Besides cutting back on my meat intake, I have very few resolutions this year. Actually, you can’t even call them “resolutions” since there is nothing to resolve--I’ve said the same exact thing for years. That novel will be finished in 2009, and preferably the first half of it. I’m a whole lot closer to that goal than I was a year ago, so there’s a big fat yippee skippee.
But when I look back at 2008, I can’t get all down on myself for the lack of more progress. (I did finish half+ of it which is no small feat.) I got the unexpected St. Pete Times gig which was too big of a dream to even make it to the original goals list. And there was a whole lot of other nice surprises along the way--Disney, Generation Huggies, even the local stuff. Jessie turned 1, Amy went to preschool, Matty delighted me every minute and Stevie became a teenager. The Intern moved in and became the Graduate. Sean worked so hard, but still managed to take us all on some great trips and poise us solidly for the next adventure. So I’m officially calling it--at 9:29 a.m. on December 31st--2008 was a pretty awesome year.
Welcome 2009...I have a feeling you're going to be a crazy one.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Could I have a side of steak with my steak?
I'm a little sluggish today. I think it has something to do with our dinner out last night.
Sean and I went to one of those Brazilian restaurants where all they serve is meat. You know the ones--it smells a little gamy, like maybe you stumbled into a duck blind rather than an upscale restaurant. You have a card next to your plate which you flip 'yay' or 'nay' depending on how much animal protein you can pile on your plate or if you suddenly start mooing.
Now you know me. I don't shy away from a nice filet medium-rare. I likes me some beef. But this was not good. While I appreciated the waiters in gauchos, I thought I'd lose an eye if I had one more skewer of roasting meat placed in front of me. I don't know if my colon will ever fully recover. I have grill marks on my own tongue. I can feel my appendix regenerating as we speak to digest all of the bones imploding in my stomach.
So tonight for dinner in order to restore digestive balance, we're either going to eat that "special" yogurt that Jamie Lee Curtis is always pushing rather ickily, or kelp.
Kelp it is then.
Sean and I went to one of those Brazilian restaurants where all they serve is meat. You know the ones--it smells a little gamy, like maybe you stumbled into a duck blind rather than an upscale restaurant. You have a card next to your plate which you flip 'yay' or 'nay' depending on how much animal protein you can pile on your plate or if you suddenly start mooing.
Now you know me. I don't shy away from a nice filet medium-rare. I likes me some beef. But this was not good. While I appreciated the waiters in gauchos, I thought I'd lose an eye if I had one more skewer of roasting meat placed in front of me. I don't know if my colon will ever fully recover. I have grill marks on my own tongue. I can feel my appendix regenerating as we speak to digest all of the bones imploding in my stomach.
So tonight for dinner in order to restore digestive balance, we're either going to eat that "special" yogurt that Jamie Lee Curtis is always pushing rather ickily, or kelp.
Kelp it is then.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
I'm up
Today I plan on shaking off this post-holiday lethargy. No, seriously. While Sean has been going to the gym and taking the kids on some wild field trip everyday, I've been unable to move from the couch or bed watching the Food Network. It's a little sad. I need to move my limbs and clean something.
If it is even just my limbs.
If it is even just my limbs.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Cutting up boxes on Boxing Day
Post-Christmas post to post a hello.
Like you, we are all worn out with paper cuts from opening so many gifts. It was wonderful with lots and nothing going on. We had a fabulous meal with friends, and all fell asleep without doing the dishes. Just the way Christmas should be.
Sean took the girls to the zoo, and I just got finished mailing off $27,000 worth of rebates. Why can't they just give me the discount in the store where my very presence is proof of purchase rather than 17 copies of receipts and cutting labels from original boxes? Seriously, I could have saved 3 hours of my life today. I really want to get writing--jump start on assignments plus getting back to the novel since my only personal goal of 2009 is to finish it by my birthday. (Which I know is the exact same goal of 2008, but obviously I failed on that endeavor and now I save on stationary.)
So as I clean up 2008 to make room for 2009, I've got to announce our last two winners of the year:
See's Chocolate Gift certificate winner is Susan S. from Oldsmar, Florida and the HP Photosmart Wireless Printer goes to Sharon S. from Middleport, New York. Congratulations to the winners and a big thank you to all who entered. I hope the New Year brings many more contest opportunities.
Okay, I'm going back to work now. Or a nap.
Like you, we are all worn out with paper cuts from opening so many gifts. It was wonderful with lots and nothing going on. We had a fabulous meal with friends, and all fell asleep without doing the dishes. Just the way Christmas should be.
Sean took the girls to the zoo, and I just got finished mailing off $27,000 worth of rebates. Why can't they just give me the discount in the store where my very presence is proof of purchase rather than 17 copies of receipts and cutting labels from original boxes? Seriously, I could have saved 3 hours of my life today. I really want to get writing--jump start on assignments plus getting back to the novel since my only personal goal of 2009 is to finish it by my birthday. (Which I know is the exact same goal of 2008, but obviously I failed on that endeavor and now I save on stationary.)
So as I clean up 2008 to make room for 2009, I've got to announce our last two winners of the year:
See's Chocolate Gift certificate winner is Susan S. from Oldsmar, Florida and the HP Photosmart Wireless Printer goes to Sharon S. from Middleport, New York. Congratulations to the winners and a big thank you to all who entered. I hope the New Year brings many more contest opportunities.
Okay, I'm going back to work now. Or a nap.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
What else?
Really, what more is there than to say, "Merry Christmas my friends"?
Merry Christmas my friends.
Merry Christmas my friends.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Ain't technology grand?
First and foremost, Merry Christmas to all! My favorite day has arrived, and shortly I will be signing off to bake something with the kiddos. But rest assured, we'll still have the computer on, because we will be watching this:
M. has been giving us updates all morning. It's the best.
But if I can pull him away long enough, he'll be picking our See's chocolate winner. And there's still time to enter the HP Printer contest...
Merry Christmas!
M. has been giving us updates all morning. It's the best.
But if I can pull him away long enough, he'll be picking our See's chocolate winner. And there's still time to enter the HP Printer contest...
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Top 10 signs it was a good party
1) When you get all of your ridiculously complicated party food assembled and placed in chafing dishes before the first guests arrive.
2)The weather is the perfect temperature that all of the doors in the house are open to allow the party to spill in and out and back again.
3) Your dog looks like this thoroughout the evening.
4) You have plenty of adult beverages.
5) No one eats this because of what you served above.
6) You have no idea who the people are in this picture.
7) You know these guests very well, and are so glad they came and celebrated this wonderful evening with you.
8) Your wine cellar is stocked to the brim, yet no one left thirsty.
9) No one was arrested, ended up in the pool, or threw up in my bushes.
10) 150 people doesn't seem like too many people to have in your house at once.
We are exhausted, but pleasantly so. This was one of those special evenings in which you are surrounded by so many wonderful friends, you can feel nothing but blessed. (and just a little buzzed.)
Thanks to all--we'll never forget it.
2)The weather is the perfect temperature that all of the doors in the house are open to allow the party to spill in and out and back again.
3) Your dog looks like this thoroughout the evening.
4) You have plenty of adult beverages.
5) No one eats this because of what you served above.
6) You have no idea who the people are in this picture.
7) You know these guests very well, and are so glad they came and celebrated this wonderful evening with you.
8) Your wine cellar is stocked to the brim, yet no one left thirsty.
9) No one was arrested, ended up in the pool, or threw up in my bushes.
10) 150 people doesn't seem like too many people to have in your house at once.
We are exhausted, but pleasantly so. This was one of those special evenings in which you are surrounded by so many wonderful friends, you can feel nothing but blessed. (and just a little buzzed.)
Thanks to all--we'll never forget it.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Why is my inbox not full?
Did I mention I was giving away a free HP wireless printer and a plethora of HP specialty paper in exchange for just a little holiday e-Cheer?
And yes, I should be setting up and cooking for the 150 people about to descend upon this house, but I need a little love and you need a little help with your printing needs.
It's like the gift of the Magi...or something.
And yes, I should be setting up and cooking for the 150 people about to descend upon this house, but I need a little love and you need a little help with your printing needs.
It's like the gift of the Magi...or something.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Gifts for you, bangs for me
After filling 100 Chinese takeout boxes with sesame noodles and baking up 16 dozen mini Yorkshire puddings for the party-turned-out-of control-tomorrow, I'm ready to get a haircut.
No, of course that doesn't have anything to do with the other, but everything is answered in the order it was received this week.
While I'm deciding on bangs today (what do you think?) you can enter all of my contests and read all of my other posts, and if I survive the next 48 hours, we'll back here on Monday.
Happy weekend.
No, of course that doesn't have anything to do with the other, but everything is answered in the order it was received this week.
While I'm deciding on bangs today (what do you think?) you can enter all of my contests and read all of my other posts, and if I survive the next 48 hours, we'll back here on Monday.
Happy weekend.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Day 3
Day three of retirement and I still had to go to the store myself to get the star anise.
Oh well, at least we're still both alive and only slightly scathed. (Like when he said, "I'm going to get this place so organized!)
No, really we've been too busy running around and working to get in one another's way yet. I've had to work a lot the past few days, and now that all of the assignments are in, I can focus on getting ready for the party and beyond.
No one say istmas-Cray or they get a star anise shoved up their stocking.
XO-
Me
P.S. I came here to post that Lisa C. of Clearwater was the winner of the Children's Place gift card, but you can still enter the See's Candy contest (see below) and next week the mack-daddy contest, which is all I can reveal at the moment.
Oh well, at least we're still both alive and only slightly scathed. (Like when he said, "I'm going to get this place so organized!)
No, really we've been too busy running around and working to get in one another's way yet. I've had to work a lot the past few days, and now that all of the assignments are in, I can focus on getting ready for the party and beyond.
No one say istmas-Cray or they get a star anise shoved up their stocking.
XO-
Me
P.S. I came here to post that Lisa C. of Clearwater was the winner of the Children's Place gift card, but you can still enter the See's Candy contest (see below) and next week the mack-daddy contest, which is all I can reveal at the moment.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Crunch Time
It’s crunch time.
Crunching nuts for the snicker noodles. Crunching the red tissue to wrap in gift bags. Crunching the pavement to finish the shopping. Crunching the keyboard to get everything written and turned in on time. Crunching the star anise for the marinated olives to serve on Friday (please don’t ask). Crunching time.
I won’t lie to you and tell you I’m at all comfortable with this. Even today--on a Monday--the day of false confidence, I still feel overwhelmed at the enormity of the tasks ahead this week. But somehow, task by task, item by item, marinated olive by mini Yorkshire pudding I will prevail with proper inspiration.
Chocolate.
I’ve got a box of See’s candies on the table, and every time I walk past it to change laundry loads, I stuff my mouth like the dining room table is a quickened conveyor belt and I am Lucy at the candy factory. (Don’t tell Ricky I want to be in the show!)
I imagine crunch time is not exclusive around here, so I’m sending you some chocolate inspiration, too. I’ve got a $25 gift cert certificate to See’s Candy to give away to one of my Ethel’s. You can use it for a chocolate gift to yourself, as business gifts or just apply it directly to your soul. It’s up to you.
Divamail me your favorite chocolate candy type--mine is the chocolate-covered cherry--and that’ll be enough to earn a spot in the Santa hat for a drawing next Monday, December 22.
So let’s redefine "crunch time" as a peanut-cluster chocolate candy this week, shall we?
Crunching nuts for the snicker noodles. Crunching the red tissue to wrap in gift bags. Crunching the pavement to finish the shopping. Crunching the keyboard to get everything written and turned in on time. Crunching the star anise for the marinated olives to serve on Friday (please don’t ask). Crunching time.
I won’t lie to you and tell you I’m at all comfortable with this. Even today--on a Monday--the day of false confidence, I still feel overwhelmed at the enormity of the tasks ahead this week. But somehow, task by task, item by item, marinated olive by mini Yorkshire pudding I will prevail with proper inspiration.
Chocolate.
I’ve got a box of See’s candies on the table, and every time I walk past it to change laundry loads, I stuff my mouth like the dining room table is a quickened conveyor belt and I am Lucy at the candy factory. (Don’t tell Ricky I want to be in the show!)
I imagine crunch time is not exclusive around here, so I’m sending you some chocolate inspiration, too. I’ve got a $25 gift cert certificate to See’s Candy to give away to one of my Ethel’s. You can use it for a chocolate gift to yourself, as business gifts or just apply it directly to your soul. It’s up to you.
Divamail me your favorite chocolate candy type--mine is the chocolate-covered cherry--and that’ll be enough to earn a spot in the Santa hat for a drawing next Monday, December 22.
So let’s redefine "crunch time" as a peanut-cluster chocolate candy this week, shall we?
Friday, December 12, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Processing your order....
So I haven't been doing a whole lot of personal blogging lately because honestly, all I've been doing is writing, cleaning and partying and how many times can you write the words, "I've had so much filet mignon and red wine in the last 2 weeks that I'm posting in au jus ink?"
Yeah, not more than once.
So that's what's new: crazy. (Actually, there's nothing new there after all.) But this is Sean's last week of work and so there are many bittersweet celebrations and we haven't even got to next Saturday yet. And there's that whole Christmas thing to do do for 4 kids+intern which is a plethora of baking, shopping, wrapping, and preening. But you're doing the same thing right now and are only reading this while your last minute Amazon order processes, I get it.
And now mine is completed as well so I'll catch you later.
Yeah, not more than once.
So that's what's new: crazy. (Actually, there's nothing new there after all.) But this is Sean's last week of work and so there are many bittersweet celebrations and we haven't even got to next Saturday yet. And there's that whole Christmas thing to do do for 4 kids+intern which is a plethora of baking, shopping, wrapping, and preening. But you're doing the same thing right now and are only reading this while your last minute Amazon order processes, I get it.
And now mine is completed as well so I'll catch you later.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Great gift for boys
So Matty and I just did the coolest thing--Ridemakerz. Have you heard of it? It's from the folks who brought us Build-A-Bear, so it is that same concept applied to trickin' out some trucks.
Actually, it's even cooler because we just designed his whole Monster Truck online.
The "rides" start at $18, and you can go up from there with all the horns, lights and spinners you can think of. There are noises for revving the engine you can add, too. Pick your colors, tires (there's different treads!) and other really technical things about cars that boys really get excited over and Moms like me don't have a clue.
If you don't have a store near you, you can build everything online, and then within a few days, Ridemakerz ships you the parts per your specifications, and with a little help from Dad, you put it all together and you have a complete custom car.
Matty chose the Monster version (of course) and we added the remote control option for $30 extra. I thought he'd enjoy that more, but it's not required. After I got the right batteries, we were off and running and driving, and he loves his new ride. It lights up and makes all sorts of noise, and best of all, it's a one-of-a-kind Matty creation.
So if you are looking for a great boy gift, this is perfect. Even if you aren’t there to help with the selection, you can still send Ride Money that you can order online in any denomination.
So check out all of the great things on the site--no gas or license required!
Actually, it's even cooler because we just designed his whole Monster Truck online.
The "rides" start at $18, and you can go up from there with all the horns, lights and spinners you can think of. There are noises for revving the engine you can add, too. Pick your colors, tires (there's different treads!) and other really technical things about cars that boys really get excited over and Moms like me don't have a clue.
If you don't have a store near you, you can build everything online, and then within a few days, Ridemakerz ships you the parts per your specifications, and with a little help from Dad, you put it all together and you have a complete custom car.
Matty chose the Monster version (of course) and we added the remote control option for $30 extra. I thought he'd enjoy that more, but it's not required. After I got the right batteries, we were off and running and driving, and he loves his new ride. It lights up and makes all sorts of noise, and best of all, it's a one-of-a-kind Matty creation.
So if you are looking for a great boy gift, this is perfect. Even if you aren’t there to help with the selection, you can still send Ride Money that you can order online in any denomination.
So check out all of the great things on the site--no gas or license required!
Monday, December 08, 2008
A Toasty Treat from The Children's Place
If I had my way, we would all spend the month of December in our pajamas. There's just something about an oven filled with cookies, a fireplace filled with logs, and a tree filled with ornaments that begs for a warm pair of p.j's to be filled with little bodies.
However, it's not always easy to find a pair that isn't reminiscent of Ralphie from A Christmas Story--something my older boys are definitely not excited about.
So this year we compromised and found some at The Children's Place that we all love.
This is the pair my son is sporting right now. And because I want to see your family equally as adorable, I am giving away a $30 gift card to one lucky, jammie-loving reader courtesy of the generous folks of The Children's Place.
Be the 10th caller...no just kidding. Send me a divamail telling me how you love pajamas and I'll enter you in a random drawing to be drawn on Monday, December 15 to win the gift card.
Warm and snuggly holiday wishes to you!
(And you might want to stay tuned to this blog as well as SuburbanDiva.com for some more really awesome giveaways in the coming weeks. Just sayin'...)
However, it's not always easy to find a pair that isn't reminiscent of Ralphie from A Christmas Story--something my older boys are definitely not excited about.
So this year we compromised and found some at The Children's Place that we all love.
This is the pair my son is sporting right now. And because I want to see your family equally as adorable, I am giving away a $30 gift card to one lucky, jammie-loving reader courtesy of the generous folks of The Children's Place.
Be the 10th caller...no just kidding. Send me a divamail telling me how you love pajamas and I'll enter you in a random drawing to be drawn on Monday, December 15 to win the gift card.
Warm and snuggly holiday wishes to you!
(And you might want to stay tuned to this blog as well as SuburbanDiva.com for some more really awesome giveaways in the coming weeks. Just sayin'...)
Friday, December 05, 2008
An early gift
I've got an early gift for you....
I've got a great prize package from Paramount Home Entertainment that includes Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, The Furious Five and Shrek the Halls (with a Shrek plush doll). Simply email me your interest and if I draw your name from the Santa hat, it’s all yours. Send by Monday, 12/8/08 to be eligible.
Oh yes, and even if you don't win this week (more giveaways through the holidays, I promise) you can pick up a holiday classic, Suburban Diva: From the Real Side of the Picket Fence, by yours truly for the bargain price of $15 which includes a personalized copy, gift-wrapping by a diva elf, and shipping anywhere you'd like. Divamail me the particulars and I'll get you laughing over Sean's Christmas light stories in no time...
I've got a great prize package from Paramount Home Entertainment that includes Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, The Furious Five and Shrek the Halls (with a Shrek plush doll). Simply email me your interest and if I draw your name from the Santa hat, it’s all yours. Send by Monday, 12/8/08 to be eligible.
Oh yes, and even if you don't win this week (more giveaways through the holidays, I promise) you can pick up a holiday classic, Suburban Diva: From the Real Side of the Picket Fence, by yours truly for the bargain price of $15 which includes a personalized copy, gift-wrapping by a diva elf, and shipping anywhere you'd like. Divamail me the particulars and I'll get you laughing over Sean's Christmas light stories in no time...
Where'd I put the chafing dishes?
Now that Thanksgiving has passed, soccer is over (hockey, not quite), shopping has been started and I've pressed the first load of Mr. Rooney's shirts, I can now focus on the next big event--and no, it's not Christmas.
Sean's retirement party is quickly approaching, because only I would plan such a huge event four days before the year's biggest event to ensure that I will be committed to an insane asylum on December 26th. But when do I ever make things easy or pass up an opportunity to party and make mini beef wellingtons for 150?
But looking at the shopping list and sheer number of trips to retail outlets over the next 3 weeks--I may just be making fava bean canapes with a nice bottle of Chianti.
Sean's retirement party is quickly approaching, because only I would plan such a huge event four days before the year's biggest event to ensure that I will be committed to an insane asylum on December 26th. But when do I ever make things easy or pass up an opportunity to party and make mini beef wellingtons for 150?
But looking at the shopping list and sheer number of trips to retail outlets over the next 3 weeks--I may just be making fava bean canapes with a nice bottle of Chianti.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Please donate generously
Did anyone happen to catch 60 Minutes on Sunday night? Here's the clip if you didn't. Go ahead watch it. I'll wait.
Watch CBS Videos Online
Oops, sorry. You're done? I was just choking back some bile that came up after that shirt revelation.
Seriously, it's Andy-Freaking-Rooney for diddlydarnsakes. Give the man 78 cents to get a clean shirt everyday, CBS. Who is this guy's agent? He should be doing some damned laundry.
He's 89 years old on a bus to New Jersey with stale rolls in his pocket in 3 day old shirts.
I feel the need to start a petition or a foundation for aging humorists or something. I mean, seriously, if I am blogging at 90 will someone please please please come over and make sure I'm wearing clean clothes? Not that I wear them at 38, but I'm not on TV every Sunday night either.
If you'd like to donate, I'll accept some Tide or a Bounce sheet on Mr. Rooney's behalf.
Thank you for your support.
Watch CBS Videos Online
Oops, sorry. You're done? I was just choking back some bile that came up after that shirt revelation.
Seriously, it's Andy-Freaking-Rooney for diddlydarnsakes. Give the man 78 cents to get a clean shirt everyday, CBS. Who is this guy's agent? He should be doing some damned laundry.
He's 89 years old on a bus to New Jersey with stale rolls in his pocket in 3 day old shirts.
I feel the need to start a petition or a foundation for aging humorists or something. I mean, seriously, if I am blogging at 90 will someone please please please come over and make sure I'm wearing clean clothes? Not that I wear them at 38, but I'm not on TV every Sunday night either.
If you'd like to donate, I'll accept some Tide or a Bounce sheet on Mr. Rooney's behalf.
Thank you for your support.
Monday, December 01, 2008
All sorts of media to describe the weekend
By some pre-Christmas miracle, I got a lot done this weekend. We got the house decorated (both inside and out), I cleaned and organized the toy pile, and grocery shopped. This landslide of accomplishments then led to getting the Christmas picture taken 2 weeks ahead of my usual schedule. It also meant I didn't have to Google, "Cute children in Christmas pajamas" and photo shop non-copyrighted photos to the family card this year. Yay me. Here's a preview:
And along with working, (something I notice I have to do everyday now--weird) I ordered the cards and even made a video card chronicling Sean's exploits outside.
You can make your own holiday card on Newbaby.com too. For free and they are giving away prizes for submissions, too....
And along with working, (something I notice I have to do everyday now--weird) I ordered the cards and even made a video card chronicling Sean's exploits outside.
You can make your own holiday card on Newbaby.com too. For free and they are giving away prizes for submissions, too....
Friday, November 28, 2008
Quiet Friday
It's not too black of a Friday when you don't go shopping...
In fact, it was a beige Friday because I made turkey soup from the leftovers. It was a red Friday in that I got a pedicure instead of having my toes stepped on by mobs of people at Target. It was a New Times Roman Friday if referring to the few upcoming holiday details I attended with email and phone calls. I made one online purchase (same price as the 4 a.m. special) this morning, but it definitely was not black.
In fact, I did precious little this Friday. I thought about doing a lot more, even mourned the day for my future self when I wake up on Monday cursing, "It's freaking December 1st??? WTF? Why didn't I do more when I had the chance?" But I still didn't do much to prevent the bleed today.
And I'm glad.
Tomorrow, we'll start decorating, get that Christmas photo taken and pick up a couple of gifts. Heck, I might even find the two that I hid 3 weeks ago that I can't find which is defeating the entire purpose of early shopping, but today, notsomuch.
And now, I'm off to bed early from all of this nothingness. It's amazing how tired that can make a person.
In fact, it was a beige Friday because I made turkey soup from the leftovers. It was a red Friday in that I got a pedicure instead of having my toes stepped on by mobs of people at Target. It was a New Times Roman Friday if referring to the few upcoming holiday details I attended with email and phone calls. I made one online purchase (same price as the 4 a.m. special) this morning, but it definitely was not black.
In fact, I did precious little this Friday. I thought about doing a lot more, even mourned the day for my future self when I wake up on Monday cursing, "It's freaking December 1st??? WTF? Why didn't I do more when I had the chance?" But I still didn't do much to prevent the bleed today.
And I'm glad.
Tomorrow, we'll start decorating, get that Christmas photo taken and pick up a couple of gifts. Heck, I might even find the two that I hid 3 weeks ago that I can't find which is defeating the entire purpose of early shopping, but today, notsomuch.
And now, I'm off to bed early from all of this nothingness. It's amazing how tired that can make a person.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thanksgiving table
I’m not even going to pretend for one minute that I came up with this craft idea on my own--I shamelessly robbed it from Scribbit whose pinecone turkeys look so much cuter than ours...
After we made these, I was reminded once again of one of my many maternal failures. Our turkeys look like Cabaret dancers. I was going to use them as place card holders on this really elegant table I had pictured in my mind, but now I’m thinking they’re only appropriate if I invited strippers and clowns for Thanksgiving dinner.
But because we have invested so much effort--we collected those pinecones in Georgia this weekend and I went to three different stores for feathers and pipe cleaners--we’re going to use them anyway. It was pretty fun, even for J because no glue was involved.
I will just remember for next year that perhaps I should leave the clever crafts to the pros and stick to what I’m good at...which I suppose would be just coming up with dirty turkey limericks.
Back to the kitchen with me.
After we made these, I was reminded once again of one of my many maternal failures. Our turkeys look like Cabaret dancers. I was going to use them as place card holders on this really elegant table I had pictured in my mind, but now I’m thinking they’re only appropriate if I invited strippers and clowns for Thanksgiving dinner.
But because we have invested so much effort--we collected those pinecones in Georgia this weekend and I went to three different stores for feathers and pipe cleaners--we’re going to use them anyway. It was pretty fun, even for J because no glue was involved.
I will just remember for next year that perhaps I should leave the clever crafts to the pros and stick to what I’m good at...which I suppose would be just coming up with dirty turkey limericks.
Back to the kitchen with me.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Counting my blessings, 2008
I enjoy Thanksgiving much more than most holidays—a day that revolves around food and football, what’s not to love? But perhaps more than culinary appreciation, Thanksgiving by its very definition is a cynic’s day off. And frankly, full-time cynicism is an exhausting profession.
Last year I compiled my 2007 List of Things that I am Thankful For, and as I reviewed it this year, I realize very little has changed with the two exceptions that I would have made it longer and I would include the premature gratitude for winning that $30k from Huggies...
So I humbly present my list to you, and ask, what's on your list? Post here and we'll count our blessings together.
This year I’ve stopped at 101 for the sake of time. So in no particular order with the exception of number one...
1. My family
2. Presidential term limits
3. Amy’s doctors
4. The First Amendment
5. Faith
6. Windows
7. The unexplained
8. Old friends
9. New friends
10. Future friends
11. October 30, 1990
12. Kathy Butler
13. Saturdays
14. Hope
15. A big boy that stills thinks he’s smaller
16. A little boy who thinks he’s a whole lot bigger
17. Paris Hilton’s dimming spotlight
18. A tall eggnog latte
19. Home
20. Sunsets on the Gulf
21. Baby perfume
22. Buying only one size diaper at the store
23. For what I already have
24. A good book
25. Opportunity
26. My iPhone
27. Tasha
28. Spontaneity
29. Sangria
30. Truffle oil
31. Satellite radio
32. Surprises
33. Sacraments
34. A good pair of jeans
35. Fresh flowers
36. Having my hands full
37. Real butter and whole milk
38. Sand between my toes
39. Spring
40. Mascara
41. Fresh herbs in place of dried
42. That I didn’t get that tattoo
43. Christmas
44. Beating the spread
45. A sense of humor
46. A sense of perspective
47. Belly laughs
48. Liking the same music as my kids
49. A full tank of gas (but not the price tag)
50. Vacuum marks in the carpet
51. Lingering meals
52. With delicious conversation
53. The first day of the season you get to wear a sweater
54. Down comforters
55. Homemade anything
56. Hockey
57. My jobs
58. Road trips
59. Wifedom
60. Good health
61. Family traditions
62. Karma
63. Date night
64. A messy desk
65. Followed by a clean one
66. Lindsay Lohan off of the roadways
67. Footy pajamas
68. Online shopping
69. Sunshine sneezes
70. Did I mention the eggnog lattes?
71. The Sunday paper
72. When spammers and telemarketers get prosecuted
73. Dreary Russian novels
74. Proper grammar
75. TiVo
76. Grandparents
77. Birthday candle wishes
78. Christmas cards
79.Close parking spotsValet parking
80. Something simmering on the stove
81. Motherhood
82. Doing my best
83. New car smell
84. Thoughts.
85. Jokes
86. Everyone reading this
87. Parties for no reason
88. Dressing up
89. Bedtime stories
90. Being in love…still
91. Generosity
92. Thanksgiving
93. Lumps in my throat
94. Sleeping through the night
95. Recycling
96. Digging in
97. Not having to translate Amyspeak because it is obvious!
98. Birthday lunches with the girls
99. Baby slobber
100. Puppy slobber
101. That this list is so easy
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
(This post is on the front page over on TheMotherhood.com!)
Last year I compiled my 2007 List of Things that I am Thankful For, and as I reviewed it this year, I realize very little has changed with the two exceptions that I would have made it longer and I would include the premature gratitude for winning that $30k from Huggies...
So I humbly present my list to you, and ask, what's on your list? Post here and we'll count our blessings together.
This year I’ve stopped at 101 for the sake of time. So in no particular order with the exception of number one...
1. My family
2. Presidential term limits
3. Amy’s doctors
4. The First Amendment
5. Faith
6. Windows
7. The unexplained
8. Old friends
9. New friends
10. Future friends
11. October 30, 1990
12. Kathy Butler
13. Saturdays
14. Hope
15. A big boy that stills thinks he’s smaller
16. A little boy who thinks he’s a whole lot bigger
17. Paris Hilton’s dimming spotlight
18. A tall eggnog latte
19. Home
20. Sunsets on the Gulf
21. Baby perfume
22. Buying only one size diaper at the store
23. For what I already have
24. A good book
25. Opportunity
26. My iPhone
27. Tasha
28. Spontaneity
29. Sangria
30. Truffle oil
31. Satellite radio
32. Surprises
33. Sacraments
34. A good pair of jeans
35. Fresh flowers
36. Having my hands full
37. Real butter and whole milk
38. Sand between my toes
39. Spring
40. Mascara
41. Fresh herbs in place of dried
42. That I didn’t get that tattoo
43. Christmas
44. Beating the spread
45. A sense of humor
46. A sense of perspective
47. Belly laughs
48. Liking the same music as my kids
49. A full tank of gas (but not the price tag)
50. Vacuum marks in the carpet
51. Lingering meals
52. With delicious conversation
53. The first day of the season you get to wear a sweater
54. Down comforters
55. Homemade anything
56. Hockey
57. My jobs
58. Road trips
59. Wifedom
60. Good health
61. Family traditions
62. Karma
63. Date night
64. A messy desk
65. Followed by a clean one
66. Lindsay Lohan off of the roadways
67. Footy pajamas
68. Online shopping
69. Sunshine sneezes
70. Did I mention the eggnog lattes?
71. The Sunday paper
72. When spammers and telemarketers get prosecuted
73. Dreary Russian novels
74. Proper grammar
75. TiVo
76. Grandparents
77. Birthday candle wishes
78. Christmas cards
79.
80. Something simmering on the stove
81. Motherhood
82. Doing my best
83. New car smell
84. Thoughts.
85. Jokes
86. Everyone reading this
87. Parties for no reason
88. Dressing up
89. Bedtime stories
90. Being in love…still
91. Generosity
92. Thanksgiving
93. Lumps in my throat
94. Sleeping through the night
95. Recycling
96. Digging in
97. Not having to translate Amyspeak because it is obvious!
98. Birthday lunches with the girls
99. Baby slobber
100. Puppy slobber
101. That this list is so easy
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
(This post is on the front page over on TheMotherhood.com!)
Monday, November 24, 2008
Sort of here
Although we're home, I don't really feel all here.
Mainly because we're all not.
I think I left A's blanket at the hotel.
Please, don't. I await a phone call saying they've found it amongst the discarded blankets of the little double bed Frick, Frack, Freak and I shared every night. They have my credit card number to FedEx it as soon as it is found--which will be a miracle in itself if the description of "a child's pink blanket" can reasonably apply to the thing that A-Dog carries around everywhere. Hopefully, Housekeeping has not mistaken it for a spool of dirty yarn from a seconds store. Or a bag lady's knitting basket. Or Barney's lower intestine and colon. Or what a muppet threw up after a night of binge drinking.
Oh, I'm in trouble.
Mainly because we're all not.
I think I left A's blanket at the hotel.
Please, don't. I await a phone call saying they've found it amongst the discarded blankets of the little double bed Frick, Frack, Freak and I shared every night. They have my credit card number to FedEx it as soon as it is found--which will be a miracle in itself if the description of "a child's pink blanket" can reasonably apply to the thing that A-Dog carries around everywhere. Hopefully, Housekeeping has not mistaken it for a spool of dirty yarn from a seconds store. Or a bag lady's knitting basket. Or Barney's lower intestine and colon. Or what a muppet threw up after a night of binge drinking.
Oh, I'm in trouble.
Friday, November 21, 2008
No, really, I'm leaving in just a second
As I am over-packing to leave within the hour, I must keep reminding myself that not only do they probably have stores in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area, but that I am only going to be there for 48 hours.
And I'm leaving Sean and the Intern to hold down this fort, so they could probably wash the coffee pot themselves.
On second, better go get the sponge.
And I'm leaving Sean and the Intern to hold down this fort, so they could probably wash the coffee pot themselves.
On second, better go get the sponge.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
I should really get packing
I’m sitting here ticking off all of the things I need to do tomorrow. I’m taking the kiddos on one of our whirlwind road trips to Atlanta for the weekend because a.) we haven’t done one since August and I don’t want them to get used to having feeling in their legs for 12 hour stretches, b) because my grandparents (their great-grandparents) just spent 3 days trying to buy the correct brand of milk and cereal that although I have told them specifically at least a dozen times this week alone, they will not have purchased the right one, which doesn’t even matter because the kids don’t eat much anyway, but I can’t leave food there out of a guilt reflex so powerful and strong dating back to infancy that I will end up eating 17 bowls of generic Cocoa Pebbles in 2 days, and c) because it’s Thanksgiving and at 38 years old I’m thankful to have grandparents that can, and do, buy the wrong cereal for my children.
So after conferences at 7:30 am, a hair appointment immediately following (want to look closer to 38 than 88), last minute shopping, packing, house-prep, column publication and miscellaneous Traceying; we should be ready to go.
But here’s a couple of pictures and a link to my Thanksgiving column so you don’t miss us too much.
So after conferences at 7:30 am, a hair appointment immediately following (want to look closer to 38 than 88), last minute shopping, packing, house-prep, column publication and miscellaneous Traceying; we should be ready to go.
But here’s a couple of pictures and a link to my Thanksgiving column so you don’t miss us too much.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Shopping for days at the 1 Day Sale
For the last two days, I have made several stops at Macy's 1 Day sale. (I know, I did the math too, but fashion need not make sense, people.) I have returned for the final time this afternoon with a good chunk of a first effort at the Christmas shopping. Early and on sale with coupons. Coupons which always seem to shock and awe the salespeople who have worked at the store that issued said coupon for 80 years.
I also had to stock up on long pants. Temperatures dropped below 70 this week which caused a wave of sweater-wearing Floridians to run for the stores for the once a year we wear such longish, woolish clothing. Hate it. But I suppose it is necessary since the kids and I will be traveling to that great northern city of Atlanta this weekend, and if my Grandma sees them without socks she'll disown me and then I'll never hear any good cat stories again.
Hence, Macy's.
But this is more shopping than I've done in years, so I'm worn out and must tend to other non-retail things this afternoon. I'm off to GenerationHuggies.com for the last 2 days of voting for the national ad campaign of Mom videos. Please vote for your favorites.
And you don't even need a coupon...
I also had to stock up on long pants. Temperatures dropped below 70 this week which caused a wave of sweater-wearing Floridians to run for the stores for the once a year we wear such longish, woolish clothing. Hate it. But I suppose it is necessary since the kids and I will be traveling to that great northern city of Atlanta this weekend, and if my Grandma sees them without socks she'll disown me and then I'll never hear any good cat stories again.
Hence, Macy's.
But this is more shopping than I've done in years, so I'm worn out and must tend to other non-retail things this afternoon. I'm off to GenerationHuggies.com for the last 2 days of voting for the national ad campaign of Mom videos. Please vote for your favorites.
And you don't even need a coupon...
Monday, November 17, 2008
Newbaby stuff and other news from the blogosphere
You wouldn't know it from the workday I just put in, but I'm sick. I finally dragged my infected head to the Stat Med yesterday (yes, I know, but who has time to make an appointment with a real doctor when you are going to Disney and attending multiple parties??) and got a chest Xray and about 17 prescriptions to heal with uber cold that has resided inside my nasal cavity and general torso for the better part of the autumn. So I hope I'm finally on the mend.
But in addition to laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning, making doctor's appointments and food preparation, I managed to write two posts for the Times, including this one on the Motrin/Babywearing controversy that consumed all of Twitter and the blogosphere this weekend.
You're sure to hear more about it, but if you want a gentle post about the babywearing Mom's POV, read my friend, Stephanie, from Adventures in Babywearing. I met her on our Disney trip and she's a beautiful person. I think she sums it up rather well.
Speaking of Newbaby.com, we're hosting some big holiday fun over there. We're gathering Mom's holiday video cards to share with the blogosphere. Submit yours by December 15, 2008 to be eligible for fabulous gifts during prime gift-giving season. If you can get it in before December 1st, then we will include a portion of your video to add to our Mom's Unite for Peace project, which is a video collage of our Mom wishes for the New Year. Please take a minute in front of the webcam with a Santa hat to take part of this festive project. You can embed your card on your own site or email it to your family friends for the most unique card they'll receive this season!
And that's about it for this manic Monday, off to pass out on that freaky decongestant they gave me.
But in addition to laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning, making doctor's appointments and food preparation, I managed to write two posts for the Times, including this one on the Motrin/Babywearing controversy that consumed all of Twitter and the blogosphere this weekend.
You're sure to hear more about it, but if you want a gentle post about the babywearing Mom's POV, read my friend, Stephanie, from Adventures in Babywearing. I met her on our Disney trip and she's a beautiful person. I think she sums it up rather well.
Speaking of Newbaby.com, we're hosting some big holiday fun over there. We're gathering Mom's holiday video cards to share with the blogosphere. Submit yours by December 15, 2008 to be eligible for fabulous gifts during prime gift-giving season. If you can get it in before December 1st, then we will include a portion of your video to add to our Mom's Unite for Peace project, which is a video collage of our Mom wishes for the New Year. Please take a minute in front of the webcam with a Santa hat to take part of this festive project. You can embed your card on your own site or email it to your family friends for the most unique card they'll receive this season!
And that's about it for this manic Monday, off to pass out on that freaky decongestant they gave me.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Hookey is fun
I've had a shower this morning and feel much better. One must wash off the unique perfume of amusement park--that captivating fragrance of sweat, wet metal, and onion rings--before moving on with real life.
Yesterday was a blast. Fun to be with Colleen and her beautiful children, if only for 10 hours in line for Dumbo. I'll take it. The particular irony of this is that as we were gathering any of the 8 children between us to buy an ice cream or souvenir, I had a deja vu. It was only 2 decades ago when we used to work side by side selling overpriced concert swag to people just like us once upon a time. Ah, how things change.
Weekend plans? Oh, the usual, 3 parties, 2 hockey games, 2 oil changes and about 4 gallons of milk. There's a pattern to my life at least...
Yesterday was a blast. Fun to be with Colleen and her beautiful children, if only for 10 hours in line for Dumbo. I'll take it. The particular irony of this is that as we were gathering any of the 8 children between us to buy an ice cream or souvenir, I had a deja vu. It was only 2 decades ago when we used to work side by side selling overpriced concert swag to people just like us once upon a time. Ah, how things change.
Weekend plans? Oh, the usual, 3 parties, 2 hockey games, 2 oil changes and about 4 gallons of milk. There's a pattern to my life at least...
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Playing hookey
Okay, so I'm trying to calm all of the monkey's down for bed.
I stupidly told them more than 30 seconds before we were going to leave that we were skipping school tomorrow and going to Disney World instead. Rookie mistake.
Why am I being such a nicereckless and irresponsible mother? Because my pal from Michigan is down here with her family in the land of Mouse and I miss her and these kind of days are needed every once in a while so you don't lose your mind.
BUT..I deserve it because I've written my fingers off this week and I need to look at something other than this computer screen for a few hours.
I'll eat a Mickey churro for you.
I stupidly told them more than 30 seconds before we were going to leave that we were skipping school tomorrow and going to Disney World instead. Rookie mistake.
Why am I being such a nice
BUT..I deserve it because I've written my fingers off this week and I need to look at something other than this computer screen for a few hours.
I'll eat a Mickey churro for you.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Well, hello Tuesday
I took a Benedryl last night to help me through my night time congestion that the kids have been so generous in sharing, and I woke up this morning feeling like someone had forced me to sleep against my will. Heavy-limbed this morning, and not particularly rested.
But I had to get up and out early this morning so the doctor could tell me that J. has a double ear infection. Of course she does.
After a month hiatus, I am covering the meeting tonight. The good news is that means tonight is Tuesday, and I am going to try to steal an hour beforehand to shop for, (dare I say it aloud?) Istmas-Chray. I am determined not to pay full price for any item this year. I'll let you know how that goes...
I also need warmer clothes for J. because the closest thing she has to pants looks like this, and I can't help but think of Madonna in the "Papa Don't Preach" video every time I see her in it.
Either that or baby prison.
But I had to get up and out early this morning so the doctor could tell me that J. has a double ear infection. Of course she does.
After a month hiatus, I am covering the meeting tonight. The good news is that means tonight is Tuesday, and I am going to try to steal an hour beforehand to shop for, (dare I say it aloud?) Istmas-Chray. I am determined not to pay full price for any item this year. I'll let you know how that goes...
I also need warmer clothes for J. because the closest thing she has to pants looks like this, and I can't help but think of Madonna in the "Papa Don't Preach" video every time I see her in it.
Either that or baby prison.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
No more whine, please
I just realized I had taken a leave of absence from the blogoshere without even asking anyone to water the plants or take in the mail. How rude of me. I didn't even get you a lousy T-shirt.
So just to get everyone up to speed in the last 4 days I've:
1) Not fixed the school system.
2) Drank a lot of wine for the benefit of the school system.
3) Drank a lot of wine for the city of Safety Harbor.
4) Completed 3 student projects for the school system.
5) Won these from school system:
So as you can see, I've been busy. And drunk. No, I'm kidding of course. Only slightly tipsy but with a killer headache. Here's to a new week. (No wine, please.)
So just to get everyone up to speed in the last 4 days I've:
1) Not fixed the school system.
2) Drank a lot of wine for the benefit of the school system.
3) Drank a lot of wine for the city of Safety Harbor.
4) Completed 3 student projects for the school system.
5) Won these from school system:
So as you can see, I've been busy. And drunk. No, I'm kidding of course. Only slightly tipsy but with a killer headache. Here's to a new week. (No wine, please.)
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
A New Day
First off, let me just express how happy I am today. With the total absence of smugness, and only with genuine and sincere happiness and pride, I feel a big wave of good Karma spreading. I haven't felt that in many years, and I know I'm not alone in that feeling no matter who you voted for. Time to unite and fix our country together.
And on a more personal front, we begin a new chapter around here today as well. Sean has officially announced his resignation from the Lightning effective next month.
We don't know where that next opportunity will be yet, but I know it will be the right thing for our family. I am so proud of what he's done here, so only good things come after something this special. He is going to take Christmas off, and then drive me crazy for a week before he gets tired of changing light bulbs and diapers and considers our next adventure. He jokes that Suburban Diva will be the new breadwinner, but for the $4.05 I bring in monthly, it's going to be pretty crappy bread.
Send him an email if you want. You know he's going to want to hear from someone other than me yelling for him to refill my martini glass all day long...
And on a more personal front, we begin a new chapter around here today as well. Sean has officially announced his resignation from the Lightning effective next month.
We don't know where that next opportunity will be yet, but I know it will be the right thing for our family. I am so proud of what he's done here, so only good things come after something this special. He is going to take Christmas off, and then drive me crazy for a week before he gets tired of changing light bulbs and diapers and considers our next adventure. He jokes that Suburban Diva will be the new breadwinner, but for the $4.05 I bring in monthly, it's going to be pretty crappy bread.
Send him an email if you want. You know he's going to want to hear from someone other than me yelling for him to refill my martini glass all day long...
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Just hoping it ends soon
Like many of you, I've been looking forward to this day for a very looooong time. I feel like I'm well-informed, confidant in my choice, and somewhat excited to have been active in this election.
But last night I got a wake-up call to the ugly side of this process, that has me nauseated today rather than excited.
I am used to political disagreements. In fact, I honor that as part of the democratic process. We should always have an open forum for disagreements and different points of view. That part is healthy. But last night and continuing today, I find that open mindedness is really not widely practiced around my particular neighborhood. There are some that not only thing I'm wrong (which is their right) but told my child that I'm doing something criminal and morally unforgiveable because I'm voting for the Democratic candidate for President.
It is absolutely the lowest form of voter intimidation I've personally ever experienced, and all the wind has been taken out of my sails as I struggle to maintain my composure after having my child be subject to bullying because of who his mother is voting for. My heart is breaking right now knowing that I live in a place of such reckless intolerance--to me, but moreover, to children. I am an adult, I can handle differing opinions and even respect them, but it's hard today knowing I can't trust people in my community to do the same.
My wonderfully smart, gifted potically sensitive boy said he was going to vote for Mickey Mouse in his school mock election so he didn't get in trouble.
I have never heard anything so horribly sad in my entire life.
But last night I got a wake-up call to the ugly side of this process, that has me nauseated today rather than excited.
I am used to political disagreements. In fact, I honor that as part of the democratic process. We should always have an open forum for disagreements and different points of view. That part is healthy. But last night and continuing today, I find that open mindedness is really not widely practiced around my particular neighborhood. There are some that not only thing I'm wrong (which is their right) but told my child that I'm doing something criminal and morally unforgiveable because I'm voting for the Democratic candidate for President.
It is absolutely the lowest form of voter intimidation I've personally ever experienced, and all the wind has been taken out of my sails as I struggle to maintain my composure after having my child be subject to bullying because of who his mother is voting for. My heart is breaking right now knowing that I live in a place of such reckless intolerance--to me, but moreover, to children. I am an adult, I can handle differing opinions and even respect them, but it's hard today knowing I can't trust people in my community to do the same.
My wonderfully smart, gifted potically sensitive boy said he was going to vote for Mickey Mouse in his school mock election so he didn't get in trouble.
I have never heard anything so horribly sad in my entire life.
Monday, November 03, 2008
I Vote for Election Day!
Today, it’s all about the election for me. Preparing for tomorrow when we can end this campaign season and can shelve phrases like, "I approve of this message," "Change the Maverick," and lipstick on anything.
Because no matter who wins, the campaign has to be over, and we have to move on. We need to stop talking, and start doing. And I need to seriously get a life far away from election coverage.
So tomorrow is a historic day on that front. I am dedicating the day to the act of voting, blogging about voting, and then standing sentry at my television set as I watch the returns come in whilst eating hot dogs and apple pie. I think I will pair a nice merlot with patriotism...Hopefully, by the end of the evening--fingers and chads crossed--we will have a new president, Congress, and new local landscape.
I will be participating in the Motherhood’s Mom’s Call in the Vote. I’ll be reporting from my polling place, and I urge you to do the same! This is a big deal, as the BBC reports here. Sign up today, and call in tomorrow. Let America know what your experience is, your thoughts, what you observe. I think that it is so important that we Moms are active and vocal in elections for the sake of our own little future voters. So, please participate and I’ll post updates tomorrow!
And this post from my dear friend Zen, and his early voting experience over the weekend seriously made my heart swell.
Go Vote!
Because no matter who wins, the campaign has to be over, and we have to move on. We need to stop talking, and start doing. And I need to seriously get a life far away from election coverage.
So tomorrow is a historic day on that front. I am dedicating the day to the act of voting, blogging about voting, and then standing sentry at my television set as I watch the returns come in whilst eating hot dogs and apple pie. I think I will pair a nice merlot with patriotism...Hopefully, by the end of the evening--fingers and chads crossed--we will have a new president, Congress, and new local landscape.
I will be participating in the Motherhood’s Mom’s Call in the Vote. I’ll be reporting from my polling place, and I urge you to do the same! This is a big deal, as the BBC reports here. Sign up today, and call in tomorrow. Let America know what your experience is, your thoughts, what you observe. I think that it is so important that we Moms are active and vocal in elections for the sake of our own little future voters. So, please participate and I’ll post updates tomorrow!
And this post from my dear friend Zen, and his early voting experience over the weekend seriously made my heart swell.
Go Vote!
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Happy Birthday, Stevie!
It's official--I am old. Because I am now a mother to a bona-fide teenager. Stevie turned 13 today, and I must tell you, this isn't an easy one.
I don't know exactly why this one's just a little harder than most, but it is. He's such a young man now, and I wonder, how did that happen? Wasn't I just giving him a bottle yesterday or taking him to his first day of preschool? Oy, I know this makes me sound like one of those crazy mothers that I swore I would never become--the ones who fail to rejoice the lives of their children because they are too busy mourning the past milestones and ordinary passage of time--but I can't help it today.
I'm so very proud of him already, but also for the person he will become.
Bah, enough. I am tired--there were 7 of those newly-minted teens here last night who didn't sleep or let us, and I've picked up that nasty cold that everyone's been sharing so generously, so I must be extra mushy today.
But here's a picture of my two older men...
I don't know exactly why this one's just a little harder than most, but it is. He's such a young man now, and I wonder, how did that happen? Wasn't I just giving him a bottle yesterday or taking him to his first day of preschool? Oy, I know this makes me sound like one of those crazy mothers that I swore I would never become--the ones who fail to rejoice the lives of their children because they are too busy mourning the past milestones and ordinary passage of time--but I can't help it today.
I'm so very proud of him already, but also for the person he will become.
Bah, enough. I am tired--there were 7 of those newly-minted teens here last night who didn't sleep or let us, and I've picked up that nasty cold that everyone's been sharing so generously, so I must be extra mushy today.
But here's a picture of my two older men...
Friday, October 31, 2008
Happy Halloween
Okay, I don't have a whole lot of time for reflections on the non-stop week that makes Halloween--I will shortly after another birthday party, 2 hockey games, Trick or Treating and a sleepover--but I wanted to throw out a couple of Halloween photos to get in the spirit. (Get it?)
Anyway, I am also hiring Stevie as the new family photographer because the boy has a gift.
Tomorrow I shall post pictures of my werewolf pumpkin and mummy dogs we are having for dinner. I am nothing if not maternally macabre.
Jessie was bobbing for Snickers...
Anyway, I am also hiring Stevie as the new family photographer because the boy has a gift.
Tomorrow I shall post pictures of my werewolf pumpkin and mummy dogs we are having for dinner. I am nothing if not maternally macabre.
Jessie was bobbing for Snickers...
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
A Soap Star, A Diva and Diapers
There is no doubt that my children and the Intern would call me a big loser for many reasons, but today I am officially--albeit loosely and tenuously--amongst those ranks....
Check out the "Celebrity Mom Spotlight" on Generation Huggies, and check out that mug on the same page as Alison Sweeney of "Days of Our Lives" and "The Biggest Loser" fame...yep, that's me! Gabbing about my thoughts on motherhood while along side of some other (ahem) famous welebrities. I am honored to be amongst this talented crew!
And so can you!
Submit your 60 second video regarding motherhood by November 20, 2008 and you could win prizes and be a part of a national ad campaign! Vote for others and with or without a video submission, enter to win the sweepstakes for $30,000!
Have fun and go Moms!
Check out the "Celebrity Mom Spotlight" on Generation Huggies, and check out that mug on the same page as Alison Sweeney of "Days of Our Lives" and "The Biggest Loser" fame...yep, that's me! Gabbing about my thoughts on motherhood while along side of some other (ahem) famous welebrities. I am honored to be amongst this talented crew!
And so can you!
Submit your 60 second video regarding motherhood by November 20, 2008 and you could win prizes and be a part of a national ad campaign! Vote for others and with or without a video submission, enter to win the sweepstakes for $30,000!
Have fun and go Moms!
Monday, October 27, 2008
*
I hate this day. It's the one with the built-in grief, the automatic sorrow. The day I get through with a giant asterisk amending all of the days thoughts and feelings.
I lost my Mom 9 years ago today, and I have missed her every single minute since.
This day marks how much has changed, and how little. So much has happened in 9 years, but I feel the same as I did then--a scared girl who doesn't know how I'm going to get through this without my Mom.
So know I'm holding you a little closer today, Mom. If that's possible.
I lost my Mom 9 years ago today, and I have missed her every single minute since.
This day marks how much has changed, and how little. So much has happened in 9 years, but I feel the same as I did then--a scared girl who doesn't know how I'm going to get through this without my Mom.
So know I'm holding you a little closer today, Mom. If that's possible.
Friday, October 24, 2008
What Not to Wear
I hear word that Governor Palin is going to have to donate all of those clothes the Republican donors so graciously unknowingly paid $150,000 for last month. Lucky for Palin (and unlucky for the country) there are a lot more deserving charities to choose from than merely a month ago.
But I'm lobbying for me. I'm thinking that although my calendar doesn’t hold a whole lot of opportunities to wear a $2500 Valentino jacket, I could find places to wear the pricey wardrobe...
Don’t I give stump speeches to people in government? (See HOA/sign blog.) Don’t I do comedy? (See HOA/sign blog.) And I can almost see Cuba from my house!
And tonight, I will be escorting a visiting relative (we could say I was courting a Pennsylvania voter rather than saying Aunt Val) to the Neil Diamond concert where I will be cracklin’ Rosie and singing songs sung blue--I could be sporting a Saks suit and Nieman-Marcus shoes.
Can I count on your vote? I’ll share...
But I'm lobbying for me. I'm thinking that although my calendar doesn’t hold a whole lot of opportunities to wear a $2500 Valentino jacket, I could find places to wear the pricey wardrobe...
Don’t I give stump speeches to people in government? (See HOA/sign blog.) Don’t I do comedy? (See HOA/sign blog.) And I can almost see Cuba from my house!
And tonight, I will be escorting a visiting relative (we could say I was courting a Pennsylvania voter rather than saying Aunt Val) to the Neil Diamond concert where I will be cracklin’ Rosie and singing songs sung blue--I could be sporting a Saks suit and Nieman-Marcus shoes.
Can I count on your vote? I’ll share...
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Halloween Make-Up Tips from Disney
Thinking I may have to incorporate this advice from Disney when making A-Dog's costume this year...
Happy Birthday, A!
Happy Birthday, A-Dog!
I seriously cannot believe that child is 5 today. She's sick as an A-Dog as well, but we'll try to salvage the day.
This also marks one year since her last surgery, and I'm more amazed by her progress in that year than anything I've ever seen.
Her first 4 years of life were not easy ones. Everything has had to be translated for her or someone translating on her behalf, and to watch that hearbreak is immeasurable. In the span of this year, she's gone from being virtually unable to hear and speak, to sitting at a table of other preschoolers laughing and playing like a 5 year-old should. As crazy as Sunday's party was, every second was worth it for this:
The most normal thing in the entire world is also the most extraordinary.
Happy Birthday, my beautiful little girl. You are so loved.
I seriously cannot believe that child is 5 today. She's sick as an A-Dog as well, but we'll try to salvage the day.
This also marks one year since her last surgery, and I'm more amazed by her progress in that year than anything I've ever seen.
Her first 4 years of life were not easy ones. Everything has had to be translated for her or someone translating on her behalf, and to watch that hearbreak is immeasurable. In the span of this year, she's gone from being virtually unable to hear and speak, to sitting at a table of other preschoolers laughing and playing like a 5 year-old should. As crazy as Sunday's party was, every second was worth it for this:
The most normal thing in the entire world is also the most extraordinary.
Happy Birthday, my beautiful little girl. You are so loved.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Onward
***SIGN UPDATE***
Because you want to know how ineffective I really am...well, one sign has come down--the offensive Prop 2 offender. Shockingly, when they approached the resident to let him know it was against the rules, he promptly removed it without question. Completely reasonable, as I think most people are. I think that that is the case with the majority of the signs, most people probably aren't aware of the rule and simply wondered why their neighbors were such apolitical potatoes. So I expect that others will follow suit, or we'll have flaming bags of dog crap left at our doorstep.
So I can be done now--or drive through my neighborhood with my eyes shut for the next 13 days.
***UPDATE OVER, GETTING A LIFE NOW***
Onward. There's a lot of anger brewing and bubbling out there, do you feel it? Frankly, I'm sick of it. Time for a collective mood upswing.
Here's something that has made me happy over the last few weeks: my novel. A switch has flipped, and I know have gone from working sporadically on it when everything else gets done (which was hardly ever) to putting it my first writing project of the day. And it shows. I now have a story with characters that are fleshed-out and unique. I now think things like, "But Mia would never say that," or "Has Danielle ever been to Europe?" This is a departure from the way I write in my "real" work, so it is very gratifying to be at that place and see a concrete book rather than just a nebulous idea that may or may not ever get on paper. Now I need to start thinking of a title...
I had a nice lunch today with the posse for the October birthdays, and that is always a good spirit builder. It's good to have good friends, and we've got some fun events over the next few weeks that I'm looking forward to.
But tonight, it's sausage and peppers and some oven-roasted potatoes while we watch Game 1 of the World Series.
Things are looking up already.
Because you want to know how ineffective I really am...well, one sign has come down--the offensive Prop 2 offender. Shockingly, when they approached the resident to let him know it was against the rules, he promptly removed it without question. Completely reasonable, as I think most people are. I think that that is the case with the majority of the signs, most people probably aren't aware of the rule and simply wondered why their neighbors were such apolitical potatoes. So I expect that others will follow suit, or we'll have flaming bags of dog crap left at our doorstep.
So I can be done now--or drive through my neighborhood with my eyes shut for the next 13 days.
***UPDATE OVER, GETTING A LIFE NOW***
Onward. There's a lot of anger brewing and bubbling out there, do you feel it? Frankly, I'm sick of it. Time for a collective mood upswing.
Here's something that has made me happy over the last few weeks: my novel. A switch has flipped, and I know have gone from working sporadically on it when everything else gets done (which was hardly ever) to putting it my first writing project of the day. And it shows. I now have a story with characters that are fleshed-out and unique. I now think things like, "But Mia would never say that," or "Has Danielle ever been to Europe?" This is a departure from the way I write in my "real" work, so it is very gratifying to be at that place and see a concrete book rather than just a nebulous idea that may or may not ever get on paper. Now I need to start thinking of a title...
I had a nice lunch today with the posse for the October birthdays, and that is always a good spirit builder. It's good to have good friends, and we've got some fun events over the next few weeks that I'm looking forward to.
But tonight, it's sausage and peppers and some oven-roasted potatoes while we watch Game 1 of the World Series.
Things are looking up already.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Signs of Crazy
I told you the yard sign issue would continue, and so it has.
So's the signs have now quadrupled in the neighborhood with no sign of rebuke from our useless homeowner's ass. In addition to the presidential declarations, a new one cropped up yesterday on our Proposition 2, which is a proposal to ban gay marriage with a Florida Constitutional amendment.
The sign explains the amendment by saying, "1 man+1 woman=legal marriage" Protect marriage or some such thing that I really didn't feel like explaining to my 8 year-old when he asked what that sign meant.
So, dutifully, instead of putting up my own sign that reads, "I live in a neighborhood of idiots," I wrote my homeowner's ass. with a repeat complaint, including the gay-bashing sign for all to read and to explain to their children coming off the bus stop in a neighborhood that doesn't allow signs, even when it is a resident's business owned truck that has his landscaping company's name printed on the side that he now must cover up with a black magnet every night when he comes home from work because the Kravitz' complained it was against HOA policy, yet they play games with the rules they apply to others but not themselves by keeping their political declarations posted in the garage. I was more succinct and brief in my complaint to the management company, as was their response.
"It is a difficult situation."
We pay them tens of thousands of dollars for that kind of sage response.
Actually, it isn't difficult at all. If it is against the rules, then make them take the signs down. Period. Across the board. If they don't, fine 'em. Just as they would have no problem doing for a dirty roof or sidewalk. I seriously have no patience for this.
Sean doesn't either, and after a very colorful response to their response to the tool at the management company, he went to the Board Meeting which just happened to be last night. They were surprised to see him, because no resident has ever attended. After a brief presentation of his point, they agreed that perhaps a phone call and letters were warranted. Wow. They are so bold.
We shall see if this accomplishes anything but labeling our house as the crazy people who are about to get "McCain-Palin" bleached into their front lawn. But my point from the beginning has been if you're going to allow them, that's fine. Just give me equal time. I will paint a mural on the side of my house and erect political topiary from my azaleas.
Beyotch.
So's the signs have now quadrupled in the neighborhood with no sign of rebuke from our useless homeowner's ass. In addition to the presidential declarations, a new one cropped up yesterday on our Proposition 2, which is a proposal to ban gay marriage with a Florida Constitutional amendment.
The sign explains the amendment by saying, "1 man+1 woman=legal marriage" Protect marriage or some such thing that I really didn't feel like explaining to my 8 year-old when he asked what that sign meant.
So, dutifully, instead of putting up my own sign that reads, "I live in a neighborhood of idiots," I wrote my homeowner's ass. with a repeat complaint, including the gay-bashing sign for all to read and to explain to their children coming off the bus stop in a neighborhood that doesn't allow signs, even when it is a resident's business owned truck that has his landscaping company's name printed on the side that he now must cover up with a black magnet every night when he comes home from work because the Kravitz' complained it was against HOA policy, yet they play games with the rules they apply to others but not themselves by keeping their political declarations posted in the garage. I was more succinct and brief in my complaint to the management company, as was their response.
"It is a difficult situation."
We pay them tens of thousands of dollars for that kind of sage response.
Actually, it isn't difficult at all. If it is against the rules, then make them take the signs down. Period. Across the board. If they don't, fine 'em. Just as they would have no problem doing for a dirty roof or sidewalk. I seriously have no patience for this.
Sean doesn't either, and after a very colorful response to their response to the tool at the management company, he went to the Board Meeting which just happened to be last night. They were surprised to see him, because no resident has ever attended. After a brief presentation of his point, they agreed that perhaps a phone call and letters were warranted. Wow. They are so bold.
We shall see if this accomplishes anything but labeling our house as the crazy people who are about to get "McCain-Palin" bleached into their front lawn. But my point from the beginning has been if you're going to allow them, that's fine. Just give me equal time. I will paint a mural on the side of my house and erect political topiary from my azaleas.
Beyotch.
Monday, October 20, 2008
We didn't have too much going ont his weekend...
So I've been absent from the blogosphere for a few days because I was busy planning/executing Sean's surprise party on Saturday and Amy's 5th Birthday party on Sunday...
I didn't announce this prior to the weekend because I knew my friends would then have to plan an intervention when they heard that I had invited 52 of A's closest friends along with a petting zoo of 4 rabbits, 3 goats, a turtle and a sheep and 1 large pig in the backyard for preschool birthday celebrations and I didn't have time to study for the Rorschach test and fill 50 goody bags.
But we did it, and she had a great time and it was nice to see her with kids her own age, talking.
So now onto the next round of preparations: Halloween and a 13 year-old birthday.
Someone wake me in January.
I didn't announce this prior to the weekend because I knew my friends would then have to plan an intervention when they heard that I had invited 52 of A's closest friends along with a petting zoo of 4 rabbits, 3 goats, a turtle and a sheep and 1 large pig in the backyard for preschool birthday celebrations and I didn't have time to study for the Rorschach test and fill 50 goody bags.
But we did it, and she had a great time and it was nice to see her with kids her own age, talking.
So now onto the next round of preparations: Halloween and a 13 year-old birthday.
Someone wake me in January.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Sign, sign everywhere a sign
I'm posing a question here, because I really do want to know what you all think about this issue, because I am highly intrigued about this...
The question is on political yard signs. You know the flimsy little stakes bearing the candidate's name planted in people's front lawns as a public announcement of who they are voting for?
Yeah, those.
Now we're not allowed to have them in our neighborhood--it is strictly against the homeowner's association rules. It's always been like that from long before we moved in 8 years and applies to all signs except real estate. I've never seen anyone not abide by those rules (except for a local election a few years ago when a resident was actually a candidate for the city commission) until Mrs. Kravitz put one in her yard a couple of weeks ago.
People complained. A letter was sent.(This is exacerbated by the fact that she is literally behind every single complaint in the entire neighborhood.) She took it down, but then moved it 10 feet to the inside edge of her garage facing out toward the street and now leaves her garage door open so you cannot miss it each and every time you pull into the neighborhood.
My question is this: are these signs at all effective? Do they sway undecided voters? Do they reinforce your vote if it's your guy, or make you mad if it isn't? Does it make you look at the person differently, good or bad? Do most people use them to show support of one guy, or to protest the other? Do the amount of signs from either camp forecast voting trends?
I've read some editorials in the paper recently where opposing parties have destroyed said signs, and again, does this really do anything besides ignite anger and reinforce the owner's ire over the opposition? Methinks this is not an effective form of protest from either side.
I stopped by my local campaign field office and they were out of them. I obviously am not allowed to put one up, but I thought maybe I'd find another locale or depending on how much moxybitchy I was feeling, stick it in my garage. But I don't know--I'm really wondering about this. Do you put have one in your yard?
Thoughts?
The question is on political yard signs. You know the flimsy little stakes bearing the candidate's name planted in people's front lawns as a public announcement of who they are voting for?
Yeah, those.
Now we're not allowed to have them in our neighborhood--it is strictly against the homeowner's association rules. It's always been like that from long before we moved in 8 years and applies to all signs except real estate. I've never seen anyone not abide by those rules (except for a local election a few years ago when a resident was actually a candidate for the city commission) until Mrs. Kravitz put one in her yard a couple of weeks ago.
People complained. A letter was sent.(This is exacerbated by the fact that she is literally behind every single complaint in the entire neighborhood.) She took it down, but then moved it 10 feet to the inside edge of her garage facing out toward the street and now leaves her garage door open so you cannot miss it each and every time you pull into the neighborhood.
My question is this: are these signs at all effective? Do they sway undecided voters? Do they reinforce your vote if it's your guy, or make you mad if it isn't? Does it make you look at the person differently, good or bad? Do most people use them to show support of one guy, or to protest the other? Do the amount of signs from either camp forecast voting trends?
I've read some editorials in the paper recently where opposing parties have destroyed said signs, and again, does this really do anything besides ignite anger and reinforce the owner's ire over the opposition? Methinks this is not an effective form of protest from either side.
I stopped by my local campaign field office and they were out of them. I obviously am not allowed to put one up, but I thought maybe I'd find another locale or depending on how much moxy
Thoughts?
Monday, October 13, 2008
Pictures, as promised (sort of)
Remember a couple of weekends ago when I said I vowed to get some good pictures of my kids? Well, one week late and one kid shy, but here a couple:
That seriously might be my favorite picture of Jessie yet.
My boys at the Lightning Home Opener
And yes, I let him get a Rayhawk today since the principal suspended the strict hair length and style rules for one day. (He has to shave off tomorrow) He turns 13 in two weeks and I thought that teenaged rebellion in the form of a one day bad haircut to show support for a baseball team was a battle I would gladly surrender.
That seriously might be my favorite picture of Jessie yet.
My boys at the Lightning Home Opener
And yes, I let him get a Rayhawk today since the principal suspended the strict hair length and style rules for one day. (He has to shave off tomorrow) He turns 13 in two weeks and I thought that teenaged rebellion in the form of a one day bad haircut to show support for a baseball team was a battle I would gladly surrender.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Huggies Weekend Wrap-Up
I am now back behind the computer in a dark room with “Yo Gabba Gabba” serenading me in the background rather than the exotic locations of the last 3 days. Bummer, ‘cause I was kind of getting used to being the “celebrity blogger.”
And now I will attempt to blog about blogging, which hurts my head a little, but I will blog on.
Basically, I was a part of this Generation Huggies promotion honoring Huggies 30th Anniversary. This mobile Huggies unit is going around the country registering Moms to win $30,000 (that’s dollars, not diapers) and film these 60 second interviews with real Moms about Mom stuff. I was able to talk to these amazing women and blog, text, video, and email photos to this really cool site TheMotherhood.com. It was so unique. (And as an aside, you can still do all of this online at GenerationHuggies.com)
The first night was in Celebration at an Oktoberfest. The girls and some brave friends accompanied me there. It was really fun night.
On Saturday, the crowd was smaller because we were in a different location, but we still got some good stuff. I got to talk with the crew that was traveling from city to city, and they were amazed at the diverse responses from all of the Moms (and some Dads!) they had interviewed so far.
Sunday we spent at the Winter Park Art Festival, which was bustling with thousands of families! We had no trouble finding lots of Moms who wanted to share their stories and answer my questions and pose for photos.
On the long ride home (which may be the most collective hours I’ve spent alone in 4 years) I listened to a lot of eighties music and thought about what this whirlwind weekend was all about.
*corny maternal reflection alert*
Watching the creation of this mosaic of motherhood was pretty fabulous, and while it is amazing how different motherhood looks on different people, it is more amazing still how universal it is.
And, just so you don’t think I’ve totally become a Hallmark card:
From the Generation Huggies Event in Orlando--The End.
And now I will attempt to blog about blogging, which hurts my head a little, but I will blog on.
Basically, I was a part of this Generation Huggies promotion honoring Huggies 30th Anniversary. This mobile Huggies unit is going around the country registering Moms to win $30,000 (that’s dollars, not diapers) and film these 60 second interviews with real Moms about Mom stuff. I was able to talk to these amazing women and blog, text, video, and email photos to this really cool site TheMotherhood.com. It was so unique. (And as an aside, you can still do all of this online at GenerationHuggies.com)
The first night was in Celebration at an Oktoberfest. The girls and some brave friends accompanied me there. It was really fun night.
On Saturday, the crowd was smaller because we were in a different location, but we still got some good stuff. I got to talk with the crew that was traveling from city to city, and they were amazed at the diverse responses from all of the Moms (and some Dads!) they had interviewed so far.
Sunday we spent at the Winter Park Art Festival, which was bustling with thousands of families! We had no trouble finding lots of Moms who wanted to share their stories and answer my questions and pose for photos.
On the long ride home (which may be the most collective hours I’ve spent alone in 4 years) I listened to a lot of eighties music and thought about what this whirlwind weekend was all about.
*corny maternal reflection alert*
Watching the creation of this mosaic of motherhood was pretty fabulous, and while it is amazing how different motherhood looks on different people, it is more amazing still how universal it is.
And, just so you don’t think I’ve totally become a Hallmark card:
From the Generation Huggies Event in Orlando--The End.
Day 3!
The final day of Generation Huggies Diva Edition will wrap up today at the Winter Park Art Festival just Northeast of Orlando. I'm putting on my lipstick and swallowing gallons of coffee now.
We stayed out late watching the Lightning home opener and I'm crazy tired, but excited for the event today. It'll be pretty nice to spend a day at an art festival blogging away...
We stayed out late watching the Lightning home opener and I'm crazy tired, but excited for the event today. It'll be pretty nice to spend a day at an art festival blogging away...
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Day 2 in Orlando
We had a blast in Celebration last night with Generation Huggies. Please go to TheMotherhood.com and watch the videos, listen to the phone interviews, see the pictures and read the posts--there is so much there, it will feel like you were catching leaves and dancing in the rain with us.
We are now heading over to Pointe Orlando for another round of Diva talks Diapers. You know you want to see this....
We are now heading over to Pointe Orlando for another round of Diva talks Diapers. You know you want to see this....
Friday, October 10, 2008
Celebration celebration
Packing up and loading up the girls for our Orlando event...
I'll be checking out--and of course blogging on--the Generation Huggies happenings over at Oktoberfest tonight in Celebration, Florida.
If you want to talk imported beer and diapers, I'm your woman.
I'll be checking out--and of course blogging on--the Generation Huggies happenings over at Oktoberfest tonight in Celebration, Florida.
If you want to talk imported beer and diapers, I'm your woman.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
A Suburban Diva Confession on Suburban Diva's Confessions
Bless me Blogger for I have sinned. It has been 3 weeks since my lastcolumn.
I don't know what's with me lately. Every time I try to write some light humor, it ends up sounding like some horribly angry version of Mad Magazine, although incoherent and forced. I was hoping to put out something for tomorrow like I do every Friday when I have it together, but it just isn't happening.
Which is really kind of a bummer because I'm off to Orlando tomorrow for some events (details to follow) as a "celebrity blooger." A very quiet, word-challenged celebrity blogger who just happens to be in the middle of a dry spell.
Maybe I'll just have to do one of my "Best Of" shows. Ick.
I don't know what's with me lately. Every time I try to write some light humor, it ends up sounding like some horribly angry version of Mad Magazine, although incoherent and forced. I was hoping to put out something for tomorrow like I do every Friday when I have it together, but it just isn't happening.
Which is really kind of a bummer because I'm off to Orlando tomorrow for some events (details to follow) as a "celebrity blooger." A very quiet, word-challenged celebrity blogger who just happens to be in the middle of a dry spell.
Maybe I'll just have to do one of my "Best Of" shows. Ick.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Vote for Me!
The Intern got his Voter Registration card in the mail today.
Welcome to a battleground state with 27 Electoral votes up for grabs. Expect to be wooed like Popeye by the Spinach Lobbyists. Like you are Catherine, and the voter phone bank is Heathcliff. (And sometimes you're Heathcliff to their Catherine.) Like the Treasury Secretary on bended knee to the Speaker of the House. Like a Trick-Or-Treater at the house with the King size Snickers. Like a gas station in Charlotte. Like you are the Olympic delegation and the candidates are members of the Bejing Chamber of Commerce. You=valid U.S. email address. Them=Nigerian Prince. Like Sonja to Simon Cowell; Cloris Leachman to judges we have no idea what their names are.
Welcome to Florida during election season.
(This was a little bit fun to think about--post some more here and I'll see if I can't dig up a prize or two for some winners.)
Welcome to a battleground state with 27 Electoral votes up for grabs. Expect to be wooed like Popeye by the Spinach Lobbyists. Like you are Catherine, and the voter phone bank is Heathcliff. (And sometimes you're Heathcliff to their Catherine.) Like the Treasury Secretary on bended knee to the Speaker of the House. Like a Trick-Or-Treater at the house with the King size Snickers. Like a gas station in Charlotte. Like you are the Olympic delegation and the candidates are members of the Bejing Chamber of Commerce. You=valid U.S. email address. Them=Nigerian Prince. Like Sonja to Simon Cowell; Cloris Leachman to judges we have no idea what their names are.
Welcome to Florida during election season.
(This was a little bit fun to think about--post some more here and I'll see if I can't dig up a prize or two for some winners.)
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Win 30k for doing what you already do everyday
It’s a question that doesn’t have one simple answer. A riddle that will produce as many different responses as there are…well, riddles. And although there isn’t only one right answer, everyone wins when we Moms think about the question…
What does motherhood mean to you?
In celebration of their 30th Anniversary, Huggies is offering a forum for Moms to answer that very question in 60 second video clips that may be featured in an upcoming online ad campaign.
Go to GenerationHuggies.com to get the information, as well as to enter their sweepstakes for a chance to win $30,000 and tell the world about your journey through this beautiful mess we call motherhood.
I’m going to be helping spread--and gather--those powerful words from Moms next weekend here in Florida, (more on that exciting event later) but until then, check out the motherhood.com-- a truly remarkable site that is absolutely going to change the way Moms use the Internet. You really don’t want to miss this…
What does motherhood mean to you?
In celebration of their 30th Anniversary, Huggies is offering a forum for Moms to answer that very question in 60 second video clips that may be featured in an upcoming online ad campaign.
Go to GenerationHuggies.com to get the information, as well as to enter their sweepstakes for a chance to win $30,000 and tell the world about your journey through this beautiful mess we call motherhood.
I’m going to be helping spread--and gather--those powerful words from Moms next weekend here in Florida, (more on that exciting event later) but until then, check out the motherhood.com-- a truly remarkable site that is absolutely going to change the way Moms use the Internet. You really don’t want to miss this…
Friday, October 03, 2008
Weekend Promises
I promise to sleep in on Sunday, and urge my sleepy children to do the same.
I promise to watch a lot of sporting events caring little of the score, but the playing in between.
I promise to relax a little, and encourage my family to do the same.
I promise to stay up late on Saturday to watch SNL past the first musical act.
I promise not to think, talk or otherwise engage in politics except for the SNL vow.
I promise to clean out another dresser, although if I don’t get to it, I promise not to be too hard on myself.
I promise to cook something comforting and delicious.
I promise to take one really great picture of one of the kids doing something they enjoy.
I promise to push J-Dog on that bucket swing every time she goes to the door and says, “Go.”
I promise to kiss my husband square on the mouth for no good reason.
I promise to make bacon for Matty on Sunday morning.
I promise to write the next chapter in my novel, even if it’s just on the pages of my mind.
I promise to breathe. Deeply.
I promise to watch a lot of sporting events caring little of the score, but the playing in between.
I promise to relax a little, and encourage my family to do the same.
I promise to stay up late on Saturday to watch SNL past the first musical act.
I promise not to think, talk or otherwise engage in politics except for the SNL vow.
I promise to clean out another dresser, although if I don’t get to it, I promise not to be too hard on myself.
I promise to cook something comforting and delicious.
I promise to take one really great picture of one of the kids doing something they enjoy.
I promise to push J-Dog on that bucket swing every time she goes to the door and says, “Go.”
I promise to kiss my husband square on the mouth for no good reason.
I promise to make bacon for Matty on Sunday morning.
I promise to write the next chapter in my novel, even if it’s just on the pages of my mind.
I promise to breathe. Deeply.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
No, It wasn't "Road Rules"
Today is the day that a certain major television show is airing the episode they contacted me about a few weeks back.
It is bittersweet--sort of--because I really wasn't at all suited for this particular topic--thank God--but it sure would have been nice to sit--or jump--on that couch.
I shall wait patiently for the casting call for "Uber Cool Mom Bloggers with a Penchant for Hockey and Pomegrante Martinis.
You have the number...
It is bittersweet--sort of--because I really wasn't at all suited for this particular topic--thank God--but it sure would have been nice to sit--or jump--on that couch.
I shall wait patiently for the casting call for "Uber Cool Mom Bloggers with a Penchant for Hockey and Pomegrante Martinis.
You have the number...
Monday, September 29, 2008
Stock tip
I'm the econ savvy type that had an account both at WaMu and Wachovia, so take this stock tip with the necessary caution, but I think I'm investing in mattresses and soup cans with false bottoms.
At least that's where I'm putting my actual money.
At least that's where I'm putting my actual money.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Looking forward to Monday
I gotta admit to feeling like I'm a pint short of plasma or something this Sunday evening.
Which is odd because on paper, this was a great weekend. Extra long, because the kids had Friday off. Two dinners with good friends, watching Stevie play hockey this morning, 2 workouts and even finally getting around to a couple of annoying projects like painting the baseboards in the family room and bathroom doors and cleaning out the girls' dresser. I even closed a sweet gig for SD that I will have to reveal at a later date. Yet I still can't shake this weird lethargy. And I'm not quite sure what is to blame for it.
So let's curl up with this weird little novel--historic fiction about Errol Flynn shagging some Jamaican girl--and call it a night, shall we?
I'm spent.
Which is odd because on paper, this was a great weekend. Extra long, because the kids had Friday off. Two dinners with good friends, watching Stevie play hockey this morning, 2 workouts and even finally getting around to a couple of annoying projects like painting the baseboards in the family room and bathroom doors and cleaning out the girls' dresser. I even closed a sweet gig for SD that I will have to reveal at a later date. Yet I still can't shake this weird lethargy. And I'm not quite sure what is to blame for it.
So let's curl up with this weird little novel--historic fiction about Errol Flynn shagging some Jamaican girl--and call it a night, shall we?
I'm spent.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Debate-Irate
The Debate is on! Awesome, I will be pulling up a couch and a glass or 8 of wine and enjoying the evening.
Speaking of debates, I wrote a completely non-partisan, unbiased, milk toast column today on the subject. Humor writing, it's what I try to do. Anyway, although I rarely cross-post, I did put this one up at The Times knowing full well that all of the crazies would come crawling out of their mothers' basements to comment because it hinted at politics.
I've learned over the last several years on this Internet thing that there are some people out there who read exactly what they want to, regardless of what the author's true and obvious intent was. And that the anonymity of the Internet provides cover for some real mean bastards.
So even though I made no political leaning in either direction, how much do you want to make a bet that at least 3 people call me bad names, 2 will cite bogus email rumors as sources, and 1 will offer to pray for the wickedness of my soul.
I'll bet you $700 billion....
Speaking of debates, I wrote a completely non-partisan, unbiased, milk toast column today on the subject. Humor writing, it's what I try to do. Anyway, although I rarely cross-post, I did put this one up at The Times knowing full well that all of the crazies would come crawling out of their mothers' basements to comment because it hinted at politics.
I've learned over the last several years on this Internet thing that there are some people out there who read exactly what they want to, regardless of what the author's true and obvious intent was. And that the anonymity of the Internet provides cover for some real mean bastards.
So even though I made no political leaning in either direction, how much do you want to make a bet that at least 3 people call me bad names, 2 will cite bogus email rumors as sources, and 1 will offer to pray for the wickedness of my soul.
I'll bet you $700 billion....
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
What New Wheels Should the Intern Get? Vote Now!
So the Intern, a.k.a. The Graduate, a.a.k.a. The Nephew, a.a.a.k.a. That Big Guy That Lives Here Now, is in the market for a new car.
I am behind this purchase 100%. Every morning I watch him shake a battery cable and play a game of 3 card Monte with his spark plugs in order for his car to start to go to work. Every night by some miracle he returns home in said tenuous shell game car with flushed cheeks and wet brow from his lack of air conditioning.
As Rafiki says, “It is time.”
So, now the question becomes, what is a suitable vehicle for the Intern? It must be something fitting for his unique life--driving around my kids, to my friends after a meal I’ve prepared.
Kidding.
He has his thoughts--a Corvette, a Mustang…A truck of some sort.
I’m thinking a nice, safe, practical Volvo or fuel efficient-hybrid. Perhaps a motorcycle with 4 sidecars including room for a carseat and a bag of groceries. (Actually, anything as long as it doesn’t have some ridiculous redneck vanity plate like, “GITRDONE,” I’m good.)
At this impasse--which I know I have no chance of imposing my will I know--what do you think?
I've created the following non-partisan poll so you can vote in this election as many times as you'd like. (We're in Florida after all.)
I am behind this purchase 100%. Every morning I watch him shake a battery cable and play a game of 3 card Monte with his spark plugs in order for his car to start to go to work. Every night by some miracle he returns home in said tenuous shell game car with flushed cheeks and wet brow from his lack of air conditioning.
As Rafiki says, “It is time.”
So, now the question becomes, what is a suitable vehicle for the Intern? It must be something fitting for his unique life--driving around my kids, to my friends after a meal I’ve prepared.
Kidding.
He has his thoughts--a Corvette, a Mustang…A truck of some sort.
I’m thinking a nice, safe, practical Volvo or fuel efficient-hybrid. Perhaps a motorcycle with 4 sidecars including room for a carseat and a bag of groceries. (Actually, anything as long as it doesn’t have some ridiculous redneck vanity plate like, “GITRDONE,” I’m good.)
At this impasse--which I know I have no chance of imposing my will I know--what do you think?
I've created the following non-partisan poll so you can vote in this election as many times as you'd like. (We're in Florida after all.)
Powered by vLane.com See more | Create your own!
Monday, September 22, 2008
I Drink for Charity
On to the Saturday recap…
As I mentioned a few dozen times when I hit you all up for donations, Saturday was our High Heel Hike to benefit cancer research.
And can I just tell you, this was one of THE BEST charity events I’ve ever been to.
A few fellow crazies accompanied me on our 1 kilometer journey through a quaint shopping district.
Because of its incredible athletic demands--about every 10 feet or so there was a booth set up with cupcakes or cocktails or presents. Seriously, I think the only thing that would have made this better is if they had wheeled us around on gurneys and gave us cab fare for the ride home. Even the minor children were inpressed.
But it was all for a good cause, and I finally got to meet some fellow writers over at the Times. In fact, here’s my friend Stephanie’s recap with even more photos…
We had such a good time that it almost makes me want to put these cruel shoes back on and go walking down my street to see if anyone will give me mini Mimosas.
Almost...
As I mentioned a few dozen times when I hit you all up for donations, Saturday was our High Heel Hike to benefit cancer research.
And can I just tell you, this was one of THE BEST charity events I’ve ever been to.
A few fellow crazies accompanied me on our 1 kilometer journey through a quaint shopping district.
Because of its incredible athletic demands--about every 10 feet or so there was a booth set up with cupcakes or cocktails or presents. Seriously, I think the only thing that would have made this better is if they had wheeled us around on gurneys and gave us cab fare for the ride home. Even the minor children were inpressed.
But it was all for a good cause, and I finally got to meet some fellow writers over at the Times. In fact, here’s my friend Stephanie’s recap with even more photos…
We had such a good time that it almost makes me want to put these cruel shoes back on and go walking down my street to see if anyone will give me mini Mimosas.
Almost...
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Cascade Wedding
If you were wondering how we fared, I’d say beautifully. (Not abundantly photogenic, but the sign of a good party is its lack of pictures, I always say, or wish.)
They were great. They made it down the aisle, with just a little help which was to be expected.
The wedding was beautiful, and everyone had a great time.
And they were like Cascade dishwashing liquid--virtually spot free until the very end.
They were great. They made it down the aisle, with just a little help which was to be expected.
The wedding was beautiful, and everyone had a great time.
And they were like Cascade dishwashing liquid--virtually spot free until the very end.
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