One room down, alot more to go! Chunky only has 3 more days of his preschool life :(. Then he will have a fun summer and off to big boy school!

It's A Bird, It's A Plane, No It's Superchunky!

2009-05-03T15:32:00.000-07:00

The Superhero unmasked for his blogging fans! Love that hair!

Showing off his strong muscles!

Classic "I will save the day" pose

Every Superhero needs a awesome cape!

Gosh, I love my Superboy! One day, I hope he will grow up to be a Superman!

This afternoon, my mom gave Chunky his birthday present that one of my friends made for him 2 months early. She was never able to wait to give presents. Chunky is all into superheros right now. His favorites are LarryBoy from Veggie Tales and Spiderman. I had to take lots of pictures, because before I know it my little boy will grow up into a man. I still can't believe that we are done with the baby, toddler, and preschooler years. Time goes by in a flash just like any good Superboy should do!

Spring Fun

2009-04-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

Easter Egg Dying Fun!

Easter Eggs for hubby in my attempt to be creative?

Chocolate Bunny Bread House that crashed and now resides in our tummy.

Chunky's First T Ball Practice Minus The T

Look out White Sox, check out this future Cubs pitcher. Such good form!

Having fun looking at yucky bugs at the Bug Bowl!

Sweet mommy and chunky time!

The beginning of sliding season has started.

I love Spring! Finally, some Sun and warm weather and I love the start of Baseball season. Sure, I would love to go see the Cubs this summer, but we may just have to settle for the Indians, or Little League! I can't wait to enjoy our weekends as a family and continue to explore the Midwest. I am loving watching Chunky in T Ball. He is getting to be so big and I can't believe he will be starting Kindergarten in the fall. Where did my sweet baby boy go? Oh well, enough of my friends are having little ones this Summer so I will be able to get my new baby fix! I hope everyone is enjoying the weather as much as we are!

Cashews, Cotton Candy, Cupcakes, And Coke

2009-04-04T21:05:00.001-07:00

That was what I had for dinner last night. No, that is not what Chunky had for dinner, thus causing a mouthful of money, it is what I had. The Coke is just a given, the Cotton Candy was from Chuck E Cheese, and the cupcakes (chocolate mini cupcakes with yellow frosting to be exact) and cashews were from Target. Why is it that the few times I treat myself to a gourmet food item like cashews, it seems to be Chunky's new favorite food? I will confess, I hid the cupcakes. My child never saw them enter the house or my mouth. I put them up in a high cabinet. Sometimes a mom has to do what a mom has to do! Here is to starting a diet on Monday!

Back to Blogging!

2009-03-31T17:46:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this smile is about to cost me $2300? For baby teeth???

Extreme makeover with my friend Jessica at a recent retreat!

Chunky in the glass elevator at Riley Hospital. I wonder where Willy Wonka is?

Cute new Dansko shoes I found at Goodwill for $3.00 and resold on Ebay for $70.00

Ouch! Chunky decided to play racing with the piano bench. Guess who won?

So, it has been 6 weeks since last posting and lots and lots of stuff has happened since then, thus causing my blogging hiatus. Lets start at the beginning. During the time of my last post, hubby and I celebrated 15 years together. If you are counting that means we have been together for half of my life, minus 1 year! I hope to post some pics later of our earlier years. Next, I got a second job at a local spa doing massages again! I have been out of the business for about 7 years and it is nice to be able to jump back in (the tips are awesome)! As you can see from the pics up above, Chunky has had a run of bad luck lately. First the piano bench dropped on his foot (nothing broken, just bruised the bone and limping for a few days) and then several weeks later broke his tooth, only to find out that he had to have major dental work done and of course we opted not to take dental insurance???? I have to give major credit to Riley Hospital Dental Clinic. After seeing 2 other dentist(one being a pediatric dentist and one oral surgeon later), Riley was the only place that could get Chunky to half way cooperate. Speaking of behavior, does anyone have the Super Nanny's phone number? No, really! Chunky now knows how to speak his mind quite well and along with it is coming loads of backtalk and all out temper tantrums. God give me patience, lots of patience. Today after speech therapy, Chunky had such a bad temper tantrum, after exhausting all possible options, I just had to start praying over him. In the middle of my prayer for him to be a good boy, he yells "I am not a good boy!" It almost looked like a scene from the exorcist with his face red from screaming for 30 minutes. All of this, because I would not let him take a toy car from the clinic. I also want to take the time to say thanks to my awesome mom. In all of my busyness, she has helped out so much by cooking lots of yummy meals and really helping me watch Chunky! Speaking of food, I was recently introduced to a new local ministry called "Fishes and Loaves". Basically it is a bible study/cooking class that meets once a month. In 4 hours I learned how to make homemade meatloaf, meatballs, tacos, and 3 other recipes. The teacher is a wonderful lady who provides all of the food for the class. She said it is her way of helping people in the current economic times. Teaching women how to cook for their family on a budget. In lighter news, Chunky got into the local Charter school that I have been praying about. I know that out of all of the local schools, this would be the best fit for him. I am very excited to see how he will grow there and can't wait to see his academic years beginning. I also have been very active using coupons and going to coupon websites and money saving websites. This has been a fun adventure and I am working on building quite a nice stockpile. Lets just say I wont need shampoo, toothpaste, soap or baby wipes for about another year. On a more serious note, the past 6 weeks have been filled with lots of need for prayer. Personally, I need prayer for my career. While I have enjoyed working with the young children for the past 2 years, it seems that it is time for me to move on. As many of you know, 2 years is a very long time for my career history! Now I just have to figure out what position is going to be best for the next school year for my family. I normally don't list prayer request, but at this time, so many people really need it. So, in no particular order, if when you say your prayers tonight you could include:
-My Uncle Tommy - to help figure out current medical issues while he goes in and out of the hospital
-My Friend Brenda -who last week was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and is on her way to recovery
-For Baby Stellan - who has been hospitalized for 10 days now with a heart condition, you can read about him on my sidebar under the blog "My Charming Kids"
- For a local family of 5 that needs help feeding their family
- For Sam's baby girls and Amy's baby - that they are able to grow strong and remain healthy
- For a friend's mom, that she may get back healthy test results.
-For a friend's grandmother who recently suffered a fire in her home.
-For Chunky and I, that we might get through this trying time in his childhood, for us both to remember to love each other no matter what!
That's all for now! I need to get to bed

A Pirate's Life For Me

2009-02-19T08:08:00.001-08:00

Chunky jumping on the hotel bed waiting to go swimming! We had a great time! Thanks again to everyone who voted to help us win. Just a couple of pics to show all of the fun!

Snow Much Fun And More!

2009-02-13T20:37:00.000-08:00

If you can't go outside to play in the snow, just bring it inside. Check out Scoop from Bob The Builder hauling all of that snow!

A couple of locals decided to drop by to play!

Chunky decided he was tired of his nose running and traded it in for a new one.

I am not "lion". I want to be your valent'ion'!

Does this tail make me look fat?

It has been almost a month since my last post and for good reason. Chunky has been super sick for almost 4 weeks. I am glad to say that he has fully recovered and has just a few more days on antibiotics. Here is a quick recap. He started complaining that his mouth hurt and ran a fever, and some vomiting. He then became covered in a rash = Scarlet Fever = Strep Throat. He recovers for 2 days, then complains of headache, tummy hurting, and legs hurting????, goes back to Dr and has strep again (Round 2 of meds). Several days later, no better, fever blisters on lips, temp of 102 for days, go back to Dr. (Round 3 of meds). Left eye starts drooping and turning red, return to Dr (has strep still, secondary infection, ear infection, and pink eye). At this point I am ready to scream....gets put on 4th round of meds. Finally after forever, starts to recover. This is why nothing has gotten done around the house and no one has heard from/seen me. During all of this drama, we had lots of heavy snow, thus leading to bring the snow inside for a little fun! Oh yeah, did I mention after all of this, I got pink eye and a sore throat :( . Fun to be had by all! Oh well, we are all somewhat back to normal and are going to the hotel tomorrow to have some fun family time at the water park now that everyone has recovered! Hope everyone has a great Valentines Day weekend!

Cold is a relative thing.......

2009-02-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

This is so true. Today when we were driving we saw multiple people with their car windows down. It was about 50 degrees today. Someone gave my hubby this joke a few days ago, but it really is true.

Cold is a relative thing...

65 above zero:

Floridians turn on the heat; people in Indiana plant gardens.

50 above zero:

Italian and English cars won't start; people in Indiana drive with the windows down.

40 above zero:

Georgians put on coats, thermal underwear, gloves, and wool hats; people in Indiana throw on a flannel shirt.

35 above zero:

New York landlords finally turn up the heat; people in Indiana have the last cookout before it gets cold.

20 above zero:

People in Miami all die; hoosiers close the windows.

Zero:

Californians fly away to Mexico; people in Indiana get out their winter coats.

10 below zero:

Hollywood disintegrates; the Girl Scouts in Indiana are selling cookies door to door.

20 below zero:

Washington DC runs out of hot air; people in Indiana let the dogs sleep indoors.

30 below zero:

Santa Claus abandons the North Pole; Hoosiers get upset because they can't start the snowmobile.

40 below zero:

All atomic motion stops; people in Indiana start saying..."Cold enough for ya?"

50 below zero:

Hell freezes over; public schools in Indiana will open 2 hours late.

Coke VS Pepsi - Who Cares?

2009-01-25T19:56:00.000-08:00

I for one love them both! They both have given me tons of free stuff this year. I just looked back at my accounts for both www.mycokerewards.com and www.pepsistuff.com to review all of the things that they sent me and I was surprised at just how much stuff I was sent. The Pepsi promotion is now over, but we had a good run. The Coke promotion will finish this year. So, in no particular order, here is all of the stuff they have sent me.

Coke-

360 Photos from Snapfish

5 Photo Books

4 Cokes

$38 Subway G.C.

$20 Omaha Steaks

3 tickets to Six Flags ($150.00 value)

$25 Rest G.C.

2 Blockbuster Videos

8 Magazine Subscriptions

2 Dominos Pizzas

$10 Foot Locker G.C.

A Huge Donation was made to Toys For Tots

Several People also took caps for Photo Books and Six Flags Tickets

I estimated this to retail for about $660.00

Pepsi did not run the promotion for long, but they still sent lots of good stuff like:

1 Duffle Bag

1 Belt Buckle

2 Beach Bags

2 Lunch Bags

1 pr Pajamas

5 T Shirts

5 CDs

15 DVDs

Several people also got lots of MP3 downloads

Approx retail value - $400.00

So needless to say, little Coke/Pepsi caps that we all throw away do add up if you take the time to enter them in the computer. I know that you are all dying to know why I have not died from diabetic shock due to so much cola intake. I recieved all of the caps for free from a friend at my hubby's work. I really only wanted to get 1 ticket to Six Flags and he soon gave me enough for 3. The rest as they say is history. I still have more caps and yes, you can make fun of me now!

Why I Work Where I Work......

2009-01-16T17:11:00.001-08:00

Because I can grab Chunky in the middle of the day and roll around in a big yellow ball!
Mystery solved. My car will read negative temps. I am freezing here!

Family Fun

2009-01-01T17:09:00.001-08:00

Hubby trying to find our child in the giant foam pit!

Chunky emerges from the sea of foam blocks!

I love this pic! We both look so happy!

Chunky jumping for joy that both of his parents were able to take him to play on a Wednesday!

Yesterday, the family visited a local gymnastics club that opened up their gym for family fun! It only cost $3.00 for all of us to go play and act like a bunch of monkeys for 2 hours. We also acted like Tarzan! The gym was equipped with a huge tarzan rope hanging from the ceiling that let you fly over the foam pit! We also played on the trampolines and on all of the other equipment like the balance beam, parallel bars, rings, vaults, and foam floor toys. We had a blast! I really can not put into words just how much fun we had! Chunky has been talking about it all day today and can't wait to go back! It made for a great way to end the new year! Happy New Year everyone!

Rock Star

2008-12-31T10:01:00.001-08:00

Is this Chunky or Elvis

Chunky starting a dance craze at the laser light show!

Having a great time as usual at the laser show!

Last night our local library put on a laser show. I went there not expecting too much, but I was very wrong. They hired a professional laser show business to come in and they put on a non-stop 45 minute show. Of course, I was nervous about how Chunky would act, but he had a great time! He even led the crowd to perform sound effects. During one part of the show, they put on some techno music with lasers. Chunky jumped out and yelled to everyone "get up, lets dance!" What followed next looked like a techno rave of preschoolers. I now know for sure, that I have a leader, not a follower on my hands (also a hard core rocker). Oh well, here is to many more years of a loud house! In other news......WE WON THE HOLIDAY PHOTOS MEMORY CONTEST!!!!!! A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO VOTED EVERY SINGLE DAY! Look out for Chunky's winning photo in the newspaper in the next few weeks! Thanks to all of my friends and family that voted! I know we will have a great time at the water park and hotel! Everyone have a happy and safe new years eve tonight! Will post my resolutions tomorrow!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T19:05:00.001-08:00

Chunky looking cute in front of the tree!Favorite gift this year, real working kid's microwave!Batter Up!Leaving cookies and milk for Santa!Police Officer Chunky! Stay clear of the roads!

We just need a house!

2008-12-21T19:15:00.000-08:00

Like A Kid In A Candy Store!

2008-12-20T18:24:00.000-08:00

Chunky in front of McCord's Candy Store

Picking out a mint meltaway!

Final choice, cherry hearts! Yum!

Ending the candy theme day with a exciting round of Candy Land!

I really enjoy the Saturday mornings that I get to spend with Chunky for my date! McCords is a local candy store that had a really nice soda fountain and tons of candy. They make the best cherry coke and jordan almonds! They also specialize in homemade candy canes which were good, but not worth the $1.5o for one. Oh well, another local tradition tried and out of the way! This month has been filled with Christmas events and I will have many more post soon! Blessings!

Thanks Santa!

2008-12-16T19:07:00.000-08:00

The first year Chunky was born, I got the cute Santa holding baby pic at a local grocery store for pretty cheap. He was about 6 months old. The next year, I decided to get the pic taken at the mall with my friend Jessica, who helped me pick out the outfit....and we got the whole "who is this fat guy holding me look". Fast Forward to year 3 (age 30 months) and you get the whole "child is screaming so loudly and his silly mom just paid $15 for this pic" photo. Last year, I decided to skip it and this year we just passed by Santa. Chunky said "Hi" from a far distance and was done. We tried to visit Santa on "The Polar Express", thinking we had a better shot at a cute pic being that he was so happy to be on a train...not quite. Moving right along....today at school, call it peer pressure, Chunky was all about talking to Santa. What did he tell Santa that he wanted? "A surprise for mommy and daddy!" How sweet is that? Santa must have been listening, because 1 hour later, I found out that I won a $200 gift certificate to Schylling Toys (online toy company). My random entry was picked out of the 502 that entered! So, we have his 5 yr old birthday and next Christmas covered! Speaking of great gifts, do you remember the special baby that I mentioned that was coming into my life and who would be blessed by such a awesome Godmother? Well, I guess the baby figured it would need to share the love and decided that it would be a twin! Yep, two new godchildren that I get to spoil! I know they are only 8 weeks in utero, but is it too early to buy matching outfits?

Shake Me!

2008-12-14T19:48:00.001-08:00

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Snow Globe Toy & MySpace Layouts at pYzam.com

The Polar Express

2008-12-14T13:53:00.001-08:00

Chunky waiting to get on the Polar Express Train. I love the excitement on his face!

Quick family photo before departing!

Listening to see if he could hear the bell. He did and loved it!

Waving goodbye to the North Pole!

Getting off the train and making plans for next years return!

Last night, we went to The Polar Express Train in Fishers, IN. This was sponsered by the Indiana Transportation Museum. When we got there, we saw a slide show with live voices of the famous book. Next, we hopped aboard the train for a 1 hour ride to the North Pole (Also known as Noblesville, IN), passed by Santa's house, drank hot chocolate, ate lots of cookies and candy, sang carols, and had a live visit with Santa and the Mrs. It was so much like the movie. I loved watching my little boy's face and found the visit to be well worth the money and drive! I can't imagine what it would have been like if my favorite movie turned into real life when I was 4 years old! We even got a Christmas ornament and conductor's hat for the memories. We can't wait to go again next year! We finished off the night by driving through the Frankfort, IN park which was filled with thousands of lights! It made for a great finish to a perfect night!

Let It Snow?

2008-12-11T18:38:00.001-08:00

You know that we are quickly coming to the end of times when it snows 8 inches in New Orleans and not a drop in Indiana. The last time it snowed in New Orleans, was on Chunky's first Christmas day (see pic above) and when I say snow, I mean small snowflakes that did not really even stick to the ground. Before that, I was around 7 years old. And in other news, Chunky keeps arguing with me that my mom's dog Tia is a boy. After telling him several times, that she is a girl, I finally just said, "She is not a boy, she does not have a penis!'. His response...."Oh no!"(As if to say, it must have fallen off!) Enough said!

Weekend Winter Wonderland

2008-12-08T19:01:00.001-08:00

I always find it amazing how just a few simple details can make something so perfect!

The table decorations at a dinner I went to over the weekend.

Chunky and his grandma getting ready for the first big plunge. I was at the bottom, not quite sure what to expect.

He survived the trial run! Time to see just how much weight this sled can hold!

Chunky ready to repeat the ride again, and again, and again...........

READY FOR MORE SNOW!

Everyone Out Of The Kitchen!

2008-12-01T18:54:00.000-08:00

So, this morning, my mom watched Chunky for me. He loves her so much and she wants to spend some time with him before he goes to school next year. This morning, he asked if he could bake his "cupcakes" in the oven. She saw no harm, since the oven was off, and wants to encourage his love for cooking! Needless to say, several hours later, while Chunky was napping....my mom forgot that he was cooking cupcakes and turned the oven on. Several minutes later, a oven full of smoke, and the nice aroma of burning plastic......she remembered! All of the plastic molded onto the oven rack. Lets not forget last week, when she was cooking him pizza, he told her smoke was coming from the oven, she did not believe him, and low and behold, smoke was coming from the oven. I am thinking when Chunky grows up he will be a fireman that really know how to cook! Everyone loves a man in uniform who can cook!

Giving Thanks

2008-11-27T17:11:00.001-08:00

Today, I give thanks for my husband. We have been together for 15 years. That is half of my lifetime! I am grateful for all of the good things that he brings out in me!

Today, I give thanks for my son. The beautiful gift that God gave to me. He makes me laugh and keeps me young. I am also grateful that the banana that he stuck in the ceramic Christmas house was easily removed this morning. Again, he keeps me on my toes!

Today I give thanks for my mom, who kept Chunky occupied while we cooked. I am also glad she lets him do things I would never let him do, like make deviled eggs or do the dishes.
Today, I give thanks for having food to eat. Especially toasted marshmallows! I am also happy to have a clean kitchen after 2 hours of doing dishes. Now, if only I could get the rest of my house clean.

Today, I give thanks that my good friend Kelly is picking up her new little boy in Columbia. She is there meeting him now along with her son and husband. I pray for a good transition and their safe return back to America.

Today, I give thanks to God for having the best of friends (old and new), a home to share with my family(even though it looks like a tornado has been through it), a job where I can share God's word(even amongst the 11 screaming kids) and to be surrounded by my family today to share a wonderful and quite filling meal. Leftovers are the best!

I also have a prayer request for everyone who reads my blog. There will be a very special baby coming into my life in about 8 months. (No, I am not pregnant.) However, this child will be my godchild and I love him/her already. I know that God has big and glorious plans for this child. I have vowed to pray for him/her everyday as well as his mommy. Please keep them in your prayers.

For my love

2008-11-27T03:31:00.001-08:00

Hey baby! I am so proud of you. Your love! (Posted by the hubby)

Are You Kidding Me?

2008-11-23T18:11:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when your child does not have any car roadblocks. He makes them out of gumdrops. I gave him 10 points for creativity!

This is what happens when you leave the room for a few minutes. It must be stressful being 4 years old. Sometimes you just need to steal mom's new blanket and turn on the foot massager! What will he do when he is 5?

The Farmer VS The Donkey - You Could Learn Alot!

2008-11-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

Not sure who wrote this...but it is pretty darn funny!

One day a farmer's donkey fell down into a well. The animal cried piteously for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do.

Finally, he decided the animal was old, and the well needed to be covered up anyway;it just was not worth it to retrieve the donkey.

He invited all his neighbors to come over and help him. They all grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well. At first, the donkey realized what was happening and cried horribly. Then, to everyone's amazement he quieted down.

A few shovel loads later, the farmer finally looked down the well. He was astonished at what he saw. With each shovel of dirt that hit his back, the donkey was doing something amazing.

He would shake it off and take a step up.

As the farmer's neighbors continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up.

Pretty soon, everyone was amazed as the donkey stepped over the edge of the well and happily trotted off!

Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of our troubles is a steppingstone. We can get out of the deepest wells just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake it off and take a step up.

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

Free your heart from hatred - Forgive

Free your mind from worries - Most never happen

Live simply and appreciate what you have

Give more.

Expect less.

NOW...........................................................................

Enough of that pretty stuff....The donkey later came back, and bit the farmer who tried to bury him. The gash from the bite got infected and the farmer eventually died in agony from septic shock.

MORAL FROM TODAY'S LESSON:

When you do something wrong, and try to cover your (@ss), it always comes back to bite you.

You Know You Have A Small Child When.....

2008-11-15T19:12:00.000-08:00

1)You reach in your purse for your keys, but instead pull out a batman car.
2)When you go to sleep, their is usually a little car, phonics toy, or if you are lucky, a book on your pillow.
3)If you look in your CD player, you will find Veggie Tales or a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse CD.
4)There is always a surprise in the fridge, could be a magnet or could be a toy from Easter last year.
5)Your house is never clean, and there is always something on the floor.
6)You always keep candy in your purse for the moments you want to avoid a melt down in public places.
7)You consider french fries and pizza as 2 major food groups.
8)After all things listed above, you can look at your cute kid and still smile!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-05T17:56:00.001-08:00

Funny Food and Other Stuff

2008-11-02T06:53:00.000-08:00

Good morning! It's a beautiful Sunday. Have you said good morning to God yet?
Can you guess what holiday is coming next?

Chunky "rolling" in candy!

Firefighter Chunky to the rescue!

Chunky's first attempt at roller skating. Lasted 15 minutes. More interested in video games!

Apple day at school gone bad!

The past few weeks have been very busy! I am still much more productive without cable. In fact, I have not even been watching TV on the internet! In other news, I finished my Christmas shopping yesterday. But now I have to go back and return a few things because I found several things cheaper at other stores (like a $10 difference for 1 toy - Toys R Us was cheaper than Target). I also voted yesterday at Payless on Beck and was amazed that I could just walk right in , only had to wait 3 minutes, and then vote! I am sure that Tuesday will be much busier! I am so glad that both the voting and the shopping are done with! By the way, I got the idea for the turkey at a great website with tons of fun stuff to do with the kids. The site is http://flipflopsandapplesauce.blogspot.com

About Money

2008-10-28T15:54:00.000-07:00

So for the last several weeks I have been taking a Money class at a local church to improve our finances. I am so grateful that the people in this community care enough about others, to take their time to teach this class for free, while providing a free dinner, and free childcare for 12 weeks long. Along with this wonderful service, I also have my own personal money coach who is a wonderful caring woman with a new baby who has been so helpful and encouraging and even has the "call me anytime if you get stuck or need anything" rule. For this I am truly grateful to God for answering my prayers in time of need. We have also been blessed by receiving help from a family friend who has been a true accountability partner regarding finances. I recently found this short blog on one of the emails I get from the site "Living On A Dime". This is a wonderful site, with wonderful tips and recipes, and many ways to save money. I just thought this was a good reminder to me! And by the way, last month we decided to cut out our cable due to the ridiculous cost and I have gotten so much more done! It is amazing how much time we will sit in front of the TV and let our precious time pass us by!

If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy ."

"And if you get this on your own computer, you are part of the 1% in the world who has that opportunity. "

"If you woke up this morning with more health than illness .. You are more blessed than the many who will not even survive this day ."

"If you have never experienced the fear in battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation .. You are ahead of 700 million people in the world.

"If you can attend a church without the fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death you are envied by, and more blessed than, three billion people in the world! ."

"If your parents are still alive and still married....you are very rare ."

"If you can hold your head up and smile, you are not the norm, you're unique to all those in doubt and despair."

If you can read this message, you just received a double blessing in that someone was thinking of you as very special and you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world who cannot read at all.

Have a great day and remember to thank God for all of the blessings that you do have!

A Sunny Sunday!

2008-10-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Chunky playing peek a boo!

'The kids trying to find "balance" between work and play!

"Look mom, it's raining leaves!"

Proof that God exist. Who else could create such perfect colors?

Future artist needing to get a new canvas!

Fall Fun! Part 2

2008-10-05T19:16:00.001-07:00

I love this picture of Chunky on the hayride

Playing in the corn pit!

Eating pumpkin ice cream

Having a great day with mommy on the hayride!

Fall Fun! Part 1

2008-10-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

Family photo before going into the corn maze

"Now I am going to tell you which way to go"

"Which one of these am I supposed to put in the pumpkin pie?"

Chunky is almost as tall as the corn!

Working the way through the straw maze

Today we went to the corn maze/pumpkin patch for a fun fall family day! We had a great time. As a child, we did not have any yearly traditions, so when Chunky was born, one of the first traditions I established was to take him to a pumpkin patch every year! The first year was in Metairie, LA, the next two years in Lafayette, IN, and this year in Attica, IN. Chunky's favorite part of the day was the hayride, pulled by a tractor.

Chaos And Control

2008-09-21T10:47:00.000-07:00

The band's backstage pass!

Hubby and I before the concert!

Rockin out on the guitar!

Live on stage "Chaos And Control" rockin out the crowd!

Last night was my hubby's band debut. Lots of people came out to support them and they really played a great show! I was very proud of him, and all of the hours of practice really payed off! My favorite part of the show is when they threw Mardi Gras beads into the crowd and got them all up and dancing. I am looking forward to their next concert in November!

Hey Mr DJ Play That Song Again!

2008-09-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

I just got finished listening to one of my hubby's songs play on the local radio station! His band "Chaos and Control"'s debut is tonight. Hubby wrote all of the music and lyrics to all of the songs and plays the guitar as well. I am very proud of all of his work and talent to be able to make it as a headliner band tonight. Will post pics tomorrow!

Donuts, Dogs, and Discounts

2008-09-16T06:41:00.000-07:00

This is Tia's new alligator costume for Halloween - Do you think she will get lots of candy?

Flowers from Hubby on her 11 year wedding anniversary on Saturday!

Chunky looking for the latest toy deals in the Sunday Toys R Us Ad. Keep Dreaming!

Chunky's latest food obsession, donuts. Lots of them! His favorite is Sugar Cinnamon Twist!

One Heartbeat At A Time

2008-09-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed this week! Just a lot of nice little things have happened. For example, just in the past week,I got free tickets to a huge local concert, I have won a $50 gift certificate to dinner and free movie passes, Amy blessed me with a bunch of apples from a mutual friend's house, and then today my wonderful nanny blessed me with free tickets to the corn maze (which I have been wanting to go, but did not want to spend the money) which by the way is such a cute Indiana thing, and then to top it off, she also blessed me with the new Steven Curtis Chapman CD! I love him and have been listening to his music for quite a while! Today, while listening to my new CD in the car, I came upon this song, which I really feel so closely represents this season in my life. Spending my days teaching the young children in my class and then spending my nights with Chunky, sometimes I feel so blessed, yet so exhausted! So I want to dedicate this post to all of my mommy friends who are sharing this stage in their life with me!

"One Heartbeat At A Time"

You're up all night with a screaming baby

You run all day at the speed of life

And every day you feel a little bit less

Like the beautiful woman you are

So you fall in bed when you run out of hours

And you wonder if anything worth

doing got done

Well maybe you just don't know

Or maybe you've forgotten

That you, you are changing the world

One little heartbeat at a time

Making history with every touch and every

smile

Oh you, you may not see it now

But I believe that time will tell

How you, you are changing the world

One little heartbeat at a time

With every, "I know you can do it"

And every tear that you kiss away

So many little things that seem

to go unnoticed

They're just like the drops of rain

Over time, they become a river

You're beautiful, so beautiful

How you're changing the world, yeah you're

changing the world

I believe that you, you are changing the world

One little heartbeat at a time

Look Out Iron Chef

2008-09-08T17:35:00.000-07:00

My Indiana friends have been asking me for quite a while, "When are you going to cook something from New Orleans? " So, this weekend, I decided I would try to cook my aunt's famous red beans and rice with smoked sausage. It was very, very, very good and tasted just like home! Chunky decided he wanted to help with all of this hard work. So here is the step by step process! Step 1. Make sure to wash your hands. While your at it, might as well wash your whole body so you can get warm in this cute fuzzy bear towel.
Step 2. Put on cute frog apron. Next make some cajun cornbread to go with Mom's red beans. It has some chile and green peppers. A little spicy, but really yummy!
Step 3. While waiting on red beans, make strawberry cake and make sure to lick the spoon!
Step 4. Time to do the dishes. Remind me to buy Mom a dishwasher for Mother's Day!
Step 5. Play a classic New Orleans theme song "Oh When The Saints Go Marching In". Notice how much talent I have that I can play the music even when the book is upside down!

Step 6. Learn how much work really goes into home cooking and invite yourself and your mom to dinner at a friend's house!

No Labor "Labor Day Weekend"

2008-09-01T17:08:00.001-07:00

Sharing french fries with Ita
The new colorforms that stick on the wall - how cool!
Chunky makes a new friend!
Attempting to burn off excess energy!
Getting a massage after a long and busy weekend!

It is rare that we have 3 whole days off! Hubby only had 2 due to work, but it is rare he gets 2 days off in a row. This weekend we did nothing but lounge, watch movies, or play. Oh yeah, and nap (really long naps)! We watched 5 movies, when rarely we are able to watch one. We rented all 3 of the "Left Behind" movies and loved each of them. We also had a date night - if you remember, our last one I think was in June? Chunky made 2 dozen cookies and I ate them all! We also visited my uncle, saw a deer, and went to church. Our TV also stayed on Hurricane watch and we are so grateful that New Orleans was spared! So, now that I look at this post, I guess we did do lots of things, but it was fun! Oh well, back to work tomorrow. When is the next holiday?????

Katrina - 3 years later

2008-08-29T18:43:00.000-07:00

Enjoying seafood gumbo, boiled shrimp, and crawfish
The moss trees located all over the city
Relaxing on Lake Ponchatrain - located 1 block from our old home!
Hubby being greeted by local yard dog!

A local home still marked with the marking to check for dead bodies
Drive up alcohol...why our car insurance was so expensive!
Best friend Sam of 18 years. The sister I never had!
My second set of parents...my aunt Kathy and uncle Tommy!
The home I grew up in, that I later purchased - Chunky's first home!

Today marks the 3rd anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. To be honest, I would not have remembered or payed attention to today's date, but the latest hurricane headed to New Orleans on the news caught my attention. What sent the message home, today when I called the funeral home to clear up some final details, the lady just laughed at me and said everything was locked up and they were preparing to evacuate. How quickly I forgot what its like to live in a flood zone. The funeral home is actually located in the city that was the hardest hit. Where all of the homes were covered with water up to the roof. I often forget about the after effects of Katrina, but then I am reminded by things, like when I originally called the funeral home earlier this month, they told me that all of the original papers had been flooded including original signatures. I/We take so many things for granted. For example...our health. When I look back 3 years ago today, my uncle was working 3 jobs as a Sgt. in the fire department, a Sgt. for the police department, and for the Emergency Medical Services. Yesterday, he was admitted to a nursing home at age 54 due to complications of a neck/spinal problem. He was one of the few that stayed during Katrina to help others. For days, he and my aunt worked in the 911 bldg with very limited supplies with a few dedicated others. Because they followed us to Lafayette, they lost their health insurance and I wonder if it were not for the storm, would he have been able to receive better medical care by having insurance or at the least be closer to his family and friends during this trying time. Speaking of friends, one of the good things that has come from this storm is the many wonderful friends that I have made in Lafayette. I can not say enough about them. These wonderful women have made my transition from big city girl to Midwest mom much easier than expected. Have I mentioned lately how much I am enjoying all of the fresh vegetables here, and the wonderful seasons. I can't wait until fall! I also feel very blessed because I have been placed by God in a wonderful job where I can be very creative and share the love of God every day with beautiful children. I could not ask for a better career at this point in my life. But, in saying this, I still miss my friends back home very much. Some I have been friends with for 18 years and were very big parts of my life. I also miss my nieces and nephews and extended family. I miss the care free culture and yes I still miss the food! So I ask that you say a prayer for all of the people in New Orleans tonight that they may be spared another disaster. I have decided to post some pics from our recent trip in Feb. to New Orleans!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2008-08-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I will say, if you let Chunky get to it....you probably will be growing a thing. And speaking of things growing....this weekend we were blessed with a overabundance of corn. No really...about 30 ears. So, I did the whole peel, boil, freeze thing. Can I just say, I love corn, I think it is a wonderful gift that God gave us, but what was he thinking when he made it will all of that stringy stuff wrapped around it??? On Saturday, I was blessed by a wonderful friend and invited to a Ladies night out put on by a local church. The main speaker had 9 children (I can barely take care of my one), but spoke on the subject of Heritage. One of her main points was to remember how our children watch how we act, and then copy what they see. Which means, I may want to clean up my act a little! As you can see from the pics, Chunky visited with his Ita (grandma in spanish) and loved helping her in the garden. He loves, loves, loves to visit her and ask to go to her house everyday. I think it helps that she feeds him pizza and chocolate on demand. I am so glad that she has the patience to let him do things that I would not even consider. God bless the Grandmothers of the world.

The Coping Diet

2008-08-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

Only girls can truly understand this one.
This is a specially formulated diet designed to help women cope with the stress that builds during the day.

Breakfast
1 grapefruit
1 slice whole wheat toast
1 cup skim milk

Lunch
1 small portion lean, steamed chicken
1 cup spinach
1 cup herbal tea
1 Hershey's kiss

Afternoon Snack
The rest of the Hershey's Kisses in the bag
1 tub of Hagen-Daaz ice cream with chocolate chips

Dinner
4 glasses of wine (red or white)
2 loaves garlic bread
1 family size supreme pizza
3 Snickers Bars

Late Night Snack
1 whole Sarah Lee cheesecake (eaten directly from the freezer)

My friend Annie sent me this email by unknown author, but considering we used to share a locker when we worked in the emergency room for 2 years together, that overflowed (not kidding) with snacks from Sam's club, we pretty much followed the same diet that looked much like the above. Happy Eating!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-06T17:01:00.001-07:00

Sweet Grandma

2008-08-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Today, I had to say goodbye to my wonderful sweet Grandma Doris. She was my dad's mom and we both had so many things in common. Our love for our children, our love for food, and we both shared quite a similar attitude (Who are you calling a fighter?) As a young child I feared her (maybe because I knew how strict she was after raising 3 rebellious boys herself), but as a teenager, I grew to love and respect and cherish this amazing woman. She worked as a chef for most of her child rearing days and blessed many, many people with her cooking. During Christmas time, she would send doctors, teachers, priests, homeless, and many others trays of over 40 different types of cookies such as bourbon balls, rum candy, biscotti, and much much more. But she also did amazing things, like bribe my way into Catholic school by making 500 pieces of fudge for the school fair for 10 years, or sending my whole troop of 150 soldier cookies...just because she wanted to bless me and the drill sgt said the only way she could send them to me is if she sent them for everyone. Sixty dollars later in postage and several hundred cookies, we all had a taste of Grandma's love. She always tried to show me she loved me, by making sure I was well fed. When I would visit her, she would send me home with bags and bags of food, like potato stew, stuffed bell peppers, stuffed crabs, and the list goes on and on. She loved animals and would help any animal or person that walked up to her door. She always used to tell me, no person, no matter who they are or where they come from, should ever be refused dinner at your table. She also taught me how to pray. I used to tease her and say she had direct connect to God and when I really needed or wanted something I would ask her to pray, because I knew she had a little more pull with God ( she had only been praying faithfully for the last 82 years). She taught me strength, after battling several types of cancers and several heart attacks and until the end, never complaining, only praying and praising God. I know she is in heaven now with her son (my dad) and looking after Chunky and I (and probably laughing at my parenting skills and my cooking)! A few months ago, I knew that she did not have much time left and was able to go to New Orleans to see her. I am so grateful for that trip. I was also able to complete a grandmother book which included over 100 pages of her life history and I am blessed to have lots of her famous recipes. The last thing she did was make sure that all of her arrangements were taken care of so that I would not have to worry about things. This was such a blessing to me and I encourage everyone to consider doing the same for your loved ones. I lost a wonderful woman in my life today, but I know that heaven has got to have a fabulous kitchen and they probably just got tired of waiting for some of her cooking!

I Believe

2008-07-31T18:43:00.000-07:00

} My favorite uncle in the whole wide world often sends me fun and often inspirational emails. I got this one today. I am unsure who wrote it, but I share this person's beliefs! The comments in the ( ) are my own little add to the poem.
-------Subject: I believe...

A Birth Certificate shows that we were born (could not tell you where mine is)
A Death Certificate shows that we died
Pictures show that we lived! (got lots of them)
I Believe...That just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do love each other.
I Believe...That we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change.
I Believe...That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.
I Believe...That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love. (to all of my friends in New Orleans...you know who you are)
I Believe... That you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life.
I Believe...That it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be. (A really long time in my case)
I Believe...That you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.
I Believe... That you can keep going long after you think you can't.
I Believe...That we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.
I Believe...That either you control your attitude or it controls you. (Working on it)
I Believe...That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.
I Believe...That money is a lousy way of keeping score.
I Believe...That my best friend and I, can do anything, or nothing and have the best time.
I Believe...That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down, will be the ones to help you get back up.
I Believe...That sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.
I Believe...That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.
I Believe...That it isn't always enough, to be forgiven by others. Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.
I Believe...That no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your grief. (I have learned this first hand)
I Believe...That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but, we are responsible for who we become.
I Believe...That you shouldn't be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life Forever. (Amen)
I Believe...Two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.
I Believe...That your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you.
I Believe...That even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you - you will find the strength to help.
I Believe...That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being.
I Believe...That the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.
'The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything.'
(Keep Believing)

Wild About Horses!

2008-07-29T17:58:00.001-07:00

Today, I took Chunky on a tour that I set up of a local horse farm called "Wild About Horses". The tour was awesome and very informative! I thought that he might be scared to ride, but boy was I wrong! He was so excited to get up on the horse and not the pony! I have to say he was very comfortable and quite the little rider. I always love to see him experience something new! I can't wait to take him again!

A Fun Day At The Cove

2008-07-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks to some free tickets from the local radio station (and my wonderful stupid trivia knowledge), we were able to enjoy the day at Tropicanoe Cove. I have been putting this off for a while, fearing that Chunky would want to ride on the big slides. However, he did wonderful today and I cant wait to take him back. He loved the little dolphin slide and went down about 1000 times! He also loved pulling the rope and getting me soaked. He thought the tubes in the lazy river were bumper boats and loved colliding into other people. Did I mention the 3 hour nap he took. This merits a season pass! And speaking of big water slides, I went on the big slide today, and nearly drowned twice. Granted, I am a pretty good swimmer, but the tube kept shooting me out backwards, and the last time it flipped over at the end. I got my fill for the summer. My mom also came with us and Chunky and I had a wonderful time spending the day together with her!

A Good Email Day...And A Good Day All Around

2008-07-22T17:43:00.001-07:00

You know how there are days when you check your email and there really is nothing exciting there....just a bunch of junk mail, telling you about the million dollars that has been deposited in your bank account or how to increase your bust size by taking a simple pill, oh yeah, and don't forget the secret crush email. Anyway, today I received a bunch of really good emails from old friends and new and was also mentioned on not one but 2 friends blogs today! Okay, so now on to the good stuff. My assistant Shalina, came back to school today. Did I mention how much I missed her. Sadly, she did not make it to the next round in American Idol, but we were very excited to have her back today. In honor of her weekend, we had "Amerikid Idol" day. We made huge microphones out of paper towel tubes wrapped in foil topped with styrofoam balls covered in black tissue paper. Connect and you get a mega microphone. We even made a "Amerikid Idol" sign for the kids to wear. We put them on a stage with some loud worship music and watched them perform their hearts out. I have not laughed so hard since, well yesterday when they made me laugh! Back to the email...one of my best friends from New Orleans sent me this email today. This friend always helps me put things into perspective and is truly a mentor in my life. Here is the main part of the email:

In April, Maya Angelou was interviewed by Oprah on her 70+ birthday. Oprah asked her what she thought of growing older.
And, there on television, she said it was 'exciting.' Regarding body changes, she said there were many, occurring every day...like her breasts. They seem to be in a race to see which will reach her waist, first.

The audience laughed so hard they cried. She is such a simple and honest woman, with so much wisd om in her words!

Maya Angelou said this:
'I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.'

'I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.'

'I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.'
'I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life.'
'I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.'

'I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back.'

'I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.'

'I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.'

'I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.'

'I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.'
'I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'

Also, I received a email from a friend of a friend who had passed away three years ago. I have always had lots of questions regarding her sudden death and this email was able to give me the answers I had been yearning for and a sense of peace. I am very grateful that this friend was able to get in touch with me. Thank God for small prayers answered. Happy Emailing!

Just A Thought

2008-07-20T19:16:00.001-07:00

So, I should probably be in bed by now, as I have to get up at 5:15 to go to work tomm. It seems the weekend is never long enough. But, I thought, while I have a few moments of quiet time, I would check emails, blogs and came across this comment(s) about stay at home moms/working moms and found it to be quite interesting. This is something that I struggle with because most of my friends are stay at home moms and I often feel like I miss out on lots of fun, however, I am truly thankful that I get to bring Chunky to work everyday with me and give him hugs and kisses throughout the day and know that he is safe, having fun, and learning at the same time. On a further note, this weekend I have really been struggling with how Chunky is developing. I get frustrated because he still is not talking the way I think he should or always acting age appropriate. But I also think that God is trying to show me just how blessed I am. So what if Chunky is behind in his talking...he can still tell me he loves me where so many other children can not speak a word. Maybe he does have some delays, but he can walk, run, play, give kisses, and rub my head when he wants me to go to sleep. Even though I get frustrated with him, I realize that God created him perfect in his eyes and he will develop according to Gods timing and not mine. Until then, I pray for patience and understanding. Now back to the article. God could not have put me at a better job at this time in my life (but if he would like to raise my salary a little that would be OK) Here is the post:

July 15, 2008

If Every Mom Were a Stay-At-Home Mom

By Veronica

If every mom were a stay-at-home mom, the public schools would shut down due to a lack of teachers.

If every mom were a stay-at-home mom, giving birth would become much more dangerous. All those mothers who are midwives and OBGYNS would disappear. The hospitals could not staff enough nurses for basic patient care. The pregnant women who already must drive twenty miles to a birth unit might have to drive fifty.

If every mom were a stay-at-home mom, I would lose my pediatrician. My kids would go farther and wait longer to see a doctor. My sister's clients - children with neurological disorders - would spend years on waiting lists before seeing another physical therapist who specializes in their treatment.

If every mom were a stay-at-home mom, some of the most brilliant scholars I know would not be available to affect the lives and minds of students. My children's future education would be immeasurably the poorer.

This stay-at-home mom has one thing to say to the moms who leave home to earn a paycheck at a job worth doing: thank you. Thank you for caring for patients and protecting citizens. Thank you for repairing our streets and driving our buses and picking up our garbage. Thank you for writing our newspapers and teaching our kids. Thank you for being an example to my daughters of the many options they have in adult life. Thank you for making my decision to be a stay-at-home mom a real choice.

The media-manufactured "Mommy Wars" tell us that mothers resent and judge each other. Sometimes we do. But sometimes we recognize that the world needs different people to make different choices. The truth is that as we all struggle to provide the best for our kids, we can't make it without each other. Your choices affect me, and mine affect you. We really are all in this together.

So the next time a belittling feature on a morning news program tries to exploit you emotionally; the next time a snooty mom at play group or school treats you like you are just a "part-time" mom; the next time you feel isolated and unappreciated in the challenges you face, please, come back and read this thank you again.

Because it will still be true.

Veronica Mitchell also posts at Toddled Dredge.

Ending the Week with a Bang!

2008-07-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

We have overall had a great week! On Thursday, Chunky and I went to Krispy Kreme for a tour! Yummy sugary goodness! Last night, we went to a stargazing party, where we both tried Smores for the first time! Can I have smore please? We had the traditional, but then I also threw in some different stuff into the mix, like coconut toasted marshmallows, Hershey's dark chocolate, and Reece's peanutbutter cups (Sorry Lindsay). I think my next purchase will be a fire pit! Also, did you see the red moon last night? So cool! But, the best part of this weekend came this morning when my wonderful assistant called saying that she had made it through the first part of the tryouts for American Idol!!!!She said there were 30,000 people in line!She has to try out on Monday for Simon! I know that she will make it to Hollywood! Anyone want to be my assistant while she is gone? Please make sure to say a prayer for her this weekend, that she will do wonderful and have the Holy Spirit with her to keep her calm and focused. She is a wonderful singer and a wonderful friend! Go Shalina!!!!

Quick Weekend Update

2008-07-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Overall....it was pretty good. I still have more chocolate cake than any one person deserves. We have had 5 cakes in 1 week. One for the 4th during Chunky's party, one on Chunky's birthday, one for me in class, chocolate cupcakes that Chunky made at my mom's house on Friday and then when I got home the chocolate cake my hubby got for me(triple chocolate to be exact)! Saturday morning, Chunky started swim classes at the YMCA. The program is very organized and I will keep him in the program until I feel he is a great swimmer (which will be a while). I also learned to swim at the YMCA. I went out with my mom Saturday afternoon to use the Borders and Sgt Preston's coupons. Got a David Crowder Cd which was very good. My class loves to sing along to "You Never Let Go". It is the most beautiful thing to witness 3 year olds singing their hearts out to worship music. I know it makes God laugh and smile! Saturday night, I worked on this blog...added 100 songs (hope you like at least a few of them), got mad because I kept deleting things on accident and went to bed really late! Do you like the fridge and family portrait at the bottom of the page? It looks like the one on my car! I had all of the blogs that I checked linked to mine and today I did something that deleted them. Ugh! This morning we went to Elston Family Church's carnival! It is so nice to do something for the community! Connor had fun, but showed his sparkling personality towards the end. To end the day, I cut the grass, while the hubby has worked all day on the pool. Can I just say, after mowing the huge abyss that we call a yard...I really have come to appreciate what the hubby does every week. I actually have blisters on my hand! Hope everyone had a great week!

Like The Best Birthday Ever!

2008-07-11T15:53:00.000-07:00

I am now officially in my 30's. Last night I went out for a birthday dinner with Amy and our dear friend Brutus (also known as Jessica). We had a great time, I got some really cool gifts, and a overpriced, but should not have been paid for birthday treat. Just FYI...if you should go to Applebees and the waitress hears you mention a birthday to someone else at your table, she will kindly bring you a ice cream sundae and then charge your friends $5.00 for a birthday surprise. I think the surprise was on my friends! But, did you know that if you register for Border's rewards, they will send you a 25% off coupon, Mountain Jacks will send you a $10 off gift certificate, but the winner by far is Scotty's Brewhouse who sent me a email for a free dinner and desert with no purchase necessary for your birthday, just your ID! Today at school, my wonderful and brilliant assistant Shalina made sure I had a awesome day since I had to be stuck at work. The pictures show the sign the kids made for me when I walked in, (notice the portrait), a construction paper cake with some pretty cool candles, curly ribbon was hanging from the ceiling and the doors, I had a ppecial birthday chair and the number of the day was "31" just like me! All of the kids made me handmade cards and got me a yummy chocolate cake. My boss gave me the card with the picture of the dead fish on it, with the inscription, "Here is wishing you a better year and hoping you won't kill so many fish in the classroom in the process! " Today was bike day at school. Don't I look hot riding Chunky's bike. And to top off the school day, my assistant inhaled helium and serenaded me with "Happy Birthday" and for my gift she set me up to get my hair permed with one of my student's moms who owns a salon. How cool is that? Can you believe I get paid to play with balloons, eat cake and ride bikes all day? If I have to work, then this is my kind of job! When I got home, the hubby gave me a singing card and a triple chocolate cake, which goes great with the chocolate cake I had at snack time today! We were supposed to go out to eat tonight, but settled for Chinese delivery (at my suggestion...the heat just wears me out). Anyway...my point is today was a awesome day!

Happy 4th Birthday Chunky!

2008-07-08T15:25:00.000-07:00

My little boy turned 4 today. The picture in the orange shirt was taken this morning. It feels like just yesterday I held him for the first time and I still get to hold him today. There is no better feeling. I know that he is only on loan from God, but I thank God daily for every minute that he lets me have with him. He has made me laugh so hard that I thought I would never stop, made me cry tears of joy (and a few of frustration) and made me love so hard that I thought my heart might break. People say that being a mom is the hardest job that you can ever have...and trust me I have a few jobs behind my belt, but the benefits are endless! Thanks for always making me smile Chunky...my beautiful, beautiful boy! By the way if you just feel like crying....listen to the song that I picked for him before he was born. It is by Carolyn Arends and is called "We've been waiting for you". It expresses everything I can not put into words. Make sure to hug your kids today!

The Future American Idol

2008-07-07T17:06:00.001-07:00

Daddy's present to Chunky! He has all the moves! Like father, like son. Now where did I put those earplugs?

Cakes, Cars, and Conner Prairie

2008-07-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

So...I guess blogger is only allowing me to post five pics at a time? So here are a few more from this weekend. My favorite is the picture of the bridge. I love covered bridges. Also try and guess who was having more fun in the pool. Oh yeah, don't forget to ignore those tan lines. What can I say, I am in shorts all week at work and can't find the time to lay out!

Cake, Cars, and Connor Prairie - Part 1

2008-07-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

It was a very busy 3 day weekend. We had a small family party on the 4th to celebrate Chunky's 4th birthday. Chunky showing off his Cars shirt he got for his birthday! One of his favorite presents was a silly Cars kaleidoscope from the dollar store! The picture of the car pool washis favorite. How cool of a toy is that? It came with 2 waterproof cars! Every year for Chunky's birthday I take him to a museum. On his first birthday, we had to evacuate for the hurricanes right before Katrina so we went to the Houston, Tx Children's museum. His second and third birthday Indianapolis Children's museum and for his 4th we went to Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana. We had lots of fun. Chunky favorite thing to do there was feed the chickens, ride the tram, and the watermelon spitting contest was pretty fun too! We also ate at Popeye's chicken on the way there. It reminded me so much of home. Also on the way home, we stopped at Donaldson's Chocolate Shop. Can we say yummy?

Sex after kids?

2008-06-29T17:32:00.001-07:00

Often my friends post about funny things kids do or say at home. Just FYI ...despite the title, this is a clean post! So, this morning around 9 hubby and I are sitting on the sofa and Chunky decides to sit on my lap to watch TV. Hubby makes a friendly comment, "There is something about the way you smell this morning that is turning me on", at this exact moment Chunky decides to stand up on the sofa, stick his butt in hubby's face and proceeds to fart! Can we say ruin any kind of moment! Not that there was any chance of anything happening this morning, but really...now I understand why such a book was written. Hope this post makes everyone laugh!

Fish, Food, Fountains, and Fireworks

2008-06-21T21:29:00.000-07:00

Busy weekend (or should I say busy Saturday)
We started the early morning at the children's fishing rodeo. I thought that meant small poles and the gummy bait in the packages at Walmart. I was so wrong. They had the big poles and live worms and other small animals that I did not recognize. Luckily, God sent Angela and her husband to help me bait the pole and cast the line. I do not know how to fish at all! Chunky had fun, almost fell in the water once, almost ran into the street twice! Needless to say his next fishing trip will be when he graduates from high school. Tonight we went for the first time to Taste of Tippecanoe. I was quite impressed for being a small city. My husband and I decided to leave our son with my mom and go on a date. We have not had a date and well over a year. Yes, I know it well past time. Anyway, this is what happens when we don't have to look after a small child. We eat, alot. We "tasted" Mango Green Bubble Tea from Basil Thai, Buffalo Wild Wings Spicy Garlic Wings (our new favorite food) Birthday Cake flavored shaved ice, Punjabi Masalas Kitchen's Hara Chicken Kabab (the chicken was green and it was supposed to look that way - Hubby liked it, I thought it was just ok), McGraw's Jack Daniels Beef Teriyaki Tips, Arni's Orange Dreamsicle Cheesecake, and Yat's Red Beans and Rice (which was nothing like home). Overall, we spent too much money on food, but had a great time listening to all of the bands. I really liked a young christian band playing there named 1000 generations. They had wonderful stage performances and were very nice people. The fountain near Borders was full of bubbles. I also tried out the new fireworks option on the new camera. See pic above! Hope everyone has a great weekend. Tommorow, I think I will rest. And maybe do some push ups to get rid of all of this food!

Firefly Fun

2008-06-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

I am normally not just hanging out at night outside. However, tonight while chatting on the phone with one of my favorite people, I was sitting outside on the porch swing and noticed all of the firefly out tonight. Now some of you may think, big deal. But, what you must realize is that there are no fireflys in New Orleans. In all of my childhood, I can honestly say I have seen one. Every summer since I have been in Lafayette (all 3 of them) it makes me so happy to see them. Yes, I know it does not take much to make me happy. So, at 10:00 p.m. tonight, instead of putting Chunky to bed, I strapped on his sandals and took him outside to catch his first firefly. He had so much fun and did not want to go back in! We caught one and turned off all of the lights and the kitchen. I wish I would have caught it on film. Oh well, I am sure I will have many other chances. My neighbor was also out with her kids doing the same thing. I hope to make this a summer tradition.

Wonderful Day !

2008-06-15T20:46:00.000-07:00

It is not often that I get to spend the whole day with my family, but today was just one of those wonderful days that I will always remember. We started the day by taking a ride on the City Bus. We have been promising Chunky for weeks but just never got around to it. Today, his wish was granted. A one hour tour of the city in a ice cold bus. He was so happy! We then crossed the bridge over the Wabash and headed to Scotty's Brewhouse which was surprisingly good. I don't say that often about Lafayette restaurants. Next, we headed over to borders for some relaxing time. I got to visit my mom today, where she gave Chunky this wonderful streamer. He loved it and played with it for quite a long time. My mom them gave him the hose with a light sprinkle to water the flowers. He quickly discovered how to get himself just a little wet, first the hands, then the legs, than asked to take off all of his clothes. So, I did what any mom would do and stripped him down to his undies and let him have a wonderful time with the hose. I have not had so much fun watching him in such a long time! Today, it made me realize to stop and enjoy the little time I have with my little boy just being little! Our day was finished off by visiting my uncle and surprising him with a Dairy Queen Ice Cream Cake. Yummy! He was so happy to see Chunky and loved the card that was made for him. I hope everyone had a wonderful day today!

Fluffer Nutters

2008-06-12T18:35:00.000-07:00

So the other night I was up way too late and watched John and Kate Plus 8. Well, I guess Kate only feeds her kids organic foods and was going on and on about how she found organic Marshmallow cream and what a treat it would be for the kids to make these so called Fluffer Nutters. When I asked around work, it seemed that I was the only person on the face of the Earth not to have eaten one of these. So for 3 days, I dreamed of gooey fluffiness and finally I have gotten my hands on this yummy goodness. I am sooooo in love with this peanut buttery concoction. Just for the record, before I moved here, I had never heard of Pork Fritters or Sausage and Biscuits. The Midwest can keep those two!

I Learn Something New Daily

2008-06-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

So today we went for the first time to pick strawberries. I should say this is the first time we have ever picked anything. It overall was a fun time. Chunky used the pick one/eat one method, while I used the let the small child bend over and pick off the ground technique. We ended up picking about 9.5 lbs and gave most of them away. I learned that we should have worn old shoes and a change of clothes, but overall we both had lots of fun. I think Amy was laughing at me, because I really had no clue what we were doing. Is it my fault that fruit does not grow on concrete in a major city? I think not. Moving On. Here is a pic of Tea, Chunky's new best friend. She stands taller than Chunky and weighs about 20 lbs more than he does. My mom got her from Greyhound Rescue as she recently broke her leg. She is 2 years old and very gentle, although she did eat all of the happy meal that was left on the table during a potty break. Oh well, no dog can ever be perfect, but she sleeps 18 out of 24 hours. Sounds like a pretty perfect dog to me. Also when she gets happy, she shows all of her teeth and it looks like she is growling. She will be a great guard dog. Have a great week!

Now Hiring

2008-06-06T17:21:00.001-07:00

Okay, so as many of you know...I am multitalented. Just kidding, but I can spout off a lot of aquired skills that I have picked up over the years. Today marks the 1 year anniversary of working for the preschool. For some, this may not be a big deal. For me, this is a huge event as you will soon see how staying with one company for a long time is really unheard of. Just a side note before my humerous, yet quite long list of jobs I have held since age 16. Before I started working for what I like to call my "real jobs"....I have been babysitting since age 11 and volunteering since age 12. My volunteer rolls included working in Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pediatric Oncology, and Adult and Pediatric Aids fields. On my college acceptance letter, the admittance lady commented she had never had a applicant with so many volunteer hours before. I volunteered for the New Orleans AIDS Task Force for 3 years and loved every minute of it. I was the youngest volunteer there and paved the way for many others. I also used to answer the phones for the National Hotline. (This was when AIDS was not as common 1993).
Okay...now onto the work force
My very first Job was at Lerners New York. I also worked at KB Toys and Blockbuster during high school. In college, they placed me to work as a assistant in a computer lab (what they were thinking, I have no clue)! After my first stint in college, I worked for a patent company starting out as a Administrative Assistant and got promoted to a Client Services Coordinator. This company was later shut down and the president I think is still in jail. Oh yeah, my boss was sleeping with the 17 yr old delivery guy but dating the Vice President of the company. I became a pro at how to handle these type of phone calls. Moving On. I once sold TriStar vacuums. They cost $2200. And people purchased them from me...can you believe that? While looking for jobs...I also became a pizza maker and a deli worker for very short periods of time. I then went to work for 911. Started as a operator/promoted to dispatcher (4 computers at one time). Second Time around in college....I worked for a Fine Arts dealer selling Armani sculptures for ridiculous prices, then worked for Applebees and a Seafood restuarant. I also worked for Home Depot...started as a cashier, then promoted to blinds/wallpaper, then moved to in home design.
Next came probably my favorite job. I was the department head of a Alternative Therapies Clinic in a major hospital. This was the first hospital in New Orleans to have one and I got to try out all different types of therapies (like acupuncture, yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy.) Basically, I got paid to do yoga and have massage therapist test their skills on me. At this time, I was also working as a Medical Massage Therapist in another hospital wellness center. And working for a Spa and local hotels doing Massage Therapy. Then, because the recruiter spiked my coffee....I joined the Army. I was stationed in South Carolina, Texas, and then New Orleans. So...as a soldier, I was really good at shooting M16s, really good at medical stuff, and really bad at throwing hand grenades and shooting rocket launchers. Go figure! I worked as a medic and shared my time between Med Surg and ER. Which led to 3 years working in the Emergency Room (My next favorite job). On a side note, the first time I did CPR...I cracked all of the guys ribs! Then I worked as a what they called a "triage nurse" for a OB/GYN office. Basically calling in scripts for doctors and screening doc phone calls. Along comes Hurricane Katrina and then I am trying to go from a city with 15 pages of Job Classifieds to 2 pages of Job Classifieds in Lafayette. First job here....Dialysis Technician (Hated It), then photographer, then sales at Kohls, then Secretary at Vet office. Third to last, Job Coach for Special Needs High School Kids (Loved It) which led to Summer Camp counselor, which led to Preschool Teacher (Still love It). I get paid to blow bubbles and play basketball, and I still have 2 hours to read while they nap. And the bonus is Chunky is right down the hall whenever I miss him. So now that you know almost all of my jobs because really I am sure I am forgetting a few....go ahead and start typing. YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO MAKE FUN OF ME AND IT IS OKAY!!!!

Why I Love The Month of May....

2008-05-29T18:25:00.001-07:00

Because the grass is greener, the water is flowing, and you can catch great moments like this only once a year. I hope everyone is taking advantage of the wonderful weather. This week alone we have been to Hanna Park, Columbia Park, and Armstrong Park! I know I am tired, but Chunky thinks we still need to hit up Happy Hollow.

Weekend In Review

2008-05-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

It is so rare that I have 3 days off together that I think God thought he would bless me with 3 1/2 days just to be nice. On Friday, I was supposed to work until 6, but due to the strange power outage, the whole daycare had to close 4 hours early only to have the power turn back on as the last child left. This worked well for me due to a lingering migraine. Saturday was super productive, (they normally are not). We started the morning off by visiting the firehouse and getting to see the cool trucks and trying on the fire gear with some friends. We then went to Budgees (my favorite place for the summer) and then went bowling! On the homefront, the hubby changed out 2 fans and a light fixture with some new fixtures and a cool chandelier (all purchased at the famous Aldi's for $46 for 2 fixtures and 1 chandelier and they look great). I also stripped the wallpaper off of the bathroom and repainted. I am sure all of this work led to my Sunday migraine where I just laid around and took a 3 hour nap. Today, I tried to make up for losing a day and the family made our first visit to Hannah Park where this pic was taken. I love this park! It has so many fun things to do and no one was there! It made for a great end to my long weekend. Oh well, back to work tommorow I guess. How many days till July 4th?

Cameras and Cuts

2008-05-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

So....I just can not live without a camera. I tried and I just can not do it. Do you have any idea how many pictures I have missed just this week. I tried to save money and took my way expensive camera to be repaired only to be told it would cost several hundred dollars, would be shipped off, and would have no guarentee. So, I did what any rational mom would do and but a camera on the spot. I love my new toy. It is so small and user friendly and has not left my hands for over 5 minutes.

In different news, Chunky got his hair cut for the summer. I think he looks so much better with short hair (much more boyish), but his hair length is a constant battle between Chunky's parents. I won this time!

B Is For Biting

2008-05-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

I have always considered it a blessing that Chunky has never been a biter. Unlike many of the kids at preschool (some who have recieved 3 day suspensions at age 2 for biting), Chunky has just never had the desire to chew on other small children. And he still does not. However, I guess last night I did not feed him enough, although he did eat almost a whole medium pizza. He decided to take a nice bite out of my inner thigh this morning. I thought he wanted to be picked up, like always when leaving the house, but I guess he was just angry at me for waking him up too early. I now have a quarter size purple spot on my leg, plus some missing skin. I guess I should feel blessed that I had my jeans on or else I would have spent my morning getting stitches. I am also blesssed that out of shock and the fact that I was running late for work that he did not get the real spanking he deserved. It's now official, Chunky is up for adoption! Just kidding, but don't think it did not run through my head this morning. In the minivan, on the way to work, he just cried, "Mommy, give me a kiss!". I just kept on driving as I was afraid he would go for the jugular (I can live without part of my thighs!)

Winter Wonderland

2008-05-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

I am now commiting to only post when Chunky is sleeping. While attempting to post the pictures, I noticed he was being a little too quiet. My entire living room, including my child, the floor, the way too expensive pottery barn for kids chair, all of the toys and sofas are covered in baby powder. If my camera was working, you would be peeing on yourself laughing at all of the things needing to be cleaned and Chunky's white hair, eyelashes, clothes, etc,etc. Yet another blogging lesson learned. On the positive side, my house now smells baby powder fresh. (Some people pay big bucks for that)!

2008-05-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, So I have no idea what I am doing with this whole blog thing....since I had to dig the pictures out of the closet, I tried to scan the large 8 x 10 pics and they did not work so I had to scan the 3 x 5 pics, but you can still see the Mickey Bride an Groom Ears on the first pic and the Mickey Mouse tux on the second (with matching cake topper). It's all about the matching you know! Granted these pictures were taken 11 years ago(when I actually had a waistline). Oh well...enjoy!

Just The Facts Mam

2008-05-16T20:00:00.000-07:00

Okay....so here are 10 random facts you may/may not know about me

1) I used to wear glasses, probably still need glasses, was told by the army I really should be wearing glasses, but I just cant bring myself to do it. And when I say I did wear glasses...I was 8 and used them maybe twice. Good investment on my mom's part

2)My favorite food is crabs. Preferably Blue Crabs from the Gulf Coast. I like the claws the best...refuse to eat the yellow junk (the eggs) and will not ever put fake crab meat in my mouth!

3)I call my little guy "Chunky Monkey". I have been calling him this since I was about 3 weeks pregnant. Granted he is super skinny and I swore he would come out 15 pounds but like always he proved me wrong. That is his name and I am sticking too it!

4)I have had multiple broken bones from freak accidents! Left Arm - age 7 - due to loose monkey bar, Broken Right Foot and Pubis Ramus due to stupid Army drill sgt (or jumping off a really high wall), Right wrist - from chasing after baby stroller at mall in crocs on ice, Right Pink from having door slammed on it by a man who could not read the "Do Not Open This Door" sign.

5)I love to read...but really just acquired this love about 6 years ago while in the Army and had nothing else to do.

6)I have been to college 4 times in 3 different states and still don't know what exactly I am supposed to do....don't even get me started on how many jobs I have had...or get my friends started.

7)I once painted my whole 4 bedroom house pepto bismal pink...and no I have never used a drug in my entire life

8)I have had 3 American Eskimos...all named Alex....and they all live happily ever after destroying another nice family's home

9)I have been married for over 10 years and with my husband over 14 years

10)I had a Mickey Mouse Wedding....with Mickey Mouse ears as wedding favors and yes the groomsmen were in Mickey Mouse tuxes...By the way...my Minnie Mouse veil caught on fire at the wedding due to standing too close to the candelabra. Lesson learned.

Everybody Is Doing It and I Don't Like Being Left Behind

2008-05-15T17:45:00.000-07:00

After seeing just how many people have a blog, I am breaking down and getting one of my own so I can steal away just as much time from fellow bloggers as you have stolen from me by making me check these silly things daily (okay every couple of hours). I promise nothing fancy as I have no idea what I am doing and I am not married to a computer guy. But I do promise to make you laugh.....sometimes! Thought for the day....is it time for me to join weight watchers when the minute I walk into the door, my son greets me with "Jello Belly"? I am still wondering as I am eating my nutty bar!