Hello Friends, what can I say? I am a crappy blogger. I am a terrific mental blogger. I think about things to blog about all-the-time. I even write them out in my head. And then I think of a way to make them shorter and they become Facebook status updates instead, lol. Oh well. Here I am, back again...
It's Christmas, which means I am spending way too much time at the Mall and not enough time sitting around the Christmas tree, sipping hot chocolate and singing three part harmony on Carol of the Bells. Does anyone really do that? Hmmmm, maybe the Duggars?
We have our one annual Christmas party to attend this coming Saturday. It's an ugly Christmas Sweater at our best friend's house and we are pumped. It used to be so easy to find Ugly-sweaters, but as these parties have sky-rocketed in popularity...not so much. Thrift stores everywhere-rejoice! So, our exact attire remains up in the air, but we will no doubt look totally stupid and have a blast. After all, I must defend my title from last year...that's right, I won Ugliest of all last year, perhaps that wasn't a good thing? Ha!
Anyway, my sweet bloggy friends. Please accept my apology, I have missed you. I do read every day. So, I'm with you...Just in lurker form!
I leave you with a funny story. We were at the dinner table about a week ago and Jackson was asking us about step-parents. I told him that it would be like if Mommy and Daddy weren't married anymore, Daddy's new wife would therefore be his Stepmother.
At which point Matt told him, "Yes, but your Mother would haunt me if I got re-married."
"Who killed me off in this story" I asked?
To which my sweet and darling husband replied, "Well, I figure that's the only reason we wouldn't still be together."
Awww, sweet and morbid all at the same time. Love him :)
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
I almost layed the smack down...
At a child's birthday party. Let me offer a little back-story.
Jackson is a very social child. He has lots of friends and that equals a lot of birthday parties to attend. I think this is wonderful. You see, I love cake. Birthday cake is one of my very favorite desserts and more parties to attend adds up to more opportunities to eat cake. Everyone wins.
Yesterday, we were invited to sweet little boy's birthday party and we were very glad to be able to attend. There was a good mix of people we did know along with some new faces. One of those new faces belonged to a man who was there with his three children. He had two little boys and a little girl that was cute enough to fan the flames of my already raging baby fever. Let's just say that this man was not exactly up for "Father of the Year".
The main attraction of the party was a huge slip-n-slide. It stretched all the way across my friend's front yard...including across her concrete walk-way. I hope you see where this is going...Yep, one of Mr. Wonderful's young sons took an awful spill hitting his head right on the concrete.
So, what did the man do? Absolutely nothing. He left that poor little boy (three years old, by the way) to sit there and sob. He told him to suck it up. That is right about the time I lost it. I grabbed him up (he was soaking wet, I'm assuming that is part of the reason Daddy Dearest didn't want in on the job) and comforted him.
I was willing to let it go at that...but NO! The man proceeds to walk over to me and tell me not to fall for his son's dramatics, that the little boy was just "playing" me. At that point, enough was enough. I laid him out. Put him in his place. I am a very tolerant person, but people ignoring their children is where I draw the line. And to think that this three year old child could play me. Puh-lease. I almost killed him. If his son and mine hadn't been watching, I think I could have taken him.
His wife came to the party later. She's pregnant again. Of course, she is...
P.S. I'm not sure we'll be invited next year, lol!
Jackson is a very social child. He has lots of friends and that equals a lot of birthday parties to attend. I think this is wonderful. You see, I love cake. Birthday cake is one of my very favorite desserts and more parties to attend adds up to more opportunities to eat cake. Everyone wins.
Yesterday, we were invited to sweet little boy's birthday party and we were very glad to be able to attend. There was a good mix of people we did know along with some new faces. One of those new faces belonged to a man who was there with his three children. He had two little boys and a little girl that was cute enough to fan the flames of my already raging baby fever. Let's just say that this man was not exactly up for "Father of the Year".
The main attraction of the party was a huge slip-n-slide. It stretched all the way across my friend's front yard...including across her concrete walk-way. I hope you see where this is going...Yep, one of Mr. Wonderful's young sons took an awful spill hitting his head right on the concrete.
So, what did the man do? Absolutely nothing. He left that poor little boy (three years old, by the way) to sit there and sob. He told him to suck it up. That is right about the time I lost it. I grabbed him up (he was soaking wet, I'm assuming that is part of the reason Daddy Dearest didn't want in on the job) and comforted him.
I was willing to let it go at that...but NO! The man proceeds to walk over to me and tell me not to fall for his son's dramatics, that the little boy was just "playing" me. At that point, enough was enough. I laid him out. Put him in his place. I am a very tolerant person, but people ignoring their children is where I draw the line. And to think that this three year old child could play me. Puh-lease. I almost killed him. If his son and mine hadn't been watching, I think I could have taken him.
His wife came to the party later. She's pregnant again. Of course, she is...
P.S. I'm not sure we'll be invited next year, lol!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
He ain't heavy...
He's my brother.
Sorry. I had to. I don't even really like that song. I liked it even less when American Idol did a version of it a few years back. But, the title is just too appropriate for my story. Here we go...
Target loves me. I feel like I help keep them in business. Facebook has a group titled, "I went into Target to buy toothpaste and I spent 100 dollars." I should join that group. Now add in that our Target has a Starbucks and a Pizza hut and you have perfect family harmony. I have been known to bribe my children with popcorn and slushies so that they will be peaceful during my shopping. Don't judge me.
I had to run to Target last Saturday night to pick up a birthday gift. The boys and I were strolling through the dollar section to see if we could find any little goodies to throw into the package when the boys spotted some foam swords. They were well into the Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker fight when another little boy walked up to join in on the action. I was half watching when I saw something that brought out the very fire in my heart. The little boy hit Hunter in the face so hard I could hear it from across the aisle. I was horrified.
Now, I know kids will be kids. And maybe my son was asking for it by playing along in the first place. But, I was seriously about to go off on this child. He was much older than Hunter and he took the game too far. I was well on my way to a total freak out when I realized that someone else was doing it for me.
Jackson. He proceeded to lay this child out. He told him that no one hits his brother and that he should know better. He said that Hunter is just a baby and that was totally wrong. He then threw their swords down and (in total Jill fashion I might add) spun on his heels and said, "Come on Hunter, let's get you out of here."
Maybe I should have stepped in, but I didn't. I had seen it. All of the lessons about protecting our family. The times I have explained that Hunter and Jackson should always have each other's back, they were all right there in the middle of Target alive and well. Jackson gets it. Praise God!
I am so glad that I have two boys. I am so glad that they have each other. That's right, Jackson. He ain't heavy, he's your brother.
Sorry. I had to. I don't even really like that song. I liked it even less when American Idol did a version of it a few years back. But, the title is just too appropriate for my story. Here we go...
Target loves me. I feel like I help keep them in business. Facebook has a group titled, "I went into Target to buy toothpaste and I spent 100 dollars." I should join that group. Now add in that our Target has a Starbucks and a Pizza hut and you have perfect family harmony. I have been known to bribe my children with popcorn and slushies so that they will be peaceful during my shopping. Don't judge me.
I had to run to Target last Saturday night to pick up a birthday gift. The boys and I were strolling through the dollar section to see if we could find any little goodies to throw into the package when the boys spotted some foam swords. They were well into the Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker fight when another little boy walked up to join in on the action. I was half watching when I saw something that brought out the very fire in my heart. The little boy hit Hunter in the face so hard I could hear it from across the aisle. I was horrified.
Now, I know kids will be kids. And maybe my son was asking for it by playing along in the first place. But, I was seriously about to go off on this child. He was much older than Hunter and he took the game too far. I was well on my way to a total freak out when I realized that someone else was doing it for me.
Jackson. He proceeded to lay this child out. He told him that no one hits his brother and that he should know better. He said that Hunter is just a baby and that was totally wrong. He then threw their swords down and (in total Jill fashion I might add) spun on his heels and said, "Come on Hunter, let's get you out of here."
Maybe I should have stepped in, but I didn't. I had seen it. All of the lessons about protecting our family. The times I have explained that Hunter and Jackson should always have each other's back, they were all right there in the middle of Target alive and well. Jackson gets it. Praise God!
I am so glad that I have two boys. I am so glad that they have each other. That's right, Jackson. He ain't heavy, he's your brother.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
And in this corner....
Weighing in at 33 pounds we have, Hunter...the roughest, toughest toddler in the east.
Well maybe, lol.
I had dinner with a friend on Monday night and when I came home I saw that Jackson was missing another tooth. I was surprised because it hadn't really been all that loose. When I asked him about it, he told me that Hunter had punched it out.
WHAT?????
I questioned Matt about it and he confirmed that Yep, Hunter had been the culprit.
Apparently the were playing Pirates of the Caribbean (because whose children don't frequently re-enact popular fight scenes from borderline appropriate Disney movies.) Jackson was cast as the part of Elizabeth Swann (again, probably better not to ask) and Hunter said,
"Take that, Elizabeth Swann" and rared back and let him have it.
That was the end of Jackson's tooth. I know there is a lot I could be grateful for..it was a baby tooth, it was already loose, and most of all Jackson was not upset. I know this because when I asked him if Hunter told him he was sorry, he responded...
"No, Mom. I told Hunter thank you! This was the greatest night ever."
Sigh. And I wonder why my hair is turning gray.
Well maybe, lol.
I had dinner with a friend on Monday night and when I came home I saw that Jackson was missing another tooth. I was surprised because it hadn't really been all that loose. When I asked him about it, he told me that Hunter had punched it out.
WHAT?????
I questioned Matt about it and he confirmed that Yep, Hunter had been the culprit.
Apparently the were playing Pirates of the Caribbean (because whose children don't frequently re-enact popular fight scenes from borderline appropriate Disney movies.) Jackson was cast as the part of Elizabeth Swann (again, probably better not to ask) and Hunter said,
"Take that, Elizabeth Swann" and rared back and let him have it.
That was the end of Jackson's tooth. I know there is a lot I could be grateful for..it was a baby tooth, it was already loose, and most of all Jackson was not upset. I know this because when I asked him if Hunter told him he was sorry, he responded...
"No, Mom. I told Hunter thank you! This was the greatest night ever."
Sigh. And I wonder why my hair is turning gray.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Life as we know it...
Someone asked me the other day, "What do you do for a living?"
I quickly responded, "I'm a stay at home Mom."
They kind of laughed and said, "Do you do it because you like it, or because you feel obligated?"
That question got me to thinking. Why do I choose to stay at home? Certainly our budget could be improved if I went back to work full time. And yet, year after year I make the same choice. I officially joined the ranks of SAHM Moms when Jackson was born almost eight years ago. For me, it was never a question. I always knew that was where I wanted to be...I'm so blessed that I married a man who supports me in my quest to be at home with the boys. That is where he and I both feel our family is best served.
But, back to the question. Do I like it, or do I feel a sense of obligation?
Well, let me put it this way.
Everyday, I wake up to a house full of my co-workers and they race to be the first to give me a hug. They fight over who loves me the most. I am surrounded by company opportunities, never mind if some of them are potty training, ABC's and the Golden Rule. Maybe I don't get any sick days, but my co-workers are very generous with their love and sympathy. Instead of collecting a pay check twice a month, I am rewarded daily with hugs and kisses. And in the moments that I am able to witness the bond that Hunter and Jackson share, another deposit is made into my heart. And at the end of the day, my business partner comes home to find a healthy, happy (although sometimes screaming) family.
So, yes. I like what I do. Honestly, it's more than that. I love it. This is my calling.
I have to go, though. We have an important business meeting to discuss the effects of Crayola on slipcovers. Let's hope we experience a breakthrough.
I quickly responded, "I'm a stay at home Mom."
They kind of laughed and said, "Do you do it because you like it, or because you feel obligated?"
That question got me to thinking. Why do I choose to stay at home? Certainly our budget could be improved if I went back to work full time. And yet, year after year I make the same choice. I officially joined the ranks of SAHM Moms when Jackson was born almost eight years ago. For me, it was never a question. I always knew that was where I wanted to be...I'm so blessed that I married a man who supports me in my quest to be at home with the boys. That is where he and I both feel our family is best served.
But, back to the question. Do I like it, or do I feel a sense of obligation?
Well, let me put it this way.
Everyday, I wake up to a house full of my co-workers and they race to be the first to give me a hug. They fight over who loves me the most. I am surrounded by company opportunities, never mind if some of them are potty training, ABC's and the Golden Rule. Maybe I don't get any sick days, but my co-workers are very generous with their love and sympathy. Instead of collecting a pay check twice a month, I am rewarded daily with hugs and kisses. And in the moments that I am able to witness the bond that Hunter and Jackson share, another deposit is made into my heart. And at the end of the day, my business partner comes home to find a healthy, happy (although sometimes screaming) family.
So, yes. I like what I do. Honestly, it's more than that. I love it. This is my calling.
I have to go, though. We have an important business meeting to discuss the effects of Crayola on slipcovers. Let's hope we experience a breakthrough.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Lucky in love
Matt and I were playing a game together a few days ago.
Let's suffice it to say, he mopped the floor with me.
I jokingly told him, "You just got lucky"
He replied, "Well that would be the first time."
I batted my eyes at him with my best Scarlett O'hara charm and said, "Excuse me? What about me?"
Matt said, "Honey, I love you. But, getting you to marry me was not luck. That was a lot of hard work."
HA! Love it!
Let's suffice it to say, he mopped the floor with me.
I jokingly told him, "You just got lucky"
He replied, "Well that would be the first time."
I batted my eyes at him with my best Scarlett O'hara charm and said, "Excuse me? What about me?"
Matt said, "Honey, I love you. But, getting you to marry me was not luck. That was a lot of hard work."
HA! Love it!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Oh Jackson, you crack me up...
I am tired. The kind of tired where your whole body aches and your emotions are too close to the surface. We are finalizing the move. We're so close. And yet there are moments when it feels like we've been moving for-ever. Here is a breakdown of our timeline.
March: Begin House hunting
Find the house of our dreams
Put an offer in
After some wheeling and dealing, we were under contract!
Give notice to our Apt. complex, Peace out :)
April 16th: Close on the house
April 23rd: Begin painting
Late April/Early May: Begin the moving process
May 15th: The big MOVE!
Since then we have been enjoying life in the new house and slowly getting the apartment ready to turn in the keys by May 31st.
Needless to say things like blogging and everyday life have taken a backseat to the move. For example My Dad gave me a lovely arrangement of flowers for Mother's Day. Anyone who knows me understands what a risk this is...The only things I have successfully kept alive are Jackson and Hunter, lol.
So, as we were sitting down to dinner one night Jackson looked at my sad (and dead) Mother's Day bouquet and said,
"Poor little flower. You never even had a chance."
So true.
He also told me this story,
"Mommy, yesterday when we were playing outside I saw a dead baby bunny. Poor little guy. It looked like he had been in a car accident."
I told him, "Perhaps he should have been wearing his seat belt"
Yep, that kid cracks me up.
March: Begin House hunting
Find the house of our dreams
Put an offer in
After some wheeling and dealing, we were under contract!
Give notice to our Apt. complex, Peace out :)
April 16th: Close on the house
April 23rd: Begin painting
Late April/Early May: Begin the moving process
May 15th: The big MOVE!
Since then we have been enjoying life in the new house and slowly getting the apartment ready to turn in the keys by May 31st.
Needless to say things like blogging and everyday life have taken a backseat to the move. For example My Dad gave me a lovely arrangement of flowers for Mother's Day. Anyone who knows me understands what a risk this is...The only things I have successfully kept alive are Jackson and Hunter, lol.
So, as we were sitting down to dinner one night Jackson looked at my sad (and dead) Mother's Day bouquet and said,
"Poor little flower. You never even had a chance."
So true.
He also told me this story,
"Mommy, yesterday when we were playing outside I saw a dead baby bunny. Poor little guy. It looked like he had been in a car accident."
I told him, "Perhaps he should have been wearing his seat belt"
Yep, that kid cracks me up.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Will they ever know?
Guilt is just a part of Motherhood. I understand that more everyday. And trust me, nobody does guilt like I do. My heart holds onto guilt like it's the missing link in my DNA. And therefore I was made to be a Mother. I worry about these boys every day.
Are they getting enough to eat?
Will they grow up to be kind and respectful?
Will they fall in with the right crowd?
Should I really let them eat that cookie?
It runs the gamut. From the silly to the intense. Take today for example. I had my bi-monthly Mother Of Preschoolers (MOPS) meeting. Hunter goes into a nursery school type of class. He does not enjoy this time apart. He cries from the instant we turn into the parking lot until the moment the teacher pries him out of my arms. For awhile, things had gotten better. Our goodbye scene was a little less dramatic. But today, Hunter decided to pull out all the stops.
He sobbed. He clung to me as if his life depended on my presence. He screamed after me as I walked away. The wonderful teachers even called me ten minutes later to tell me that he had finally stopped crying, but was now sitting at the table with his head in his hands softly crying for "Mommy."
Will he ever know? Will he know that I went straight upstairs to the bathroom and had my own version of a meltdown. I sat in the bathroom and cried. I cried for my baby and the way that he was hurting. I cried because no matter how hard I try, I can not protect him or his brother from the many hurts in life. Even if they are as simple as being separated for two hours.
I am not sure if Hunter or Jackson will ever really know how often I have lay awake at night feeling guilty for my actions and words that day. Or how often I have lifted them up in prayer. Maybe someday when they have babies of their own they will know. But, I'm not sure even then...Because like I said, nobody does guilt like I do.
Motherhood...It's not for sissies.
By the way, our story has a happy ending. I got the best hug ever when I picked Hunter up. I'm not even sure Bon Jovi ever received such a welcome. And in that moment, I know that those are the blessings that make all the worry worthwhile.
Are they getting enough to eat?
Will they grow up to be kind and respectful?
Will they fall in with the right crowd?
Should I really let them eat that cookie?
It runs the gamut. From the silly to the intense. Take today for example. I had my bi-monthly Mother Of Preschoolers (MOPS) meeting. Hunter goes into a nursery school type of class. He does not enjoy this time apart. He cries from the instant we turn into the parking lot until the moment the teacher pries him out of my arms. For awhile, things had gotten better. Our goodbye scene was a little less dramatic. But today, Hunter decided to pull out all the stops.
He sobbed. He clung to me as if his life depended on my presence. He screamed after me as I walked away. The wonderful teachers even called me ten minutes later to tell me that he had finally stopped crying, but was now sitting at the table with his head in his hands softly crying for "Mommy."
Will he ever know? Will he know that I went straight upstairs to the bathroom and had my own version of a meltdown. I sat in the bathroom and cried. I cried for my baby and the way that he was hurting. I cried because no matter how hard I try, I can not protect him or his brother from the many hurts in life. Even if they are as simple as being separated for two hours.
I am not sure if Hunter or Jackson will ever really know how often I have lay awake at night feeling guilty for my actions and words that day. Or how often I have lifted them up in prayer. Maybe someday when they have babies of their own they will know. But, I'm not sure even then...Because like I said, nobody does guilt like I do.
Motherhood...It's not for sissies.
By the way, our story has a happy ending. I got the best hug ever when I picked Hunter up. I'm not even sure Bon Jovi ever received such a welcome. And in that moment, I know that those are the blessings that make all the worry worthwhile.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The day that wouldn't end...
I have had a crazy couple of days...I'm sure some of you have noticed that I failed miserably at my attempt to blog daily for two weeks. Perhaps I should have picked a better time in our lives. But, really? When will be a better time when you are raising two wild childs (I mean loving little boys)?
Today started out crazy. I should know when that happens that I should just stay in bed. Nana called to tell me that she had spent the night throwing up. Thankfully, her retirement community was able to step in and give her a shot for the nausea. That saved me from having to bring Hunter into the mix. As I write, she is feeling some better. I'm so hopeful that it was just a bug and that the worst is behind her.
Of course, our phone call set us back in our morning routine. We were running late leaving for school. Jackson does not like to be late. Jackson blames me when we are late. Because, in case you missed the memo I am his mother and everything bad that happens to him is my fault. I wish I was kidding. God bless Jackson and his dramatics. They may be the end of me.
After I dropped Jackson off (NOT late, thankyouverymuch) I decided that Hunter and I needed a break. So, I took my ball of blond fluff to a Tropical Smoothie date. I love smoothies because they trick Hunter into drinking things he would normally turn his nose up at...Today, I got pomegranate, strawberries, and cranberries in him! Love it! It was a nice time and by far the most relaxing part of our day.
Our school system allows the kids to get out early on Wednesdays to allow teachers an afternoon planning period. I love this for the sake of the teachers. And I love having an afternoon to spend with Jackson, but I have to be honest, it throws a real kink in our schedule. Hello, nap time?
Then Jackson had swim lessons (He is coming along so well! I watched with glee as he dove under the water just like a fish! Something he would have never dared to attempt even a week ago) I am so proud of him and he is proud of himself...That matters so much to me! I want him to have pride in himself..it will keep him outta trouble, lol!
After swim lessons we were onto haircuts for the boys. Then home for homework and off to soccer practice. By the time we drove the 20 minutes to the field (long enough for Hunter to fall asleep in the car, refer to the no nap Wednesday) a storm had blown in. Practice had to be called on account of lightening.
So, all that for nothing. A sleeping baby a grumpy seven year old, and a husband that worked a 13 hour day.
Did I mention we're moving this week? Yep, good times.
Today started out crazy. I should know when that happens that I should just stay in bed. Nana called to tell me that she had spent the night throwing up. Thankfully, her retirement community was able to step in and give her a shot for the nausea. That saved me from having to bring Hunter into the mix. As I write, she is feeling some better. I'm so hopeful that it was just a bug and that the worst is behind her.
Of course, our phone call set us back in our morning routine. We were running late leaving for school. Jackson does not like to be late. Jackson blames me when we are late. Because, in case you missed the memo I am his mother and everything bad that happens to him is my fault. I wish I was kidding. God bless Jackson and his dramatics. They may be the end of me.
After I dropped Jackson off (NOT late, thankyouverymuch) I decided that Hunter and I needed a break. So, I took my ball of blond fluff to a Tropical Smoothie date. I love smoothies because they trick Hunter into drinking things he would normally turn his nose up at...Today, I got pomegranate, strawberries, and cranberries in him! Love it! It was a nice time and by far the most relaxing part of our day.
Our school system allows the kids to get out early on Wednesdays to allow teachers an afternoon planning period. I love this for the sake of the teachers. And I love having an afternoon to spend with Jackson, but I have to be honest, it throws a real kink in our schedule. Hello, nap time?
Then Jackson had swim lessons (He is coming along so well! I watched with glee as he dove under the water just like a fish! Something he would have never dared to attempt even a week ago) I am so proud of him and he is proud of himself...That matters so much to me! I want him to have pride in himself..it will keep him outta trouble, lol!
After swim lessons we were onto haircuts for the boys. Then home for homework and off to soccer practice. By the time we drove the 20 minutes to the field (long enough for Hunter to fall asleep in the car, refer to the no nap Wednesday) a storm had blown in. Practice had to be called on account of lightening.
So, all that for nothing. A sleeping baby a grumpy seven year old, and a husband that worked a 13 hour day.
Did I mention we're moving this week? Yep, good times.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Our place in this world
We are in the process of moving. It's bittersweet. Of course, it's wonderful because we are so excited to be in our new house. But, at the same time this is the only home we have ever known as a family. This is where Matt and I lived as newlyweds. This is where we brought our babies home. I can still remember pulling into the parking lot with 2 day old Jackson in the car. Now, I watch him bound up the stairs. It's defintely surreal.
But, it's time. The boys need a yard. And we need a space to call our own. And the tax credit didn't hurt either, lol. While I know that we will have many years to make memories in the new house, it will be sad to close the door on this chapter of our lives. But, I know that with the closing of one chapter begins the journey of another.
By the way, how in the world did we get so much stuff? And why do I feel the need to bring it with us?
But, it's time. The boys need a yard. And we need a space to call our own. And the tax credit didn't hurt either, lol. While I know that we will have many years to make memories in the new house, it will be sad to close the door on this chapter of our lives. But, I know that with the closing of one chapter begins the journey of another.
By the way, how in the world did we get so much stuff? And why do I feel the need to bring it with us?
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Stop cursing, Damn it!
Let me start by saying that most of the time Matt and I are pretty good about watching our mouth. Neither of us really does much cursing...but of the two of us he definitely has more slip-ups. Regardless we're works in progress.
Painting the new house was quite the project. I choose to paint the dining room a bright red. It's really quite beautiful, but the red paint just about drove Matt crazy. It was all well and good until we started to pull the tape off. And the red paint came with it. Yeah, good times. That is where Hunter picked up the phrase, "Damn it". Thank you, honey. As if that weren't bad enough Hunter doesn't just say it once, he says it over and over again.
Just like he did today when we were visiting my Grandmother. In her retirement community. In the public Cafe. To another resident. Is it all starting to come clear? Yep, my little Rock star told another one of the residents,
"Damn it. Damn it. Damn it."
It was painfully obvious what he had said. To her, to me, to everyone within earshot. But, still she asked me, "What did he say?". My answer....
"I have no idea. But, my husband might."
Painting the new house was quite the project. I choose to paint the dining room a bright red. It's really quite beautiful, but the red paint just about drove Matt crazy. It was all well and good until we started to pull the tape off. And the red paint came with it. Yeah, good times. That is where Hunter picked up the phrase, "Damn it". Thank you, honey. As if that weren't bad enough Hunter doesn't just say it once, he says it over and over again.
Just like he did today when we were visiting my Grandmother. In her retirement community. In the public Cafe. To another resident. Is it all starting to come clear? Yep, my little Rock star told another one of the residents,
"Damn it. Damn it. Damn it."
It was painfully obvious what he had said. To her, to me, to everyone within earshot. But, still she asked me, "What did he say?". My answer....
"I have no idea. But, my husband might."
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Baby Shoes
I love shoes. And I love babies. Put them together and I am in my element. I bought my first pair of baby shoes when I was sixteen. I didn't have a baby for another seven years, lol. They are a pair of tiny pink Weeboks. . I have two sons, they have gone completely unused.
I always imagined having a daughter and putting them on her. Confession alert...Both of my boys have sported the pink shoes in the privacy of their own crib, Matt has no idea. But, I don't have a little girl. I probably never will. And that is okay with me. God will bring my daughters to me in a different way. They will come to me through our sons in the form of a daughter-in-law. I already pray for those young women. But sadly, they will already be out of the pink Weebok phase by the time they come into my life. So, I'm back to my dilema...what to do with these little shoes.
About a year ago, my best friend gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. I hemmed and hawed about the shoes. Maybe I should pass them on. My friend's daughter would look precious in them. I even got them out the night before her baby shower prepared to wrap them up. I sat in my closet holding the little pink shoes and the tears began to fall. Matt came in to find me (have I mentioned what a good and patient man he is) and he understood the problem. He told me that those shoes have come a long way with me, they might as well stay in the family. I am so thankful for him and the way that he gets me.
I love having two little boys. I love their honesty, their resilience, their sense of humor. I'm even starting to cringe a little less when one of them laughs at bathroom humor. I love my life. But somehow I can't close the door on the Weeboks. Maybe someday I will have granddaughters. I know they will look good in pink ;)
I always imagined having a daughter and putting them on her. Confession alert...Both of my boys have sported the pink shoes in the privacy of their own crib, Matt has no idea. But, I don't have a little girl. I probably never will. And that is okay with me. God will bring my daughters to me in a different way. They will come to me through our sons in the form of a daughter-in-law. I already pray for those young women. But sadly, they will already be out of the pink Weebok phase by the time they come into my life. So, I'm back to my dilema...what to do with these little shoes.
About a year ago, my best friend gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. I hemmed and hawed about the shoes. Maybe I should pass them on. My friend's daughter would look precious in them. I even got them out the night before her baby shower prepared to wrap them up. I sat in my closet holding the little pink shoes and the tears began to fall. Matt came in to find me (have I mentioned what a good and patient man he is) and he understood the problem. He told me that those shoes have come a long way with me, they might as well stay in the family. I am so thankful for him and the way that he gets me.
I love having two little boys. I love their honesty, their resilience, their sense of humor. I'm even starting to cringe a little less when one of them laughs at bathroom humor. I love my life. But somehow I can't close the door on the Weeboks. Maybe someday I will have granddaughters. I know they will look good in pink ;)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Sometimes Mom needs the lesson....
I am not a fan of grocery shopping. I am definitely not a fan of grocery shopping with the boys by myself. In fact, since Hunter was born, Matt and I have made it a family sport. It works for us.
But, sometimes we find ourselves short of certain items that can't wait...Milk, bread, cereal. Items that don't require a family trip. And so, I go. I venture out into the great unknown of Food Lion. Just me and my boys.
I'm not going to lie. I bribe them. Animal crackers, juice boxes. Skittles. I'm not above it. And usually we do pretty well. But, the other day I had to make a quick grocery run and I had an epic fail. Things were going smoothly, until we came upon...(insert Twilight Zone music) The Cereal Aisle. Every Mother's worst nightmare. Boxes upon boxes of sugary goodness promising trinkets in every box. That is where we came upon the Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
The box boasted a Shrek water squirting tox inside just waiting to be claimed. I gave in and said we could get a box. Then came the kicker. They each wanted one. Of course, two children, two toys. The only problem was we didn't need two boxes of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Lord knows we didn't need one. So, I decided they could share the toy inside the box. I decided I would teach them a lesson. The lesson that sharing is not the worst thing that can happen to two brothers. That we can take something and make the best of it.
Here is the problem with that...When we got home they opened the box. And of course, the toy was ridiculous. Tiny and half working. And of course, they had to battle over it. Our box contained "Donkey" the character made famous by Eddie Murphy. And I stood there watching them. Take turns squirting each other with water, exemplifing the lesson that I had wanted them to get. That's when it hit me. Maybe sometimes I need the lesson. The lesson needs to be that sometimes it's okay to be silly, okay to buy two boxes because that means twice the toy.
Wouldn't it have been wonderful to watch them tear into their respective boxes and watch them squeal with joy over which character they got? Then enjoy having a front row seat to their water fight? Maybe sometimes the lesson is Mom says yes. The lesson is even if we don't need two boxes of cereal, we do need two toys for two very special little boys.
I hope that in the future I can see the moments when these little boys have more to teach me than I have to teach them. That is my prayer.
But, sometimes we find ourselves short of certain items that can't wait...Milk, bread, cereal. Items that don't require a family trip. And so, I go. I venture out into the great unknown of Food Lion. Just me and my boys.
I'm not going to lie. I bribe them. Animal crackers, juice boxes. Skittles. I'm not above it. And usually we do pretty well. But, the other day I had to make a quick grocery run and I had an epic fail. Things were going smoothly, until we came upon...(insert Twilight Zone music) The Cereal Aisle. Every Mother's worst nightmare. Boxes upon boxes of sugary goodness promising trinkets in every box. That is where we came upon the Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
The box boasted a Shrek water squirting tox inside just waiting to be claimed. I gave in and said we could get a box. Then came the kicker. They each wanted one. Of course, two children, two toys. The only problem was we didn't need two boxes of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Lord knows we didn't need one. So, I decided they could share the toy inside the box. I decided I would teach them a lesson. The lesson that sharing is not the worst thing that can happen to two brothers. That we can take something and make the best of it.
Here is the problem with that...When we got home they opened the box. And of course, the toy was ridiculous. Tiny and half working. And of course, they had to battle over it. Our box contained "Donkey" the character made famous by Eddie Murphy. And I stood there watching them. Take turns squirting each other with water, exemplifing the lesson that I had wanted them to get. That's when it hit me. Maybe sometimes I need the lesson. The lesson needs to be that sometimes it's okay to be silly, okay to buy two boxes because that means twice the toy.
Wouldn't it have been wonderful to watch them tear into their respective boxes and watch them squeal with joy over which character they got? Then enjoy having a front row seat to their water fight? Maybe sometimes the lesson is Mom says yes. The lesson is even if we don't need two boxes of cereal, we do need two toys for two very special little boys.
I hope that in the future I can see the moments when these little boys have more to teach me than I have to teach them. That is my prayer.
Monday, May 3, 2010
He hit the wall.
Some people have a soft spot for puppies. Other a weakness for a good sale. My soft spot has fluffy blonde hair and chubby little cheeks. Yep, my weakness is Hunter. You see, he is the baby that I wasn't sure I would get to have. From the time that Jackson was born my husband felt pretty secure that he was done having children. He said he just couldn't imagine loving another child as much as we loved Jackson. And I could see his point. But, I was willing to try. I will save the story of how my prayers were answered for another day.
So, back to my point. Hunter. He cries, I come running. Literally. If he wakes up from a bad dream, I just about break my neck to get to him. Matt says it's very entertaining to watch. I don't really know why I feel such an intensity to get to him. I just know that I feel it's MY baby and he is crying for ME! End of story.
The only problem with this is, I don't really wake up until I'm already in his bedroom. Take last night for example...Hunter cried. I came running. I scooped him up out of his bed and made our way into a spare bedroom. I was planning to calm him down and put him back to bed. Until....I smacked my sweet baby's head against the wall. Yep. Say it with me in your best Rudy Huxtable voice "I hit the wall". OH MY GAWD!
I don't know who began to cry louder. Probably me. And the worst part is, Hunter wasn't even really awake. So now he is groggy and his head hurts from what could be a concussion because I totally just rammed his sweet baby head into A WALL. What is wrong with me? See, I told you I don't get awake enough!
I screamed for help! Because what rational adult Mother doesn't scream for help in the middle of the night? Poor Matt. He thought I must have interupted a home burglary or intercepted a killer. He found me and Hunter sobbing on the floor. . .Somedays, I'll bet he wishes he married a History major. He put us back to bed and assured me that tomorrow we would both feel better.
So, I layed in bed with Hunter. Listening to him sniffle. Every sniffle cost me a tear. I know that we are both going to have to toughen up a little. But, (sob) Hunter is my baby. He is my weakness. So, you can have your good sales and cute puppies. I'll keep my blonde fluff and chubby cheeks.
By the way, He TOTALLY has a goose-egg on his noggin today. Yep, that is courtesy of his Mama. And her crazy ways.
So, back to my point. Hunter. He cries, I come running. Literally. If he wakes up from a bad dream, I just about break my neck to get to him. Matt says it's very entertaining to watch. I don't really know why I feel such an intensity to get to him. I just know that I feel it's MY baby and he is crying for ME! End of story.
The only problem with this is, I don't really wake up until I'm already in his bedroom. Take last night for example...Hunter cried. I came running. I scooped him up out of his bed and made our way into a spare bedroom. I was planning to calm him down and put him back to bed. Until....I smacked my sweet baby's head against the wall. Yep. Say it with me in your best Rudy Huxtable voice "I hit the wall". OH MY GAWD!
I don't know who began to cry louder. Probably me. And the worst part is, Hunter wasn't even really awake. So now he is groggy and his head hurts from what could be a concussion because I totally just rammed his sweet baby head into A WALL. What is wrong with me? See, I told you I don't get awake enough!
I screamed for help! Because what rational adult Mother doesn't scream for help in the middle of the night? Poor Matt. He thought I must have interupted a home burglary or intercepted a killer. He found me and Hunter sobbing on the floor. . .Somedays, I'll bet he wishes he married a History major. He put us back to bed and assured me that tomorrow we would both feel better.
So, I layed in bed with Hunter. Listening to him sniffle. Every sniffle cost me a tear. I know that we are both going to have to toughen up a little. But, (sob) Hunter is my baby. He is my weakness. So, you can have your good sales and cute puppies. I'll keep my blonde fluff and chubby cheeks.
By the way, He TOTALLY has a goose-egg on his noggin today. Yep, that is courtesy of his Mama. And her crazy ways.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Friday, January 15, 2010
A laaaaaazy blogger
It has come to my attention that it does little good to have a blog if you are never going to update it. So there, lol! Happy now, folks?
Aaaaah, 2010! Where did time go? Since we last spoke, Jackson has turned seven and Hunter has turned two. My babies! I feel like Hunter was just born. And then my sweet Jackson has turned into a young man. Who told them it was okay to grow up? Lord knows, it wasn't me. But, you know. The strangest part of watching my boys grow up is....I don't feel any older. I still feel like the same seventeen year old girl who was sitting by the phone waiting for a boy to call. Luckily, now I'm sitting by the phone waiting for a different (and much cuter, thankyouverymuch) husband to call. But, deep down...I don't feel any different. I wonder if that is how life will always be....Does my Grandmother feel this? Is there any truth to the old adage, you're as young as you feel? Because if that's true, I hope I look rockin' at prom this year :)
But, life is truly still very sweet....or suite! Hotel life is good. We're in the slow season, which is a blessing! I have loved having Matt around more. We were even able to go with him to Charlottesville for a few days while he filled in for a General Manager there. And I loved it! We were right in the heart of UVA country. Beautiful! And of course, it didn't hurt that the city had a good snow right before we got there. God's decorating. Truly the world looks more beautiful covered in a blanket of snow. We had a blast together, even taking in a UVA women's basketball game. From a box seat. With guards at the door. To make sure you were "cool" enough to mingle with people of our kind. Cause that's how we roll. Lol! I hope you know I'm kidding. But, we were definitely given the VIP treament. I could get used to it!
Well, it's about time for me to wake Hunter to go pick up Jackson. There is something evil about waking up a sleeping child. Goes against my very nature. But, alas there is something more evil about leaving your seven year old standing outside his school in the cold. So, wake up pretty baby. I promise to blog more and facebook less. Hey! I saw those eyes roll. What-ever :)
Livin' the suite life,
Jill
Aaaaah, 2010! Where did time go? Since we last spoke, Jackson has turned seven and Hunter has turned two. My babies! I feel like Hunter was just born. And then my sweet Jackson has turned into a young man. Who told them it was okay to grow up? Lord knows, it wasn't me. But, you know. The strangest part of watching my boys grow up is....I don't feel any older. I still feel like the same seventeen year old girl who was sitting by the phone waiting for a boy to call. Luckily, now I'm sitting by the phone waiting for a different (and much cuter, thankyouverymuch) husband to call. But, deep down...I don't feel any different. I wonder if that is how life will always be....Does my Grandmother feel this? Is there any truth to the old adage, you're as young as you feel? Because if that's true, I hope I look rockin' at prom this year :)
But, life is truly still very sweet....or suite! Hotel life is good. We're in the slow season, which is a blessing! I have loved having Matt around more. We were even able to go with him to Charlottesville for a few days while he filled in for a General Manager there. And I loved it! We were right in the heart of UVA country. Beautiful! And of course, it didn't hurt that the city had a good snow right before we got there. God's decorating. Truly the world looks more beautiful covered in a blanket of snow. We had a blast together, even taking in a UVA women's basketball game. From a box seat. With guards at the door. To make sure you were "cool" enough to mingle with people of our kind. Cause that's how we roll. Lol! I hope you know I'm kidding. But, we were definitely given the VIP treament. I could get used to it!
Well, it's about time for me to wake Hunter to go pick up Jackson. There is something evil about waking up a sleeping child. Goes against my very nature. But, alas there is something more evil about leaving your seven year old standing outside his school in the cold. So, wake up pretty baby. I promise to blog more and facebook less. Hey! I saw those eyes roll. What-ever :)
Livin' the suite life,
Jill
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