Three Monkeys Mom

2006

2006-01-06T15:00:00.000-08:00

Due to popular demand...I'm back!

Apparently I like rootbeer. We like rootbeer. Yesterday my family and I received a late christmas gift. It is a rootbeer making machine. Most people that know me know that I do not allow my children to have pop/soda. They've never even had rootbeer, but the thought was there...I guess.

Where have I been? Let's see...I had strep throat for nearly a month. The first round of antibiotics did not do the trick. I'm also still babysitting for far too many children and it's taking a toll on me. I just need to stop, but money is just so nice to have and being a one income only family is just not desirable at this point.

The family...

D finishes school next week. We're all so proud and ready to have him in full again. I've decided it's my turn to finish my education and plan to go back in the spring. I want to become a dietician and I'm so excited about it. Emily is doing excellent in school still. She gets 100% on her spelling tests every week. Nick FINALLY poops in the potty. Noah talks and is so much more independant these days. It's weird not having a "baby" anymore. Don't worry folks, no plans for number four just yet.

This almost sounds like one of those notes you put in a christmas card to update people. I promise in 2006 to update my blog more often and possibly even share some stories that you will wonder why I'm writing at all.

Happy New Year to my beloved readers...

Worst Thing EVER!

2005-11-18T08:29:00.000-08:00

What's the worst thing ever? Strep throat. Have and hate it! Wish me well...

Sam, and you thought the other post was a downer! Ha!

Neglecting my blog...

2005-11-16T07:24:00.000-08:00

It's probably time I updated. Even if nobody reads this anymore. I have no excuses. I'm not lazy, I'm busy. I babysit too much and hopefully that'll change after the holidays. THE HOLIDAYS? Yes, they are quite near. I've actually wrapped some presents already. I always get started early and then I'm still doing last minute shopping and wrapping. Let me update you about the monkeys...

Emily lost her first tooth a few weeks ago. She is doing fantastic in the first grade. She'll be bringing home her first report card today. Reading is going very well for her too.
Nick has been ill lately. This terrible cold is going around. He still poops his pants daily.
Noah too has had the cold. He's speaking much more and doesn't let you forget him when handing out things or food. "Me, me, me..."

The weather is terrible. I hate it. It's super cold and it gets dark at like 5pm. That's dreary. It's quite depressing too.
Otherwise things are going quite well.

Discovery

2005-10-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

My neighbor ( yeah the one that was being stalked by smush face) and I were talking yesterday. I was telling him about a concert I'll be attending soon. He asked the name of the bad and I said "Weezer". My neighbor replied with "that's why I stay in the 80's, where it was nice and calm".

So, that's how it happens.

Beesment

2005-10-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

Remember my post about the bees? Well they were getting worse and D and I discovered that they were somewhere in the basement wall. You could hear lots of buzzing. I had to call a pest control man to come out and rescue us. Considering the bees were coming in right by the childrens play area, we thought paying the fees would be worth it. The first thing the "bee man" says when he enters my house full of kids is "the only thing we want in here is the ABC's, not bees". Clever. He does his spraying and what not and says it's all good. Seventy five bucks later I'm bee free!

D and Sarah- I know you'll both bee like "you didn't tell me the pest guy said that"! Sorry, I forgot.

Update!

2005-09-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

I've been in a blogging slump! I'll try my best to make this as interesting as possible.

Emily has not scored below 100% on her schoolwork so far. We're very proud of her. First grade seems to be going quite well. We're still battling with the whole lunch issue. My girl is just too picky. Cheese sandwiches are getting old!

Nick has pooed 100% in his underwear. I'm not proud of this. Potty training otherwise is going quite well. Just battling with the poop issue.

Noah is just Noah. Trying to talk all of the time. He can work the DVD player. That's about all I have about the little monkey.

The family I used to babysit for are coming for a visit this weekend. They now live out of state and we haven't seen them for over a year. I'm not sure how the visit will go. Emily's memory of their little girl is vague these days.

Told you it would be boring!

Cele-braty!

2005-09-15T06:16:00.000-07:00

I'd like to be the first blog to announce the unconfirmed arrival of Britney and Kevin's baby. Not really, but I'd like to complain about her birthing choice. Britney apparently chose to have an elective c-section because she did not want to indure the pain of natural childbirth. I hope Britney has the worst recovery from her c-section. What doctor in his right mind would agree to such nonsense? I'm outraged. Childbirth is one of the most painful but rewarding experiences a mother will have. Grrr...

2000 Light years away...

2005-09-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated Birthday Samuel! Sorry I didn't post yesterday.

I was lucky enough to see Green Day for like the fourth or fifth time on Sunday. I had a wonderful time until once again I was blessed with drunk whores dancing around me. Why? I was nearly burned with a cigarette by one of them. The Green Day crowd also keeps getting younger and younger. Maybe I'm getting older. I suppose it's a little of both, but it's very weird to see parents accompying their youngsters to a Green Day show. I even get uncomfortable when Billy Joe swears or says naughty things with all of these kids present. Yeah, I'm old.

My monkeys are all doing well these days. Emily is just loving the first grade. Her teacher is younger than me and I think having a young teacher makes Em more comfortable. Nick is doing just great potty training except for the poo part. He just doesn't want to poo on the potty. Any advice is welcome. Noah is trying to speak. He's got quite a lot of words!

This post is in memory of my precious grandma...

Patricia, March 17, 1921-September 13, 2004

Come On!

2005-09-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

That'll be the last time I blog about politics. No comments? Not even an arguement? Fine.

Maybe you all like the kiddy talk better. I don't have much to report. I took the monkeys to get some pictures taken on Saturday. That did not go well. Try getting all three to sit still, look at a camera AND smile. Nope, not gonna happen. There was one decent one of the three. At least they're looking in the same direction with some what happy faces. Their individual ones came out much better. Go figure! They are my children so any picture of them is beatiful to me. Awww...

`You Loot, We Shoot'

2005-09-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'm not one to try and debate politics, but something I heard on TV last night startled me. President Bush, whom I'm not a very big fan of, was telling a reporter that he has a "zero tolerance" for the looting that is taking place in all of the areas hit by Hurricane Katrina. Now I'm sure there are plenty of evil people taking advantage of being able to loot TV's, clothing, guns, etc. But what about the starving? The people with out any shoes? You're going to kill them for keeping their child hydrated? Most of these people were poor to begin with and couldn't evacuate because they had no where to go. President Bush is taking care of the people in Iraq better than his own citizens. I do feel for the people that owned these stores, but it's not like they're going to be in business anytime soon. The food is going to go bad without electricity, so let the starving eat for goodness sake! This makes me so angry.

Why September?

2005-09-01T05:41:00.000-07:00

September? Already? Time flies when you're having fun! I really hate September. It's my least favorite month. Winter is my least favorite season. I know it's not winter yet, but I hate them the same. September is when all the children in the neighborhood return to school. Then the streets are creepy quiet until recess time and I can hear the youngsters playing in the school yard. I don't like the silence of September. It makes me feel all alone and cold. The weather isn't that terrific either. It starts to cool down, but can still be hot too. October has the BEST weather. September has also been embraced by 9/11 and my grandmother's passing. Wake me up when September ends...
Emily has her first loose tooth. She's excited but has no idea what kind of pain it could bring. I'm sad by this because those little teeth I anxiously awaited to pop through are already coming out! She's growing up and I can't stop her. Time for another cup of "feeling sorry for myself".

Toodles

Smush Face

2005-08-24T12:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry, Sam! Geez...I've been really busy, ok? Nick is in "big boy underpants" all of the time now, so to prevent accidents I need to be near the toilet at all times. Nick doesn't mind peeing on Spiderman or even the Wiggles anymore. In fact he'll poop on them too. The washing machine and I have bonded quite a bit lately. She even listens to my problems.
So, Smush Face? Glad you asked. You see there is a young woman that used to live across the street from us. She lived with her parents and sister and they were all very odd. Over a year ago they moved and a man in his late thirties moved in. All of a sudden I would see her driving up and down our street and even parking and sitting in her vehicle for long periods of time. There were even a couple of times she went into the house and stayed overnight. The man was single at the time. The guy got into a relationship and his girlfriend moved in and the young girl didn't come around anymore. Now for about three weeks I've noticed her sitting in her car at the end of our street for hours at a time! She's either stalking the house or the man. It's weirding me out. Smush face is what my sister in law called her in high school because her face isn't the prettiest.

Buzz off

2005-08-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

So, we have bees in our house. I'm sure they're coming in somewhere in the basement. In 28 years I've managed to not get stung by a bee. This past week I've killed about 10 of them. I rule! I'm not sure what to do about them. If anyone has any good bee advice, send it my way.
I'm working on everyone's 20 dollar Ipod. As soon as I get an update from Kay, I'll let you know. I should warn all of you that my mother talks a lot of crap. She thinks she knows much more than she does and usually doesn't follow through with things. Don't get your hopes up.

Stupid Computer

2005-08-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

I've been away. I've been here, but our computer has been giving us hell, so I've been away. It's been a hard week. I'm babysitting far too many children these days but I cannot stop because extra money is good and addicting. Flies are stressing me out too. Somehow they keep getting into our house. Nick has killed a few. I'm not sure if that's disturbing or not. Time will tell. I had dinner with my mom on Wednesday. She claims she can get some "Apple ipods" as she kept calling them for only 20 dollars. "Would Emily want an Apple ipod or and MP3 player?" Emily sat right infront of her. It's funny because she had no idea what they were or what their function was.
Nick is doing well with the potty training. At least once a day he's used the toilet. He refuses to wear underwear though. We discussed it. He tells me "I don't want to pee pee on Spiderman". I say "It's okay to pee pee on Spiderman if it's an accident". "No mom, I want to wear my diaper". "Okay Nick, maybe tomorrow".
Emily is getting very upset about school starting. She doesn't want to go all day or take her lunch. I feel for her, but I'm trying to be positive at the same time. It's tough.

An e-mail from my mom...

2005-08-08T10:12:00.000-07:00

Good thing Becky doesn't read this, so shhh...
I just wanted you all to see first hand what I'm dealing with.

AUNT KAREN IS GONNA TRY TO GET AHOLD OF YOU AND SHE IS GONNA ASK BECKY TO GO TO DINER FOR HER BIRTHDAY, AND SHE WANTS US ALL TO SUPRISE HER AND BE THERE BEFORE THEY GET THERE. I AM GONNA BUY A CAKE. I KNOW IT HAS TO BE A SAT, WHICH IS THE ONLY DAY BECKY HAS OFF, SHE WILL GET AHOLD OF YOU AND TELL YOU WHEN.
UNCLE RON SOLD HIS CAR SO THE ONLY MONEY LEFT FROM GRANDMA IS IN HIS POCKET. HE BOUGHT A MINITURE CHIWAWA, TACO BELL DOG. HE SPENT 1400 DOLLARS ON HER. HE FINALLY HAS A GIRLFRIEND. I HAVEN'T SEEN HER YET.
REMIND ME TO TELL YOU ABOUT MY NEW CAMERA LOVE MOM

Happy Birthday, Love Child

2005-08-06T09:38:00.000-07:00

You think that I don't feel love
But what I feel for you is real love
In other's eyes I see reflected
A hurt, scorned, rejected
Love child, never meant to be
Love child, born in poverty
Love child, never meant to be
Love child, take a look at me
I started my life in an old, cold run down tenement slum
My father left, he never even married mom I shared the guilt my mama knew
So afraid that others knew I had no name

Kay also claims I was conceived in a car, I think it was a Barracuda. Isn't that sweet? Well, I'm officially 28 and that just seems old to me. Have a good weekend everybody.

If August 6 is your birthday
Relationships are highlighted in the coming year and adjustments may be required. Confusion could mar personal relationships in October and November, a time when you should avoid making major decisions. After the beginning of the year, an opportunity to improve your life could appear - but home or family may vie for your time. Whatever is no longer essential to your happiness can be easily cast aside during the spring and summer when you become more ambitious and independent. Expect to be free to do whatever you have always wanted to do by this time next year

Teaching

2005-08-03T06:22:00.000-07:00

I'm not a teacher. Somehow I'm responsible though to teach my childen to read and to potty train. This is all happening at once and I'm starting to wonder where I'll gain the patience to help these little monkeys. Emily is doing a wonderful job learning to read. It requires a great deal of patience to help her through it. Nick has shown tons of interest in potty training this morning. I think I've already gone through five diapers and I'm at the point now that I'm not putting his shorts back on because that's how often he tries to go potty. I'm glad he's interested today, but he'll probably hate it again tomorrow. It's very difficult to potty train when there are little ones following Nick into the bathroom and I have to constantly tell Nick to close the door behind him or I'll find a baby close to crawling on the toilet. Gross! It's stressful, but I'm sure once Emily is reading and Nick is trained, it'll be easier on everyone. Teaching your children is a never ending process. I guess I am a teacher after all.
Thanks to everyone for your help, advice and support about the food dilemma. I'm visiting the Whole Foods store this evening. I think I'm also going to change the diet of all my children. While looking at their snacks and treat labels I noticed they too get too many hydrogenated oils in their diets. What am I doing to their little bodies? I shall teach them the importance of healthy eating as well.

Birthday Week!

2005-08-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

I'm okay. Really. D took a week off of work, so we did a lot of family things and spent some much needed time trying to relax. We had a day at the zoo. It was a good time. I think Noah enjoyed it the most considering Nick slept through most of it. I also had a "me" day. Sarah and I shopped, had lunch and enjoyed a free makeup session from Mary Kay. In preparation for turning 28 this week I purchased some anti aging lotion. I haven't been sucked in, but do enjoy their products and would like all of my ladies to come share a skin care session with me at my place.
I ended up going to get a new license. I'm still convinced the bank has it. I just hope some identity theft didn't get it and is slowly becoming me. Wouldn't that be something?
One last thing...
I recently read that hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils are very bad for you. It just so happens every label in my home consists of these artery clogging fats. Even the fat free foods I thought were aiding in lowering my cholesterol contain them. What's a girl to do? I found that Whole Foods Stores only have products free of evil hydrogenated oils. I must go there. Perhaps this is why my bad cholesterol doesn't go down when I think I'm eating healthy. Food companies are tricking us...read your labels.

A monkey mama is busy indeed, with three rambunctious young chimps clambering all over her!

2005-07-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

Conversations with the middle monkey

2005-07-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

Nick: I'm a boy.

Mommy: Yes Nick you are a boy.

Nick: Mommy's a girl.

Mommy: Yes Nick mommy is a girl.

Nick: Mommy do you have a wee wee?

Mommy: No, I don't have a wee wee.

Nick: Daddy has a wee wee. He's a big boy ike me.

Mommy: You're right!

(Daddy arrives home and is changing from his work clothes)

Nick: Daddy I want to see your weiner.

(Lots of laughter from mommy)

Daddy: No Nick, I'm not going to show you my weiner.

Oh, to be two agian.

Licenses

2005-07-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

I know, I know I haven't been keeping up with you lately. My poor blog. Somone has to suffer though and I don't think any of the monkeys will do. They all are sucking their hearts out on dum dums right now, so I have some free time. What have I been up to? I'll tell ya...

I'm old. I lost my license ( not usually done by old, responsible people ). Let's say I misplaced my license. I used it at the bank drive thru last Friday and haven't seen it since. Yeah, I called the bank, they claim not to have it although I'm convinced they're lying because in my 12 years of owning the little card with my cute little picture has never been lost. If you happen to stumble upon it please send it my way. The real story was that even though I'm not carrying my proof to buy alcoholic beverages it doesn't matter. I now look old enough. I'm having deja vu that I've blogged this before. Have I? If so, I'm sorry. I don't have the time to look at past posts. I decided for the mean while to carry my old license that expired in 2002. I'm sure the cops will by my story if I'm pulled over.
I've decided to go ahead and get licensed as a home daycare provider. Sounds fancy, huh? I figure this little babysitting stint is paying off and I might as well make it official. This way I can make rules and cool stuff like that. Although one day I do look forward to working out there again. Did you know that one person can have up to six children in their care at once ( Michigan rules ) and that you can only have two of them ages 0-18 months while four 30+ months and after seven years of age you don't even have to count them in anymore? Thought you knew everything?

I feel the earth move

2005-07-11T15:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday night D and I had the pleasure of seeing Carole King live for the very first time. I've been a fan of Carole since I was a wee little girl. At first it seemed that we weren't going to enjoy ourselves because of the seating and volume of the concert. It all worked in the end. We were at an outdoor park and moved our blanket to a better area. Although it was hard to see little Carole we managed and could hear pretty well too. She sounded amazing. It was like a live Storytellers, she told stories and talked about all the songs she's written for many artists. It was a fantastic time.
We also got the monkeys a pool this weekend. Who would've thought what seemed so easy would turn out to be a big weekend adventure? The pool is pretty neat. It is one of those blow up type things, the size is great and so far it's a hit. Noah is scared to death of going in it. Come on by and go for a swim. Call first though, remember that's my big pet peeve.

Dennis pounds eastern half of Cuba

2005-07-08T05:13:00.000-07:00

I read that on the weather site.

Dinner with my mother and aunt was quite interesting this week. I wish I could show you a video of what I witnessed. First off, one would think if you paid thousands of dollars to get lipo and a tummy tuck that you would work to keep your body thinner. For example, eating right and exercising. Well my aunt got a steak and cheese sandwich. That wasn't even the bad part of dinner. My mother who is gaining weight at a rapid rate chose nachos and her main course. Half way through dinner I realized she was setting aside chips on to a napkin. I asked "why are you doing that". Her response "those ones don't got any meat on them, I want the meat". Hmmm....
Now I'm not perfect and I feel bad writing such bad things, but I cannot believe this is my family. What happened? Their own brother died of a massive heart attack at just 50 years old. You would think they would've learned from that. Call me concerned.

I take back what I said about Nick. Wednesday night he decided to get up about 8 1/2 times. He must be reading my blog.
And Carrie...my dear. In the one hudred years I've known you, I've only seen your nails painted once and that was for Jeff and Sarah's wedding. You know you are ALWAYS welcome.

Miss me?

2005-07-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

It's been a while. Over a week. Our computer decided to not work for a few days and as always, I'm a busy bee. Nick is sleeping much better. Much better meaning he only gets up one or two times opposed to ten or fifteen times. We give him a shorter nap because if Nick doesn't get a nap then we're all in trouble. D suggested we give him his own story and bedtime attention away from Emily and it has worked. I guess that's what the little middle monkey needed. We didn't have to resort to alcohol or gasoline. I can't believe in less than two months Em will be at school ALL day. I'm saddened by this. On her own all day? Her and I are both going through hard times just thinking about this. I'm sure she'll adjust well though. And I'll worry about her every minute of every day.
My birthday is one month from today. I like my birthday, but not getting older. I rarely get carded anymore and when I do I get all excited. I'm getting a pedicure and manicure with my ladies on my big day.

My pleasure...

2005-06-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my D! Although you are stuck at work today we will give you the best birthday evening possible.
So my weekend didn't go exactly as planned. You see my father in law ended up having some vehicle issues and we ended up at a gas station for about two and a half hours. Most of you have heard this story, so I won't bore you with the details. Just know it all worked out in the end. The rest of the weekend was great. I got some much needed quality time with my husband and had a blast with friends on Saturday. I drank way to much for the first time in years.
In other news...
I saw my aunts tummy tuck/ lipo/ scar/ grossness
I can diagnose Bell's Palsy very well
Sarah and Jeff have officially been removed from the Newlywed phase ( Happy Anniversary, guys )
Nick does not like to listen or go to sleep ( can someone help me with this? )

2005-06-21T07:19:00.000-07:00

I give a lot of credit to the moms that can keep a clean house, make dinner every night, keep up with yardwork and have happy, polite children. I'm having trouble lately. I just can't keep the house clean enough, by the time dinner comes around I'm too tired too cook, yardwork = yeah right and my children are just plain crazy. It's so hard to divide my time between them. I'm trying, but Nick really needs attention. He acts out. A lot. All day. I even dream about his two year old behavior. My wonderful in-laws have offered us a break this weekend. They are willing to take all three monkeys. I think I need this time, but as a normal mommy I will worry relentlessly about them, making my alone time unenjoyable. I know they're in good hands, but I can't help it.
My mother called today to wish D and I a Happy Anniversary. Oddly enough it's not our anniversary today. It's tomorrow, Kay.

Class of 1995

2005-06-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago this month I ended my journey of high school. This has been quite depressing lately. As I watched Nat at her graduation party I still could picture my 18 year old self and how I felt on my day. It doesn't feel like it's already been 10 whole years. A decade! I really don't feel 10 years older, maybe like 5 or 6 though. Kids do that to you. I've been receiving lots of info regarding my 10 year reunion. I'm still undecided about going. My graduating class had over 1,000 graduates. What are the chances I'll find the people I actually met in those four years?
In other news...
The stitches have been removed. Not painful, but an ugly mark remains.
Nick is being his worst. Out of control.
Emily has finished Kindergarten. She got the highest she could get on her final report card. We're so very proud and so very sad to have a soon to be first grader.
Noah is super cuddly lately. I love that especially because my babes aren't babies anymore.

A little bit of Lipo

2005-06-13T08:16:00.000-07:00

Can someone please explain to me why Kay is insisting that my young children go and visit my aunt who just had a tummy tuck and liposuction less than a week ago? They don't need to see that. I'm not telling my beautiful six year old daughter that when a woman gains weight it's just easier to pay someone to remove it for you. I refuse. I've taught Emily all about exercise and eating right not to just show her the lazy results of that. Blame it on the c-section you had nearly 22 years ago. I had three children in five years and I'm working hard to keep in shape. My family has a history of obesity and uses it as an excuse. I'm tired of it!

No luck

2005-06-11T06:43:00.000-07:00

I think I'm having some bad luck these days. Wednesday I went for a haircut and to get my highlights touched up. My usual stylist wasn't available, so she suggested one of the others and assured me I would be happy with my results. Well, I was not! I ended up with almost a mullet like cut. It was terrible. I had to have a friend cut my long locks fairly short. I'm very disappointed. The highlights were a disaster too. The stylist seems to have taken a short cut and left the bottom/back of my hair dark brown. He even colored it a darker brown. I'm looking for a new salon. This is were my pushovernish comes into play. I should complain and try to at least get some money back, but I can't seem to find the words. What happened to me? I used to be so good at these kind of things. I'm a wuss.
We have a pretty full weekend. I have a kiddy birthday party to attend and then my sister in laws graduation party. I can't believe Nat is graduating. I met her when she was a wee little girl and we've been through a heck of a lot together. I'm so happy to see her reach this point in her life. Congrats, Nattie! Kiddy birthday parties with your three kiddies is no fun. I'm sure my children will be kicked out at some point. At least Nick will. Really they're not that bad.

Correction

2005-06-08T07:11:00.000-07:00

I'd like to say that I actually got stitches, not stiches. I've lost my ability to spell now. What's next?
Does anyone have any advice on how to not be a pushover. Seems lately I just cannot say no to anyone. This is becoming an issue for me. Have I lost my strength? I once was able to be mean and selfish.

Chaotic

2005-06-06T05:46:00.000-07:00

No, not the Britney and Kevin kind. The monkey mom kind. What a couple of weeks I've had. First, as you know was the long lasting illness. Rest assured I'm doing much better and I can even smell and taste again. Thanks to everyone for their support and medical advice. Mucinex DOES work! I've been accident prone lately. Lets just say, you probably wouldn't want me holding your baby. I stubbed and badly bruised a toe in the beginning of the week. Then the big accident. Saturday I managed to slice my leg open with a piece of glass. I was taking out garbage and there happened to be glass in the plastic bag. Which is my fault. On Friday night one of my children knocked down a picture frame and it broke. I thought I wrapped the glass nicely, but no it poked its evil, sharp head through and lacerated my right calf. I was at the ER for four hours. I ended up with ten stiches. I still can't believe it. I need to be more careful.
I have to have dinner with Kay tonight. It's unbelievably hot outside. The uncomfortable kind of hot. I shouldn't complain though, at least it's not snowing.

I'm miserable...

2005-05-27T06:17:00.000-07:00

I'm still ill. I called the doctor and they say "there is nothing we can do, take over the counter medicine". WHAT? You're a doctors office, do something for me! I cannot smell or taste. This is torture. I do get hungry, but what's the point of eating? What if I've lost these wonderful senses forever? What then? Oh yeah, and the wonderful doctors office told me that this could last for 10 more days. I'll go crazy.
My biggest pet peeve is when people stop by my house uninvited. Especially when I'm not feeling well, Nick is being his usual Satan self, D is running late coming home from work and the house is a mess. Call first? Maybe. My family is rude. I know my Grandma didn't raise them this way. We've also had soliciters like crazy lately. It's been nice out. I like to open the windows and the door, but I don't want to buy anything or be told about some religion. I'm at home. If I wanted these things I'd go to church or a store. Leave me alone!
Wow...I'm a mess. Cheer me up if you will. Some sinus advice? How to get rid of uninvited guests? Dealing with a terrible two year old? Soliciters? Regaining my senses?

Sniffles

2005-05-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

I realized this weekend that is it impossible to attend adult functions with your adult friends while your children are present. I love my babes, but no fun is had while chasing after them when you are trying to mingle and have a good time. Maybe my friends should start having babes as well so that they'll have little peeps to play with and then D and I can stay longer at lets say...graduation parties. Thanks!
The bottle weaning is over. It's a success. Noah still gets a little crabby in the morning, but has adjusted well to just the sippy cup. Plus I gave my pregnant neighbor all of his bottles....HA HA!
I won!
My allergies are terrible. I've been sick for days. What I thought was a cold, changes with this awful Michigan weather, so I'm sure it's allergies. This morning there was a drop in temps again and I'm all stuffy again. I'm moving.

Pity

2005-05-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

Pardon me while I feel sorry for myself...

1. I'm tired of wiping snotty noses and telling children to "cover your mouth".

2. My nose is raw and red from running. I feel ugly, oh and fat.

3. I think D took my new Weezer CD and now I can't enjoy it.

4. My mother is coming by for a visit tonight. Grrr...

5. There is just too much for me to take care of today and no one to take care of sick me. Blah!

No Weezer, No ba-ba's

2005-05-19T05:09:00.000-07:00

Still haven't got the new Weezer CD and I call myself a fan? I went to Target and they we're all out of them. I just haven't had a chance to look elsewhere. I'm getting sad as I hear how good it is from everyone else. I should've listened to D and had it delivered. Oh well...
In other news...currently breaking Noah from the bottle. This is much harder than it was with my other two monkeys. Noah loves his bottle and he's my baby. Taking the bottle from him means that I no longer have an infant. He gets so angry in the morning when I hand him a sippy cup. He throws it at me. It seems so evil to give a child a bottle for a full year, let them get all attached and then say " nope, you can't have it anymore ". Evil, I tell ya. It's been over 24 hours since his last "ba-ba". Noah has been eating well though. He'll eat practically anything now, so I'm confident he's putting on the pounds.

I'm back...

2005-05-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

We're back from vacation. It was heavenly. The resort ended up being very nice and I wasn't disappointed a bit. Waking up to the sunshine and sipping coffee by the pool was so relaxing. I miss it already. Today I sipped coffee as child after child was dropped off for me to care for. Needless to say my coffee got cold quickly and I never did finish it. Flying wasn't so bad. I didn't have one of my famous panic attacks, which is always good. Disney World was crazy. Crazy busy. Kids crying, throwing tantrums and even some being kept on those stupid kid harnests. I hate those things. I saw more skin exposed on people than I needed to and got annoyed at the familys that all wore the same color to keep track of one another. The best part was seeing my Emily's face light up at the sight of princesses and all the magic around her. This is why I was there. I ate terribly. I feel about 20 lbs. heavier and just gross. Airport security sucks. Well, terrorists suck. The boys had fun, I think. By the last day or so Nick was very ready to come home. He became Satan and was extremely hard to deal with. I don't like it when he's Satan.

Today I get to drive my new car and do loads of laundry. Lucky me.

Mother's Day

2005-05-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

It's my day, so they say. I was lucky enough to get my new car, a gift certificate for a massage, a beautiful hand portrait from my dear Emily, a cherry candle, a cherry plate ( I like cherries ) and a decorative plate with a picture of all my monkeys. Thanks to D and the monkeys.
Happy Mother's Day to all of the other mommys out there. We are all so fortunate to have children.

Rivers

2005-05-06T05:43:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the pleasure of seeing Weezer in concert with my best friend/sister in law, Sarah. Walking down the streets of good ol' Detroit I had a man tell me "pretty toes, girl". Must be my recent pedicure. Weezer rocked, we were very hot ( the temperature kind ) and we even had some really annoying girls seated behind us for half of the show. It seems that these kind of people follow Sarah and I to every concert we attend, together or not. Ya know, the singing out of tune, chair climbing over, screaming at the top of their lungs kind of girls. Maybe I'm just getting old. Regardless, I didn't let them ruin my fun. I love seeing Weezer and they played many of my favorite tunes.
In other news...
I test drove my new car yesterday. I like it a lot. We'll pick it up tomorrow. Sales men are so cheesey. They really can irritate you at times. This dude thinks he can keep reassuring me how much this car will be worth it because he has three kids too. If he says that one more time...

New stuff is fun!

2005-05-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm getting a new vehicle. I'm way excited. I have to thank my dear husband for letting this happen. You see, his lease expires and he's allowing me to get a new car and he's taking mine over. Not that my 2003 Saturn Vue isn't a good ride, it's just not big enough for all the monkeys anymore. We're crammed, so I'm getting the new 2005 Saturn Relay. We have a thing for Saturns. I just can't wait. I feel like a little kid, but getting a brand new car is always so fun.
Dinner with my dad, oh what an experience. My poor husband kept trying to start conversations and they just went no where. Then I tried to be nice and invite my dad and his dad over this weekend. Nope! I haven't seen my so called grandpa in, oh four years. He's never met his only two great grandsons. Doesn't know his only great granddaughter. You'd think my dad as well as his dad would want such a meeting since he's well into his eighties and not doing terribly well. Nope! He claims that the older man gets nervous around others because of his bad sight and hearing. Oh, well, pardon me for wanting to see the guy before he crokes. Geez...

Exercise my mouth...

2005-05-03T06:33:00.000-07:00

The exercise dilemma is much better now. A while back my husband bought me an exercise-game-Playstation thingy. I have to admit, I never got around to actually using it. Well since my treadmill was literally eating it's own tread, I decided to give it a try. I love it. It makes me sore which is much more than my treadmill did. I feel like I'm getting the exercise I need. It's called "Yourself Fitness" and I highly recommend to all of you trying to get some weight off, tone up or just want to stay in shape. I could go on about it forever, so check it out yourself.

So, my dad came for a visit. That was quite interesting. No, it wasn't at all interesting. You see, my dad isn't much for conversation. It's like that uncomfortable silence that makes you so tense. I hate that it's this way. My dad left Michigan when I was only four years old. He's never really opened up to me why he left me or if he ever regretted leaving me to be raised by Kay. Perhaps he was running from her, which I can understand. They never married and that is a good thing. I've never felt close to him and I've never had him show those feelings either. A couple of years ago I stopped being angry and bitter and just decided to try my hardest to be his daughter. We don't talk much when he's back in California and we've both accepted that. My dad has never given me a meaningful gift except for my life. I guess I have that to thank him for. We're going to dinner tonight, so if anyone has any suggestions for conversation topics, please let me know.
By the way you should all know that my dad is the EXTREME opposite of my mother. He's a conservative, golf playing, well dressed, successful, big word using man. Wish me luck.

Sad times...

2005-04-27T15:55:00.000-07:00

My beloved treadmill is living it's last days. It's making this awful screaching sound that makes me believe it's going to eat my feet and then my legs while my feet are stuck. If anyone would like to donate some new or used exercise equipment, please let me know. I'm so sad. See, my treadmill is my "get away" from all others while I listen to my other device, my ipod. Is it going to lose it's life too? I sure hope not.
Nick has been ill. Too ill to eat, play or even be terrible. I gave him some much needed medicine and he seems to be getting back to normal. He's not listening to me right now, so that's pretty normal.
I have a twitch in my thigh today. I'm convinced it's something terrible like MS or Lou Gehrig's disease. Why the twitch?

Warm Up!

2005-04-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

The weekend weather was hell. My bones froze at the Tiger game, so we headed out early. After we met some friends for some drinks and had some fun. I'm pretty lame and got tired around 11:30p.m. and had to leave for bed. My plans without my dad ended up working out. Because of the snow he left earlier than planned for his golf outing in Myrtle Beach. He'll be back though, this weekend all the way through May 10th. We'll spend our classic father-daughter-grandchildren time then. The rest of my weekend went as planned. Doing much of nothing. I needed that. I did manage to get some wall decor finished for the boys room. Emily and I painted some frames and I'm going to put some prints I ordered in them to spice up their freshly painted room. It's a safari type theme and I'm so proud of my creativity.

Congrats to my good friend, Carrie on her graduation from EMU this past Saturday.

Double Trouble

2005-04-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome to town, April showers and Mr. Larry Brogan....

Here's my agenda for this Friday, April 22nd.

1. I'm only caring for one unbiological child.

2. To attend the Detroit Tigers game with my husband, which I will freeze my buttocks off. Did I mention in was 80 degrees earlier this week?

3. Clean my house before my father comes for a visit. Am I selfish to say I just want one weekend where there are no plans made for me? He'll be here next weekend too, so I guess not.

Happy Earth Day, Earth.

Marriage vs. Mommy

2005-04-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

I have what I believe is a terrible sinus headache. Although it could be a "too many babies crying" headache. Who the hell knows? I have pressure above my eyes and I think they are being pushed down my face. Pretty, huh? I've had a rough week. My husband is very busy. So busy that I'm forgetting what he looks like. I hope we get some time together this weekend. That would be nice. I was able to join Emily at school this week. I loved it. I don't get to do those things too often, so it was very enjoyable for both of us. We painted together too. I wish her and I had more mother/daughter time, but it's hard with small boys running around.
Yesterday on Oprah the topic was about putting your husband on the back burner to raise your children and be a good mother. Women were argueing about which is more important, your marriage or raising your children. One woman had sparked contraversy when she wrote an article about saying she was "in love" with her husband but just "loved" her children. I've decided that I think that there are two seperate forms of love in this situation. They just don't compare. The feelings you have for your spouse are so different than the love and devotion a mother experiences. Some woman were also complaining about sex being another chore and now that I'm a mom I'm too tired for sex. I get the tired part, but to connect with your partner and share that intimacy is very important. Making love to your husband should never be a chore. I also think that although raising your children is important, one day they will grow up and move off to their own lives. That's when the marriage you've built for years needs to be it's strongest. I think my in-laws are the perfect example. They loved and supported their children but have always maintained their love for one another and are one of the closet couples I've ever met after nearly 28 years of marriage. This has also set an example for most of their children. So, my mothering is an important job, but keeping my marriage strong is a top priority. I love you, D.

Waiting...

2005-04-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the stressful job of taking Noah for his one year physical. The wait time was horrendous. Try entertaining three little ones at a doctors office. The doctor and I had a deep conversation about the size of my dear Noah. He is probably the smallest one year old on the planet. Well, the doctor did say he is one of the smallest she's seen. Noah weighs a whole 16 and 1/2 lbs. He's very tiny for his age. Although there is no real cause for concern, I am concerned. That's my mommy nature. The doctor assured me it's probably genetic and if his growth curve continues to drop then some testing may be necessary. Testing???? For now I was was informed to feed him fats, fats and more fats to get him fat. Seems odd, huh? My other two children are also small for their age which is why she's sure it's all gentic. Not to add three monkeys daddy and I are not huge peeps either. For now please send my Noah "get fat wishes", so he doesn't have to undergo any tests. Babies don't like tests.
Meanwhile I'm planning our trip to Disney World. My sister and mother in law are now joining us on our journey. Packing for five is a trip in it's self. I'm sure I'll forget something of importance. My dad has decided to come in from California the week before we leave, so packing early is a must since we'll be busy visiting with good ol' Larry.

Happy Birthday Baby Monkey!

2005-04-15T05:27:00.000-07:00

Nicholas had barely turned five months old when I found out I was expecting again. Talk about being shocked. I think I spent the next eight months in disbelief. That was until April 15th, 2004. I had my regular, scheduled 38 week appointment. To my surprise my blood pressure had hit the roof. I was not ready to have this baby. We didn't know the sex and didn't have a boys name picked out and besides I'd just given birth 13 months earlier, who wants to do that again in such a short time? After just three hours and fifteen minutes of labor, Noah Thomas entered our world. Instantly, ( just like with my other babies ) I fell madly in love. Noah came so quick there was no time for pain relief or even my own doctor to be there. He was my smallest baby weighing in at 6lbs. 7oz. Although he resembled me at birth he now looks very much like his daddy even carrying on his beautiful blue eyes. Happy Birthday to my baby monkey. You've completed our family, well for now :-)

Now here is my horoscope for today in the Detroit News. I thought it was of interest. Not neccessarily Your interest, but of interest.

Leo: Past problems of your own making can trip you up. Be sure that your taxes are filed on time and you've dotted all those i's and crossed all those t's. Romantic partners will be eager for thrills tonight.

Mad Monkey Morning

2005-04-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Oh my, what a morning. The monkeys are being so demanding. Why is it that letting mommy take a fifteen minute shower is such an ordeal? Emily has to get in the bathroom to use the toilet, Nick kicks his feet against the bathroom door until I open it and Noah well he's just screaming because he has to be confined so that he doesn't get injured while mommy is away. I really look forward to my fifteen minutes of morning bliss, but not todday. I just want to be clean and refreshed, why all the drama?
I'd like to send my congrats to Brittney Spears on her pregnancy. I've always thought of Brit as a well "slutty pop star" that I hope my daughter will not become a fan of. I'm sure she'll make a wonderful mother...SIKE!

National Monkeys Family Vacation

2005-04-13T07:23:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've been here. I've been pretty busy. Noah's birthday party is this weekend and with the decent weather, the kids have been able to play outside more. We also decided this week that we are taking a vacation. Our first family vacation. My husband has to go to Orlando for work business and we are going to join him. I found a beautiful resort that the monkeys and I can hang out in while he's working. It's actually a house with your own private pool. Good thing, cause I'm not ready to go public in my swim suit. We'll also visit some Disney theme parks too. I'm way excited.

Monkeys and markers!

2005-04-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

It's gorgeous out today. I was able to finally walk Emily to school instead of taking the two minute drive there and back. Nicholas enjoys the walk so much. He's just now learning to stay on the sidewalk and nearly scares me to death everytime we walk. The child doesn't fear a thing. Not even his own parents. Friday afternoon he took a black sharpie and decided to "color" our computer and other furniture. It wasn't pretty. I'm sure he does it for attention ( being the middle child is rough ), but it was so hard not to be livid. I swear I saw steam coming out of his daddy's ears. It's mostly cleaned up now and we've hid all permanet coloring devices.
It's Tuesday, so you know that means I'll have interesting stories about my mother to share. The question is "What color track suit will she be wearing today?"

Just me and my monkeys!

2005-03-31T05:49:00.000-08:00

Today I am free. Free of other peoples children. I have declined all babysitting offers to spend a day with my own monkeys. What do we have planned you ask? We're going to not let mommy sleep a minute past 7a.m. ! I've planned a trip to my mother in law and sister in law's work so that we can have lunch with them. This is a treat for my daughter. Emily has the week off of school and to see where her aunt and grandma work as well as have a lunch date is quite exciting. After lunch two of my three children have annual check ups at the doctor. That's not quite as exciting, but it's always interesting to see how much they've grown and to dote on all the neat things they do and say. Hey, I took them to the playground yesterday, so fun has been in our agenda too. I'm also in the midst of planning Noah's first birthday party. I'm sure everyone is sick of buying my children gifts. I apologize for being most fertile in the summer. Well I'm off to give three little monkeys a bath and enjoy my day with them.

Spring, is that you?

2005-03-30T09:05:00.000-08:00

Finally the weather is nice. I think my mood has changed because of it. I feel much more laid back and happy this week. I'm sure it won't last long since those April showers are on their way. For now I'm going to soak up the sun. Hokey, I know.
I know I've been on a constant rant about my mom. If you've met her you understand. Every Tuesday we get together for dinner. Every Tuesday I get annoyed and frustrated. I do the dinner on Tuesdays because that is when my dear husband has school. I'm saving him. He owes me. So, I just sit and listen to her horrible grammer and become disgusted at the food choices she makes. We have a family history of hypertension and high cholesterol ( of which she has given to me, thanks mom ) and she just doesn't eat right. My mom is overweight too. She always thinks she's right, so there is no hope in trying to convince her otherwise. One more thing about my mother. She talks to my children in the third person. I've tried to tell her to stop because it confuses them and I don't want them speaking that way. She doesn't. So, my son Nick thinks she is my aunt. See, she calls herself "Grandma Kay" instead of "I" or "me" and my aunt ( who is also her twin ) is always with her, so Nick thinks they are each other. Understand? Don't think they look identical, they don't. It is easy for a two year old to tell them apart. Maybe next time I'll post about my dad. He's the extreme opposite of my mom. That's right, I was made by those two. Yikes!

Hoppy Easter!

2005-03-27T05:58:00.000-08:00

Yeah, that was lame. I'm sorry. I woke up unwillingly to children excited about finding Easter baskets filled with chocolates. Who the hell thought it was a good idea to leave children goodies first thing in the morning? As a parent I am obligated to do this. So, I had a two year old bouncing off the walls on his annual chocolate high. I also woke up to my right eye being so crusted it was unable to open. Gross, huh? I'm not sure why I have this yellowish discharge coming out of my little brown eyes. I'm also not sure why I'm sharing it with my five readers. Just thought you'd like to know what I've been up to. Today our family will be going to my in-laws for dinner. It's also my mother's 48th birthday today. I called her to give her birthday wishes. As usual, I ended up annoyed and eager to end the phone call. While I was trying to explain my eye ordeal ( and search for that motherly, "it's okay, honey") she cut me off to tell me she should plant some flowers in my yard, because it's too bare. Thanks, mom and happy birthday you demanding, unmotherly *insert bad word*. Happy Easter everyone!

Conversations with my mother

2005-03-24T10:31:00.000-08:00

My son Noah is trying to walk across the living room.

Mom: Does he always do that?

Me: Lately, yes. He's learning to walk.

My aunt enters the room.

Mom: Noah can walk now.

Me: No, he's trying to, but isn't quite there yet.

Mom: Do the kids like chocolate pudding? (before I can answer) I'm going to get them some the next time I'm at Costco, it's cheap there.

Me: Okay

My son Nick is barely eating his dinner.

Mom: Don't he eat chicken anymore?

Me: He must not be very hungry.

Mom: He's a picky eater, huh?

Me: No, he just isn't very hungry.

My daughter Emily is sitting on her grandmothers lap.

Grandma: What did you get for your birthday?

Emily: Lots of stuff.

Grandma: Did you like the cherry pajamas Grandma Kay got for you?

Emily: Yes!

Grandma: What else did you get?

Emily: I don't know, lots of stuff.

Grandma: Did you like the bead set Grandma Kay got for you?

Emily: Yes!

Happy Birthday, Beautiful Monkey!

2005-03-23T08:31:00.000-08:00

I remember it like it was just yesterday. At 1:55pm on Tuesday, March 23, 1999 they laid this gorgeous little girl on my chest. After over a day of labor she was finally here. I looked around in disbelief that I actually had a baby. I saw tears of absoulute joy on everyones face. Except my cousin, Becky. She looked like she was going to vomit. I guess childbirth does that to some. I just remember looking at my best friend now sister in law, Sarah. I looked to her for a look of approval, like this is real, right? I think she was the most moved by my daughters birth. Sarah and Emily remain so close to this day. The birth of your first child is so special. I felt like I was the only woman in the world to have gone through this incredible experience. It doesn't seem fair that it's already been six years. Emily is growing up so quickly. I had no idea what joy she would bring into our lives. There is something contagious about her. She's smart, silly, beautiful, creative, loving, oh I could go on for days. Although a bit demanding I still look forward to each and every day of meeting her needs and demands. Emily could literally talk your ears off, but I've found that voice an inspiration. Happy 6th birthday my amazing, green eyed beauty.

Happy St. Patricks Day

2005-03-17T05:15:00.000-08:00

Today is St. Patricks Day. All of my life this day has meant two things to me. I must wear green and it's my maternal grandmother's birthday. I have to add my only grandmother's birthday seeing as though my paternal grandmother never really played a role in my life. Sadly, this would be my grandma's 84th birthday, but she's not here to celebrate. My grandma passed away September 13th. I always remember her wearing green on her birthday and she always had on a green corsage too. I'm not sure if someone bought her one every year or if it was artificial. My grandma was even given the name "Patricia" too. I know this day was very special to her. I think she liked being born on this day. Today I celebrate my grandma. I never realized what an impact she had on my life until she was gone. Emily is the only one of my children who will remember her. She blew her birthday kisses today. Today I will wear green and think of all the happy birthdays grandma celebrated. Happy St. Patricks Day!

Oh, Tuesday...

2005-03-15T10:40:00.000-08:00

There is just so much to do around my house today. Why is it that mom's faithfully clean their home, up and down, so that you can have people over and it'll all need to be done again? I do this. Consistently. I clean places and spaces people probably won't even notice are clean. I'll clean up my kids toys while they nap only to have them wake up and destroy the house again. I guess it's nice to look around at the organization while they nap for that short one hour. Oh, that hour just ended. I can hear Nick coming out of his room. He's crying. Why, you ask? Oh, who the hell knows. Probably because I cleaned up all of his toys. Now he is sitting quietly on my lap while I blog. What a sweetheart. Nick and Noah are getting new bunk beds tomorrow. Well, Noah won't be able to use them quite yet. Hopefully Nick will start staying in bed instead of putting up his nightly fight. I'm sure I'm just getting my hopes up.
Last night after dinner we offered Nick any treat he wanted since it was his birthday. We have cookies, cupcakes, chocolates and ice cream. He chose fruit snacks. Care Bear fruit snacks. That's my boy!

Happy Birthday Middle Monkey Man

2005-03-14T08:53:00.000-08:00

Today is my middle monkey's 2nd birthday. It's so hard to believe it's already been two years since his birth. Nicholas Robert was born at exactly 3:14 a.m. on 3/14/03, I thought that was so neat. Nick was late by four days. I remember being so miserably pregnant. He was also my biggest baby, weighing 7lbs. 10oz. Now I have this 25lb., two year old that throws massive tantrums, doesn't listen, won't stay in bed and gets into everything. I still love him more and more everyday though. Happy Birthday Nicky Bob-buddha boy-stinky Bob-napkin-monkey. I know, I have very odd nick names for all of my children. I also sing them personalized songs, but that's a whole other blog entry.

2005-03-11T10:08:00.000-08:00

I'm crazy. I take on way too much. I'm feeling very overwhelmed these days. I constantly worry. I worry about nothing. I've been diagnosed with anxiety and I'm quite positive it's from my worrying. Are the kids happy? Am I a good mom? Are the kids getting enough nutrients? Is the house clean enough? Are any of us suffering from a major illness? I'm a hypochondriac, but not diagnosed. Self diagnosed for sure. I could go on and on. Those who know me best, know this about me. I'm sure they make fun of me too. It is funny and stupid, but I just can't stop. I think I try so hard not to be like my mom was. We had a dirty house, no one really cared if I ate right and most of the time I was on my own. She was crazy in a different, worse way. I think that this cold, snowy weather is getting to me. I need it to be warm and to take the kids out in the fresh air. I have nothing else to do but worry when we're stuck inside all day.
I'm also on a quest for fitness. I want to enter my thirties in as good as shape as possible. I'd like to stay somewhat thin. Thin compared to the other women in my family. They all are out of shape and are developing diabetes etc. I want to teach my daughter this as well. You don't have to stop taking care of yourself because you are a mom. It should be more important because you are a mom.
Don't think I'm not a happy person. I am. I have a wonderful husband and three ( I can't even explain) terrific, beautiful monkeys. I'm just an anxious, happy, wishing it was warm person. That's all.

Developments

2005-03-03T14:17:00.000-08:00

I've fallen behind on my blogging. I'm sorry blog readers, but the family comes first. It's been crazy around here. I spent the weekend trying to get ready for Em and Nick's birthday party.
All the kids are learning new things at this time in their lives. It's so incredible. I can't even keep up with them. Emily is reading. She's doing so well. Nick loves reciting his ABC's, counting and speaks better and better everyday. Noah is trying to walk and babbles more and more everyday. At this moment Nick is pointing to a picture of Paul McCartney and saying "Paul". Isn't that amazing? I think so. Pretty damn cute if you ask me.

So, a funny story. You might have had to been there to think it's funny, but I'm gonna tell you anyway. Tuesday when it snowed my neighbor was kind enough to snow blow our walkway for us. She usually does when it snows a lot. I decided I should reward her for her kindness. I picked up a pie and went to drop it by Friday night. When she opened the door her sister's dog (she was dog sitting) ran out of the house. At first he just ran around the yard a bit. Then he took off down the street, fearless. It was very dark and he's a black, small dog. My neighbor ran after him in her socks on wet sidewalk. I felt so terrible. I only wanted to thank her for helping me and look at the trouble I caused. It took her about ten minutes and half a block to finally catch him. I guess I owe her another pie and she probably won't be coming over to snow blow anymore!

Snow...

2005-02-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

After a trip to the ER and to the doctors office, I can say the illnesses are over. The monkey boys ended up with ear infections. One in the left and one in the right. Odd, again. Whatever virus attacked us, did it with a vengence. I can now return to my regular routine of being a domesic goddess.
I'd like to give a shout out to my girl, Carrie. Carrie turned 28 on Sunday. Saturday we had an awesome time at her birthday celebration.
Emily has a snow day today. I hate snow. I really do. Not that I mind her being home, I hate the driving, shoveling, messy part of it. I give Three Monkeys Dad big props for driving in it this morning. I would've stayed in bed.
So, my guilty pleasure was watching "The Bachelorette". I'm not sure why. Anyways, it ended so poorly and I'm so very disappointed. Not that I believe you can find love on a show like that. I guess I just don't think they really explained why it didn't work out real well. I know you are probably all making fun of me right now, so I'm going to cut this short since I can smell a poopy diaper anyway.

A Hard Day's Night...

2005-02-24T08:50:00.000-08:00

It happened all at once. Three Monkeys Dad and I both got the ailment. It was me first. It forcefully woke me expectedly. Within a few hours we were taking our turns to the bathroom. Now I know how terrible my monkeys have been feeling. When a parent is ill it seems that children are so much more demanding. No matter how you try to explain it to them, they still don't care. You were put here to take care of THEM, how dare YOU have the nerve to get sick. Can't mommy be the baby today? My daughter actually got mad because I wouldn't let her friend come over. She has this 6 (almost) year old mentallity that if you think something won't happen, then it won't. I said "Julia might get sick if she comes over", she said "no, she won't". And in her 6 (almost) year old desperation she talked about it for hours (it seemed like). My pounding headache wanted me to send her on her way. My husband and I counted down the hours until we could put the monkeys to bed. The guilt is worse than the actual sickness. Well...maybe not.
The baby that I babysit for also caught the bug. I managed to get out of watching her yesterday, but her mom brought her over today. Her mom has a job outside the home, how fancy.
I've neglected all of my household duties. My kitchen looks like hell. I'm supposed to be planning my childrens birthday party. I haven't even mailed the invites. I have piles of clean to laundry to put away. I feel a bit quesy and weak in the knees, but I'll get the house up and running again.
I'm looking forward to my big night of reality TV. You know you're a parent when a date with your hubby consists of The Apprentice and Survivor. Who knows, maybe we'll feel well enough to share a bowl of popcorn too. I'm also looking forward to finding out why Emily had to take a potato to school today. We didn't have any because I haven't been able to get to the grocery store. I'm such a bad mom that I actually had to "borrow" a potato. Geez...

The Puking Proctors/Partying with Peddlers

2005-02-21T08:56:00.000-08:00

So, what's worse than a vomiting child? A child vomiting in a crowded restaurant! I experienced this over the weekend. I've been a mom now for nearly six years and this was my first time cleaning puke up while strangers stared. Some kind of evil bug has entered the tummys of my three children. I'm sure I'll be it's next victim or worse, Three Monkeys Dad will be. The only good thing is that it strikes one at a time. Once the vomiting stops for one poor monkey it starts for another. It has also hit my children in their birth order. Odd!

I also got the chance to bowl and celebrate Christmas(yes, I know it's almost March) with my former work friends. I discovered a new way to mix up my favorite drink, Parrot Bay and had lots of laughs with the Peddlers. I didn't bowl too bad either.

I must get back to the grind. Pukey laundry awaits.

I got scammed!

2005-02-19T12:23:00.000-08:00

About a month ago I was at a local CVS store. As I was getting ready to get in my vehicle a woman approached me. She drove a lemon that made mad muffler sounds and had a little girl in the backseat. The lady asked me if I had any money because she was trying to get back to Ypsilanti from Garden City and was running out of gas. She explained that she had just left a friends house and forgot her purse. Her friend left when she did, so she couldn't go back for it. At first I denied her my hard earned cash. I got in my vehicle and my daughter asked what was going on. As I told her I realized I needed to set a good example and besides it was bone chilling cold outside. What if she ran out of gas and her poor little girl had to walk or sit in this weather? I then drove over to her. She was getting some cash from another woman and I offered her all I had. I gave her three dollars. I really did only have three dollars and I felt mighty proud doing a good deed and mighty guilty for not doing it earlier. I drove off feeling good and told my daughter what a good thing we had done.....

Today I was leaving Laurel Park mall with my sons. As I packed up the stroller and put in in the back, I saw a woman driving towards me. It was HER! I knew what would happen next. I kind of froze there just waiting for her to come up to me. She did indeed. Would you believe she started the same old story about leaving her purse at a friends house. The friend went to work. She needed to get back to Ypsi. I just stood there listening. I stared at her waiting to shout out my "NO". The little girl was in the backseat too! I was in complete shock. All the things I could've said to that woman. I guess because I'm a mom and there was that little, innocent girl being used as a ploy to steal money, I said nothing. When she was done telling her lies, I simply said "sorry, I have no cash". She then drove off to her next victim.

The only good in all of this was that I did find a Livonia Police officer in the parking lot and I reported it to him. I'm sure she'll continue on for her hunt for cash anyway.

2005-02-18T10:18:00.000-08:00

I'm not real good with this blog thing. I've had no time to post and I'm very sensitive to what others think of it. I know that I shouldn't really care but in some weird way it bothers me.
It's been pretty hectic around here lately. Today I have FIVE kids to watch. I know, I'm crazy. I can say all I've done today is change diapers, feed kids, clean up after kids, try to get kids to sleep and try to keep up with binkys as they disappear. The binky theif is usually my son, Noah. He doesn't have a binky of his own, but is obsessed with taking other childrens. I think he's trying to tell the children that they just don't need a binky. Enough of that...

Rhonda's Raves...
(I think sometimes I'll do rants too)

My daughter Emily was awarded by her teacher for being an "ALL STAR" student this week.

Okay...just one rave today :-)

Changes...

2005-02-11T09:53:00.000-08:00

I've decided it's time to start blogging because I read that blogging for moms is a new trend. I'm all about the trends. I also came upon a blog by a mom who says she is the 2nd most popular search on google for "hot mom". I'm always up for some competition. Ha!

I'm sure only my few friends will read this blog. I hope to find some other readers as well though. I have to warn you, I'm not witty and most of my entries will probably contain me venting my frustrations and sharing silly stories about my life as a stay at home/babysitting mom. I've recently quit my part-time outlet (AKA The Pretzel Peddler), and now this is the only way I can converse with adults on a daily basis.