Bloodletting....almost

So, In an effort to do good I decided to donate blood. It does not bother me or give me heebie jeebies. That and they were right there at work (and a coupon for free pizza :) sign me up!!
Soooo, I go, sign in, wait my turn. They ask a bunch of questions, no I have not been out of the country in the past 3 months or have had "relations" with anyone HIV positive or used illegal drugs. I passed so far, then the finger prick (worse than the straw used to drain your pint-in my opinion) to make sure I'm not anemic (nope). Soooo, apparently while taking my vitals the tech noticed an irregular pulse, on both wrists. Soooo, apparently I may have an underlying "condition" which given that I have been at the dentist several times these past weeks, (they take my blood pressure and pulse every time!) I was a little put off.

I am sure I don't have a problem but now...the hypochondriac in me now needs to check with my doc. My mom (the nurse) assures my women have that happen a lot. So I can wait. However, I am a little miffed about them not taking my blood. The tech even said I could go to wherever they are tomorrow and have no problem....UGH!! TAKE MY BLOOD ALREADY!!! It makes me mad. My mom pointed out that I am more upset they told me "NO". (I had an epiphany...That's where Mary gets it...Ahh HA!!) I know they need it...my blood type is O+ good for many people....

Now I'm not so sure I want to give it to them......

So, I might be actually getting a cold or something. I have taken my ibuprofen and it's taken the edge off the aches. I have decided not to make dinner. I am on the computer instead. I think sitting in front of the computer everyday for work, makes it more difficult to enjoy it at home. That, and when I do have time, I have to catch up on all I have missed which takes hours or so it seems. I usually have some website I want to check on and BAM on my home page is all of the gossip and blogs I have missed out on. Soooo, an hour later, I can't even remember what the website was. I have post its all over with books and websites I want to check out and I never have them near when I need them!

I am getting ready for Christmas. I am totally behind on that one. Jon, if you read this, You might get your gift for new year's. At least there is one??? maybe??? I am sooo close to fininsing up my shopping. I just can't do it during the week. I have tried but have had other pressing issues right after work. UGH!!!!! Nevermind the wrapping that needs to take place. I have NO TIME!!! So what do I do??? GET ONLINE, of course!!! That's like complaining of the weight I have not lost while eating a cookie...mmmm, coookies, I digress.

November....where did you go??

I missed a whole month! Well, it's been crazy lots of adjusting around here. We have decided to devote more time to just family activities. We have lots of things going on....just not together. That wasn't really working for me. Maybe because I don't have a hobby, maybe because I am tired of not spending unstructured time with my kids. (probably that one) I made the executive decision to pull Paul and Houghton from choir for many reasons. For Paul, time, time and more time. I know he enjoys it a lot but to be honest, 2-3 times a week, not including concert times was a little much since we didn't see each other much anyway. I would see him for a total of 15 minutes. Those 15 minutes consisted of the update/discussion for the day as well as him inhaling dinner. I wouldn't see him again for 24 hours (unless you count sleeping---I would already be asleep when he got home and leave for work before he woke up) As for Houghton, it was logistics, money and he really didn't seem that excited. For the boys, they have "sweepstakes" every year as a fundraiser, It's a really short but busy time and it's right after the holidays. I didn't really have the motivation to get going on it and Paul really didn't seem excited either. The participation is expected and we were not able to give it 100% It wasn't fair to them as well as Houghton. It is a great organization and we get a lot back for our work on sweepstakes but it just wasn't working. We moved Mary to the Tuesday afternoon dance class so that now we have Saturday's free (unless a swim meet is going on but usually only about 1 per month) We so far have had a few lazy Saturday's....it's nice, not to have to rush out anywhere. It really is the only day we have where we could free up some time. Well worth the sacrifice if you ask me!!!

We are gearing up for the holidays and are trying to do more around our faith. "The reason for the season" We have our Advent wreath up and light our candles and do our prayers. The kids are really behaving in church a lot better these days and it's very exciting. This is Paul's first Christmas as a Catholic :) I never thought I'd see the day. I just wish I could find a class to learn more. We have also moved to a new parish closer to home. It's smaller and the choir could use some help but it's a nice mix of young families and older "grandparents" I have come to really enjoy the mass. We sit up front....with all 3 kids too!!! It's nice because due to scheduling, we went to different services and when we returned to our usual spot, we were missed!! That is a totally new experience for me. The mass time is also most convenient, not too early, not too late as to not have most of the day go by. We still have a nice Sunday around the house.

I am on the fence about putting Mary in pre-school. She is definitely ready, and we'd like to see if she could possibly handle Kindergarten in the fall (she misses the Sept.1st cut off by 14 days) So, we're not sure if we should wait an entire year. She is in her dance class and the children's class on Sunday's at school but that's nowhere near the scope of a large class. She's one in 10 or so and at school she'd be one of thirty!!! I have some thinking and discussing to do on that.....

Well, I have forgone my nap and now it's time to make dinner. I am also freezing, I need to go put sweats on....since I'm trying not to turn up the thermostat!!!

Wow,does this work? I can send blogs right from my phone!?

What's up

So, lets see.... Simon is 6months now and we're trying out food. He seems to like it ok but we haven't found the magic time for dinner where he's receptive to eating but not starving.

Houghton ran in the Ironkids triathlon in Tucson 2 weeks ago. He did sooo awesome! I am so proud of him. Just watching the kids do that makes me exhausted.

Mary is well...Mary, she's such a good girl these days. She loves her dance class and is doing so well. I can see such improvement when she follows the teacher.

I am working full time and enjoying having an early schedule however, 3am comes pretty early, especially since Simon has now decided he wants to eat at 4am, I feel bad because he usually waits until I don't have time to feed him and get ready for work so I have to wake Paul. I am sure he would appreciate not having to interrupt his sleep.

We are excited for next week, my baby brother will be coming to visit!! YAY!!
I am sad though I think our next few weekends are too busy to go to the pumpkin patch this year. I do have to say it's difficult because I want to be in the fall spirit but it will be 95 DEGREES!!! this weekend....UGH!!! it's frustrating because I love the weather and well, there really aren't any seasons in Phoenix.

It's frustrating because I really want to do stuff with the kids and create memories, not just rush them here to there and nag nag nag....especially since Paul is no longer studying it should be easier right????

Wow, has it been that long???

Ok, really quick before I have to run Houghton to choir.... most recently we were in Tucson this past weekend. Houghton participated in the Ironkids triathlon...that's right ....swim, bike, run....good thing he's young!! He did AWESOME...for not having done one before and riding uphill in a bike without gears!!! He really did well!!! We had a nice time and the weather is finally cooling off!

I am still enjoying my job. I am now starting even earlier....5am!! I do like it though...it's getting enough time in my day to get things done....hopefully this earlier time will actually do that. Crazy I know.

We're just chuggin along. Simon is now 6 months old! He's talking (cooing actually) and whistles (on accident) He's quite cute. My little monkey!

Mary is well, Mary. She still doesn't sleep much, which in and of itself is not a problem...it's the crankiness that comes with not having enough sleep I have trouble with. Otherwise she's an adorable 4 year old now :) Still dancing, playing dress up and just being a girl....

Tucson

***Editors note...I cannot figure out this blog it won't listen to me and post the comments by the appropriate picture. It's late and I am annoyed by this on many levels. So I think it's self explanatory so figure out the comments....enjoy!


This is Simon and Mateo. Simon, the chunky one...it's cute now, but we might find a new nickname for him when he's older :) and Mateo the little cheeky guy...he's too adorable and I just looove this picture!

Paul & Mary at the LaPaloma Pool...Mary decided she wanted a piggy back ride from Daddy.

I had to include a picture of me. Not the best but the hat, a great hotel purchase...it has SPF! and I felt left out...the only one without one. Not anymore...just remember...I just gave birth and that means I have belly...yucky!

Houghton on his first day of school....Houghton was quite the assistant...he wanted to make sure he got the backpack in the picture and picked out the pose etc.

I have become lazy.

Ok, so not really. I have always been lazy. Or energetically challenged :)



I have ignored my blog for facebook. Why write a whole post when just a sentence will do?



Houghton has officially started 4th grade, yesterday. I helped him to his classroom with all of the supplies then he turned to me and said, "You can go now Mom." I am at least thankful that I am still allowed to give him a kiss and hug in public, for now. Oh, how I love the eye rolling and emphatic "I am" that comes with this age.



Mary, Simon and I are hanging out today. I was trying to get some cleaning off the ground but got waylayed by a phone call and visitor. So, now while the pizza is heating up in the oven...gourmet all the way! and the kids are down for a nap, I am writing this.



This is my last week as an unemployed person. I have tons of paperwork and a pee test (which was accomplished yesterday) to complete! I will be working in the DoD department which will require a government security clearance...yay...lots of paperwork...



I am glad we had a chance to get away this past weekend...to Tucson. We got to stay at LaPaloma...our favorite place...even if my sister didn't work there! 2 days really feels like 3 down there...we plan it so we don't really ever have to leave the hotel.



Hmmm...I think that's all for now.....lunch is calling (no, not the smoke detector)

On a happier note....

Houghton is 9 today. Wow...where'd the time go. He's such a great kid. He's sooo unassuming. He really was ho-hum about the whole thing. He and I went to see G-Force...actually a cute movie. Then we came home and he played wii. We even went to Sweet Tomatoes for dinner(he's been asking for that for a while) We then watched Star Wars Episode II...(he received the first 3 episodes on DVD) Then it was bedtime already. Where did the day go...just like that....

He's getting so much bigger/mature...the poor guy has to remain calm in the wake of his sister. She's the personality....I really have a hard time reading him sometimes and I wonder how I'm doing (in his eyes). I'm not sure I really want to know the answer. He will be brutally honest I'm sure.

School starts next Monday and I think he can't wait to get back to his friends. He's had a lonesome summer so we'll see.

Strength

Sometimes you come across something so touching and sad and just a reminder how life is so unfair it changes you. I wonder how life sometimes is cruel and it's just not fair. I have come across this blog by a remarkable woman at www.thesphorsaremultiplying.com . It's completely voyeristic for me, I have not felt that my meager words could be of use to her. She lost her baby at 17 months...check out the blog for all the gory details...this happened on 4/7/09.

I really think my troubles are so trivial in comparison...it's really a wake up call for me. I read her entries and try really hard not to just break down and sob. As a mother and woman I hope to God I never have to go through what she did and does on a daily basis. It just makes me kiss my kids and hold them that much closer. I hope I do a smidgen of a good job with what God has entrusted to me.

Bittersweet

Simon for some reason has been going on these little crying jags today. Ya know the cry that means something hurts. Oh it just tugs at those mommy heart strings! So I have been cuddling him after his bath and jammies. Sittin' in his rocker and cuddling. Ahhhh, I miss it already! I know I don't want any more kids but knowing that he'll never be this little again is so sad. I know that just around the corner he'll be squirming to get down off my lap. So, I took some extra time to snuggle and cuddle my littlest guy (while I still can).

Gotta go, the other two are looking for cuddles....still so sweet :)

I'm their mom and they're still little enough to cuddle!

Surprise...

Well, for the past month or so we've been participating in the produce co-op. I love it!!! Yes, love it!

We get the usual suspects, lettuce, spinach, cantaloupe, apples, bananas, celery etc. but we ususally get something else...something that takes one out of their comfort zone. Previously, it's been zucchini, squash, bok choy, and this week........artichokes!

I know the kids usually don't eat them (I use the marinated kind in dinners) but they don't mind the flavor. I might get them to eat one since it's fresh and you dip them. Kids love dip...of any kind. Ketchup, ranch, mustard, whatever!

I am thrilled to try it out...I have already "googled" how to cook them and other recipies. Sometimes I don't even know what to do with the stuff I get. It's awesome. I love to cook and bake....just don't know how most of the time. It's great and so far the recipes have been a hit.

Now I just have to get more propane for the grill :)

Why?

So, Paul says it's them not me. I was supposed to have a 2nd interview today. However, when I was conversing with the HR person last week, I never received a specific time/location. I sent an email yesterday wondering what's up. NO RESPONSE!! So, is that like "She's just not that into you"?

I have checked and rechecked the previous emails wondering if I could have misread them...NOPE!

So back to the drawing board...It's kinda weird. I have put out sooo many resumes and there aren't that many jobs out there. I am starting to get worried.

A confession.....

Soooo, Paul and I were able to go out on Sat. evening (thanks Mom!) We went to his boss's house for wine and karaoke. It was a blast and not wanting to take too much advantage of my mom, we headed home around 10:30. Since we were drinking wine and water, I went potty before I left. (yes, I said potty). In the bathroom, there was a scale....silly me!!! I STEPPED ON IT!!! Yes, I know...morbid curiosity got the best of me. Well, it was pretty much as I expected...NOT good. I even subtracted 5lbs...for summer clothes... still not good.

I MUST now exercise. I am doing better about the eating thing but now....must move the booty!!!

I am going to do it....me and Wii

Starting tomorrow...hehe

Job Hunt

Whew, I am struggling to figure out how to job hunt. It's amazing, the last time I did this. You could actually "pound the pavement" and find a job. Now, if you haven't submitted your resume online, no-go. It's not that I am totally computer illiterate or anything, but really. You think getting stuck in a customer service phone tree is tough??? Try sending your resume into the abyss. I just don't get it. It's not like I have this totally specific set of job skills what I have... it's a little above entry level. No, I am not demeaning my job or skill set. I really have been good in the past getting jobs. I was just taught to go get it. My mom taught me that there are many people applying for the same job and to make sure your name is at the top of their list. You do that by following up and "being a bug in their ear". That is much harder to do these days when it's all done by email and phone interviews. In my line of work I deal with many of the 'senior set' and most people want to know..."where'd the people go" they want to speak to a live person. I never really understood so much as I do now. Can't I just speak or meet with a person????

Feeling inadequate....so much so I can't even spell (Ok, I looked it up)

So, what did I do to deserve a psycho daughter. Really, she belongs to my sister. She was(is) the girly girl, ever popular and emotional one. My Miss Mary will cry at the drop of a hat. No kidding. It's not real it's just that in her head she has imagined some major slight and the world is now against her. She has become (or is trying to) the boss of her brothers. Being the oldest I really was the boss (in my own mind) sooo she likes to 'tattle' or at least "report" on the goings on. When she's reminded by me or her "other mother" Ulli (the great German child raiser) (babysitter seems so unencompassing of what she actually does) we have a meltdown, hence her pseudonym (Meltdown Mary) My mouth drops and I cannot believe what I am hearing as I hope the glass nearby does not shatter, Mary having a cow. With the nicest of corrections or mention of finding something else to do besides tattle, we melt. It's realllly annoying. Really! It is so much so I am contemplating having a drink at 8:30am....and not coffee (unless there's Bailey's involved) .

I have become the Queen of parentheses. I am now drinking 2, yes 2, cups of coffee in the morning....whoa....lots for me ok??? Especially since it's really coffee with my cream and sugar. (Ok, coffeemate and sugar....but I'm lactose intolerant otherwise it's 1/2 & 1/2..mmmm)
I digress.....

So, onto the other one, I feel like such a nag....to Houghton that is. Paul bought into it so he has to put up with it. I am constantly reminded that he's "only 8" (for 2 more weeks anyway) but really do I have to mention to brush your teeth over the sink or to no throw the ball against the wall in your bedroom when it's time for bed??? really?? I do remind him gently 3 or 4 times before I just go "come on dude...really" I just don't get it....I know he's at a disadvantage with that Y chromosome and all but I had hope.....
He is looking forward to the last week of day camp. There is a talent show on Thurs. He's going to sing "God Bless America" with another boy there who is also in the choir with him. I am really nervous because as much as I love his enthusiasm, he really does take after me in the singing department. I hope that this year in choir helps a little. Otherwise, not so good. I hate to say it but well, I must be a realist.

I realized that this is a rambling post. It's my blog, my birthday, so deal with it. I'll cry if I want to.

Continuing on...to feeling inadequate, and yes, I had to look it up, the spelling that is. I cannot let my reputation as a great speller be defiled by a misspelling.

Anyhoo....My ability to do laundry or complete a housecleaning task has dissipated. Not like it was really great to begin with. I have the skills and know-how but the drive, energy desire, nope, nada, zilch, zero. So much so I have taken to giving my socks (that are too small) to my son, who reminds me every morning that he has no clean socks. (never mind I just bought 3 new pkgs. ...but those are for school).....and my kids are picking out their clothes from the albeit clean but unfolded laundry basket in my room....sorry Mom.

My goal, (on my b-day nonetheless) is to get all of the laundry done. Or at least most of it....I do know that there is pizza and wine and friendship waiting for me at the end of the day....so I'll feel less of the Catholic guilt if I do laundry....even on my b-day.

Simon Saga

Well, Simon is doing well and is kicking and talking and sucking on his fist. However, he is also spitting up....a lot. He was very fussy when we switched him to formula....then we tried soy (both the other 2 were on soy) and it helped, a little, we then added cereal to his bottles....again ok but no perfect....he still didn't like it...he was fussy and spitty...then we added the baby zantac. It made a world of difference he still spit but he was not nearly as fussy. Then he started making bigger spits....kinda like the exorcist but not virus related since he wouldn't do it all the time. We went back to the pediatrician and he recommended a "barium swallow" which I could tell he really didn't think was necessary but is humoring us anyway. I just want to know what he cause is. The other 2 kids were spitty but got better with the other measures. Simon is not. So anyway the procedure is coming up on Tues. June 3oth so hopefully then we'll have some answers.

SNOT

I don't know what to do. Mary has had green nasty boogies and a cough to boot for at least 2 weeks. I know the weather is crazy and we've taken her to the doc but she just finished her 10 days of antibiotics and still...nasty. He says her lungs are clear and her cough is from the post nasal drip. She sounds so bad I know when we're out in public or around other kids and she coughs we get nasty stares. I can't help it. I try not to do much with them anyway but you can't avoid it. Simon is snotty too...his is definitely post nasal drip or such because you just want to clear your throat for him. We are using sinus washes which seem to offer a little relief. But with Houghton's asthma and the kids and their allergies (Paul too) I can't help but wonder if it's something else. We keep having this problem. I keep wondering if medicating everyone is just masking the real problem. I just don't know what that might be or where to begin. I can't help but be influenced by the horror stories of Mold, pesticides, old paint etc. I also am ready to rip up the carpet and have the ducts cleaned. It's expensive but I am getting really fed up with all the coughing and snotty noses.

Dilemma

So, while out on maternity leave I discovered that Walgreen's is going to lay off pharmacy technicians when they have some restructuring done. That means we don't know when that will be. I do know that I have to decide whether or not to choose the voluntary separation package by Monday at 5pm. I will still be able to work until the demand decreases (possibly around Aug). I unfortunately have so many what if's with this whole situation I am a wreck. I don't really want to job hunt again (I have 8 yrs w/walgreens) and yet, I don't want to compete with some subjective "assesment" process they have in place to keep your job. Yes, if you want to keep your job you have to basically go through an interview process all over again, and then possibly you could keep your job. So, I could go through all of this and still be laid off. The voluntary severance package is twice as good as the 'non-voluntary' package so now I have to gamble.

I am not a gambler. I play the nickel slots in Vegas and get a dime....I'm done...doubled my money moved on. I just don't feel comfortable doing that. So being sleep deprived and returning to work this week, I am an emotional wreck....I need a good cry.

Disappointment

Well, as the school year has drawn to a close, I am happy to say we have lessend our activities. Including Choir and Swim. Houghton is taking a break from swim due to scheduling issues.

With the choir we signed him up for summer voice lessons. One hour 4 days a week (just for one week).

We received his promotion letter yesterday in the mail. He was asked to stay back in the training choir again. He was disappointed (as I was) but he took it better than me. I know when he sings around the house it sounds more like me than Paul, but hey he's still my baby. I am trying to take it in stride like Houghton did. He was super. He shrugged it off and looked at the positive. I am amazed at how well of a job Paul and I have done. I on the other hand, want to really ask why is my boy not good enough?? I get defensive and feel really bad. I guess that's the protective mother in me.

Taking a cue from Houghton though, I am going to look at the bright side.....He won't be going away to camp (I wasn't ready for that yet!), I don't have to spend money on a new polo shirt (the pants are already too short!) The tuition cost doesn't go up! So really those are ok reasons and I am trying to get over it.

The economy hits home

So, in the great economic times Paul and I are thankful that we have job security. At least that's what I kept saying. I now however have learned that for me this is not the case. I have found out that Walgreens is cutting the technician work force in half. So everyone has to take these 'assesments' and then will be graded and then it will be determined where your skills are best utilized...if you get to keep your job. I have 8 years in and am pretty well liked so if that weighs in I might have hope. On the other hand I am more expensive so if it's purely money....bye-bye. I don't have all of the info yet but have to go attend a meeting. I hope my panic is short lived and I understand we're supposed to know by the end of June. They are also offering severance packages so hopefully that will alleviate some of the numbers.
My lesson I have learned here is that nothing is certain! Even in the booming pharmaceutical industry!!!

I wish I were in a better financial situation to just take the severance and stay home with the kids. If that were the case though, we wouldn't be having this conversation.

Well, my life has been turned upside down since April 2nd. That's when Simon Joseph joined the outside world (albeit at 11:07pm!) He has been much smoother to make the transition to our family than either Houghton or Mary. (knock on wood) He has filled out nicely and I shall be making a trip to the pediatrician soon (just to check).

I can't believe he's 4 weeks old today!! Time really flies...especially when your sleep is interrupted! He is a wonderful addition to our family and Houghton and Mary dote on him as much as possible. He is just starting to keep his eyes open and interact with the kids for short periods of time.

I am nervous about making the transition back to work. Summer is coming and I really would love to be able to stay home. However, finanacially that's not going to happen. The unfortunate side affect to that is paying for daycare!! UGH!!! It doesn't make sense but the pennies I have left over are what I am working for!! I suppose I should buy a lottery ticket. I am not asking for much just enough to pay off my bills (and maybe a little extra) so that I can stay home.

On another note, Pauls exam is coming up. He takes it on May 12th. The nice thing is that I don't go back to work until the 18th. We also have my sister's baby shower on the 9th and the Spring choir concert on the 10th (mother's day).

We are looking forward to having no extra curricular activities this summer and probably won't take much of a vacation. Maybe I can convince Paul to do a couple of projects around the house. (the less expensive ones)

Spring Fever...or Nesting

Well, I am glad I only have 4 days left of work. I am really excited but I have so much I want to do around the house. I usually get this way when the weather is nice...and man has it been nice!! I have washed the baby clothes, carseat etc. I am doing regular laundry (necessary evil). I rearranged my kitchen cabinets this morning and am stripping all the kids flannel sheets and putting on regular ones. I would have all the windows open but the citrus trees are in bloom and allergies run rampant around here!! I am cleaning out my closet and packing my bag for the hospital (just in case). I am feeling a little under prepared in that area but well, it is #3 and I am pretty sure whatever I need will be around. We have the basics covered. I even remembered to buy diapers!

I really want to plant some flowers too....and so does Mary. (and yes, she is contrary and how her garden grows....we don't know) If all goes according to plan, Mary and I will have some time next week to plant some. I have no idea what but, we'll probably walk to the nursery around the corner and pick out something pretty!!

When I was pregnant with Mary, I planted 4 rosebushes in the front and they are still thriving! So we'll have to see how well we do with something else this time.

Cheapskate

Well, not exactly but I am trying to cut corners and save money where I can. It seems like lately with all the recession/depression talk I really need to buckle down and get creative.

It seems like we waste so much and take so much for granted. I am trying to cut coupons (of which I have a backlog) and plan out our weekly meals. It is difficult since we have such busy schedules and I am trying to feed my family better. We do OK but I know we can do better!! Houghton is eating us out of house and home lately, and Mary's actually eating what we put in front of her so it's good. I am just in a dinner rut. It's the same 'ol same 'ol stuff for dinner.
Also, I am trying to make my lunch everyday which is going well so far and Paul is good at taking leftovers. (I try with some stuff but it's hard...not a big fan of leftovers!) We are also trying not to eat out/take out much. It's ok since the kids don't really care for it anyway!!

Another good thing that happened is that my mom had a yard sale (in our yard) for a bunch of stuff she wanted to get rid of .....Houghton helped by going through some of his toys and putting them out. He also helped grandma get organized and tag stuff. He made about $60...pretty good for last minute AND he was at a swim meet so grandma took care of the sales!!! (she didn't even ask for a percentage! :)

Speaking of yard sales....Paul has always been against them...too much work for to little reward....until now (I think) He was impressed to find out that my mom made about $350 in 3-4 hours and only put up 2 signs at the end of our block. With all the crap we have and are getting rid of trying to make space for #3 he's definitely not ruling out a yard sale in the future!!
We still take plenty of stuff to goodwill but I think in the coming months...it will be fun...and to see what the kids do too...it will be a good lesson for them. Plus, I am thinking they could have a lemonade stand...which is always too cute!!

"crack-berry"

Paul and I got new phones....our contract was up and I needed something that I could use to access our online calendar during the day, on the go, etc. So we decided to get "Blackberry's"
which now that I have figured out (with help from Paul-of course) how to generally get to stuff it's like an addiction. I have to check it all the time...and I am like a little kid. I use it to entertain me while waiting....it's pretty cool though!! I do like having my calendar avail. when I need to schedule something. And poor Paul, his addiction is worse....for 2 reasons...1) He didn't reallly want one to begin with ...and 2) He's techno savvy so he gets more gedunks etc. (I stick with the basics)

One interesting side benefit....I can now text more efficiently and Paul will actually text....that means he responds waaaayyy faster than if I tried to call!!

Baby update

Well, I am getting done....ok I am really done...with work, crazy children/husband schedules etc....Oh and the pregnancy thing. I apparently look great....maybe I'll actually have Paul take a picture since I don't really have any prego pics. Many people, ones I know, and ones I don't comment on how great I look. It makes me wonder...how do pregnant women look to others? Not sure but I do know I have not gained a large amount of weight, which is good...I have a little extra to begin with! On the last visit to the doc however, we had a discussion about delivery and inducing.

I have been adamant about waiting for nature to take it's course. Up until last week that is. Did I mention that I am done??? We are tentatively working towards a 4/2 baby. It just feels right....I still however, have no incling as to whether I might have a boy or a girl. NO idea. With Mary, I knew. This one....nope, nada, nothing. It will be a surprise for sure! Paul, Houghton and Mary now are rooting for a boy. Me, doesn't matter.

So at my next appointment in 2 weeks...we'll discuss the progress and determine whether I'll actually have a baby early. That would be a change of pace for me!!

Also, FYI ...it's really HOT! It was like 87 degrees out today. I am so glad I do not have to be pregnant during the summer again. I am already warm!!!

Pan'fakes'

That's what it is called when you try to make pan'cakes' for dinner and use regular flour....thinking that it's Bisquick. FYI...not the same thing. However, Houghton got brownie points for eating them...why I don't know....I told him not to...they were not good at all!

Paul came up with the name...we all got a good laugh and chalked it up to "pregnancy brain" fortunately the "real" pancakes turned out much better (anything would have been better...trust me!) And as luck would have it...it does not take long to whip up some pancakes..so we actually got to eat them.

The Mother of all tantrums

Mary decided that when we got home she'd go see her 'friend' at his house. She talked about it in the car all the way home. She has had this 'friend' for quite a while now. She also knows that she can stay there....there is a bed for her too! Well, when we got home she proceeded to tell me that she's going to walk to her 'friends' house and that it's far. When I realized she wasn't going to stop at the end of the driveway, I asked where exactly is her 'friends' house and if it was far...shouldn't she wait until we could drive?? She proceeded to inform me that the house was by 7th St. (for those not familiar....it's a VERY busy street about 3 blocks away) So realizing she really was going to go, I had to inform her that it was not safe for her to go. We were doing ok, she cried a little but let me take her into the house.....where she proceeded to scream her head off that she wanted to go outside....(out front) I tried to lure her to the backyard with thoughts of toys but nothing was deterring her. So I explained that she cannot play out front because someone might come by and take her and she'll never see her parents, friends, family etc again and she wouldn't like that. She paused and thought about it...but wasn't ready to give up. So....I picked her up and brought her inside where she then ran to her room and kicked and screamed (and I mean screamed!) for a few minutes. It was quite comical as I am too tired from a long day at work to argue ....and her tantrums are usually short if left without an audience. Which was then stopped when she brought me a kleenex so that I could wipe her nose which of course was running from all the crying/screaming. After that....she finally decided to watch a movie.

That did remind me of my favorite picture of Mary....It was taken in Tucson when we were there for the UofA vs. ASU fooball game at the beginning of Dec. It captures Mary in all her glory.....

Pack Rat

I know this... I am a pack rat. I like to keep everything. From sentimental momentos to papers etc that I might need someday. I know this....however, I have discovered I am an electronic pack rat as well. I decided to clean out my inbox. I just started deleting the oldest emails. I figured if it was from Jan of 2006...I probably don't need it. (or I can find the info again anyway) I was feeling strong. Now, I didn't realize how much anxiety this is causing me!!! I don't need to have sales from 2 years ago!!! I know this....but I can't seem to get over it. I am going to get past it and move on. I know this probably won't surprise Paul but well, it was a sort of revelation to me.

Welcome

So, my most recent dilemna (aside from not blogging since waaaay before the holidays) is this....to facebook or not to facebook?? Paul and I have had this discussion as well as one I had with Julia. I am not sure really that I have anything exciting or really any friends. What exactly would I do with it?? Not sure, especially seeing as I cannot keep up with blogging these days.

Speaking of which...I do have lots to talk about and pictures to post but I am currently on duty trying to get 2 wound up kids to clean up and go to bed since Paul has checked out to go study.
Lucky for me though he did clean the kitchen which had about 4 days of dirty pots and pans etc piled up. I might forget to mention it to him but...it's awesome!!! With him studying, I get to do more dishes than I care to. Oh well......