her butt it's just so big- sir mix a lot is what is on the ipod

So, yesterday I was at Popeye's for lunch. I made it into my little office and stuffed all my Christmas cards. I just have to print the labels and seal them and mail them to you. Look for them around Easter or 4th of July.

Anyway, while there I sealed about half of them closed. But, then I thought to myself that everyone there eating lunch probably didn't want to see me licking the envelopes closed and those few who did want to see me licking them closed, I'd probably not want them watching.

some little bits from some days

On the 4th day of Christmas in the advent calendar scavenger hunt, you get blinking red Rudolf noses...

From a week or so ago making bird nests on the floor in the living room and watching tv, it's oh, so much better than some ole couch...

And I have to say that i totally enjoyed letting the kids stay up later than usual and help me decorate the big Christmas tree... I'm hoping that you are finding good moments in the long days of winter.

today

Today instead of decorating the house for Christmas, I took a break. I rearranged the entire pantry and I put together a shelf and dresser for Little Bit's room. Here's some pics of her room! I'm off to watch some Christmas shows. Here's to doing what you want this Christmas!!

much love-cb

tis the season

OK. So, just when did they change the flavor of the peppermints at Sonic from peppermint, to flaming hot peppermint? I need to know these things. And now they're switching to the holiday mint flavor of speriment...watch out for those green stripes!!! YIKES!!!

Well, I've been busy decking my halls and haven't gotten very far. But, here's a few pics to see what's been a happenin'...

Playing hide and seek in the big Christmas tree.

Putting on the tree toppers on their Christmas trees in their rooms.

thanksgiving 07

1. See my beautiful dinner, with the non-brown turkey. I have no idea how to make my turkey brown and I called my mother for directions over 3 times. It tasted good, just isn't brown.
2. Little Bit gets a nap after the big meal.
3. Itty Bitty Kitty was thinking about his Thanksgiving meal too and checking out Monkey the Hamster that we are babysitting. Monkey made it safely through the holiday! I like how Itty Bitty Kitty sits up like a Merkat.
4. A little football game in the front yard after watching some all afternoon.

Happy Turkey Day! Gobble, Gobble

Well, yesterday we turned the fireplace on. That's right. We turned it on. It's gas and comes on with a turn of the knob and a click of the lighter. Of course, it was only a mere 82 degrees F out. So, we had to turn the air conditioning down way low. Today, we woke to 41 degrees F temperatures and can use the fireplace for real!

Little Bit has helped me make the deviled eggs, the turkey is cooking and I've only called my mom 3 times with emergency questions.

Oh, the Macy's day parade is back on. Have a Happy Turkey Day!

Turkey Hunt

Well, this morning the kids and I went on a Turkey hunt.

Little Bit was so excited, "Are we gonna take a gun and shoot a turkey?"
Me: "No, we're taking a free turkey coupon and getting one."
Little Bit: "O.K."

So, off to Kroger we went. Arriving by 8 a.m. in order to beat the crowds and let M sleep in some. For breakfast we indulged in Starbucks hot chocolates and penguin cookies. We sorted out all of our coupons as we dined. Then Big Kid went and got us a shopping cart. He insisted we all go out to see the musical Christmas trees and big Santa in the front. He was right, it was a wonderful display. Then as we hunted down our bargains throughout the store, Big Kid pushed the cart and Little Bit loaded the products into the cart. It was a perfect way to go. Although, probably more costly on our wallet. As each child got to pick their own fruit, their own vegetable, their own bag of chips and their own Little Debbie Snack cakes. And I found that other than vegetables, they all picked the exact same items. So, now we have double of each. But, I'm sure they will all be eaten. At checkout, they even picked the same gum each getting their own packet.

So, now we're home and the groceries are unloaded. I'm boiling the eggs for tomorrow's deviled eggs. The kids are playing video games and I am thinking that I might need a nap.

Here's wishing you a good Turkey hunt.

I'm BACCCCKKKKK

So, it's been forever, but once again I'm recommitting to you. I will be here daily to offer tid-bits of my day or week or thoughts or pictures or things i've viewed or heard. I've missed you and I'm backkkkkkk!

Who wants some icecream! This pic was taken in Lufkin, Texas at the Mexican restaurant with with the little door. My kids love this place, because they have a little red door that only the children can walk through. And they have free icecream for dessert! Big Kid tried to eat everyone's ice cream!

helpful hint # 978

If you have to make a career (aka what i wanna be when i grow up) costume and you're leaving the house in 2 minutes then the following costumes are fast and easy:

• soccer coach- just wear the sweats you have on and carry a soccer ball and a stop watch.
• kennel worker - just safety pin two stuffed animal dogs to your little girls blue jeans so the dogs can follow her around all day.

____________

Also, said stop watch works great in the car.

Big Kid: "Little Bit, let's see how long you can sing. OK. Go."
Little Bit: "When the leaves are red and yellow in the fall. Crunch, crunch. When the leaves are red and yellow in the fall. Crunch, crunch. When the leaves..."
Big Kid: "Hey. I've got a new idea. How about we see how long you can be quiet...Go."
Big Kid: "OK. Quiet without moving your mouth. Go."
Big Kid: "Wow...one minute...one minute 10 seconds..."

Little Bit was quiet until we got to school and so was Big Kid. We're taking the stop watch more often.

things i thought i'd never do #263

I never thought that I'd take my vacuum outside and vacuum the patio. i did that today. arrrrggghhh...

pumpkins gone bad

Well, it's only been about 5 days ago that we carved our Hallowing pumpkins...They were cute...

Unfortunately...were is the correct verb in the previous sentence...now...not so cute...

oh and a new website

Oh, and I've been working on a new website lately. It's mainly just links of sites of interest for me. But, you might enjoy them as well. Plus, I'll be adding pics of my kids, my hubby, me and our travels and adventures, because I know everyone loves to see thousands of pictures...ahahahahahahahaha...

http://www.cherieb123.websiteanimal.com/

And it is a work in progress...so be kind...

I've written a Book

OK. I've written a book...

http://stores.lulu.com/store.php?fAcctID=1189041

Soon, I will get all official with it and it will be available on amazon.com and such. In the meantime, you can make a purchase on lulu.com if you so desire.

If you are a longtime blog reader of mine, then you have already read the whole thing.
If not, you can play catch up.

p.s. sorry i haven't been writting any lately. It's been crazy busy. Over the last two weeks I've had over 13 guests spend the night...of course one night it was 8 boys over for a sleepover. It was originally suppossed to be only 4...

a morning conversation

Little Bit: "Are we going to see Josh when we go to Washington, D.C.?"
Me: "No, he lives in Nashville, TN. But, who do you think lives in Washington, D. C.?"

I hum "Hear Comes the Cheif."

Little Bit: "The Razorbacks!"
Me: "No."
Little Bit: "Elvis!"
Me: "No."

Me: "You don't know him personally, but you see him on T.V."
Little Bit: "Grandma Gerry?"
Me: "Noooo. He's in charge of our country..."
Little Bit: "Oh. George Bush."
Me: "Yes and he's what?"
Little Bit: "President."

She didn't seem so excited with the answer, but she knew the president's name. That's good.

Helpful Hint #468

If you want to freak out your cat, shampoo your carpets and play your rock music really loud...they love water and loud squeaky sounds.

I ABSOLUTELY Hate my printer

I have not owned a crappier printer since my 1st mac dot matrix printer that I had in the 1980's. And even that printer would do what you made it do. You just had to go through a few hoops and wha-la it would print whatever you came up with...but NO not this printer...

This printer printed 3 of my 4 pages on my speciality paper. Then it decided that the 4th page it wouldn't print because "the paper needed to be turned over." Well, if I turn it over then it prints on the back bad side of my speciality paper. There is no place in the software to let the printer know that you have it in properly, just let it go on through. NO. Not on the printer itself either... So I can have 3 properly printed pages and one page that won't print correctly. What a crap azz printer. And I have to replace the ink cartridges almost once a week it seems. Suppossed to save you money this printer because the ink cartridges cost "so much less." They cost less because they have less ink. Crappy Kodak Easy Share 5300. Also, fyi they have a poorer dpi causing less clear pics, but this is what someone else in the house wanted and I caved. My own fault!

I'm ready to go back to HP. I loved my old printer. I just had it around 8 years and it finally gave out. I think I'm asking for it for Christmas:

Dear Santa:
Restore my sanity and give me an HP.
With all my love, if you bring it.
(I'm very conditional with my love when it comes to printers.)
later-cb

How Depressing

I think I've gained about 10 pounds since school started. Time for a new plan of action...ok or maybe just a plan of action, not a new one as we can tell that I obviously didn't have one already. arrrrggggghhhhhh...

_________________

tales_from_the_crib said...
mmm...hey, mom! can we do this too?!?

tales_from_the_crib said...
it is a comfortable easy to clean outfit...problem is, with the air conditioning around here, it gets cold...

Dear Tales from the Crib:
Just tell your mom you have my permission to run around naked, eating icecream all day long...I'm sure she'll let you do it then. I mean really: What mom doesn't want their kid running around naked eating ice cream all day long...talk about a happy kid. Seems logical to me.
later-cb

Aunt Chelle said...
Well now we know what turns on a love bug..... HAHAHA

Dear Aunt Chelle:
Yep...but I always thought that love bugs would be attracted to VW Beetles the car that was named for love bugs...not convertibles. Remember they even made a movie about it, "Herbie, the Love Bug."
later-cb

The new improved Sunday afternoon lunch

WE have just found a way to improve the traditional Sunday lunch...

just go to Marble Slab and have a big ole ice cream sundae for lunch with all the toppings.

mowing is like vaccuming

Is it just me?



When I vaccum, the kids love to run in front of the vaccum to see if I might "run over them" then they run out of my tracks fast. We've played this game since they were little.



Well, yesterday when mowing, my dog starts the same game. Running in front of the path of the mower and then jumping away really fast. It was pretty funny. Crazy dog.

Quote of the Morning

Little Bit talking to Big Kid while getting ready to go to school:

"Why don't you just wear naked to school? hee hee hee hee."
__________________________

tales_from_the_crib said...
eewww!!!!!!lovebugs are nasty!!!they get everywhere though, now don't they?

Dear Tales from the Crib:

You said it NASTY! Miss Jackson if you please.
Ok so, I cannot hear that word without thinking of that song.

And to make it better, Big Kid freaks out if they
land anywhere close to him. Thankfully, he wasn't with me when they filled the car.
later-cb

Helpful Hint # 987, 988, and 989

When placing Vanilla Car Air Freshener in your car, remember to not leave your convertible top down during love bug season. Otherwise you end up with a hundred love bugs doing it in your car.

Also, if you when placing said vanilla air fresheners into your car, be sure to wash your hands a couple of times before you lick your fingers. Otherwise, you get funky taste in your mouth that lasts at a minimum of 24 hours.

And lastly, with said vanilla car air fresheners check to make sure your kids like vanilla and don't call it "poop smell" and your husband isn't allergic to said scent.

todays breakfast conversation

Little Bit: "You know, Mom, First Grade is much easier than Kindergarten. You know that, Mom?"
Me: "It is?"
Little Bit: "Yeah. Much easier."
Me: "The work is easier this year?"
Little Bit: "Yeah. I'm good at it, too."
Me: "You are? That's good. I'm proud of you."
Little Bit: "Yeah" as she nods her head and winks her left eye at me.

I'm so happy to hear that she's liking school and knows that she can do it.

Again I'm reminded...

Again, I'm reminded why I have company over...To Clean my STinkin' House. Holy Cow! I didn't realize how far I had let it go. But, thankfully I've got company coming and it's all straightened out again for at least 4 hours until the kids get home from school. :)

HAPPY FRIDAY! yOUR FRIday pics of Happiness!!!

Why not take a ride in the convertible...at full speed?

Or Just eat the ice cream straight from the container?

Whatever you do...may it be fun and just thought of...

__________________

tales_from_the_crib said...
legs also hurt if you walk into and out of the car...get someone to carry you!

Dear Tales from the Crib:

I'm all for that! Where do I get one of these carrier people...my mom said I'm too big for her nowadays...and actually my hubby didn't even carry me over the threashold when we got married. He said just jump and I'll throw my hands under you and we'll just count it.

later-cb

Anonymous said...
Girl, I'm all about getting a motorized scooter. Think how much easier it would be to cruise thru Walmart....without the kids, of course! :) Chris

Dear Chris:

Now, you know that if I get the motorized scooter, everyone else will want one. And I refuse to be the one that sets up the Christmas gift of the season craze.

later-cb

tales_from_the_crib said...
miss cherie, you missed the 14 month old quadruplets who were at the playground today!i wonder if they'll be there next week?

Dear Tales from the Crib:

I'm sorry I missed the 14 month old quadruplets...and I'm more sorry I didn't get to see their mom. You know she must be one amazing woman. I can barely handle two kids 2 years apart. See you next week!

later-cb

Anonymous said...
your right.....Better to take the car....However maybe m will rub your legs for you. Did you shave them?- Aunt Chelle

Dear Chelle-

Now you know me...it's labor day weekend. Summer is over, the razor has been put away. Just joking. That just conjured up some verrry wrong beading projects. YIKES!!! And fyi if I thought that riding my bike to and from church would get m's hands on my legs more I'd be riding that bike a couple times a day. later-cb

Helpful Hint #432

If you have a day with nothing planned...do not take the 3 mile bike ride to and from your destination. Go ahead and take the car. Then your legs will not remind you with pain all night that they are not accustomed to riding 6 miles in 90+ degree temps.

summers over

Summer's over...the kids are back in school...and i'm back to blogging.

Today is the kids first day back. No, I'm not a total wreck today. I was one yesterday. I asked both my kids to stay home and let me home school them. They both told me, "NO! I Want to go to school!" I guess they realized that if they even hinted at the possiblity that I would do it. But, then they wouldn't learn much would they? It would be like, "Let's watch these Gilligan's Island reruns. See, that's how you build a radio out of a coconut. Just like the professor showed us. Now you've had your science lesson. Time to watch The View and you can learn about the political climate of our world. Ha!"

Last night M took us all out to eat at Masa's Sushi Bar. I love that place. Little Bit and I call it "Our little restaurant." Little Bit calls the soy sauce, "soil sauce." I never correct her, because I think it's cute. That was the perfect place to go, before I let them go today.

Well, i think i'm going to ride my bike down to the church and back to pick up some papers that i need to type up. I think i might be crazy as i looked it up on mapquest and it shows the ride to be 3.2 miles there and then it will be another 3.2 miles back. I might have to stay a while and eat lunch there at their cafe and then maybe hitch a ride home. Wish me luck.
_________________

Anonymous said...
Sounds like it's been a good summer - almost like school, you learned quite a lot!! :) Chris

Dear Chris: Yep. It was a great summer. And yes, I'm always learning lots, probably more than most! And now summer is over. But, it's cool to be back to seeing all my friends again! I'll see ya around the schoolyard! later-cb

tales_from_the_crib said...
sorry we missed you on wednesday! we had drama camp and then didn't see you at columns, but we plan on seeing you next week, tho.all for now~Chris
2:23 PM

Dear lil Chris: I missed holding you, but I'll definately see you this Wednesday. You'll have to sit on my lap while your mommy has her lunch. I miss having little babies to hold. Especially this week! later-cb

Anonymous said...
How was the shopping and space camp? -Aunt Chelle
6:26 PM

Dear Aunt Chelle: The shopping was great. Although I now need you to come and match everything that I bought, because i feel like i have nothing to wear when in reality i have plenty to wear, just no sense of what goes with what. Also, they had a ball at space camp! You've seen the pictures and don't worry you'll get to see them again the next time we're all up and mom and dad's! I promise to break them out. I'm thinking of making some sort of slide show that everyone has to sit and watch this Christmas. ahahahahaahahahahaa love ya-cb

space camp

Well, Big Kid and M left for parent/child space camp this weekend. Unfortunately Big Kid was sick all last night and I felt awful for him as he left. He was crying and it makes me worry. But I know tonight they will just rest in the hotel and get to sleep early and be all better tomorrow and have a GREAT weekend. But, it's still hard to see your little son when he is ill and trying to be all ok.

________
On a happy note: Little Bit is excited for the weekend and keep saying, "Mom, can we shop?" with a little glitter of happiness in her eyes! Of course, I say, "Yes, Little Bit. We're going to shop." She giggles in anticipation. I know we're going to have a great weekend!

oops nothing since school let out

Well, I guess I've been busy this summer or lazy...let's go with Busy. i didn't realize i hadn't posted since May.

Let's see...what I've learned so far this summer:

1. that a little dog named bark should have been named Houdini for his great escapes from the backyard. He has trained himself to climb a 2 foot metal gate and squeeze through the bars.
2. that said little dog won't really run away...he'll only go so far as next door to the neighbors house.
3. that cats like to sleep on their backs in vulgar positions.
4. that Big Kid and his friend love to have Little Bit chase them and will encourage her by running around with her "stuff" aka stuffed animals.
5. that stuffed animals all talk and each one is important to Little Bit.
6. that everyone loves crafts, even boys.
7. that swimming is a favorite sport in our house during the summer.
8. that if we are planning on going out on the boat, it will rain.
9. that if you ride on the innertube behind the boat, M will drive really fast in circles.
10. that you cannot really sink a pontoon boat, no matter how much water comes up over your ankles.
11. that you can be a popular mom with koolaid slushies.
12. that kids nowdays don't know what koolaid slushies are and want to know if they are like sooothies or something.

it's 11.55 am

So, it's 11.55am and I have to be showered and at a friend's to pick up her kid by 12.30. It takes me 15 minutes to drive there. So, I'm sitting here and blogging you, listening to the Killers on my myspace page thinking that my hair is really slick from camping this weekend and how much laundry, and housework I have, as well as cleaning out the camper and repacking it ready to go again...and yet....I love this song and think i will reload the page and listen to it again... I really am looking forward to sitting in the waiting room for 2 hours while Little Bit is at exercise class. And actually, I'm being serious...I'm taking (oh, here comes the song again) two magazines and I'm laying on the long couch in the waiting room and maybe taking a nap. I might visit with my friend and her kid if they show up. And then I have a new friend that I hope to say hello to again. It's good to make friends and hang out...much more fun than housework...

I'm hoping your day is going well. Are you having a good week? What's been the best thing that happened to you this week? (make a comment...hint, hint...)

As pink Floyd would say...hello...helloooo...is there anyone out there....

ha! 12.02....that's the time....i must stop on this moment. it's auspicious like that.

reply

Anonymous wrote:

Let's see... what would I like the next topic to be??? hmmm world peace? no no no Ummm the physics of building a reactor to see two electrons or protons colliding and deciding which data is more important to collect - the power created or whether mass can actualy be created or destroyed with these mega machines? no no no How about what is one of your favorite Bible verses and why? :)

Dear Anonymous:

I'm happy to answer ALL your questions...

1. My favorite bible verse is "I can do all things through Christ whom strengthens me." Eph. 4.13. Let's face it...we've all had lots to go through in life and we just need to know we can make it through it all. This also gives me the perserverence to keep on trucking with whatever project I've got going on and achieve my goals.

2. OK...so, I'm not a studied physician...ha.ha. Anyway, I did tour a necular reactor when I was a kid. Nuclear one in Russellville. It was really quite interesting. Just a big old concrete circle in which they shoot these little bitty pieces around in that circle. They were doing it to split them and then make energy, not create mass (or destroy it for that matter, again a pun, too early for me). Let's face it...collecting data shouldn't be the only goal. Actually doing things with it is what is important. All talk and no action, does no one any good. Just gives people time to do things they shouldn't. These things harness much power...now just to use it for good.

3. On world peace...I refer back to an earlier post of mine and I still stand firm in my statement..."We should all try to live more like beauty queens and wish for world peace." Maybe even make it our platform.

reply

Anonymous said:

WOW!!! How cool you got paid to be in this commercial! And how funny that you finally got to use some of that German you took in college. lol

Dear Anonymous:

Yep! I cannot believe they paid me just to stand around and walk around and sit around all day. It's amazing! I am willing to do the same for you, if you would like to pay me. :)

And even though your correct I took some German in college. I didn't get to use any. The song was all in English. It was a take-off from "He's Got the Whole World in his Hands." Ich habe ein gut tag. See my German is rusty anyway.

For you, I will post on your next suggestion...anything you'd like to hear?
later-cb

yesterday in the car

Little Bit: "Mommy, you should'a named me Sassy. Then you could say Sasss -E. That would be good."
Me: "You want me to call you Sassy from now on. Are you sure about that?"
Little Bit: "Yeah."
Me: "Um.. ok...Sassy."

morning

In the car on the way to school:

Big Kid: "Mom, did you know that some mayor or president used to live in our house."

Me: "What? In the house we live in now?"

Big Kid: "No. In our old house."

Me: "Where did you hear this?"

Big Kid: "My cousin told me. He read it in the newspaper."

Me: "What?"

Big Kid: "Yeah. Some mayor or president used to live in our old house. It was in the newspaper and my cousin told me that."

Me: "Ummm..ok."

I never heard this before, but I guess it could be possible.

________________

This past weekend I was an extra in a commercial for Vodafone (cell phone company). It was fun and will be shown in Germany. Here's a pic with the lead (sitting down) and the director (blue shirt by the ladder).

reply

Anonymous said...
Makes me want some of my own.... miss you your family-Aunt Chelle

Dear Aunt Chelle-
We miss you bunches too!!! I hope that you're having a fantastic week flying!!! We LOVE you bunches!!! In thought of you, pick my next theme for a story! xoxoxox-cb

Great Day

Last night we had over M's friend from Pennsylvania! This is the guy who gave my kids sharks teeth that were like 60 million years old and rock/minerals that he had dug up from some quarries. He does this as a past-time. It was a good time. He identified all the rocks he had given Little Bit and Big Kid. Then Big Kid brought down his rock collection and he identified all them. He also does astronomy on the side. So we talked about that and found out that binnoculars are really a good way to start with this hobby. Then we went outside and saw his cool green laser that goes up 2 miles. It was fun!!! And M wanted one by the end of the night!

Then around 3.30am we get a ring on the phone. It was my friend who is 8.5 months preggers. She was at the hospital in labor. They had stopped it and so her daughter came over to sleep. My friend is all ok, just put on bedrest for a while. So, her kiddo will come over to play some is my plan. I have to check with her though.

Today....Little Bit had her kindergarten field day. It was a water party and was great fun! All those kids had a fantastic time!!! Water balloons, pick up marbles with your toes in buckets of water, the sponge full of water on top of your head walk, bubbles, whipping cream...it was all good fun!!! Then they watched Nemo and ate popcycles and pizza. I wanna be in kindergarten again!!! Afterwards, Little Bit and her friends went to Kinderfun and they had another water party there. The only sad part was it was her last day at kinderfun. My Little Bit is growing up...sigh. I love her.

And Big Kid was asked to be a visitor to the Leadership at Tae-Kwan-Doe. He did great and liked it very much. He's such a cute kid.

Then after super out I came home a got an email to possibly be in a commercial for a German phone company!!! So, I might get to be a General Extra!!! Yipiee!!!

It was a GReat Day!!!

Gotta Be Cool, but I'm loving it!

OK. So Big Kid is 8 and a half. So, he's moving in to the cool kid stage.

On Saturday while we were leaving the zoo and walking through the parking lot. I was put on notice.
Big Kid: "Mom you can hug me, but just don't kiss me. It's embarassing."
Of course that made me laugh out loud and proceed to give him a thousand kisses on top of his head with him giggling and pretending not to like it.

So this morning, I told Big Kid to come over and give me a hug. He got the funniest look on his face and I could tell he was intentionally being funny. I kept my arms out for a hug and he proceeded to walk around backwards into my arms going "beep, beep, beep." When I reached my arms around him, he starts flayling his arms around shouting, "Little Bit, Little Bit, help me. Help me." This just made me laugh and give the top of his head a thousand kisses with him just a giggling. He thinks he's so funny. Then when I let him go, he said to Little Bit "It's your turn now, Little Bit. Get over here." She said no. So, I went over and gave her a big morning hug and kisses on the top of her head. She smiled and hugged me back. It was a good morning.

lots and lots

So...it was a busy weekend...

Friday
After school I let the kids each have a friend over. They played then we had a snack and made some crafts. Both the kids that were over were just so impressed by the slushies that I made to drink along with their popcorn they ate...

Friend: "What is this?"
Me: "It's a slushie."
Friend: "A what?"
Me: "A kool-aid slushie."
Friend: "Is that like a smoothie."
Me: "Not exactly. More like the poor version of a smoothie. This is what I always had growing up. They're good, aren't they?"
Friend: "Yea. How do you make these."
Me: "It's just premade kool-aid mix and ice and water in the blender."
Friend: "No. How do you really make these."
So, I made a second pitcher and showed them all how you just pour in the kool-aid mix and add the ice and the water and blend. They were impressed.

The crafts that they made were great. I figured that the kindergarten girls would enjoy them more than the 2nd grade boys. But, as it turned out. The boys loved making the key chains with their pictures in them and a picture they drew on the back. They were very detailed.
__________
Friday Night

M and I went with our next door neighbors and another couple out to dinner at Miracle Taco (or Taco Milagro as they like to call it.) It was yummie! Following we went to a Fantastic concert! Let me just say Harry Connick, Jr. Need I say more? OK I will. It was fantastic. Did I say that already. Let me just say...it made me dream of Christmas parties at the Myrtlle House, being on stage again in the theater, late night dates at smokey panio bars, trips with friends to the quarter and just good ole South atmosphere in general. Afterwards we headed over the Goose's Acre for a drink and just a couple of dances to an 80's cover band. Then home again, home again, never more to roam again...or at least for the night. ;)
p.s. Thanks M for the fantastic birthday gift!!! xoxoxoxo-cb
___________
Saturday

The VERY first words I hear on Saturday morning...
Little Bit: "Mom, did you know that the Houston zoo has merkats? Merkats are dad's favorite animal."
Me: "Well, good morning to you." I give her a hug.
Little Bit: "Well, did you know they have merkats?"
Me: "Ummm...no I didn't know that the Houston zoo had Merkats."
Little Bit: "They have merkats, and gorillas, and pumas, and monkeys."
Me: "Oh. O.K."
Little Bit: "And they had a baby elephant when we went with Mamaw last time."
Me: "Oh. O.K."
Little Bit: "Do you think daddy wants to go to the zoo today and see the merkats?"
Me: "I don't know. Why don't you go ask him. He's still asleep."
Little Bit: "O.K. DADDY!!!" she shouts as she's running into the bedroom.
Guess where we went on Saturday!!! And yes, we had a great time!
__________________

Saturday Night
We returned and had our annual Cul-de-Sac Party with all the neighbors! It was fun. Complete with a moon bounce for the kids and everyone brought out their grills and camp chairs and picnic tables. It was relaxing and fun to see everyone out and visit!!! I really enjoyed finding out that one of my neighbors went to college 30 minutes from where I grew up! That was cool and fun to visit about!
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Sunday - Mother's Day
What a Great Day!

It started out with Little Bit by my bedside going...
"PUt your head up! Put up your head, Mom." as she was cramming a beautiful handmade necklace that she had dug out of her junk drawer. I wore it all day and got many compliments or was that comments on it.

And earlier in the week, Little Bit gave me some homemade bathsalts that she made at kinderfun. When she gave it to me she said, "You can share this with Dad. This is for father's day too. " Also, she told me quite a few times that I could take those cotton balls a the top of the bath salts and use them for my makeup on my face.

And probably my favorite gift that I received was the half used tube of chap stick that Little Bit gave me. I don't know where she found it, but it had been well used and I had the wonderful opportunity to put some on before I went to church. Let's just say, High qualitity. She asked me last night as I was tucking her into bed, "Did you like the chapstick?" I told her "I loved it." Because, let's face it I really did love it. I love anything that is given to me from the heart.

In addition to all the good hugs and kisses and "Happy Mother's Day!" shouts. I also
received a lovely handmade card from Big Kid and a flower that he got at church to give to me, which I will also treasure always.
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Saturday Afternoon
After church, we went to lunch and then after a few errands we headed to the local pool. It was a beautiful sunny weekend, so it was a perfect day for the pool. All was well until about 10 minutes before it was time to get out of the pool. The lifeguard called over another lifeguard on the side of the pool right beside where M and I were sitting in the shallow end by all the little kids. The lifeguard had a concerned look on her face.

Me: "Is everything ok?"
Lifeguard: "Do you see anything over there?"

I start to look around. I'm thinking she sees a toy that is dangerous or maybe a glass or something.

Me: "No. I don't see anything."
The other lifeguard, pointing: "Are you SURE you don't see anything right there?"

It was the sound of her voice and then I knew what she was talking about.

Me: "Awwww...YES! Oh." It was a piece of poop. YIKES!!!
Lifeguard: "I didn't want to alert the pool unless it was confirmed."

Tweet, tweet, tweet...All out of the pool and straight home to take a shower!!!

Complaint

Anything that requires me to think or move my body lately...just isn't getting done! Where is my motivation people? I am in a hold pattern and need to get out of it. Somebody's got to save the world, so I better get movin'.

Admission

O.K. So I've blown the whole day...

It was suppossed to be full of me cleaning the house, doing laundry, making breakfast, lunch and dinner, being super mom and even more super wife and maybe saving the world a bit.

It ended up being...

1. cut, staple and glitter up a bunch of masks...by the way I love glitter and am happy as a peach to glitter up anything, so if you need something glittered...give me a ring!!!
2. go home read my emails and change the music and upload pics on my myspace page
3. pick up Little Bit from school
4. drive by McDonald's for a healthy lunch and toy
5. eat McDonald's and proceed to couch to read magazines while Little Bit watched tv
6. visit with Little Bit about her stuffed animal piglet while I read magazines and she watched tv
7. tell Little Bit to hold down the fort and stay inside while I go take a nap
8. go take a 2 hour nap
9. take a shower and go pick up Big Kid from school
10. return with the plan to ride our bikes to tae-kwan-doe
11. find out tae-kwan-doe uniforms are in the washer, having been washed what smelled like 2 days ago and decided to ditch tae-kwan-doe
12. kids already figured we were ditching class and were playing.
13. neighbor kid comes over without mother's prior approval to invite my kids over to play.
14. call neighbor and she confirms that he was out and about without prior knowledge, but thinks it's a good idea anyway and says send them on over.
15. I send them over with the notion to clean my entire house while they are gone, yet i sit down at the computer
16. I listen to every song I can think of to pull up on myspace and complete the formating and pic adding and printing of my cookbook FINALLY!!! Now I just have to take it down to Kinko's for some major duplication, along with my Mom's Christmas Cookbook.
17. Give in that the half made bed is all that is going to get done and think I'll go make a good home-made supper...starting with tv and a glass of wine. ;)

Secret

Ok...so my kids are always kissing my long mirror in my bathroom. They do it practically every day...especially Little Bit. I'm always cleaning the mirror with it only to have kiss marks within sometimes minutes placed back on the mirror. So, the other day, that made me think... what's the big deal? Why do they like doing this so much? So, yep, I did it... I kissed the mirror and all I could do was giggle. I think I might kiss the mirror once a week. It is a big ego boost. ahahahahahahahahahahaahahaha.
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Anonymous said...
Girl, why do you hate it? I know you've made it thru 1st and 2nd grade homework! haha. Chris

Dear Chris:
Honey, if you only knew. Big Kid does all his homework on his own, sometimes even in the car. Little Bit does her own homework, but she needs someone to sit by and make sure she does it. She's too much like me!!! Loves school, but not so interested in doing the homework. HA! Plus, you know that show "Who's Smarter than a 5th grader?" I cannot ever answer even the 1st grade questions! ha!
later-cb

Not so Lazy River

Last night it came a deluge...I'm talking cats and dogs fallin' out of the sky. The kids and I were in the Blue Bonnet Bus returning from our super nutritious meal of Sonic.

Me: "Kids, look at that water in the ditch...it looks like a river."
Big Kid: "It looks like the lazy river." (referring to the lazy river at the local water park)
Me: "You wanna get an inner tube and float it?"
Big Kid: "No. It probably goes into the sewer."

party barge

Well, if you don't want to hear any bragging...then skip this post.

We just got ourselves a brand new from the factory never been used before party barge (pontoon boat for those of you who didn't grow up in Arkansas). I can tell you that it's red and white and has a red canopy and a sink and a bunch of seats. If you want details, like how big is the engine or whatever other manly type information you'll have to ask M, because I don't know and I don't plan on finding out either. I just know that M drives it just fine and so does Big Kid if M is helping him.

In lieu of christening the boat via smashing a bottle of champagne on the side, we drank the bottle instead. However, we did christen it with some green kool-aid which came up quite quickly...thank goodness.

With a 3 out of 4 vote the vessel has been named "Disney World." Thus, when the kids say, "Mom, Dad, when can we go to Disney World?" We'll be able to reply, "Right now, go get your clothes on!" Or when school is back in session this Fall and the kids have to write the essay on "What I did this Summer..." They can write something along the lines of, "My mom and dad took us to Disney World every weekend this summer and I got bored from all the rides." Yes, I see many a story being written about this boat.

Happy Summering!

Playground Games

Last Thursday after school, I asked Little Bit how her day went at school. She said she had played outside on the playground.

Me: "So, who did you play with?"
Little Bit: "My friend C and S."
Me: "What did you and C and S play?"
Little Bit: "We played the Great Wall of China."
Me: "You played what?"
Little Bit: "The Great Wall of China. Me and C were Panda Bears. And S was the Great wall of puppies."
Me: "Wow. That sounds like fun."

I am so happy that my kids are exposed to so many different things growing up and are so creative.

nobody

Nobody and I mean NOBODY hates kindergarten homework more than me!

sometimes you've got it

Saturday I went to Garden Ridge to shop around. While paying for a few items, I saw a young man giving me the once over while checking me out with a big grin on his face. I smiled shyly back and headed out the door, thinking "I've still got it." While, loading my bags into the car I realized why the kid gave me the up and down look. My zipper was down. "I don't got it," was all I could think with a big grin on my face.

great, just great

So, my face finally finished peeling from it's sunburn and guess what is left...a nice big freckle just under my right nostril, making it look like I need a tissue from far away. Some people are cursed with good looks in life, and then there's me. arrrrggghhhhh....

i remember it like it was just last year...

This morning I drove the carpool to Kinderfun, a place for our half day kindergarteners to burn off energy on Thursday afternoons. Today they had a petting zoo and the kids were really quite excited about seeing all the animals.

My favorite comment was when we arrived, Little Bit my 6 year old stated, "Oh, I've seen this before, back when I was Just a Kid."

I guess she was right: one year is one sixth of a lifetime to a 6 year old.

in my opinion

Last night we got to go to the Astros Game...Big Kid, Little Bit, M & me!!! It was fun. We only stayed until the 5th inning, because it was a school night. But we had tons of fun and the stros were ahead 6-1!!! Yea Team!!!

Driving home we listened to a couple of innings on the radio. M was totally into each play. But, I got to thinking...really they just play that up for men. What I'd really like to hear is some women describing the game on the radio. I'd rather listen to that... "oh my goodness, would you look at that...mmm, mmm, mmm Biggio is bent over looking like he's going to steal to second. Oh, oh, he is!!! He's stealing second! Go Biggio, Go!!! Run, baby!!! You can do it!!! YES!!! Craig Biggio just made it to second. Wow. Look at that pitcher's face. Boy he's not looking to happy. You know, I'm glad we're winning, but I feel almost sorry for the guy. He's pitched such a lousy game. You kind of hope he could at least throw one strike. Ok. Maybe just one strike though. Nothing more. What do you think, Marge?"
__________

This morning I went to Little Bit's kindergarten class. Tommorow is her teacher's birthday and we were preparing a class gift. I forget how busy a room can get with that many 6 year olds all together. They were all really cute and trying their best. Really, I think we should thank our teachers more. They do so much for us.

if you could fly

Me: "Little Bit, if you could fly anywhere in the world, where would you fly?"
Little Bit: "To you."
I was expecting Disney world. How good that made me feel.
Me: "Thank you, Little Bit. I love you."
Little Bit: "I love you."
Me: "Since I'm with you, where would you fly right now?"
Little Bit: "I love you but I'd fly to work."
Me: "You would?"
Little Bit: "Yes, to be with my daddy."

pics from Dead of Knight

These are pics from this weekend. The director is the guy holding the camera in one of these pics. I was an extra in "Dead of Knight" an independant horror movie. This is the medieval festival scene. It will be blending with real festival footage. It was a great time meeting everyone. I really enjoyed hanging out and being a part of this movie. I think I heard that they are taking it to a bunch of horror festivals and maybe some anime festivals. Anywhich way...it was fun!!!

today

I was in a movie...I was in a movie...an extra in Dead of Knight...and I get to go back tomorrow!!!

I had my face painted in the movie...can you tell?

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We had a good Easter...here's a pic!

I love my kids!!! They're the best!

long because i've been slacking

OK. Today will be long because I've been slacking and I have much to update with.



This is a pic of bay in the city of Dalian. It was a fantastic town!!! I went to the aquarium and saw fish that I've never seen before. Plus, I saw Bluga Whales, Sea lions, Walruses, Sea Turtles up close. They even have a tank where you can put your hand in and feed the fish. Plus, they have an avairy house, where you can feed the birds. VERY COOL and highly recommended if you ever travel to this city of 4-5 million. Plus, we saw the company's new warehouse and offices. They are very nice and the people that work for AmerCable over in Dalian are super nice and were really great people! In fact, i'm overdue on my sending them a thank you note.
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speaking of overdue...I've not been saying much about what all I've been up to since we've been back.

Before we left we went and saw Garrison Keillor at a lecture at the www.theprogressiveforum.org That was total fun and very cool because I got to meet hima and shake his hand. He signed our two books and then after us, they wouldn't sign any more books. Yipiee!!! We sat front row and it was just a totally cool experience.
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During the week of Spring Break we went camping at South Toledo Bend in Louisiana with our good buddies!!! It was a perfect trip away and we had a super good time. Big Kid and Little Bit even swam in the ice cold lake. I would add a pic, but I can't seem to find the file and I must press on...
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So. April Fools Day has come and gone. Those who I fooled are listed...

• M, Big Kid and Little Bit- coming out of church I acted like the car must have been stolen out of the parking lot while we were inside listening to the sermon. "It was parked right next to that mini-van across from that state police car." They fell for it.
• Mom & Dad- "I just went to the store and was the 100,000th customer and won groceries for a year." They fell for it. And I still dream of being the millionth customer somewhere before my life is over.
• Chelle- She had called to say she had a birthday card to put in the mail for me. I called her back and said it had arrived yesterday and that I loved it. She fell for it. But, to give her a break, this was the first weekend she had gotten to see her man that she's marrying in almost a year.
• Lil' Bitty- I called and said "I was in this art gallery and you'll never guess what. There were these paintings by an artist that paints flowers like you and they signed their paintings C.Lou, but I asked about it...and they said the artist real name was Chad Lou." OK. She didn't fall for it. But, it was a good story none-the-less.

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Story about Big Kid:

So lately Big Kid has been talking a bunch about when he grows up and has children. Just out of the blue talk. I really enjoy hearing what he's thinking. I didn't realize how serious and in deepth he has been thinking about all this until he just started talking and said...

Big Kid: "If I have kids, then I'm giving them good names. I think I'll have a girl and her name will be Sally. And if it's a boy, then Jack or Jake. I don't know."
Me: "What? You're talking about having kids...And you like the name Sally."
Big Kid: "Yes. Sally. But I like the name Anne, too. But probably Sally. And if it's a boy then Jack or Jake."
Me: "After your name?"
Big Kid: "Yeah. Jack after me."
Me: "Those sound like really good names."

I never thought I'd be talking about the names of my future grandchildren so early in life. But, that makes me happy.
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Do you think I should share a secret? It's not bad, just kind of sad...I think I read something too late. I think I could have saved someone's life if I had read something yesterday. It kind of woke me up. I think that I have to start giving back again and I'm not sure how.

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Well, today is Wednesday...so that means lunch bunch. I've invited all the girls that I know to meet me at the church on Wednesdays for lunch and let our kids play on the playground. Last week 3 girls and their kids met me. It was fun and good to get out for adult conversations. Plus, it was fun for the kids too! I'm hoping to keep this up through the summer. Everyone is welcome...so if you live close just meet us at 12.15 at www.twumc.org columns cafe by the playground. You buy your own lunch. I'm not that great of a person.

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Anonymous said...
How cool!!!! I bet the lantern fest was very neat! So glad you got to see all this neat stuff!:) lov ya! Lil' Bitty

Dear Lil' Bitty- Yep...it was neat but we were so tired that night that we didn't get to go out and be a part of it other than watching the fireworks. However, I did speak with a bunch of people about it and how they celebrated when they were kids and how it has changed to the present way of celebrating it. I learned so much about traditions on this trip. It was so fun!!! I'll try to post more. i've been a slacker. ha. later-cb

still about china

The Beijing Penninsula...what a fantastic hotel!!! I think this was one of the nicest hotels I've ever stayed in. Plus, it was in walking distance to everything. But, we always took a taxi. My Houston skin is NOT used to the cold wind. We were going to walk to the forbidden city, but only got one and a half city blocks before we had to turn back. I got wind burn in that short of a distance. It was soooo cold. But, was totally worth going to visit. After visiting the forbidden city. Then we walked around Tinnamen Square and by Mao's tomb. Most of the building were closed around there because their government was in session for the 15 days after the Chineese New Year. In fact, the first night at this hotel was the festival of the Lanterns, so we got to see the biggest display of fireworks that night. In fact, on the trip we saw fireworks almost every night. They were in celebration of the new year for the 15 days. It was pretty neat!

2008 olympics in china

In Beijing you would see work being done everywhere in town in preparation for the 2008 Summer Olympic games. You could tell they were very excited to be hosting the event. They even spoke in the local news about creating laws to make it more pleasant while there. Some were interesting like, "no spitting." Who knows if they will have this law enacted, they just were talking about it in the newspaper. Well, here is one of the 5 mascots for the 2008 olympics. They are called "The Friendlies" I totally loved them and thought they were just too cute!!! They sold them in the airports and in the local tourist souvineer shops. I bought some key chains with them on them. They seem very "Friendly" just like all the people that I met in both Beijing and Dalian. In fact, I found the people to be friendly to each other as well, especially for being in such large cities.

happy half birthday

So, Big Kid gets up this morning all bright eyed and bushy tailed...stating in a proud, puffed up way: "TODAY is MY Half Birthday!"

You see...today makes Big Kid 8 and 1/2 years old.

So, I sang him this, "Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to You!" That's where I stopped, with half the song. His dad and sister told him, "Birthday." They could have chosen either "Happy" or "Birthday." Just not both.

This all stems from when my little sister Chelle would have her half birthday party during the school year, because her regular birthday falls in June. We would have half a plate, have a cake, half a party hat, half a napkin, etc... My kids have loved this story and have been counting the days to their half birthday...maybe I'll come up with half a cake for Big Kid...but then I'll be doing it again in two months for Little Bit....I think they're worth it. Don't you?

_____________

Also, been traveling a bit lately...Let's just say I went halfway around the world LITERALLY!!!

I'll post a few pics over the next couple of days...

M with his "$5...I'm a tourist in China" hat in front of the gate to the Forbiden City in Beijing.

This place was amazing and went on for what seemed forever... each emperor would just add on to the place.

nah nah

I'm going to China...I'm going to China!!!!

busy

Haven't been writing much lately...been quite busy. Here's a list of all the fun? we've been having.

1. Celebrated Fat Tuesday on Sunday night. Had our friends & their kids over and had a big meal of oyster pie, crawfish stuffed chicken, baked bbq shrimp, red beans-n-rice, salad, & bread. Complete with king cake for dessert. Some zydeco music and beads and such to complete the night!
2. Been celebrating puke fest the last two days with Little Bit. She got the flu. But is fully recovered. However, she did try to pull the "My tummy hurts. I think I have fever. I need to stay home from school" today. It didn't work. They all went to school or work.
3. Last Friday, there was no school. So, we had a day of fun. The kids took and spent their Valentine money on webkinz. www.webkinz.com They love them. We also went to lunch. That evening they went to the movies and supper with their friends. So, M and I went out on a date and saw "Breach" about some true story Russian spy and then to Martini's & More. It was a fun night.
4. Last Thursday I got my hair done. I love the place I go, "Cut Style." I think my stylist does a great job with my hair. Plus, it's always good for fun tabloid gossip.
5. And lastly, (but never really the last, just all I'm talking about for now) was Valentine's Day on Wednesday. It was great. We all opened our presents. Lots of Godiva chocolates, some books and drawing tools and books for the kids. And everyone got scratch off tickets...some were winners! Plus, I got a great pair of sunglasses and some Godiva from M. I love them!!! That eve...I put the table in the living room in front of the fire with a table cloth, candles, china, and sterling silverware. We ate a delicious meal of frito chili pie and strawberry shortcake for dessert. The kids and M loved it and cleaned their plates!!!

school picture day

YIKES!!! I just looked at my calendar and realized it was school picture day. I sent my children to school wearing whatever they picked out and let them fix their own hair today.

Usually on school picture day, I dress them up all nice in church clothes and fix their hair just right. Oh well, they say "honesy is the best policy." I just don't know if they meant that for pictures.

last night

Last night I was a "core audience member" for a Style network tv show called "Style School." It was like they pulled 5 people from the mall that they were at and gave them $300 each to buy stuff and be in a "beauty pageant." These 5 girls did a little opening number dance, modeled swimsuits, did a talent, and then an evening gown. It was interesting. And I met some nice people. Debbie Mattenopolis from E! Daily 10 and Cameron Mathison from All My Children were the hosts of the show. You know they looked great, flawless. It was a fun night.

thanks

I just don't know how I can thank Little Bit and Big Kids' mamaw and papaw enough for their Valentine gifts. It was a real pleasure to awake this Saturday morning at 6.30am to the flute recorders high pitch whitsle sounds.

___________

I'm in trouble. Big Kid has decided he likes putting on his jeans when they are all nice and warm straight from the dryer. He asked if I would put his jeans in the dryer this morning and then just went on and on about how wonderful they felt.

need more sleep

This morning at 5.45am...tromp..tromp..tromp...gigle...gigle...giggle...rrrmeoooowwww...

It was Little Bit crawling down the stairs..chasing the cat and catching him and carrying him back up to her room.

I'm too tired to get up and tell her it's too early to be awake. She has to be awake soon anyway. A few minutes of quiet and peace. I fall quickly back into a dreamlike state.

Thump, thump, thump, ahahahahahahahahah, thump, thump, weehhheeeeeee, thump, thump thump thump....etc...all happening right above my head in the game room. Click, mwammamwwa...tv came on as well.

Now it's 6am and both Little Bit and Big Kid are up and playing hard in the game room. It sounded like they had their big boucy balls and were throwing them against the wall and watching tv turned up to somewhere around 80.

I was still too tired to get up. I would be getting up soon anyway. I roll over and pretend to be asleep until about 6.40am. At which time I get up and turn off the alarm, as to not wake up M.

It shall be a busy day.

wakey wakey rise and shine

Yesterday morning we were all sitting at the breakfast table. Big Kid had turned on the tv and made a proud statement about having the remote and that he was the only one who got to hold it. Of course, he was also a little sleepy and so not as quick on his toes like usual.

So, the first time I took the remote, I said, "Look over there." and pointed behind me and took the remote. He caught on after we were all giggling.

The next time the remote was taken, Little Bit said, "Mommy, look over there." We all looked and she took the remote. (rather clever of little bit I must say) Big Kid realized it after we were all giggling, his dad laughing the loudest.

The third and final time (because we were pushing the limit) Big Kid was just zoned watching the tv. He had the remote sitting in his lap and I just reached over and took it and gave it to M. Then M put it behind the HunnyBuns box on the table. It took Big Kid like another 5 minutes before he realized it was gone.

From that point forth, he just held the remote in his clinched fist and watched the rest of his Power Rangers show.

on the ride to school on a friday

When pulling out of the driveway I saw my neighbor and rolled down the window. I told her that I still had that chocolate left that she had won from playing junk poker (a game where you play poker to loose all your yard sale type items). She said she wanted it and was going to give it to a friend as a joke. You see, the chocolate was in the shape of a bra. So, my kids became rather inquisitive about this chocolate. Here's the conversation that followed:

Little Bit: "What was the chocolate like?"
Me (should I be honest, yes...always just make it like no big deal): "It was shaped like a bra. It's just a joke."
Little Bit and Big Kid: "Yuck!!!"
Me: "Um, hm."

Ah, the conversation is over, I'm home free. Or, not...

Big Kid (as if in that one second he pondered it over throughly): "Actually, I would probably eat if it is just chocolate. But, I wouldn't eat it if it was a real bra."
Little Bit: "Yuck"
Big Kid: "I wouldn't eat a real bra!"
Then a pause in the conversation...ok it's over!!!
Big Kid: "But, a bra with chocolate syrup might be good."
Me: "OK!!! That's fine that we're having this conversation. But, don't talk about it at school. This is just a family discussion, OK?"
Big Kid: "O.K."
Me: "That means you too especially, Little Bit."
Little Bit: "O.K."

So, who wants to bet that the conversation turns to chocolate bras at school today? Arrrgghhhh!

helpful hint # 989

The best day to clean out your closet and try on all your clothes is a day when you are tired of all the extra stuff in your house.

Then you don't feel so bad when something doesn't fit well and you throw it out. You can just blame that big, huge pile of clothes you cannot fit on your pride of having a clean house.

show and tell

Today Little Bit took her new stuffed blanked dog to kindergarten and got to do show and tell. I had bought it for her yesterday after we took a car load of stuff to the Salvation Army. I asked her how show and tell went today and what she said...

Little Bit: "My mommy just sold my kitchen to poor people. So she bought me this blanket dog. I love it. It is so special. Then I let everyone touch it. It is so soft and has floppy ears."

I had to tell her that we didn't sell the kitchen, but I was really glad she liked the pup so much.

ARRRRGGGGHHHH

Got a phone message yesterday saying that they were trying to contact me, because they wanted me to be an extra on the hot national tv show "Prison Break" http://www.fox.com/prisonbreak/ They were shooting today in Dallas. I wasn't able to call them back in time and missed the opportunity....arrrrrgghgghhhhh. C'est la vie.

tae kwan doe

So, Big Kid is now taking Tae Kwan Doe and he is loving it. Last night he got a yellow stripe and a black stripe. I have no idea what this means, but I'm proud of him. And he's pretty excited too.

Since, we go two nights a week and possibly a third, I'm trying to talk Little Bit into taking the class as well. They all progress at their own pace and I think this would be good for Little Bit in many different ways. So, I asked her if she would like to take the class. She gave me an out and outright "No." So, my next tactic was to make sitting there waiting for Big Kid not fun for her and show her how much fun it looked like out on the floor with the other kids. She sat in her chair the entire time and watched. I asked her if she was bored and would want to go out and have fun by taking the class. She figured me out and told me "this is more fun." I have reached an impasse, a road block if you will.

name that artist i cannot

OK. So I'm driving to Wally World (aka Wal-Mart) this afternoon listening to the radio, this song comes on..."chic-chic-chic, what's a matta with you girl."

Oh, I think, "Rod Stewart. I love this song by Rod Stewart. I also love that enfatuation song. I should get his greatest hits cd. I bet it's got both on it."

So, I get to Wal-Mart. They have more than one greatest hits by Rod Stewart. I don't recognize most of the songs, so I just guess which cd is the one with that song on it. While, I'm there I happen to pick up the Rolling Stones Greatest Hits for purchase as well. I don't know why.

So, anyway. I get out to the car and pop in the Rod Stewart cd. I'm driving down the road and skipping to each song, trying to find the song I just heard on the radio. I couldn't find it, so I just settled on listening to "If you think I'm sexy." which I happen to really enjoy that song too.

So then...low and behold...I put in the stones cd. I'm flipping through the songs and get to the 10th track. And guess what comes on..."chic-chic-chic, what's a matta with you girl."

I have sooooo got to brush up on matching my artists with the songs they sing!

birthday party bravo

Do not be suprised...
that when you take your 8-year old son to a birthday party and he begins boasting that he burps the loudest and then actually does burp louder than any other kid in the room.

Do hope...
that he doesn't tell anyone that you taught him how to do it.

Helpful Hint #472

When trying to loose weight...

remove the cookie dough from your house by throwing it away,
instead of eating the entire package yourself.

if you tell them, they will come

OK...Am I the only person who cannot seem to communicate with the outside world?

It seems that I am having a communication problem. And I know it's me, because it keeps happening over and over with different people. Every time that a person calls to schedule dropping off something (ie a washer/dryer, a tv, a couch or whatever) or coming over to provide a service (ie the cable guy checking the computer connection, the phone company to drop a new line, or whatever)...then they always come at the one time that I say I will be leaving.

Here's a classic example...

The day before yesterday a lady calls to schedule dropping off a new tv to our house.

The Lady: "On Wednesday, we will be bringing a tv to your house sometime between 9am and 1 in the afternoon."
Me: "Uhh...I have to leave at 11am to be on time for a luncheon, so if you can bring it before 11 or after 1, then I can be here all day waiting."
The Lady: "OK. Then we will deliver the television between 1 and 5."
Me: "OK. I will be here between 1 and 5."
The Lady: "OK. Thank you. Goodbye."
Me: "Bye."

Low and Behold...
It's Wednesday morning at 11:02. I get a ring on my cell phone.

The truck driver: "Mrs. B, we're on Such and Such street and we need directions to your house."
Me: "You're coming to my house right now?"
The truck driver: "Yes ma'am. We have your tv."
Me: "Uh. OK. I'll come over there and you can follow me..."

SO, they dropped off the tv and were so very polite that I cannot even complain, because of how nice and efficient they were.

And I did make it to my luncheon on time. I just need advice on how to schedule things with people better.

ice day

Last week, we down here in the Houston area had ice. Being so used to having cold winter weather, the school closed on Wednesday.

My kids were so excited that they ate a quick breakfast and put on some warm clothes and went outside to play. The big question/conversation between Big Kid and Little Bit before heading outdoors was "What do icecycles taste like?" I told them they would have to just go outside and find out.

So, while outside they picked ice cycles off of everything and ate a ton of them. They ate the ice cycles off of the patio table, the ones that dangles off of plants, then I saw them start to eat the ones that were dangling off of the garbage can. Did I stop them?........No. I just let them go about their fun time in their icy wonderland. When they came back inside they said all the ice cycles tasted good.

I also enjoyed watching Big Kid and Little Bit punching the big leaf plants in my back yard. As they punched a leaf, the big sheet of ice on it would shatter and fall to the ground. They would laugh and punch another.

Afterwards, they came inside and enjoyed a nice big cup of hot chocolate with real mini marshmallows.

My Best

I’m really pleased with how much I have done the past couple of days.

I attribute it to LL Cool J and Benjamin Franklin. I saw LL on tv and saw the Benjamin exhibit here recently at the museum. It seems that all people that really make something of themselves all have this to say about themselves…”I just try to be the best that I can be.”

So, now I’m on this just do your best, no more, no less... kick.

I’m liking me more because of it.

A few quotes...in case I don't post for the next couple days

Some quotes, I've picked up along the way...

Carpe Diem – No regrets!

Life goes on, so go on with it.

If you wanna be my friend, that’s great. If you don’t wanna be my friend, that’s great, too!

Life can be boring, if you let it be.

People usually meet through either fate or hope.

Etiqutte- The following of rules set quietly and properly by man to achieve the goal of being a finished and polished person.

Some people are never noted except for exisisting.

Nothing Gold Can Stay
-Robert Frost
Nature’s first green is gold.
Her Hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf’s a flower
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf
So Eden sank to grief
Dawn goes down to day
Nothing Gold Can Stay.

Why can’t you usually find where time goes? And once you find time, why does it always linger?

Unhappiness is one of the easiest things in the world to hide.

“Imagination is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” – Albert Einstein

What could be better than a true friend?

Sometimes I am given to wonder about people. I am enamored by some.

As the wind rushes, one listless golden strand of hair is swept away.

It’s the way we doing things that makes us different.

Everyone works on image.

Many people seem bored with life. I don’t understand why.

Little things will eventually take care of big things.

Friends will remain friends – for days.
Family will remain family – forever.

So many dreams for tomorrow-
Whatever happened to the dreams for today?

Nothing can be as true as the knowledge that someone doesn’t love you or the knowledge that someone does love you.

Why should their ever be thought?

“We’re only as happy as we think we are.” – Gee Whiz

“There’s not a minute of our lives should stretch without some pleasure new.” – Antony & Cleopatra

I’m going nowhere with my life, but I don’t know where else to go.

For some it’s not how you live,
But where you live.
For others it’s not where you live,
But how you live.

The Party (4/11/92)
Fabulous cheap champagne is sipped and last years newest outfits are worn. Standing in the middle of the crowd. Looking about. No one looking back. All are talking, yet silence rules the room. Hugging close friends which little about these people is known. “All is fine” is spoken through somber lips. “Glad to hear that” stated through the forced smile. It is truly a lovely evening.

“A Great Oak is only a little nut that held on.” – Gee Whiz

“People are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges.” – Gee Whiz

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” – Emerson

“The only difference between stumbling blocks and stepping stones is the way you use them.” – Unknown

“What goes around, comes around seven fold” – Miss Dixie

“If we are ever to enjoy life, now is the time- not tomorrow, nor next year, nor in some future life…” – Thomas Dreier

“Great hopes makes great men.” – Thomas Fuller

“Success is that place in the road where preparation and opportunity meet. But too few people recognize it, because too often it comes disguised as hard work.” – Anonymous

“A man is valued according to his own estimate of himself.” – Unknown

“You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.” – Henry Ford

“Impossible is a word only to be found in the dictionary of fools.” – Napoleon Bonaparte

“You can’t get anywhere in this world without wanting to do it.” – Dale Carnegie

A whisper of the wind blown trees in my ear tells me of the wonderful things you have done. A kiss of a raindrop on my cheek reveals all the sorrow, which you have endured.

It’s the way we do things that makes us different.

“Too much is always better than not enough, except in rear end pieces.” –Randy Johnson/ JR “Bob” Dobbs

What am I to do with the world and its ways, especially when I’m so much a part of the world.

Life is Good.

To think is one thing.
To know is quite another.

“Your happiness is intertwined with your outlook on life.” – Fortune Cookie

When life rolls in, rolls over, and rolls on – Get up after it all and go on.

Perhaps we all believe in dreams. Some good, some bad, still just dreams. Maybe we would hope they would be reality or never come true. But with all comes hope. Some for things to come or remain far away. Still there comes hope. With hope and dreams come reality. Or is it all just fantasy?!?

Pretty on the inside, shows on the outside.

He who laughs last, has the last laugh. Ha.

oh yeah...happy new year

WELL, I'm right on top of that New Year Resolution list...
-update my blog daily. Check.
-Eat only healthy food. Check.
-exercise daily. Check.

Uh...you won't tell me that I haven't done what I said I would do, right? And if I keep writing in this somewhat confusing way, maybe you won't even know what I said I would do, even though I didn't do it and then you surely wouldn't tell me, right? So much for resolutions.

I think I'm going to stick with Little Bit's resolution list and follow it:
"Play with my toys and watch more tv."
She may be just 6, but she's got her priorities straight. Stick with what you can do.
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Happy Belated Elvis Birthday.

Yesterday was Elvis' Birthday and we celebrated by eating fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches with a side of mashed potatoes. It was yummie and enjoyed by all. Plus, we watched Elvis' Aloha from Hawaii special. OK M watched all of it and the kids and I floated in and out watching parts of the show. He did have charisma. I hope you all enjoyed the king's birthday.
__________

A special shout out to Kee Ker the Kat and his owner Little Bitty. I'm missin' you and that big ole kat saunterin' across the floor at his own speed (can I use the word speed and Kee Ker in the same sentence).