100 Things 100 Readers 100 Comments $100

I am a little late in acknowledging my 100th post milestone. Better late than never, they say. In honor of this achievement I am having a contest. If you want to win $100.00 try this on for size:

1. Subscribe to me in your reader. For the contest to work my goal is to gain 100 readers by the deadline. If I do not have 100 readers by the drop dead date, no money.

2. Comment on this post. For the money to be given away I need 100 comments by the deadline.

Some of you might be saying to yourselves, "She is bribing us", "She is buying us". Yes, some may look at it like that. Others might say "Who cares, I could use 100 bucks!".

Since I am a conformist and do what everyone else does, I will add 100 random things about me for your amusement. Enjoy.

1. I like ice in my milk. There is nothing worse than warm milk.
2. I do not like meatloaf. I think this dish was a lazy kitchen accident in the 60's.
3. I do not like coconut or anything flavored like it.
4. I played the violin until I graduated high school.
5. I toured Europe with my orchestra.
6. After playing the saxophone one year I decided I liked the violin better. When I told my band leader he cornered me and called me a quitter that would amount to nothing. These are the people that shape young minds.
7. I would love to play the trombone.
8. I had braces when I was 28 and now have a permanent lower retainer.
9. I have been known to cut off swollen taste buds so I will stop rubbing them against my teeth. I know, weird.
10. I give my husband manicures and pedicures.
11. My CD collection is alphabetized (big surprise).
12. Hubs and I have moved 10 times in 11 years.
13. Kansas City is my favorite place to live.
14. My favorite deli sandwich is turkey and Swiss.
15. I started drinking coffee about three months ago.
16. My first car was a 1987 Dodge Colt.
17. I drive a convertible.
18. I have a birthmark shaped like an island on my left cheek. The boys have the same.
19. I had Kawasaki when I was five.
20. I had my tonsils removed when I was 14.
21. I have had two left knee scopes.
22. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2006.
23. My sister played connect the dots with my freckles when we were kids in an effort to count them. We lost track.
24. I don't like to cook.
25. I like to bake from a box.
26. My phone is a Treo 700
27. After owning Gateways for 10 years I bought my first HP in 2006.
28. I want a Mac.
29. I want to write a book.
30. I am 9 classes away from finishing my MBA.
31. It took me 12 years to finish my BS.
32. I love chocolate chip ice cream but like to wait for it to melt a little & eat it in shake like form.
33. I like to dip my fries in my Wendy's frosty.
34. My license was suspended when I was 18 due to speeding tickets.
35. I drink Captain and 7.
36. I sleep with the fan on.
37. I was raised Baptist.
38. I am Episcopalian now.
39. I like Karaoke.
40. I love the beach and perfecting the art of counting waves.
41. Not a fan of snow or cold.
42. I don't eat beans. They have a weird texture.
43. I love cheese, I could eat a whole block at once.
44. I love to sleep.
45. I love to read.
46. I love psychological thrillers.
47. I like coffee with my coffemate.
48. I use paper towels; not a dish towel.
49. Clear fingernail polish and red toenail polish.
50. A tattoo of a coyote and moon
51. A tattoo of a palm tree
52. Hit Me With Your Best Shot is my favorite song to karaoke
53. I can sing the states in alphabetical order
54. I am right handed
55. I am left brained
56. All of my biological grandparents are dead
57. I have a sister that is 5 years older than me
58. I have a brother that it 13 years younger than me
59. I was a cocktail waitress in college for one night ( I belonged on the other side of the table)
60. I was a life guard in high school
61. My heart has been broken
62. I have testified against someone in court
63. I have been baptized
64. I once worked at a dating service
65. I love the smell of honeysuckle
66. I once cried while eating a TV dinner brownie; it was that good
67. My hair parts to the right
68. I was born in Mint Hill NC
69. I was raised in Kansas City
70. I am Hungarian
71. Prior to having kids I wore a size 7.5-8 shoe; I now wear a 7
72. I do not like my neck being touched but I do like it to be kissed
73. I am stubborn
74. My celeb crush was once Matthew McConaughey but is now Leo DiCaprio (Blood Diamond did it for me)
75. I am considering plastic surgery
76. I occasionally dream (nightmare) that my teeth fall out
77. I talk a lot when I drink alcohol
78. I have the memory of an elephant
79. I keep my nails short and my hair long
80. I once cut my hair so short that hubs would trim it at home with his trimmers. Never again
81. Both ears are pierced twice
82. I have trust issues
83. I avoid confrontation
84. I failed algebra in high school
85. I write thank you notes
86. I don't eat breakfast
87. I would love to visit a truly haunted home
88. I own my own shot gun
89. I do not believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone.
90. I won a writing contest when I was young
91. I am an Aquarius by date but a Capricorn by traits
92. KU and UNC Basketball
93. KC Chiefs Football
94. I eat my sandwiches dry
95. I do not like guacamole
96. Although I am right handed, I play pool left handed
97. My greatest fear is losing everything in a fire.
98. My brother in law is a fireman
99. I love going to the dentist
100. Creation not Evolution

So the deal is 100 readers subscribed and 100 comments made by Thursday August 14th. I will randomly draw a name of a commenter on Friday August 15th and send them $100.00! That should buy a lot of gas!

Thanks and Good Luck!

100 Things 100 Readers 100 Comments $100

I am a little late in acknowledging my 100th post milestone. Better late than never, they say. In honor of this achievement I am having a contest. If you want to win $100.00 try this on for size:

1. Subscribe to me in your reader. For the contest to work my goal is to gain 100 readers by the deadline. If I do not have 100 readers by the drop dead date, no money.

2. Comment on this post. For the money to be given away I need 100 comments by the deadline.

Some of you might be saying to yourselves, "She is bribing us", "She is buying us". Yes, some may look at it like that. Others might say "Who cares, I could use 100 bucks!".

Since I am a conformist and do what everyone else does, I will add 100 random things about me for your amusement. Enjoy.

1. I like ice in my milk. There is nothing worse than warm milk.
2. I do not like meatloaf. I think this dish was a lazy kitchen accident in the 60's.
3. I do not like coconut or anything flavored like it.
4. I played the violin until I graduated high school.
5. I toured Europe with my orchestra.
6. After playing the saxophone one year I decided I liked the violin better. When I told my band leader he cornered me and called me a quitter that would amount to nothing. These are the people that shape young minds.
7. I would love to play the trombone.
8. I had braces when I was 28 and now have a permanent lower retainer.
9. I have been known to cut off swollen taste buds so I will stop rubbing them against my teeth. I know, weird.
10. I give my husband manicures and pedicures.
11. My CD collection is alphabetized (big surprise).
12. Hubs and I have moved 10 times in 11 years.
13. Kansas City is my favorite place to live.
14. My favorite deli sandwich is turkey and Swiss.
15. I started drinking coffee about three months ago.
16. My first car was a 1987 Dodge Colt.
17. I drive a convertible.
18. I have a birthmark shaped like an island on my left cheek. The boys have the same.
19. I had Kawasaki when I was five.
20. I had my tonsils removed when I was 14.
21. I have had two left knee scopes.
22. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2006.
23. My sister played connect the dots with my freckles when we were kids in an effort to count them. We lost track.
24. I don't like to cook.
25. I like to bake from a box.
26. My phone is a Treo 700
27. After owning Gateways for 10 years I bought my first HP in 2006.
28. I want a Mac.
29. I want to write a book.
30. I am 9 classes away from finishing my MBA.
31. It took me 12 years to finish my BS.
32. I love chocolate chip ice cream but like to wait for it to melt a little & eat it in shake like form.
33. I like to dip my fries in my Wendy's frosty.
34. My license was suspended when I was 18 due to speeding tickets.
35. I drink Captain and 7.
36. I sleep with the fan on.
37. I was raised Baptist.
38. I am Episcopalian now.
39. I like Karaoke.
40. I love the beach and perfecting the art of counting waves.
41. Not a fan of snow or cold.
42. I don't eat beans. They have a weird texture.
43. I love cheese, I could eat a whole block at once.
44. I love to sleep.
45. I love to read.
46. I love psychological thrillers.
47. I like coffee with my coffemate.
48. I use paper towels; not a dish towel.
49. Clear fingernail polish and red toenail polish.
50. A tattoo of a coyote and moon
51. A tattoo of a palm tree
52. Hit Me With Your Best Shot is my favorite song to karaoke
53. I can sing the states in alphabetical order
54. I am right handed
55. I am left brained
56. All of my biological grandparents are dead
57. I have a sister that is 5 years older than me
58. I have a brother that it 13 years younger than me
59. I was a cocktail waitress in college for one night ( I belonged on the other side of the table)
60. I was a life guard in high school
61. My heart has been broken
62. I have testified against someone in court
63. I have been baptized
64. I once worked at a dating service
65. I love the smell of honeysuckle
66. I once cried while eating a TV dinner brownie; it was that good
67. My hair parts to the right
68. I was born in Mint Hill NC
69. I was raised in Kansas City
70. I am Hungarian
71. Prior to having kids I wore a size 7.5-8 shoe; I now wear a 7
72. I do not like my neck being touched but I do like it to be kissed
73. I am stubborn
74. My celeb crush was once Matthew McConaughey but is now Leo DiCaprio (Blood Diamond did it for me)
75. I am considering plastic surgery
76. I occasionally dream (nightmare) that my teeth fall out
77. I talk a lot when I drink alcohol
78. I have the memory of an elephant
79. I keep my nails short and my hair long
80. I once cut my hair so short that hubs would trim it at home with his trimmers. Never again
81. Both ears are pierced twice
82. I have trust issues
83. I avoid confrontation
84. I failed algebra in high school
85. I write thank you notes
86. I don't eat breakfast
87. I would love to visit a truly haunted home
88. I own my own shot gun
89. I do not believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone.
90. I won a writing contest when I was young
91. I am an Aquarius by date but a Capricorn by traits
92. KU and UNC Basketball
93. KC Chiefs Football
94. I eat my sandwiches dry
95. I do not like guacamole
96. Although I am right handed, I play pool left handed
97. My greatest fear is losing everything in a fire.
98. My brother in law is a fireman
99. I love going to the dentist
100. Creation not Evolution

So the deal is 100 readers subscribed and 100 comments made by Thursday August 14th. I will randomly draw a name of a commenter on Friday August 15th and send them $100.00! That should buy a lot of gas!

Thanks and Good Luck!

Elvis, Tattoos, and Beef Sundaes

Can it get any better than that? Saturday Night hubs and I headed to a fundraiser for a local non-profit. It was a beach bash theme that included Elvis impersonators, a balloon lady that made the most realistic octopus, and air brushed tattoos. We ended up leaving with a goody bag of treats that included blinking trinkets, color changing cups and Mardi Gras like beads. We had an impulse auction bid that we ended up winning that included some pool items and a huge Nuclear Globe. If you have not seen one of these before, just imagine The Babe is a gerbil inside a see-through wheel in the pool. Not sure this will make it to the pool this year.

Sunday we headed to the local fair with the boys and two of their cousins. Hubs commented that he couldn't wait to fill up on fair food. Corn dogs, funnel cakes, root bear, ice cream. I threw up a little in my mouth thinking about all the food in combination with the rides I would be on with the kids. Combined that with 90 degree heat and what is not to love? Speaking of the heat. The always prepared mother than I am did not bring a rubber band for my hair. It was hot, I was sweaty. We ran in to some friends, one of which happened to be my hairstylist. She suggested I get a pen and stick in in my hair to keep it up. I couldn't find a pen but The Babe had just devoured two foot long hot dogs. Hair on a stick? Welcome to the fair.

What makes this a classic fair photo is that you can still see a little corn dog on the ends of the stick. Although it looks like I am molding from the heat and sweat, the blue green on my back is my "3 day tattoo" from the night before sweating off. Yummy.
















This year I noticed the fair has added some new features. Specifically, new food items. I guess the discriminating tastes of Ozarks fair goers was costing them so patronage. I can see it now, "Hank, what do you think will really blow their belt buckles off?" "I know Earl, Beef Sundaes"! Whoo Hoo! We did not partake in the Beef Sundae, actually I thought it was a mistake until I walked up and saw the proof in the pudding.




Oh! Don't forget the animal viewing area. As we were walking through the barn looking at the sheep Little Man made one of many comments that proves he is my child. "There's a lot of poop in here". As I put him to bed that night he confirmed my suspicions, "Mommy, I didn't really like the animal part, I liked riding in the helicopter".

Elvis, Tattoos, and Beef Sundaes

Can it get any better than that? Saturday Night hubs and I headed to a fundraiser for a local non-profit. It was a beach bash theme that included Elvis impersonators, a balloon lady that made the most realistic octopus, and air brushed tattoos. We ended up leaving with a goody bag of treats that included blinking trinkets, color changing cups and Mardi Gras like beads. We had an impulse auction bid that we ended up winning that included some pool items and a huge Nuclear Globe. If you have not seen one of these before, just imagine The Babe is a gerbil inside a see-through wheel in the pool. Not sure this will make it to the pool this year.

Sunday we headed to the local fair with the boys and two of their cousins. Hubs commented that he couldn't wait to fill up on fair food. Corn dogs, funnel cakes, root bear, ice cream. I threw up a little in my mouth thinking about all the food in combination with the rides I would be on with the kids. Combined that with 90 degree heat and what is not to love? Speaking of the heat. The always prepared mother than I am did not bring a rubber band for my hair. It was hot, I was sweaty. We ran in to some friends, one of which happened to be my hairstylist. She suggested I get a pen and stick in in my hair to keep it up. I couldn't find a pen but The Babe had just devoured two foot long hot dogs. Hair on a stick? Welcome to the fair.

What makes this a classic fair photo is that you can still see a little corn dog on the ends of the stick. Although it looks like I am molding from the heat and sweat, the blue green on my back is my "3 day tattoo" from the night before sweating off. Yummy.
















This year I noticed the fair has added some new features. Specifically, new food items. I guess the discriminating tastes of Ozarks fair goers was costing them so patronage. I can see it now, "Hank, what do you think will really blow their belt buckles off?" "I know Earl, Beef Sundaes"! Whoo Hoo! We did not partake in the Beef Sundae, actually I thought it was a mistake until I walked up and saw the proof in the pudding.




Oh! Don't forget the animal viewing area. As we were walking through the barn looking at the sheep Little Man made one of many comments that proves he is my child. "There's a lot of poop in here". As I put him to bed that night he confirmed my suspicions, "Mommy, I didn't really like the animal part, I liked riding in the helicopter".

It Is An Honor Just to Be Nominated

My new friend Rachel over at Following In My Shoes recently bestowed some blog bling upon me. If you have not visited Rachel yet you should. She is super cute, super smart, and super funny. I will now continue the cycle of link love and unabashed praise.


There are a couple of "rules" for those who receive this award:

1. Put the logo on your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.
3. Nominate at least seven other blogs.
4. Add links to those blogs on your blog.
5. Leave a message for your nominee on their blog.

Here are my nominees:

1. www.doobleh-vay.blogspot.com

2. www.heydtwylie.blogspot.com

3. www.2writehands.com

4. www.thecrookedmaple.blogspot.com

5. www.whylawyerssuck.blogspot.com

6. www.piperoflove.blogspot.com

7. www.bunslife.blogspot.com

8. www.halfpastkissintime.com

9. www.cheaperthantherapyjen.blogspot.com

10. www.coltempo.wordpress.com

The ladies of these blogs are all amazing. They each have a different story to tell and tell it with humor and honesty. A couple I know in real life and a couple I have recently met on line. Either way, I read them often because they never cease to inspire me and make me smile. Enjoy!

It Is An Honor Just to Be Nominated

My new friend Rachel over at Following In My Shoes recently bestowed some blog bling upon me. If you have not visited Rachel yet you should. She is super cute, super smart, and super funny. I will now continue the cycle of link love and unabashed praise.


There are a couple of "rules" for those who receive this award:

1. Put the logo on your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.
3. Nominate at least seven other blogs.
4. Add links to those blogs on your blog.
5. Leave a message for your nominee on their blog.

Here are my nominees:

1. www.doobleh-vay.blogspot.com

2. www.heydtwylie.blogspot.com

3. www.2writehands.com

4. www.thecrookedmaple.blogspot.com

5. www.whylawyerssuck.blogspot.com

6. www.piperoflove.blogspot.com

7. www.bunslife.blogspot.com

8. www.halfpastkissintime.com

9. www.cheaperthantherapyjen.blogspot.com

10. www.coltempo.wordpress.com

The ladies of these blogs are all amazing. They each have a different story to tell and tell it with humor and honesty. A couple I know in real life and a couple I have recently met on line. Either way, I read them often because they never cease to inspire me and make me smile. Enjoy!

Like Sex with a Condom

In Japanese, Karaoke means empty orchestra. In English, it means public discomfiture set to music. Whatever definition you follow, there is an outlet for you. A guy from my hometown of Kansas City has combined two of my favorite things; drinking and Karaoke! I can not tell you how many times I have gone out with friends only to be disappointed when no one else wants to go do Karaoke. You see, there was a time in my life when I was known as "Carie-Okie" and it had nothing to do with Oklahoma. Now Cabaroke forces my friends to do what I only dream of!

Papa Bear, of Yellow Cab, offers a Karaoke screen in his cab with a number of songs from which to choose. You can then view the videos on the website to lament about how silly (drunk) you look. I think it would be fun to see the same group progress through the evening in song. How bad would they get?

The beauty of Cabaroke is the only one subjected to listening to all the singers is Papa Bear, and he is getting paid so I am sure he can be forgiving. Think about those poor souls at the bar that have to listen to all the bad to hear one good. I guess it is like the kissing lots of frogs to get to the prince thing.

The next time I am in KC and need a cab, I know who I am calling. Safety and fun all in one.

Like Sex with a Condom

In Japanese, Karaoke means empty orchestra. In English, it means public discomfiture set to music. Whatever definition you follow, there is an outlet for you. A guy from my hometown of Kansas City has combined two of my favorite things; drinking and Karaoke! I can not tell you how many times I have gone out with friends only to be disappointed when no one else wants to go do Karaoke. You see, there was a time in my life when I was known as "Carie-Okie" and it had nothing to do with Oklahoma. Now Cabaroke forces my friends to do what I only dream of!

Papa Bear, of Yellow Cab, offers a Karaoke screen in his cab with a number of songs from which to choose. You can then view the videos on the website to lament about how silly (drunk) you look. I think it would be fun to see the same group progress through the evening in song. How bad would they get?

The beauty of Cabaroke is the only one subjected to listening to all the singers is Papa Bear, and he is getting paid so I am sure he can be forgiving. Think about those poor souls at the bar that have to listen to all the bad to hear one good. I guess it is like the kissing lots of frogs to get to the prince thing.

The next time I am in KC and need a cab, I know who I am calling. Safety and fun all in one.

On Social Media~ What Does It All Mean

I started this site in January of this year after one of my oldest and dearest friends insisted that I should do so. Her exact words I believe, with some editorial help, were "You should turn your journal into a blog, you would be hilarious!". I have always told folks I was funny, I was just happy someone finally caught on.

So at the turn of 2008 I turned the tangible journal I had been keeping for the boys into an electronic version. I liked the idea of allowing my friends and family to keep up with us and for me to meet some like minded (or not so like minded) folks.

I started my journey slowly. I joined what I think is the best social network ever and have met some of the most talented and supportive group of mature, professional people out there. Prior to joining Cre8Buzz I though social networks were for teenagers and elderly pedophiles. I was mistaken.

As my journey continued I added a few tools to my arsenal to make my efforts easier. I began reading other sites and took their ques. I waded through all of the widgets and found some that I liked and thought might be beneficial. I wanted to see where readers where coming from so I added a traffic widget. I wanted to see just how funny I was so I added sitemeter. I wanted to follow some of my favorite folks so I added Twitter.

I am certainly not a professional blogger yet, but I do think I have a good handle on the tools available to bloggers. My concern is that I, or we, are duplicating our work or creating too much work for ourselves. I notice as I cruise through my accounts that many of the same people are in the networks. So in an effort to assist my neurotic ways I created a list. The list consists of all my memberships in on line communities or tools.

What I ask of you is to do the same in a post and link back to it in the comments here. That way you do not have to make the list twice and others will benefit from your info as well.


1. Cre8Buzz

2.BuzzFuse

3.Twitter

4.TypeAMom

5.Blog Catalog

6. Technorati

7. Stumble

8. Fuel My Blog

9. EntreCard

10. MomBloggersclub

11. BrightKite

12. LinkedIn

On Social Media~ What Does It All Mean

I started this site in January of this year after one of my oldest and dearest friends insisted that I should do so. Her exact words I believe, with some editorial help, were "You should turn your journal into a blog, you would be hilarious!". I have always told folks I was funny, I was just happy someone finally caught on.

So at the turn of 2008 I turned the tangible journal I had been keeping for the boys into an electronic version. I liked the idea of allowing my friends and family to keep up with us and for me to meet some like minded (or not so like minded) folks.

I started my journey slowly. I joined what I think is the best social network ever and have met some of the most talented and supportive group of mature, professional people out there. Prior to joining Cre8Buzz I though social networks were for teenagers and elderly pedophiles. I was mistaken.

As my journey continued I added a few tools to my arsenal to make my efforts easier. I began reading other sites and took their ques. I waded through all of the widgets and found some that I liked and thought might be beneficial. I wanted to see where readers where coming from so I added a traffic widget. I wanted to see just how funny I was so I added sitemeter. I wanted to follow some of my favorite folks so I added Twitter.

I am certainly not a professional blogger yet, but I do think I have a good handle on the tools available to bloggers. My concern is that I, or we, are duplicating our work or creating too much work for ourselves. I notice as I cruise through my accounts that many of the same people are in the networks. So in an effort to assist my neurotic ways I created a list. The list consists of all my memberships in on line communities or tools.

What I ask of you is to do the same in a post and link back to it in the comments here. That way you do not have to make the list twice and others will benefit from your info as well.


1. Cre8Buzz

2.BuzzFuse

3.Twitter

4.TypeAMom

5.Blog Catalog

6. Technorati

7. Stumble

8. Fuel My Blog

9. EntreCard

10. MomBloggersclub

11. BrightKite

12. LinkedIn

She's Got The Look

As I am sure you can imagine, when I was younger I never got in trouble. I was an absolute angel and parents could only hope their kids would be half as good as I was. OK Mom, stop laughing. I know you stayed up many nights while I was in high school just praying I would make in home in one piece, or even make it home. I recall that I may have been a little sassy at times to my mother and although I deserved a slap in the mouth for my tone, my mother never used physical force with me. Well, except when we were in public. You see, rather than embarrass me, my mother would do me a favor by kicking me under a table or pinching my arm. This was her way of saying, "straighten up miss thang", without having to say the words. Mom was gracious like that, but I did not realize it until I became a parent. Not only did mom use the under the table kick or pinch, she had a look. You know the look. The one that says, "you know you are doing something wrong or stupid and need to stop before you get in trouble or I embarrass you".


I had previously mastered this look with hubs for public settings. You know ladies, when your husband says something inappropriate or embarrasses himself and you are trying to tell him without words. Hubs is pretty good about recognizing this look but I recently realized that Little Man recognizes it too.

It is a glorious day when all you have to do is give the look and get results. Now I don't have to give him instructions multiple times. I don't have to worry about his hearing, because I know he sees me! Today I utilized the look at the dinner table and received an instant response. I heard angels sing and my mother's voice.

I know there will come a day the Little Man, like me, will get a little too big for his britches. He may do what I did to Mom and decide to call my bluff while in public. I was known to say to mom after one of her "reminders", "why are you kicking me mom?". This was not received well but mom rarely if ever pursued the issue until we got home. I am not sure I will have that much will power to keep my mouth shut. I may have to pull him by the ear to the ladies room and really embarrass him.

So tell me. What techniques do you use to get your kids attention without words?

She's Got The Look

As I am sure you can imagine, when I was younger I never got in trouble. I was an absolute angel and parents could only hope their kids would be half as good as I was. OK Mom, stop laughing. I know you stayed up many nights while I was in high school just praying I would make in home in one piece, or even make it home. I recall that I may have been a little sassy at times to my mother and although I deserved a slap in the mouth for my tone, my mother never used physical force with me. Well, except when we were in public. You see, rather than embarrass me, my mother would do me a favor by kicking me under a table or pinching my arm. This was her way of saying, "straighten up miss thang", without having to say the words. Mom was gracious like that, but I did not realize it until I became a parent. Not only did mom use the under the table kick or pinch, she had a look. You know the look. The one that says, "you know you are doing something wrong or stupid and need to stop before you get in trouble or I embarrass you".


I had previously mastered this look with hubs for public settings. You know ladies, when your husband says something inappropriate or embarrasses himself and you are trying to tell him without words. Hubs is pretty good about recognizing this look but I recently realized that Little Man recognizes it too.

It is a glorious day when all you have to do is give the look and get results. Now I don't have to give him instructions multiple times. I don't have to worry about his hearing, because I know he sees me! Today I utilized the look at the dinner table and received an instant response. I heard angels sing and my mother's voice.

I know there will come a day the Little Man, like me, will get a little too big for his britches. He may do what I did to Mom and decide to call my bluff while in public. I was known to say to mom after one of her "reminders", "why are you kicking me mom?". This was not received well but mom rarely if ever pursued the issue until we got home. I am not sure I will have that much will power to keep my mouth shut. I may have to pull him by the ear to the ladies room and really embarrass him.

So tell me. What techniques do you use to get your kids attention without words?

What Is In His Bed Tonight?

When the boys were infants, hubs and I didn't let them sleep with anything in their cribs. The fear of them getting tangled in a blanket was just too much for us. As they got older they acquired blankets that they sleep with and sometimes uses for comfort when they are sick, mad, or sad. Little Man's is a lot like the blanket I had a little girl. It is green and white knitting that provides him the ability to makes "holes" where he puts his fingers like a bowling ball. This is the reason he has affectionately named it his "holes blanket".

The Babe started with a little square "silky". It has a baby blue silky side and the other side is some sort of fuzzy material. As he got older we offered him a full size version but he still has an affinity to the mini blanket. He doesn't suck his fingers like his brother but when he is sleepy, The Babe will get the blanket and smell the blanket. I am not sure I would suggest this feat to anyone; who knows why the blanket smells the way it does.

Little Man had a birthday recently and he really wanted a "grab nabber". You know, one of those things used to pick up trash, or help the elderly or injured handle daily activities. One of his friends has one, and of course, Rocket from Little Einsteins uses one. This was the happiest I have ever seen someone for a mere four dollars. Although I am not sure what the allure of the product is; Little Man takes this thing everywhere. At times it is useful. In the car when he drops his cup he uses it to pick it up. He helps brother get things The Babe can not reach.

It becomes annoying at bed time. Little Man grabs his blanket and his grab nabber and heads to bed. Each night for the last week he asks the same question; "can I sleep with my grab nabber?". We had some fits and crying but when I finally got myself together he agreed that it could sleep next to him on the floor. Of course, the nabber has it's own pillow and is easily accessible when he wakes.

When he enters our room to wake us he is carrying the nabber and the blanket. I know this too will pass. He could be sleeping with much worse I suppose.

What Is In His Bed Tonight?

When the boys were infants, hubs and I didn't let them sleep with anything in their cribs. The fear of them getting tangled in a blanket was just too much for us. As they got older they acquired blankets that they sleep with and sometimes uses for comfort when they are sick, mad, or sad. Little Man's is a lot like the blanket I had a little girl. It is green and white knitting that provides him the ability to makes "holes" where he puts his fingers like a bowling ball. This is the reason he has affectionately named it his "holes blanket".

The Babe started with a little square "silky". It has a baby blue silky side and the other side is some sort of fuzzy material. As he got older we offered him a full size version but he still has an affinity to the mini blanket. He doesn't suck his fingers like his brother but when he is sleepy, The Babe will get the blanket and smell the blanket. I am not sure I would suggest this feat to anyone; who knows why the blanket smells the way it does.

Little Man had a birthday recently and he really wanted a "grab nabber". You know, one of those things used to pick up trash, or help the elderly or injured handle daily activities. One of his friends has one, and of course, Rocket from Little Einsteins uses one. This was the happiest I have ever seen someone for a mere four dollars. Although I am not sure what the allure of the product is; Little Man takes this thing everywhere. At times it is useful. In the car when he drops his cup he uses it to pick it up. He helps brother get things The Babe can not reach.

It becomes annoying at bed time. Little Man grabs his blanket and his grab nabber and heads to bed. Each night for the last week he asks the same question; "can I sleep with my grab nabber?". We had some fits and crying but when I finally got myself together he agreed that it could sleep next to him on the floor. Of course, the nabber has it's own pillow and is easily accessible when he wakes.

When he enters our room to wake us he is carrying the nabber and the blanket. I know this too will pass. He could be sleeping with much worse I suppose.

Everyone's A Critic

I admit, I was one once too. Prior to having my own children you would find me looking at parents in the mall or park, or grocery store. I had all sorts of insights to provide them, if only they would ask. "They must give him a full can of soda each morning, how could anyone have that much energy?" is what I thought of some kids. "Don't reward him for that behavior", I would think to another. "Who runs the show at that house?" I would wonder to another.

Since becoming a parent, my outlook has changed. I empathize more than criticize. I realize they all have their moments, just like adults. We have good days and bad, and sometimes just need to eat and take a nap. Sometimes we just need alone time, or some time with Daddy.

The boys and I went grocery shopping today. I normally look forward to this outing with them. Little Man helps pick out items and The Babe helps put them in the cart. Today was no exception, all was going as planned, until The Babe saw the yogurt!

The Babe, being all of 20 months, still hasn't found all of his words. When he wants something he usually signs and says the word "more". Today he broke my heart while it melted when he added the word please and used the sign. He knows how to work it.

I have been known to let the boys eat while we shop. Who doesn't dip into the grapes, or open a box of trail mix while meandering down the aisles deciding what to have for the next meal, which is usually within the hour. Since yogurt is not on my approved list of items to eat while shipping, I tried to divert The Babe's attention to string cheese. "Do you think I am dumb woman?" is what the look that he gave me said.

A woman in her grandmother years was in the aisle with us and started to giggle. I mistakenly took this giggle as one of empathy but I was wrong. I soon heard her say "I'm glad those aren't my children". Although I too, was happy they were not her children, I laughed and said something to the effect of "You would think I didn't feed them". We parted ways. The three of us and the woman. Not me and the boys.

We see the woman again a few aisles later. The Babe had calmed down but the annoying attention he is getting from the woman makes him a little irritated and begins to whine. He is, after all, hungry and I did not give into to his yogurt whine so she is just a reminder of this fact. We part ways again.

The Babe calms down with some string cheese and we check out. Little Man helps place things on the counter while The Babe flirts with the checker. All is well again. We head to the in-store Starbucks after Little Man informs me we have been very good at the store and Mommy deserves a White Chocolate Mocha. I kid you not, he said that. He also added that he would like some milk and a donut. He orders for us; again, I kid you not. Tall nonfat WC Mocha for Mommy and too Chocolate milks for the boys. Here she is again. This time she notes the milks and says "Looks like you won this one buddy", she says while looking at The Babe. "Mommy shouldn't reward you for that kind of behavior". I love it when people talk to me through my kids.

In unusual form, I looked at her and said "It is too bad we have to be parents to be grandparents isn't it, being a grandparent is so much easier".

Everyone's A Critic

I admit, I was one once too. Prior to having my own children you would find me looking at parents in the mall or park, or grocery store. I had all sorts of insights to provide them, if only they would ask. "They must give him a full can of soda each morning, how could anyone have that much energy?" is what I thought of some kids. "Don't reward him for that behavior", I would think to another. "Who runs the show at that house?" I would wonder to another.

Since becoming a parent, my outlook has changed. I empathize more than criticize. I realize they all have their moments, just like adults. We have good days and bad, and sometimes just need to eat and take a nap. Sometimes we just need alone time, or some time with Daddy.

The boys and I went grocery shopping today. I normally look forward to this outing with them. Little Man helps pick out items and The Babe helps put them in the cart. Today was no exception, all was going as planned, until The Babe saw the yogurt!

The Babe, being all of 20 months, still hasn't found all of his words. When he wants something he usually signs and says the word "more". Today he broke my heart while it melted when he added the word please and used the sign. He knows how to work it.

I have been known to let the boys eat while we shop. Who doesn't dip into the grapes, or open a box of trail mix while meandering down the aisles deciding what to have for the next meal, which is usually within the hour. Since yogurt is not on my approved list of items to eat while shipping, I tried to divert The Babe's attention to string cheese. "Do you think I am dumb woman?" is what the look that he gave me said.

A woman in her grandmother years was in the aisle with us and started to giggle. I mistakenly took this giggle as one of empathy but I was wrong. I soon heard her say "I'm glad those aren't my children". Although I too, was happy they were not her children, I laughed and said something to the effect of "You would think I didn't feed them". We parted ways. The three of us and the woman. Not me and the boys.

We see the woman again a few aisles later. The Babe had calmed down but the annoying attention he is getting from the woman makes him a little irritated and begins to whine. He is, after all, hungry and I did not give into to his yogurt whine so she is just a reminder of this fact. We part ways again.

The Babe calms down with some string cheese and we check out. Little Man helps place things on the counter while The Babe flirts with the checker. All is well again. We head to the in-store Starbucks after Little Man informs me we have been very good at the store and Mommy deserves a White Chocolate Mocha. I kid you not, he said that. He also added that he would like some milk and a donut. He orders for us; again, I kid you not. Tall nonfat WC Mocha for Mommy and too Chocolate milks for the boys. Here she is again. This time she notes the milks and says "Looks like you won this one buddy", she says while looking at The Babe. "Mommy shouldn't reward you for that kind of behavior". I love it when people talk to me through my kids.

In unusual form, I looked at her and said "It is too bad we have to be parents to be grandparents isn't it, being a grandparent is so much easier".

The Purple Promise

There were lots of reasons that hubs and I chose to move back to Misery. Great schools, good cost of living, decent weather, and close to family. What I had forgotten about though, until I got back here, was another reason why I like it here. The people. The strangers. People are so nice here. "Honey, did that guy driving by just wave at you?" "Yeah, what about it?". Huh, how about that. We don't even know him.

I am not from this part of the state and will admit things are a little different here. A good different.

You have heard of six degrees of separation? You know, how if you know the right six people, you know everyone? In this town there are really only two degrees. It has it's good points and bad points. I tend to find myself looking over my shoulder when I am out on the town; I don't want to embarrass the in-laws!

Today I got a call on my cell from a Fed-Ex driver named Charles. He informed me an old neighbor of mine tracked him down in a parking lot with a package that had been on my old doorstep for about two months. If you hadn't guessed, the old house is still vacant. Although Charles is a ground driver and the package is Express he says he will see what he can do.

Most drivers would take it back to the hub and drop it in the lost and found bin. Not Charles. Charles called me and told me the story about my nice neighbor and said he had the package for me. I told him he could leave it at the hub and I would pick it up. Not good enough for Charles. "Where are you?" he asked. He tells me he is not far from my location and will wait for me in the Best Buy parking lot where he is doing a drop. I meet him there shortly and learn I am not the only lucky recipient of Charles do-good deeds. Seems last week a car was on fire in bank parking lot. Charles put out the fire with his in truck extinguisher.

Many companies have missions and values that are plastered all over the walls of the organization. Often the effort is lost on employees. Lucky for me, The Purple Promise is not lost on Charles.

Makes me want to go do some good and wave at strangers. What will you do today?

**I called Charles' supervisor and gave him lots of well deserved kudos. He may not get a raise from it, but it will hopefully encourage more of the same from others!

The Purple Promise

There were lots of reasons that hubs and I chose to move back to Misery. Great schools, good cost of living, decent weather, and close to family. What I had forgotten about though, until I got back here, was another reason why I like it here. The people. The strangers. People are so nice here. "Honey, did that guy driving by just wave at you?" "Yeah, what about it?". Huh, how about that. We don't even know him.

I am not from this part of the state and will admit things are a little different here. A good different.

You have heard of six degrees of separation? You know, how if you know the right six people, you know everyone? In this town there are really only two degrees. It has it's good points and bad points. I tend to find myself looking over my shoulder when I am out on the town; I don't want to embarrass the in-laws!

Today I got a call on my cell from a Fed-Ex driver named Charles. He informed me an old neighbor of mine tracked him down in a parking lot with a package that had been on my old doorstep for about two months. If you hadn't guessed, the old house is still vacant. Although Charles is a ground driver and the package is Express he says he will see what he can do.

Most drivers would take it back to the hub and drop it in the lost and found bin. Not Charles. Charles called me and told me the story about my nice neighbor and said he had the package for me. I told him he could leave it at the hub and I would pick it up. Not good enough for Charles. "Where are you?" he asked. He tells me he is not far from my location and will wait for me in the Best Buy parking lot where he is doing a drop. I meet him there shortly and learn I am not the only lucky recipient of Charles do-good deeds. Seems last week a car was on fire in bank parking lot. Charles put out the fire with his in truck extinguisher.

Many companies have missions and values that are plastered all over the walls of the organization. Often the effort is lost on employees. Lucky for me, The Purple Promise is not lost on Charles.

Makes me want to go do some good and wave at strangers. What will you do today?

**I called Charles' supervisor and gave him lots of well deserved kudos. He may not get a raise from it, but it will hopefully encourage more of the same from others!

Ribbit Ribbit

If you have looked at any photos of me and the family, you already know how fair we are. To add to our summer woes, the boys and I are prone to bug bites. No, really. Little Man and I open the door to go outside and they swarm us. We start itching and swatting before we can get to the car. We now have protection ! Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Sunblock! Yippee!

I normally don't use my blog to make advertisements but this is just a testimony to a great product. If others like us can gain reprieve, then I feel good about all the other crap you have had to read here.

The tag line says it all: Bullfrog Mosquito Coast just makes summer easier.

It repels the sun and bugs at the same time! You can't beat that with a fly swatter!

Now go get some!

Some trivia about the bullfrog:

The American Bullfrog is the State Amphibian of Missouri (how about that?) and Oklahoma.

Two Bullfrogs were launched into orbit in 1970 on the Orbiting Frog Otolith spacecraft.

Ribbit Ribbit

If you have looked at any photos of me and the family, you already know how fair we are. To add to our summer woes, the boys and I are prone to bug bites. No, really. Little Man and I open the door to go outside and they swarm us. We start itching and swatting before we can get to the car. We now have protection ! Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Sunblock! Yippee!

I normally don't use my blog to make advertisements but this is just a testimony to a great product. If others like us can gain reprieve, then I feel good about all the other crap you have had to read here.

The tag line says it all: Bullfrog Mosquito Coast just makes summer easier.

It repels the sun and bugs at the same time! You can't beat that with a fly swatter!

Now go get some!

Some trivia about the bullfrog:

The American Bullfrog is the State Amphibian of Missouri (how about that?) and Oklahoma.

Two Bullfrogs were launched into orbit in 1970 on the Orbiting Frog Otolith spacecraft.

Good Content Yesterday

I was running errands the other day and noticed a sign at a local bar that said "free beer yesterday". (Who hasn't stopped for a drink in the middle of the afternoon?) The sign got me thinking about my blog. OK, I was already thinking about my blog but I thought the sign would be appropriate here too. Like me, the bar is just attempting to be funny. Obviously the bar doesn't give out drinks for free and I don't give out good content on a regular basis. Then my neurosis got the best of me. Did I really have good content yesterday? That is kind of cocky isn't it? Maybe I haven't had good content in a while, or at all? Good content last week? You tell me; subscribe! Either way, the button is here!

Good Content Yesterday

I was running errands the other day and noticed a sign at a local bar that said "free beer yesterday". (Who hasn't stopped for a drink in the middle of the afternoon?) The sign got me thinking about my blog. OK, I was already thinking about my blog but I thought the sign would be appropriate here too. Like me, the bar is just attempting to be funny. Obviously the bar doesn't give out drinks for free and I don't give out good content on a regular basis. Then my neurosis got the best of me. Did I really have good content yesterday? That is kind of cocky isn't it? Maybe I haven't had good content in a while, or at all? Good content last week? You tell me; subscribe! Either way, the button is here!

Size Does Matter

It is no mystery that I am a little neurotic. I like to do things in certain ways and I believe that everything has a place and it should be in that place. At times, this effort can be futile with two small children and a husband at home. One thing that I still maintain some control over is the laundry; or at least the method in which it is completed.

Laundry is a never ending task in this house, much like yours, I am sure. I normally begin the process on Sunday and it may end on Thursday. I have no specific way of washing and drying, other than the usual separation of colors and towels. I do, however, have a certain method of putting the laundry in it's proper place.

Once the laundry is dry I throw it on the master bed. The items are then sorted by owner and there is a "linens" pile. So I have a pile for Little Man, The Babe, the adults, and towels. I then take it to the appropriate place and put it away. This sounds a lot more time consuming than it is but it works for me.

The adult clothes are usually put away last and while doing so I separate those that need to be folded versus hung up. This is all so exciting isn't it? Well today as I was hanging up my clothes I realize that two shirts I had placed in my pile were actually Little Man's. I was freaking out. Not because they were not "in their place", but because during separation I actually thought they were mine! I know his growth is inevitable, especially with a Grandaddy that is about (or once about) 6' 6" and another two that were over 6' 2" with the width to match. What freaked me out is that one day, if he were my daughter that is, we could share clothes! One day he will not only be taller than me, but taller than hubs!

Hopefully while he is looking down at us he will still be looking up to us.

Size Does Matter

It is no mystery that I am a little neurotic. I like to do things in certain ways and I believe that everything has a place and it should be in that place. At times, this effort can be futile with two small children and a husband at home. One thing that I still maintain some control over is the laundry; or at least the method in which it is completed.

Laundry is a never ending task in this house, much like yours, I am sure. I normally begin the process on Sunday and it may end on Thursday. I have no specific way of washing and drying, other than the usual separation of colors and towels. I do, however, have a certain method of putting the laundry in it's proper place.

Once the laundry is dry I throw it on the master bed. The items are then sorted by owner and there is a "linens" pile. So I have a pile for Little Man, The Babe, the adults, and towels. I then take it to the appropriate place and put it away. This sounds a lot more time consuming than it is but it works for me.

The adult clothes are usually put away last and while doing so I separate those that need to be folded versus hung up. This is all so exciting isn't it? Well today as I was hanging up my clothes I realize that two shirts I had placed in my pile were actually Little Man's. I was freaking out. Not because they were not "in their place", but because during separation I actually thought they were mine! I know his growth is inevitable, especially with a Grandaddy that is about (or once about) 6' 6" and another two that were over 6' 2" with the width to match. What freaked me out is that one day, if he were my daughter that is, we could share clothes! One day he will not only be taller than me, but taller than hubs!

Hopefully while he is looking down at us he will still be looking up to us.

Wordless Wednesday 7.9.08

There's a stranger in my house...






























Where did my baby go? How can a haircut have such powerful effects on people? He looks so much older and I feel so sad. We decided to cut The Babe's hair when one of the Nana's threatened to put a bow in it. I am sure he will be much more comfortable in the Misery heat, but I am worried his little head will sunburn. He looks much more like his brother now!

Wordless Wednesday 7.9.08

There's a stranger in my house...






























Where did my baby go? How can a haircut have such powerful effects on people? He looks so much older and I feel so sad. We decided to cut The Babe's hair when one of the Nana's threatened to put a bow in it. I am sure he will be much more comfortable in the Misery heat, but I am worried his little head will sunburn. He looks much more like his brother now!

The Waiting is The Hardest Part

After much anticipation, the holiday weekend arrived. We had lots of things to do and people to see. Remember when you prepared for special events in the past like the prom (way back in the day). I remember all the excitement leading up to the occasion, only to be let down by the actual event. Well this was not the case with our visit from Piper!

See, Piper and I met through an awesome social network called cre8Buzz. Prior to joining The Buzz I considered all social networks to be places for those with too much time on their hands, teenagers, or elderly perverts. My friend over at A Bun's Life turned me on to The Buzz shortly after I started blogging and Piper was one of my first encounters. I knew from the moment I "spoke" to her that we were be fast friends. What is funny is, I usually do not associate with other redheads; we are like oil and water, but not this time.

Piper arrived in Missouri Friday afternoon after hubs and I spent the morning at the 4th of July parade with the boys. I love traditions like this parade. It is really more of a political rally; all those running for reelection have a truck or float and are handing out pamphlets. The best part for the kids is that all the participants throw candy to the crowd. It is like a small town Mardi Gras; without the flesh and drunkenness; that came later in the weekend.

I let Piper settle in and cool off; after all, she had just driven over four hours without AC in her truck. Ouch. I hope I don't disappoint after the effort she has made! We head to a neighborhood block party where we leave the boys with Nana and Papa, after all, we have to prepare for an early start in the morning. Our first date together is very romantic; I took Piper to Price Cutter Plus to get food and drinks for the float. Don't worry, I am not a total loser. we watched fireworks in the parking lot!

Floaters began arriving at the Crooked Tree around 7:30 AM to head to Hootontown. With a name like this you know it will be a good time. I am almost sure we had a good time, but am not able to remember minor details thanks in part to a 5th of Captain Morgan. Yes, that's right, when I gamble I am all in. For some reason I listened to Piper and tried Sparks; an alcoholic energy drink. I love that stuff! That was my morning starter and when I realized I did not bring a cup for the Cappy, I just used my empty Sparks can. Not a good sign. Hopefully Piper still thinks I am as fabulous in person as I am on line!


Sunday morning I awoke to many bruises. Hubs asked how I was feeling and I mentioned a couple of odd spots to have bruises. He was more than happy to recount how they came about. We all laughed at the story of how I tipped over the fireman's canoe in an attempt to escape the wrath of my annoyed, and much more sober (at the time) husband. I guess I was a little clumsy on the river. Mud, Captain, and Crocs just don't play nice.

(Brad's shirt says "I am part of the problem".) Interesting...















The weekend ended all too soon and before I knew it Piper had to head home. I wish we had spent more time together, three was really a crowd and the Captain's Hook kept poking me. In the short time we were together I am so glad I took a chance. Trust issue that go way back for me normally prevent me from opening up and meeting new folks, let alone inviting an on-line friend to come stay the weekend with you. What I learned from this is, if you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat! I challenge everyone to take a chance on something or someone. Even themselves.

The Waiting is The Hardest Part

After much anticipation, the holiday weekend arrived. We had lots of things to do and people to see. Remember when you prepared for special events in the past like the prom (way back in the day). I remember all the excitement leading up to the occasion, only to be let down by the actual event. Well this was not the case with our visit from Piper!

See, Piper and I met through an awesome social network called cre8Buzz. Prior to joining The Buzz I considered all social networks to be places for those with too much time on their hands, teenagers, or elderly perverts. My friend over at A Bun's Life turned me on to The Buzz shortly after I started blogging and Piper was one of my first encounters. I knew from the moment I "spoke" to her that we were be fast friends. What is funny is, I usually do not associate with other redheads; we are like oil and water, but not this time.

Piper arrived in Missouri Friday afternoon after hubs and I spent the morning at the 4th of July parade with the boys. I love traditions like this parade. It is really more of a political rally; all those running for reelection have a truck or float and are handing out pamphlets. The best part for the kids is that all the participants throw candy to the crowd. It is like a small town Mardi Gras; without the flesh and drunkenness; that came later in the weekend.

I let Piper settle in and cool off; after all, she had just driven over four hours without AC in her truck. Ouch. I hope I don't disappoint after the effort she has made! We head to a neighborhood block party where we leave the boys with Nana and Papa, after all, we have to prepare for an early start in the morning. Our first date together is very romantic; I took Piper to Price Cutter Plus to get food and drinks for the float. Don't worry, I am not a total loser. we watched fireworks in the parking lot!

Floaters began arriving at the Crooked Tree around 7:30 AM to head to Hootontown. With a name like this you know it will be a good time. I am almost sure we had a good time, but am not able to remember minor details thanks in part to a 5th of Captain Morgan. Yes, that's right, when I gamble I am all in. For some reason I listened to Piper and tried Sparks; an alcoholic energy drink. I love that stuff! That was my morning starter and when I realized I did not bring a cup for the Cappy, I just used my empty Sparks can. Not a good sign. Hopefully Piper still thinks I am as fabulous in person as I am on line!


Sunday morning I awoke to many bruises. Hubs asked how I was feeling and I mentioned a couple of odd spots to have bruises. He was more than happy to recount how they came about. We all laughed at the story of how I tipped over the fireman's canoe in an attempt to escape the wrath of my annoyed, and much more sober (at the time) husband. I guess I was a little clumsy on the river. Mud, Captain, and Crocs just don't play nice.

(Brad's shirt says "I am part of the problem".) Interesting...















The weekend ended all too soon and before I knew it Piper had to head home. I wish we had spent more time together, three was really a crowd and the Captain's Hook kept poking me. In the short time we were together I am so glad I took a chance. Trust issue that go way back for me normally prevent me from opening up and meeting new folks, let alone inviting an on-line friend to come stay the weekend with you. What I learned from this is, if you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat! I challenge everyone to take a chance on something or someone. Even themselves.

Anticipation

Yesterday my router went bad. Of course I didn't realize this until late in the day. I originally thought my connection was down due to our monsoon like weather this year. I called the Internet company and they said they had received a lot of calls form my area of town so a tech was on his way to investigate. Anticipation.

Normally when I put the boys down for their nap I end up falling asleep with G-Man. I do enjoy this time together as I know it won't last long, but when I get up, I realize I got nothing done that needed to get done. Yesterday was different. For some reason I was able to put him down and leave the room. He was so tired he didn't seem to mind either. What am I supposed to do with no Internet?

I emptied the dishwasher and rotated laundry. I put the clean laundry away, which is normally a four day task. I cleaned out closets, rearranged furniture, and prepared for a garage sale. I painted my toes. I read an on line instructional manual for a tool in which I was interested, but up until now, had no time to study. Most importantly, I edited a marketing presentation for a client that had been anticipating it's completion for a while. All while the boys slept.

Last night hubs rigged my access but I was not wireless and only one of us could be on at a time. Once he saw how productive I was yesterday he said he was going to have "scheduled maintenance" on a regular basis. He is funny.

Now it is Friday July 4th and I am anticipating the arrival of my friend Piper. I am happy I had the down time yesterday so I could prepare for her weekend with us. Piper and I have never met in "real life" and I want to make a good impression. Until now, she has been my "imaginary friend" as hubs says, and now our virtual and real worlds are colliding. What I show people on line may look different in real life (you will have to ask her after her trip). So in anticipation of our fab friend staying the weekend with us, I emptied the trash so she wouldn't have to smell soiled diapers in the bathrooms. I put up a couple air fresheners so she wouldn't be subjected to G-Man's new farting past time. I cleaned the sheets on the guest bed; after all it is G-Man's bed and who knows what is on those sheets.

Am I the only one that cleans BEFORE a party or guest arrives?

You should anticipate lots of fun pictures and details of our weekend with Piper! What could be better than two redheads, some PBR, and the river?