Tuesday December 30, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Oh my the car is sparkling after the detailing.  Ooooo, it is nice.  I may be afraid to let the chillins in...Scarlet was on to my thoughts when she initially saw the car.  She said, "Aww, now this will be like your precious comforter--we can't eat near it or throw up on it."  Precisely. (Aren't I strict?!)

Also, the car place drove me to the nearby mall while the car was professionally de-grossed for 2 hours.  There I had a relaxing mall experience:  exchanged all of the needed Xmas gifts, completed my New Year's shopping for the gals, and enjoyed a non-rushed snack at the Food Court.

Note:  my mom thought to have one's car detailed was to get little flames painted on it.   I guess that is one kind of detailing...

Worst Part of the Day-

Super duper sleepy this evening.  To further disrupt, Little Man Liam kept running in and out of his crib thinking he was heeee-larious.  Not funny, my friend.   

Monday December 29, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Gettin back in the swing of things, post-holiday.  I made an appointment for my car to get detailed (it is disturbingly gross) and winterized (I have not been one to be proactive with cars--definitely a learned trait from the parentals...), scheduled a doc appointment por moi and I finally, finally, finally took my puked on comforter to get professionally laundered--it's all starting to look good and feel good.  And soon the car will smell good, too.   

Worst Part of the Day-

I know it's been for a spell now (5 years), but just today I began to seriously wonder WHY (in tarnation) I decreased 2 full cup sizes (that is bra) after giving birth?  It is an oddity and apparently a medical mystery.  Anyone?   Thoughts??

Sunday December 28, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
Having the chits tucked in and immediately tucking myself in for a long winter's nap. Soooo tired by the end. No t.v., no computer, no books--just ressst.

Worst Part of the Day-
I was awoken at 3am-ish with the terrible feeling of nausea. If I was able to lie as still as a board, I could deal with fending off the constant hell. Once the kids were up I began to vomit every hour as long as I moved even the slightest. Whyyyyyyy? Terrible, terrible day. I really wanted an assistant to run to the store for me. Instead I had to pack up the littles and drive and walk and talk. How? I do not know. But I needed Gatorade desparetly.

Saturday December 27, 2008

Best Part(s) of the Day-
AM-I received a massage from Will-O for my B-day. Divine--I fell asleep during it--good sign.

PM-Went to Cuz K's for din and relaxing. The kids were pretty darn good and the entire night was quite enjoyable. Playing Rock Band on Wii was a serious hit with me. (I want to practice the drums in private and then come out and really rock.) Honestly, what will they think of next?!*

Worst Part of the Day-
I had the best intentions of going to work out after my massage (they are located in the same building!) It was not possible. Instead I had to (I did!) hit up unnamed fast food establishment to get fix. Boo and double hiss.

Friday December 26, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
Went to Will-O's show with Brother Mike and a few friends. It was fun to be out and meet up a few other peeps at the bar (the bad thing about the day after Christmas is the fact that 50% of one's crowd is out of town. Another 25% wants to stay inside in flannel jammies.) The band did not disappoint in the entertainment realm. (Oh my god!) I even did a birthday shot--who knew? I did not mention my birthday status but somehow it gets out there...

Worst Part of the Day-
Again the whole trying to coordinate a sitter who does not drive. This time the sitter's mom was dropping her off which is a dream, but the timing was off. Background: When bands play and especially Will-O's band, it is a LATE night thing. They don't even start until midnight...I was going nap, tidy the house, and have some people over for drinks prior to going to the show but that was gonna be 10:30ish. The sitter happily arrived at 9pm sharp. I sat with her and watched the entirety of Step It Up-2. Wow. Happy Birthday to me...

Sunday December 28, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Really the worst part was about all 12 waking hours of this day. Both boyz are now not well - both are overly sensitive (bursting into tears over a drop of syrup on the table, for example), both are fighting the other for whatever toy the other has, and both wanting to sit on my lap ... at the same time. I spent the day in a tank top (and pj bottoms if you must know) due to the little kilns heating me up that were Wes and Quinn. I had cabin fever by the end and everyone was just MISERABLE. Sucky, sucky, sucky day.
Also had to let Mr. Quinn cry it out (tough love sleep style) this evening. He went to bed well and then decided at 9:05 p.m. to try and get some big bed time. We just let him cry - it was and is terrible to do - but I truly have no patience for the sleep/pat or other methods (and also they don't seem to work for me). Finally he went to bed. When I checked on him before heading to bed myself, he woke up and whispered pitifully "big bed?" I said "no sweetie - you sleep in your bed." He closed his eyes and sighed.

Best Part of the Day - Vat o' Cab Sav, end of Leatherheads (kind of dumb) and whole of Shutter (better than I would have thought).

Saturday December 27, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Yup - late morning Wes spiked the fever. Both boyz are now glassy eyed, warm to the touch and lethargic (until they get the liquid children's Motrin that is - then they are perfectly normal for hours! WOW do those kiddos respond to that med.)
Also we had some sleep issues last night - Quinn has been trying to work not going to bed for awhile now. So being sick he decided to take full advantage .... he insisted on sleeping in the Big Bed (Erik's and my bed) and it was the WORST. He was HOT as an oven and restless and seemed to call out just when I was about to fall back asleep. Also Wes had to be comforted for 30 minutes during the night as well. I woke up at 4:30 a.m. to find Erik had vacated the bed ... gol dern it! I should have thought of that.

Best Part of the Day - I began one of my New Years Resolutions early by promptly returning a call to a pal who had rung yesterday. So easy (and FUN) to do. Why didn't I think of this earlier?

Friday December 26, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn still having that fever, but Wes is his ole energetic self. We had a lot of down time and watched lots of tv while Erik was aworkin' this morning.

Best Part of the Day - Erik went to the gym later in the afternoon and Wes went with him. So Quinn and I had some alone time to just chill and play quietly and cuddle. Also had a most excellent conversation with Aunt Barb (I was calling to THANK her for this amazing photo of Quinn she sent for Christmas). She is always so pragmatically positive - a joy to chat with. Also new news on the 'looking for a home front' - more on it later. I'm superstitious!

-- Happy Birthday Miss Megan! I'm always so sorry when I can't be with you on your birthday (I just was with you for so many years!!) Hope you had a good one!

Thursday December 25, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

The kiddies had a perfect day playing with the uncles, Aunt Alli and grandparentals--for hours and hours. That is truly what these holidays are about!!    They realize how much they are loved by many different people.  (And I get to realize how much I love to finish conversations and cups of coffee...)

Worst Part of the Day-

We arrived home from the 30 hour Christmas madness at roughly 6:30pm and gave the kidz a small/late din din.  At 7:30pm Liam began vomiting.  (One week--to the minute--after Scarlet had her GI issue!)  He threw up every hour until 7am.  I was there by his side the whole night.  It got to be such that I would just hear him rustling around in his sheets and I would know what was coming next.  Though half asleep, I would instinctively get up to assist and coddle and clean up the next emesis output.  Poor, poor buddy boy.  

Unexpected Christmas Twist:

Tough love is not dead.

At 1am (after an insane amount of Cold Duck was swilled), I made the executive decision to give Scarlet 1 lump of coal and 1 present for Christmas morning.  (Please, she had just opened tons of presents from aunts, uncles and grandparents--and she was in the more, more, more mode and it was not pretty.)  Also she has been on and off whiney, sassy and continues to have selective hearing despite my best intentions with behavior charts, behavior modification, etc.   Feeling kinda like a bad ass (I don't know if any of my mom friends would make this move...), I stoically put the remaining 7 or 8 other presents for her in the trunk--never to be seen.

Hours later Santa left a note that informed Scarl of her gift status: 

Dear Scarlet, 

1 lump of coal and 1 present are under the tree.  

Better luck next year, 

Santa

She didn't bat an eyelash at the note.  She looked at the coal very dryly and then happily opened her other present (a piggy bank).  She and Liam played with their respective piggy banks for a longer time than I thought possible.  (Piggy bank are total hits, by the way.)  

When people would ask S. what she received today, she would gloss over the coal part and even euphemistically add, "I received this lovely black toy and I pretend it's a doll..."   (Oh my.)

At the end of the day as we drove back home Scarlet was atypically quiet.  She then said, "Mom?  I know why I got the coal."   Ahh yes, admission, comprehension.  After many more minutes of quiet she added, "I can still play with it, though."   My sweetie--the glass is half full.  

I feel like this was a pivotal moment and a smart parenting decision.  (Or I just scarred her for life...we shall see.)  Feels good to stick to the guns, though.

Wednesday December 24, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Super enjoyable gathering at the parental home.  Perhaps not solely in the spirit of Christ, but definitely festive par-tay fun--my mom busted out Rudolph noses, light-up necklaces and Cold Duck by the case.   Also the kids are at great ages--for the first time in years (it seemed) I could sit and relax and chat and not worry about their every move.   The celebration continues with a Christmas sleep over with 9 in the home--yippee!  

Worst Part of the Day-

Things get a little hectic trying to get everyone dressed and ready--appetizers and side dishes and wine AND a car full of goodies (with spotless kiddies) for our 2 gatherings today.   Are we feeling the Christmas (stress) love???

Thursday December 25, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Watching my kiddos be VERY overwhelmed by so many new toys. They fought over one toy and then another. I almost think we should have Chanukkah style doled them out over eight days.
Later in the evening Quinn grew lethargic and then spiked a fever. It kind of freaked me out. For some reason I kept thinking MENINGITIS. I'm usually way more rational - but something about watching him just soooo unenergetic made me worry. Also all the kiddos were just so overtired and so we all just had to laugh and be happy that only WE were witnessing their behavior.

Best Part of the Day - We occupied the kiddos with some toys and then Erik and I sat on the couch, drank coffee with whipping cream, opened presents and talked. It was lovely and calm and so nice to talk uninterrupted.
Also made it over to Chris and Ann's for a lovely Christmas Day gathering. The kiddos all played inside and out and then we had a yummy dinner. A nice way to end the holiday.

Wednesday December 24, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I guess it's hard to try and emulate Christmas Eves of ago (when 25 or so of us would gather at my G-Ma's and have a never ending cocktail party of fun! Gifts were completely secondary as we got older - almost unnecessary really.) And I didn't tell Chris and Ann what time to come over ... so I am all dressed and ready at 5 p.m. and they don't come over until 6:30 p.m. It's just never going to be the same - get over it and move on!

Best Part of the Day - After rebounding from my little pity party, we had a fun, fabulous Christmas Eve. While Quinn and his cousin Carson both had minor meltdowns, it was all in good fun. We had tons to eat and good drinks (Erik and Chris were drinking spiked Egg Nog - ugh!) And it was nice and warm outside, but still felt warm and Christmas-y inside. Very, very fun.

NOTE - do not leave a bag full of presents with a six year old, two three year olds and an almost two year old. I put it on the ground, went to get my camera and WHOA they were ripping into them by the time I returned.

Tuesday December 23, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Late night trip to the close by grocery store which I HATE. But I had a conversation with my sister-in-law and realized that it might be nice for ME to host something every once in awhile (it's just our rental home is not great for parties ... but really, that is just an excuse!) So there I was at 9 p.m. getting ready to host the Christmas Eve celebration tomorrow night.

Best Part of the Day - Kiddos and I went to the gym and then to "see the owl" aka the Nature Museum. They had so much fun running around and saying 'hi' to all the animals. Then after my late night shopping trip (see above), I got really into the hosting deal. I forgot - it's FUN to host! You don't have to pack the kids! You don't have to worry about who is driving home! You get to choose the menu!

Tuesday December 23, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O and I had a good talk earlier in the day.  Very civil and mature.  So when he stated he wanted to watch a movie with me this eve, I bribed, "If you help me do all of the nightly chores...". So after kids' hygiene, jammies, books (which usually completes his end), we did toy pick-up, dishes, counter clean-up (he doesn't know to do that), vacuuming, floor cleaning, hats/mittens/boots pick-up, laundry in/out and newly laundered jazz put away.  Then onto bill paying, thank you card stuff, gift wrapping and sitter securing.  Whew.  After this (which is standard ops on a nightly basis) he declared he was too sleepy to watch a movie.  But it was all done--in less than half the time it would take for me to do solo.  That's what I'm talking about. 

Worst Part of the Day-

A ton of peeps out on the snowy streets today made every move slow joe.  I made my quarterly appearance at a mall and it was a bit crazed.  (Fleeting, yet recurring thoughts:  billions of crapola no one needs--landfill, materialism, landfill....) 

I can't believe Christmas Eve is tomorrow!!  Would Christ be pleased with any of this???  (I think He might be opposed to the necessity Steve and Barry's--soooo many sweatshirts...)

Monday December 22, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O and I took the kids Y for some swimming.  It was great fun as they both love the water. Scarlet has really improved.  Perhaps it is due to merely growing and getting physically stronger (since she swam maybe twice this fall), but all of one sudden she is pretty darn independent anywhere in the pool.  Liam loved it all, but after about 30 minutes declared, "Done".  Thank heavens--no tears regarding leaving for him.

Worst Part of the Day-

Scarlet is the official family packer.  Whenever we are going to a relative's, a friend's, or the Y, she gets busy and packs the necessary items for all-snow pants, snacks, athletic shoes AND dressy shoes, etc.  (She even remembers swimming diaps for Liam--which I have been known to overlook.)  She becomes incensed if she can't have full control over the packing, so I let it be.  It's also kinda helpful.  So today did what I have been doing for awhile and let S. work her packing and organizing magic.  I didn't think to check the contents prior to rolling my eyes once I was changing in the locker room.  Scarlet naturally choose the pinkest and tiniest suit I own...not so fun to get in and out of the pool multiple times chasing Liam around in a string bikini (with serious non-toneage of winter happening) when every other woman is fully covered in Speedo one-pieces...(I do believe Will-O thought it was pretty fun/funny, though.)  I told her for future packing info, bikinis are more for pool parties or the beach and fully covering one-pieces are necessary for the family fun of the Y.  "Oh", she said, "because part of your buns are coming out of the suit?"  Yes, that's right.  Also weird looks from other moms thinking I think I am something special...ahhhhhh no, no, no.  Avert eyes, avert eyes.        

Monday December 22, 2008

Best Part of the Day - The loooonnngggg afternoon was TV show free. I (on accident) found the tv station that plays Holiday music and we had that on (which placated their need to have it on) but allowed them to play independently, together and with mama with just some music on in the background. Hooray!
Also got a TON of wrapping done - I am 99% there.

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn did not nap -just banged around in his room until I was forced to get him. And by the end of the day I felt fried. Erik had a late case and so I was on my own after spending many, many days in a row with the little ones. I felt myself getting tense over Quinn jumping on the bed instead of listening to the story at night (this happens EVERY night) and had to breath evenly to keep myself calm. Whoa - mama needs a time out.

Started Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (movie with Paul Newman and Elizabeth Taylor). It makes me want to see the play as the 'suggestive' parts (i.e. Brick's sexuality) had to be cut out due to Hollywood censors. Tennessee Williams how ahead of your time were YOU??

Sunday December 21, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Did some house hunting this morning. Then took the boyz to lunch which was a success (it always is at the easy, cheap, yummy Jason's Deli - no wonder so packed on Sunday in the early afternoon!) In the afternoon, Uncle Chris and the boyz came over - and all four boyz entertained the heck outta each other. I even had a chance to run an errand and no one (aside from Erik) knew I was gone. Then Ann came over and we ordered some food, plunked the kiddos in front of Noggin and had an leisurely meal.

Worst Part of the Day - This may be over the top annoying to Midwestern friends - but the temperature began today in the mild 60s and then began to d.... r..... o....p. Uh oh - the COLD is acomin'!

Sunday December 21, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
Meeting Liam and W. at the airport. Their plane was an hour and a half delayed (more waiting) so Scarlet and I hung out in the airport--which is kinda like Chuck E. Cheese for her. As we walked through the airport Scarlet would declare to the random groups of people waiting for planes, "Hello, everyone!" As if to say, I'm here! I would bribe her (Depression-era style) with "I'll let you ride on the escalator if you are a good listener!" Woo-hoo.
Liam was beaming when he saw Scarlet and me from a distance. He ran right into Scarlet's arms and gave her a hug and said over and over, "Scah-la". They were so happy to see each other--it was priceless.
We had our lil family, belated B-day celebration with pizza and cake. Liam reveled in the b-day song and successfully blew out the two candles--he was amped to open his presents and not even just to rip paper like ya do when you're one. Then he and S. played with the stereotypical boy toys--cars, dump truck, helicopter, tool sets, etc. for a good long time. It was sweet to see. And his soft boy cheeks--I loved smoochin on him!

Worst Part of the Day-
Feeling ill, tension, cold and semi-depressed after the kids went to bed.

Saturday December 20, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
I am an Auntie!!! Wyatt Mateo was born in Chicago this morning via C-section. He is a doll--and looks to be a perfect combo kid. Boys born on 12/20 are pretty cool. (Fun fact: Not only do they share a birthday, Wyatt has the same birth weight as Liam.) All parties are doing well!! Yippee!!!

I delivered Scarlet to my mom and dad's for an overnight so I could rest--though I also had to venture out to work and other places...Scarlet loves being with them. When I told S. I would pick her up the following morning she replied, "How 'bout the afternoon? We have a lot of stuff to do." This respite allowed me to take a nap from 1p-4p and felt amazingly refreshed afterward. Sleep does a body good.

Worst Part of the Day-
I awoke at 3am and felt queasy. The vomiting for this mama began around 5am. Fun, fun times. S. was rearing to go at 6-ish this morn and I told her I would put in a movie for her whle I rested--needed to lie still. 20 mintues later she came upstairs and proudly said, "Look Mom!" She unveiled her creation: royal blue face paint ALL over her face with heavy black eyeliner, marscara and ruby red lips. (You are your father's daughter.) OMG. That's when I knew I had to call the g-parents in as back-up. I could not handle...

Happy 2nd Birthday to my one and only BOY! (I will see you tomorrow--cake 'n presents will be had!!)

Friday December 19, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
A low key day/eve as we received over 2 feet of snow--Scarlet was feeling chipper today for the Snow Day. After a marathon of shoveling (not the Best Part), we ventured out to our "girl's place" for lunch (Noodles & Co.). She was excellent. She fell asleep on the way home at 3pm and proceeded to sleep until the morning light! 16 hours later, my sweet S. was really back in the saddle.

Worst Part of the Day-
Snow, snow, snow. The snow was past my knees and the shoveling got old after 4 minutes. My precious Liam and W. were not able to fly back from their trip today as scheduled due to the crazy snow. I now have to wait 2 more days to see my gushy boy--it is tooooo long for this Mama (his b-day is tomorra...boo.)

Thursday December 18, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
The girls with whom I work put on their annual Christmas show--a cute play with songs and dances. It was AWESOME. So great to see teenagers enjoying themselves with good, clean fun--no talk of boys, sex, drugs, or no-show parents...It was a festive time which Scarlet enjoyed thoroughly. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Worst Part of the Day-
The moment S. and I walked in the door after the Christmas show/party, she threw up copious amounts of liquid all over our little mud room--including the shoes, hats and mittens that were strewn on the floor. Yum. She continued to vomit every 20 minutes or so for hours...my poor sweet...my poor gigantic pile of laundry. This is the same child who was running and playing and eating from 4:30-7:30pm. 7:31p-midnight=non-fun pukey pukes.

Saturday December 20, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Continual rain, Erik had to work all day and I flaked on the time of my class at the gym (how can I NOT know the time of the class I've taken just about every single Saturday for three months???).

Best Part of the Day - Did a yoga class instead for the other one and it was challenging and felt really good. Must stretch more. The boyz did a great job indoors all day - played with each other and were fun. Also so HAPPY HAPPY to get the news from cousin Megan regarding the new baby Cahill!!! SO ecstatic for the new parents - hooray for the brand new healthy baby!!!

Friday December 19, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Met Jenn and Colleen (two wives of Erik's co-workers) at the local Monkey Joe's (like a House of Bounce or other inflatable play area). It was SO fun - fun to chat with the other ladies and fun for the kiddos to play on a rainy morning. The boyz had lunch there and it was all good, clean fun. Then that evening we went to Jenn's house for laid back, kid friendly dinner party. SO, SO fun. A lot of adult and kid interaction for a just about perfect day.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik's normal half day was a FULL day and so he had to meet us at the dinner party. Also Quinn had a 30 minute moment where he was over the party and wanted to "go home" "go home" "go home". Kind of hard to take - but he did work through it after a couple loud ass screams (also note that Wes was PERFECT the entire time - jolly, not that naughty and fun).

Thursday December 18, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - No preschool.

Best Part of the Day - The boyz and I had an uber successful trip to Target. Amazing what one $1 bag o' popcorn split between two little ones will do .... pure shopping enjoyment. Too bad all the people out shopping seem to be so GROUCHY. No smiles or hellos or hair pats for the boyz - it's all shoving and grim faces. But the boyz and I were in our own popcorn, lazy day bubble and just tried to ignore it all.

Wednesday December 17, 2008

Best Part of the Day - I'm off to the gym that last week sent Wes into hysterical crying .... is this a mistake? We walk in and he starts to weep and cling to me. But this time, I've come prepared. I pull two weapons out of my arsenal ... a sippy of soy milk and a beloved froggie softie. He accepts both prizes with a hiccuppy sob and retreats into the play area. One minute later he is staring at another kid (probably plotting how to steal the toy he is playing with) and mama is off. I was not called out today!

Worst Part of the Day - Neither stubborn boy would nap today. ANNOY-ing. The rain (Charlotte's version of the snowy weather my Midwestern and northeastern friends are getting smacked with) continues.

Wednesday December 17, 2008

Worst Part of the Day-

I use the alarm on my cell phone as a back up to my living, breathing alarm clock which is Scarlet. This morn, both alarms failed to chime in at their appointed times.  I thought I felt well-rested when I woke--ahhhh.  Then I checked the clock and it said "7:02".  Ahhhh!  We are supposed to be at the bus stop at 7am.  

I had to get her going with a quickness and then drove her to school along with the billions of other drivers in the post-snow, slow as heeeel morning rush hour.   Booo.  Hiss.

Best Part of the Day-

Oddly, me waking one hour later actually brought me to work 1 hour earlier.  I didn't appear as clean or cute (sweats, no make-up) as a standard work day, but I was muy productive...and my pony tail and glasses look gave me a down to business air (or maybe a "she looks sick" thing) either way--less interruptions!!

Also, heard from an out-of-town friend who gave me feedback about Will-O and I and our current state.  Once again feel fantastic about having such cool, centered, smart women in my life.  Thank you!  Yeah for friends!!!!!  (Girls rule, boys drool.)   Not including little, cutie boys...

Tuesday December 16, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - LAST DAY OF PRESCHOOL UNTIL JAN. 6. BOOOOOOOOOOOO.

Best Part of the Day - Went out to lunch and it was soooo peaceful and relaxing and good.

Monday December 15, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Hooray for the Z-Pack. Although expired, it still has made me feel better than I've felt in weeks. Sometimes you really DO need an antibiotic.
Also these older ladies in my workout class have befriended me and they are so nice, sweet and cool (and fit!) It's so nice to chat them up between tracks (that's Group Power lingo).
It's WARM here - the boyz and I went to the playground and had fun, fun, fun. I was watching this other kiddos (who's name turned out to be West) and I could just tell he had a speech delay like Quinn. I talked to the mom (who confirmed my armchair diagnosis) and she was full of great information about what to do with the kiddos over the summer, private speech lessons and the like. West seemed to have a little more severe delay than Quinn (he is on the list for OT) but he was so active and joyful and interactive with Quinn and Wes.

Worst Part of the Day - Oh that Wes is just so stubborn about taking a long afternoon nap. And he needs it (and I need it!) I don't know why he just won't rest longer and wake up in a GOOD mood.

Tuesday December 16, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Attending Scarlet's Winter Concert at school.  She rocked the house in her class's rendition of "December Is..."  She was beaming on stage and totally into belting it out.  Damn, that girl's got rhythm.  All of the kids were adorable--and sounded great!  As S. stated this morn, "It will be my first time on stage!!!"  

2nd Best-

Booked tix to Denver in March for trip with da ladies.  Bonus:  frequent flyer tix!

Worst Part of the Day-

I had to rush out of work to be able to see Scarlet's performance.  Though I did get a ton done (2 admits, a dressing change, 5 nurse requests), it seems like I could use an 8 hour time slot to simply sift through my work mail box and chip away at the "to do" pile...there is always some girlie faking a stomach ache and/or thinking she's preg...sorry, girls, I gotta get to the kindergarten concert!!

Where is Baby Cutie???

Monday December 15, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

My mom came over to babysit while I taught my class and had doc rounds this eve.  (Always wonderful to leave with her there!)  She and Scarl decorated the Christmas tree (the lights were already on) and it looks sensational.  I love looking at the festive, adorned trees, but the act of decorating it is something I would definitely skip and see if anyone noticed.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I guess just having to work tonight.  (Honestly I like it, but something has to be the worst...)  I would've rather popped in Mad Men and/or continued my online holiday shopping.

Sunday December 14, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Scarlet and I had a successful "girl day" complete with Christmas shopping, errands a lunch AND dinner date.  Whew.  One the way home we stopped at work so I could pick up some papers and S. exclaimed to one of my coworkers, "I've been in and out of the car over 10 times today!"  It's true that this is a first as usually I limit her to 2 stores/outings per day due to my fear that her behavior could crumble at any moment...perhaps I should have more trust?  (It's that PTSD again.)

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O and Liam left for their week with the boys as they are spending 6 days in Virginia with W.'s stay-at-home dad friend and 2 little boys.  I was well-composed when I shuttled them to the airport.  I am gonna miss my gushy, little love hound this week...

Positive Note of Worst Part:  Liam did not bat an eyelash when leaving me.  He could barely believe HE was one of the lucky ones to get to step into the brightly lit, bustling (at 6am) airport.  Usually he was bidding farewell to others--not today.  He was too wide-eyed and preoccupied with "airplane, airplane!!" to worry about a thing.  

One More Worst Thing:  After instructing Scarlet to be careful and not touch anything while we browsed in Pier One, I knocked over a glass trinket (with my big ass faux fur) and created a small domino effect of falling glass trinkets---yikes.  Scarlet was right to give me a stern look, "Mom, this store isn't for you."   

Saturday December 13, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O returned from vacation #1 and took over the kid duties so I could begin Christmas shopping, etc.  We actually had a few tension-free moments.  I laughed at one of his jokes (haven't thought they were very funny for um, 3 years).  I smiled and he noticed, "You smiled at me!"  It's true.  We had a pleasant night watching Love in the Time of Cholera...though I fell asleep during it.

Worst Part of the Day-

OMG I was absolutely exhausted ALL DAY long.  Up a titch late swilling wine last noc and up much, much too early.  Of course the day Scarlet slept in, Liam was rearing to go at 5am--doh.

Baby Cutie is due today!!!   When will you join us???

Sunday December 14, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - HUNG the hell over. But really able to function and not nauseous at all (that must be due to the late night eats.) Also woke up with a sore throat and cold ... am taking the z pack starting today. I think it is (self-medication alert!) strep throat.

Best Part of the Day - The end of the day, the boyz were in bed, Erik and I were eating Papa Johns pizza and watching Survivor. In bed and snoozing by 10:30 p.m. due to lovely, lovely Nyquil.

Saturday December 13, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Erik took both boyz to this bouncy place called Monkey Joe's. So I worked out and then came home and leisurely showered. Then after Wes was put to bed, I headed to the mall to do some shopping and then get my makeup done for Erik's Christmas party. Then Erik took both boyz to his brother's house for the night. Then we headed to the Christmas party which was actually fun, fun, fun. Two of the wives were very, very cool and fun to hang out with. It was a boozy night full of red wine, dirty martinis, lemon drop shot (really?), vodka cranberries and a bloody Mary. Uh oh.

Worst Part of the Day - Most definitely the fact that I drank red wine, dirty martinis, lemon drop shot, a vodka cranberry and a bloody Mary. Thank God for the late night buffalo wings, toasted ravioli and chips and salsa. What is this - 1996?

Friday December 12, 2008

Best Part of the Day - The kiddos are obsessed with this owl at the little Nature Museum. Now every time we get our shoes on to go out the door Wes says "go? bye bye? owl?" Most of the time I have to say "no, we're not going to see the owl" and then both boyz either tear up or pout or both. Today (Erik included) we got to the see the owl to much joy and "hi owl! hi owl!"

Worst Part of the Day - At said Nature Museum, Wes was on a tear. He raced around, put tree ornaments in the turtle habitat and generally did not listen. When we got home he dumped an entire Danimal smoothie on the ground. Erik turns to me and says "this child needs a spanking - he has no discipline. What are we supposed to do if we can't spank him?" Instead of whacking Erik (I think that would send a mixed message), I said that it is a lot about the age and the personality of THIS kid (i.e. he loves a reaction. Always has. Plus he has a big ole naughty streak.) I think you need to be careful about how much you try to 'beat' out of a child. We are going to need a better time out deal, that much is true.

Friday December 12, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I had a Christmas gathering for my book club.  Always stimulating conversation with the well-read (liberal feminist) crowd.  Tonight we each wrapped a book that meant something to us and put it in a grab bag.  It was cool to see who picked what and why it was chosen by the giver.   Very, very fun as always.  I am starting to feel the spirit of what the holidays should be.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Same shenanigans with my single mom status and gettin the sitter and the whole bit.  I left the house to pick up the sitter at 5:45pm.  I arrived at the book club gathering at 7:45pm...was the party in Chicago???  No, it simply takes that gol diggity long to get out and movin.  Liam was sobbing like a babe when I was departing.  Scarlet was sporting a "tongue piercing" (I know, I know--though I really don't know...)  Essentially her "piercing" was shielded from me (it was a jewel sticker she simply placed on her tongue) until she inadvertently swallowed it when the sitter was tickling her to distract Liam from realizing my impending departure.  I got out the stethoscope to verify that she didn't aspirate it.  She then started freakin a little bit, "I want it out!!"  I then informed her she would be reunited with the precious gem in 1-3 days when she pooped it out.  She smiled a bit, but then said, "Please don't tell all of your friends that I will poop it out--it's embarrassing."  Noted.  (I will only blog it and thousands of readers will know of the exit process.)  

Quote(s) of the Day:

When Scarlet was readying for school this morn, she declared, "I don't want to wear something normal today, I want to be kinda punky."  I informed her that what I thought she was trying to express was that she wanted to be counter culture.  "Yes, but even punkier than that culture." Ma lord--you are 5!!

Thursday December 11, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Due to a (lovely!) cookie decorating deal in Wes' preschool class, I had to cut Quinn's preschool day short. I felt so bad pulling him from his class but Wes was (put a fork in him) done, done, DONE. And the rest of the parents had already left - the cookie decorating took less time than Wes' teacher had planned. Poor ole Quinn didn't want to leave, but dutifully followed me out, half finished lunch in hand.

Best Part of the Day - It was so fun to see Wes in his classroom and chat with the other parents. Then this evening Quinn and I went back to the school for (yes, another) cookie decorating deal. He adorably sat in his chair and spread the frosting and sprinkles. He wolfed down one cookie and then proceeded to daintily pick at the second one for about 15 minutes (periodically offering me bites). By the end we threw out a half eaten cookie with the frosting mostly off. He is a joy to take places on his own.

Thursday December 11, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

The kids played perfectly today.  They chased, they squealed with delight, they creatively played!!! Yeah.  Siblings.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I had to initiate another Behavior Chart for Scarlet.  It's not so much bribery as it is behavior modification...in theory.  There is simply toooooo much whining.

Wednesday December 10, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Smells like regression. Upon reaching the gym, Wes starts to get all worked up. Upon handing him over to the workers, he went from crying to all out weeping and hysterics. I left him knowing full well that a worker would be coming for me and .... yup 15 minutes later I was pulled from class. Sigh, sigh, SIGH! So frustrating to get your ass to class and then not be able to complete the workout. Makes me want to eat cookies for lunch - counterproductive, no?
Also got a bit of a lecture from my brother about being horrible at keeping in touch. At first I was thinking 'whatever' but then I thought about it and I think I must try to be better. Imagine HIM giving me a lecture - must be somewhat dire.

Best Part of the Day - It's WARM today. No coats, shoes with no socks, turn off the heat ... warm. For me - I like the chill in the air, but having two little ones to dress? It's like a breath o' fresh (balmy) air!!

Wednesday December 10, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Chatting with an old friend. I haven't seen her since my wedding, but we have been friends since we were 13. She kept saying how "funny" I am and commented on my "positive energy." Huh. Thanks for reminding me. I AM hi-larious!!! (Alright, maybe just "funny" lookin.)

Worst Part of the Day-

I felt a pit in my stomach when I discovered someone at work had stolen narcotics from the residents med cart...doh. The meds are clearly kept in a locked area of the med cart and today during my check, I noted ALL of the narcs gone, gone, gone. WTF? Here we go...a marked increase in meetings, checks, safeguards--and someone with a ton of pills. Fun times (for someone out there.) Boo.

Tuesday December 9, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I am picking up Wes from preschool when the teacher says "can I talk to you a minute?" I say "sure" and then look over to see Mr. Wes fast asleep on a fake bear rug. Huh. "Is there something wrong at home?" Miss Janet asks. "Is Wes not feeling well or is he waking up in the night?" Then I proceed to be (lightly) grilled on his sleeping and waking habits. I tell them that this kiddo has slept through the night since he was 4.5 months old and naps regularly at 12:30 p.m. But the worst part of this is that he slept so long at preschool that he would not take a nap when we got home. Booooo. Then weirdly - Wes woke up three times from 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Boooooooooo.

Best Part of the Day - Watch out! It looks like we are staying in Charlotte. Erik talked over the terms of employment this evening and has a verbal agreement (the contracts will be drawn up this week, I think). HOORAY - now we can look for a house and (gasp!) get settled. Novel ideer for us.

Tuesday December 9, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I love the crazy snow.  If we are gonna live in the midwest, bring it on.  It's fun.

Worst Part of the Day-

Liam would not settle down for the night.  He wouldn't stay in the crib.  He was in and out of his big boy bed.  It was a problem.  He has pulled these shenanigans during nap time but never for bedtime.  Here we go...

Also, I now (all of one sudden) have the hang of texting...I now get it.  I understand how it can be helpful.  It is not just one more annoying thing I have to check for messages as I once perceived--no wonder it is sweeping the planet (and has been for years!)  

Monday December 8, 2008

Worst Part of the Day-

Everything was cancelled for tonight in response to the scary snow that MIGHT come.  I always think this it is lame to cancel stuff in Wisconsin during winter due to snow.  It's not Tampa Bay, people.  Most would probably be pleased to be off of work, but not dorky ol me.

Also, I received a call from Scarlet's school saying she threw up again after lunch.  When I once again rushed to get her, she tells me it was only a "spit up" as she didn't like something at lunch...come on.  

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O left today for 5 days.  Let the re-organization process begin.  

Happy B-Day to dear friend, Tamalynn--how have I known you for 22 years??

Monday December 8, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - After my puke-fest last week, I still don't have my appetite back. Not that I'm not eating - it's just not the enjoyable lovely experience that it usually is (thinking about what I'm going to eat, acquiring the said food, eating it all up!). This feels like a long time to still be feeling blase about food. I should take advantage and eat lettuce with lemon juice and drink tons of water, but alas my mind KNOWS all the good food out there.

Best Part of the Day - Quinn is really getting the speech thing - he works so, so hard at trying to get the correct sounds out. You can actually SEE him scrunching up his forehead trying to get the right sound.
Oh and after over a week of the Christmas tree sitting in a pail of water in the laundry room, Erik proactively said "let's put up the tree!" So we ALL did (the little helpers were not so helpful by the end - whew!) But now the tree is up (kind of cockeyed thanks to Wes) and the stockings are hung (soon to be ripped down by Wes. He's all over it). One wreath on the door and I'm calling it done.

Best Part of the Day for Erik - His bro got tickets for the Monday Night Football game and they got to go! Very exciting for him (and I did get a nice relaxed evening of television viewing and reading Tom Perrotta's The Abstinence Teacher. I'd give it a 'good' so far.)

Sunday December 7, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Seeing the kidlets when I walked in the house.  They screeched and attacked me with lovin. Immediately Scarlet coyly inquired if I had any presents for them from Portland.  "Any trinket will do", she said.  Liam just repeated the new-to-him vocab word:  "tinket, tinket."  

It was so wonderful to see them!!!  

The kids had a blast and Will-O did a great job tending to them this weekend.  (Liam even begged for "Dad" when I put him to bed tonight--a first and which I am glad to hear.)

Worst Part of the Day-

The glaringly obvious tension between Will-O and I.  I had not been soooo relaxed in years and yet within minutes of seeing him and the house, there was throat choking tension.  It didn't help that he had a friend and his daughter over so there was no downtime (there never has been) for me to see the fam and tell even one story from the weekend and also hear about their weekend.   The house was in complete disarray (yes, I know, it gets like that quickly with 3 kids inside) and there were piles of laundry all over the bed (clean, but still).  Immediately I sensed the work ahead of me.   Our communication continues to not happen.  I didn't mean that.  I told you that.  I never heard the voice mail.  I didn't hear you.   I felt the swirling chaos surrounding me.  The chaos that is never present when I am doing it all alone.  It is a sickening feeling.  

Saturday December 6, 2008

Best Part(s) of the Day-

Again--the whole darn day!  Mike and I received our fresh air quota with walking the city and hills and did the Japanese and Rose Gardens.  

Mike took myself and his lady friend out to eat for din (she had successfully taken the LSAT exam this morn) and it was a perfect celebratory meal.  The 3 of us headed back to the hotel bar and then just lounged in the hotel room and chuckled at bad t.v.  Sooo fun and relaxing.  

Note: his lady friend is super cool, smart and socially conscious/aware (a Portland triad, I suppose)---interesting conversations all night.

Worst Part of the Day-

After hours and hours of walking and sightseeing I was ready for my next snack.  We hit up some street vendors for veggie burritos in the late afternoon (how can ya go wrong with that?!) Halfway through chowing down on it Mike told me to 'hold on'.  He cocked his head to get a better look at the burrito and then slowly pulled a long black hair from it.  Not my hair...dear god.  

Sunday December 8, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - We live in a small type home and we have one tv. I understand that Erik was tired from driving all last night but the site of him lounging on the couch, watching football and 80's movies and/or napping for just about the WHOLE DAMN DAY made me a bit annoyed after awhile. (Also being very non communicative when I tired to bring up either things to do or did he just want to sit around?) Either go to the bed and take a nap or at least sit up so others can use the couch. AARRGGH. We must figure out where we are living soon or else one of us is bound to go insane.

Best Part of the Day - I took the boyz to the playground in the afternoon. It got chilly but then we had a hilarious ride home looking at all the holiday lights. They were JAZZED UP about the lights and Quinn kept saying "That's cool" to the displays while Wes would say "LOOK! WOW!" to everything. Tripping over the cute, I was.
Then late night, poor ole Erik still beat fell asleep with his head in my lap (thanks for making room there buddy :-)

Saturday December 6, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Again Quinn refused to come up for dinner .... so again computer was taken away. I don't know if he's not getting it or just doesn't care (at that moment). He also wants to eat waffles for breakfast, lunch and dinner and mama don't play that. It's becoming a struggle around the din din time .... esp as Wes is SO hungry that he is clinging to my leg and weeping in dramatic fashion. UGH!

Best Part of the Day - This afternoon, I vowed to not be in our house so we went to our little nature museum. It was a HUGE hit with the kiddos running everywhere and having so much fun watching the mouse run on his wheel and the owl and the turtles ... healthy, non-tv viewing fun.

Friday December 5, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Feeling much, much better, but still not at 100%. Sigh, sigh. Can't wait to feel totally normal again. I also didn't get the boyz out this afternoon - and this translated into some extra tv time which always makes me feel .... well uncreative and lazy. I mean the kids are soooo easily distracted, that you can just grab some sticks and start tapping them together and soon all are hysterically doing this. The problem is - then you have to find a new activity approximately every 15 minutes. Then Quinn refused to come up for dinner. Just downright refused. Finally he lost evening computer privileges - which sucks for me, of course. But I held firm and that kiddo was pretty sad. I THINK he got it.

Best Part of the Day - After I had the kiddos in bed I had three hours of ME time (Erik is interviewing in Virginia Beach). I watched some tv and then read for a long while. Sigh - I feel refreshed!

Friday December 5, 2008

Best Part(s) of the Day-

OMG, it is all so up my little alley.  

Recap:  Wonderfully relaxing morn of waking until I naturally arise--yummy.  I hit up the hotel concierge and asked for some "must sees" and planned the day for our city tour.  Mike met me at the hotel and we walked to find food.  We sat in the park and ate perfect veggie Thai lunch. More walking to Chinatown and thoroughly enjoyed the Chinese Gardens.  We sat and conversed over green tea sake in the authentic tea house.  Fun.  More walking led us to a theater and we saw Synecdoche.  The same director of Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind, Charlie Kaufman.  Interesting and funny in parts.  I am so pleased for Mr. Kaufman that everyone seems to be going with him and his ideas.  He kinda lost me halfway through.  How on earth does he write the screenplay to correlate with his vision???  Still great fun to see a flick! More walking took us to an edgy happy hour with a dj playing death metal--a few drinks and vegan tacos--for pennies.  More walking and talking and we met up with some of Mike's friends at a few art galleries.  Ma lord, are we cutting edge.  We ended up continuing with our walking theme and hoofed it right on back to the hotel and called it quits around 1am.  

Also, Will-O was nice enough to give me an update call that the kids are healthy and happy and there has been nothing but fun and games.  

Worst Part of the Day-

My packing issue has left me with no digital camera.  I purchased a disposable camera from a Seven 11 and my hopes are not up about the quality of the potential pics.  I can barely see out of the pin  hole view finder...

Thursday December 4, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Slightly nervous about dropping off Wes at preschool (even though he is the absolute picture of health! Now I'm gun shy.) I don't like to feel like this. Also still feeling a bit off - but much better than the past days. I walk up to Starbucks to get a latte and am immediately told "before you order - we can't make any hot beverages right now." I stood there for a second trying to understand that .... I mean, I understand that glitches happen, but that's like Mickey D's saying "you can order anything except a burger and fries - we don't have any of those today." Ah well - I finished my Target shopping and went to Dunkin' Donuts instead. Aren't I just a little problem solver? yup - nothing can get me down.

Best Part of the Day - OH MY SURVIVOR IS SOOOO GOOD THIS SEASON! Even Erik is watching with me now.
Also finished another book "Story of a Marriage" by Greer. It is weighty for a small book and nuanced (and I'm a skimmer, so I had to slllooowww down). Another good one for a book club as I'd be interested to hear what other people think about it .... I have some theories on it, but the point the author (I think) was trying to make is in relationships the WHY of an action is not as important as the consequences from the action. And that everyone can look back and see where his or her life might have veered, but then didn't. Okay - sorry for the lame book review. I always feel compelled to talk about a book right after I finish it.
And upon picking up Wes I ask the teacher "was he okay today?" And she just says "oh yes, just fine." So there you have it. Now I'm just paranoid.

Wednesday December 3, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Still feeling weak - can't stand for too long. Only left the house to take Quinn to his speech appointment. Slight nausea - not much to eat today. Getting tired of soup.

Best Part of the Day - Both boyz were so good and fun today. Wes and I sat on the couch for an unprecedented 45 minutes and looked through books with him pointing to objects. He now knows about half his alphabet (the other half is always 'o' or 'm' for some reason - good guess, but there is only one of each letter) and loves to point out words in dramatic baby fashion. Then the guys were good little independent players which is nice for a mama who must sit still to feel well.

Thursday December 4, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Made it to Portland!!   (Ever since I have become a mama I have a low-grade anxiety about flying:  the plane crashing and I leave the children motherless...yes, I know the stats and it is the safest way to travel...it is really more of a recurring, yet fleeting thought.)  So always good to make it to the destination.

Portland seems like such an adorable city right off the bat.  I effortlessly took the train from the airport to my hotel and felt giddy with the fun of seeing a new city.  First impression:  clean and safe and friendly--love it. 

I met up with Brother Mike downtown after his work day and we had a wonderful time eating din and catching up.  I am glad I knew it was a "First Thursday" night in Portland--it seemed like we were in NYC there were so many hipsters on the lamp lit streets.  So fun!!

Worst Part of the Day-

I've been doing this since my 20's...EVERY SINGLE TIME I am flying out of town the next day, I become deranged and get into "vacation mode" too early.  I stay out later than necessary the night before and pay the price the next day.  

My last minute packing suffered as a result.  Thank heavens I am meeting Brother Mike and his beatnik friends.  They may think I am an incredibly eclectic late-30's person...none of my clothes really match and I brought randomly random things and neglected to bring necessary items.  Leg warmers-check, socks-none, sunglasses-check, contact lenses necessary for sight-none.  Wow.  

Also, received a call from Will-O that he thinks both kids have ear infections....oh boy.

Wednesday December 3, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Met some M.U. friends to see Juliana Hatfield perform in an intimate setting.  Zoinks, she was fantastic...she is super duper cute, as well.  Her show was so stark and bare (mostly just her and her guitar) that it was apparent that she struggles with the artist angst I have come to know.    Ya can just tell she has had some issues.

The opening band--also from Boston--was called The Everything Years.  They were terrific and seemed like pleasant males when I chatted with them post-show.  Definitely check 'em out in a city near you.

Worst Part of the Day-

I was rushing around all day trying to complete my work before I leave for Portland tomorrow. After work I collected the kids and did the standard dinner, bath and jammies.   We suited up to brave the cold/snow and went to pick up Will-O at the train.  Then I put the kidz down before running out to meet some peeps.  The snow kept most away so it wasn't as big of a gathering to see the band.  In all of my work/mom checking off the list, I didn't do much eating and NO water drinking...come on.

Tuesday December 2, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Got a slight reprimand when picking up Wes from preschool. "He's still not 100%" says Miss Janet. "Really?" I say. I mean the kiddo has a runny nose (clear) and is perfectly fine. I'm told he fell asleep in the Bye Bye Buggy (I would too - all that motion after running on the playground? Not to mention that Wes would like a 11 a.m. nap each day but poor ole second childe is not allowed.) Then I'm told that his snot was green (BS I think - it was clear this morning) and that there is a CF kiddo in the same classroom on Wednesdays so they have to be super careful. Hells Bells - I hope they are spraying that room down with bleach! Then she asks "did you get him some antibiotics?" And I'm like "for a cold?" No for the 'fever' he had last Tuesday - which was .2 points above normal by the time I got him home .... no lady, the only antibiotic either kiddo has ever had is Quinn for an ear infection. I'm anti the antibiotic for things that DON'T NEED THEM. So she tells me "if he's still under the weather on Thursday, let's just leave him home." Huh. HE IS NOT UNDER THE WEATHER. So annoying.
Also felt so horrible by the end of the day. And ended up throwing up three times over the course of a hour and a half .... man, I hate throwing up. I'm ready to be well again.

Best Part of the Day - I did have one hour of chill time in the home where I watched some bad reality tv and just tried to rest. It also was a happy moment when at 11:30 p.m. I knew I was done puking.

Tuesday December 2, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

On a whim I decided to do my weekly Target run in the morning as opposed to the afternoon.   Turns out good ol Tar-get has free Starbucks, free gift wrap AND five dollars off your purchase every Tuesday in Dec. from 8a-10a.  Coolio.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Don't bite the hand that feeds you...I do declare the yummy free coffee (on an empty stomach-with a new antibiotic) gave the perfect recipe for severe gut ache.  I was doubled over with stomach pain for my 4 hours at work...(I have a strange will not call-in sick to work thing) it was more than terrible--I was white as a sheet, had chills and could not walk with my torso erect.  

This awful feeling was made more annoying by a resident who was howling, screaming, spitting, coughing, and fake seizure-ing all because of her alleged stomach ache.  Now, I may have felt a titch more sympathy for her if I did not have the WORST stomach ache of my life (I am usually a headache person, never pains in the abs...) and of course, in the end her show was all drama for the mama.  Not impressed was this doubled over nurse.  

Cute Little Liam-

Liam is obsessed with the fridge and all things in it.  Today he was standing 1 inch away from it as usual and I knew he wanted to beg for more items inside.  He will usually state his wish: yogurt, juice box, cheese.  I told him to get in his chair if he wanted a snack.  He started saying "Oh Mama, oh Mama."  I told him no snacks until he was in his chair.  He said, "No eat, oh mama."  He pulled his stool over to the fridge and just before I chastised him for trying to get snacks out of the fridge, he grabbed a picture I have of the Obamas and Bidens in Grant Park on election night.  He grabbed the pic and said again, "oh mama".  I laughed as I understood--"Yes, Obama, Obama!"  He smiled as we were finally on the same page, "Omama, Omama."

Monday December 1, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Sorry to beat this horse some more ... but I feel like crap. Now the sore throat is raging and I just feel ... out of it.

Best Part of the Day - We had a busy morning as Quinn didn't get up until 8 a.m. (is he already in the teen years or something??) We did go to the gym - I just had to for some reason. It's probably keeping me from getting well.
And I do love to watch Quinn in his speech deal. He is such a hard worker and so eager to please. So fun to watch him really try and then look to Miss Emily for approval. When the boyz went down for their nap ... so did mama. I felt slightly better afterward.
Also finally got Williams Sonoma on the horn and they are sending me a new Cappuccino maker - hooray! That will make me very happy.

Sunday November 30, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Still not feeling well - sore throat seems to be getting worse. Bad, bad headache. And now Erik appears to be coming down with something. Horrors! Also did five (yes FIVE) loads of clothes and one load of towels today .... um, really? How long had it been since we'd done laundry round here?

Best Part of the Day - I had my usual Sunday sleep in and I actually ... slept in. I had dreams and everything. Woke up groggy, but worth it!
Then had to wake up both boyz from naps (why, oh why does this never happen during the week?) to head to Plaza Feista and the nifty indoor playland. It is COLD and rainy today. The boyz had fun, fun climbing and sliding with their cousins. Then off to our fave Jason's Deli where both boyz were good as gold and ate a ton. A fun, fun Sunday afternoon even for those of us feeling subpar.
Also began 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' and it looks promising.

Monday December 1, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I let Scarlet stay up "late"--that is anything past 7pm.  We watched 2 Christmas specials on ABC after getting some more festive decorations out and about.  She is pretty thrilled with the holiday season to say the least.  And the t.v. specials hold a nostalgia for me--the only shows I recall watching as a kid--save for The Love Boat and Fantasy Island...

She was uber pleasant and appreciative regarding this special treatment. 

Worst Part of the Day-

Little Man Liam balked his nap again today.  It was another day of me putting him in his crib well over 30 times--these shenanigans spanning about 2 hours.  Near the end of the battle (it was time to pick up S. from the bus) he was being comical saying with each re-entrance, "Look at me!"  "Hi there, Mommy!" and even, "I'm funny!"  Oh me oh my.

Happy Birthday, Uncle Seanie!!!!  (Holy cats--we are old!!)

Sunday November 30, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Seeing the kidlets this eve!  They both ran right into my arms and then proceeded to chat away relaying how fun the weekend was.  I hear ya, ma sweets.

Worst Part of the Day-

(Hmmmmm.  So little was bad about this day.)  

Non-world peace.

Saturday November 29, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I have been smiling all day.  This solitude is healing.  I can do what I please, when I please. How novel!!!!!!  I slept in, lounged, watched a movie, took a nap, went for a run, more lounging, calmly readied myself for a b-day party this eve.  Ahhhhhh.  

I now remember why normal, child-less people love weekends.  It is amazing.  The under-eye circles are diminishing, my heart rate is slow and steady...I feel like a million bucks.

Worst Part of the Day-

Why oh why do I think I am 21?  A friend's B-day party lead us to a post-party tattoo parlor, then a hole in the wall bar where I became BFF's with a 44 year-old rotund woman with marital (and alcohol) issues and a 60 year-old doctor from Sierra Leone.  The topic of the night was stickin it to the man.  We all did shots on the house (seriously?!) and kept swilling cocktails.  WTF?  I have now modernized my family trait of drinking and dialing to trashed and texting.

Calm down, Little Miss Free For the Weekend...calm right down.

Friday November 28, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O and kiddies are gone until Sunday.  I took advantage of the solitude by gettin' some stuff done:  I spent the day deep cleaning the house, cleaning out bags and purses and drawers that have needed it since summer--and also put up the Christmas tree and outside decorations.   Whew.  It is amazing what one can accomplish without little hands undoing it instantly.  The kids will be super psyched to see the Christmas lights, etc.  

The house is spotless.  The calm is here.

Worst Part of the Day-

I need a good book.

Saturday November 29, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Had a fun filled morning out. Erik and I took the kiddos to the gym childcare at 10:30 a.m. and worked out. Then off to (GASP!) get Quinn's haircut. It is so so SO much better and totally adorable and still very curly (but non frizzy and in control). He looks super, super cute. Then home for lunch and naps. Then off to the mall to meet Ann, Chris and their boyz as they were going to get photos with Santa (not our little ones, they are anti-Santa this year.)

Worst Part of the Day - Santa was taking a break when we arrived at the mall (about 5 p.m.) So we had to entertain our two at the mall - Quinn was pretty good, but Wes? Ugh - no wonder we never go to the mall together. Wes and I ended up riding the escalators up and down for about 25 minutes. Then it's 7 p.m. and we head to dinner. Wes is about having a fit. And in the car Erik and I both agree that we can't really wait for a table. We get in and there is a 10 minute wait. And so Erik says "we can't wait for that." And I'm now thinking "hell - we're here and I have the DVD playa' and it will take longer to get home and then feed them ..." So then Erik says "well Molly you can decide." So I decide to stay. Then Erik is saying "WELL I thought YOU had said you didn't want to stay and so I am just surprised that you would say that." I say "no WE said we didn't want to wait - but then I changed my mind." The dinner went .... really well. Quinn was about perfect. No DVD player for him - he just colored, talked with Erik and Uncle Chris and then ate an entire kid's pizza. Wes - once I got the DVD player on, he sat still and watched and ate half a grilled cheese and a piece of pizza. Now even before the kiddos behaved, I have to say that Erik was very pleasant at the table. So that was nice. Hoever, on the way out, I just couldn't resist one immature dig so I said "who thinks MOLLY made the right decision to stay?" I mean, if you give me the decision making power instead of making a joint decision - get ready for me to make a decision you just might not like.

Friday November 28, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Made it to a Group Power class and Ann met me there. How nice to have someone to talk to in between tracks. Erik's mom was going to meet us too, but they ended up taking off early to Hilton Head. Then Erik met his brother for the evening Bobcats game (which turned out to be in Indiana - whoops!) and so I made soup and watched some Buffy (seasons six begins!) and went to bed early.

Worst Part of the Day - Wanted so badly to get the boyz out - but they still are just recovering from these colds! Quinn woke up with one eye totally sealed shut with goop - "can't see! Can't see!" he cried. So it was just a long afternoon of two crasins inside.

Thursday November 27, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Lovely meal that I did not have to host :-) Thank you Tante Ann. All the food was AMAZING and it was a sunny, warm day (but not too hot - perfection!) Erik's parents were there and it was family fun. I popped a Cold Duck at 12:30 and had some sweet, bubbly swigs in a toast to all the Gasts, Cahills and Lovetts.

Worst Part of the Day - What do you get when you take two boyz used to naps and forgo those naps? The boyz were mostly pains in the arse for the day - just overtired and whiny and not placated by ANYTHING (even a sanctioned Noggin marathon which normally would have made Quinn into a preschool zombie, did NOT work.) Afterward, Erik and I decided that we needed the boyz to be one year older and have a basement. Man was it rough!! And I wasn't feeling all that well by the end - sore throat rearing up again (only two small glasses of CD drunk - lame).

Wednesday November 26, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Dreary day with two somewhat sickly boyz. No one is feeling all that great - my sore throat persists (worst in the morning). Did make it to the gym - so at least I got that in before the feast fest manana.

Best Part of the Day - Erik was home by noon - so I was able to run out and get some last minute Thanksgiving Day sundries (Cold Duck - how could I have forgotten??) Then that night I had soup and went to bed early.

Thursday November 27, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Playing Poorman Scattegories with the fam after the Thanksgiving feast.  It's always good clean fun to watch my mom try to guess "camel toe" from the clues. 

The day was pretty fun and relaxed and the 100% from-scratch food was fantastic!!   The Cold Duck was a serious hit--as always. 

Worst Part of the Day-

I felt all cracked out as a result of the TheraFlu in the morning.  I could still feel the effects it 16 hours later--shaky and a little cloudy--what a lightweight!!!!  I was trying to pack for the kids to go to my parents' for Thanksgiving and then for a full weekend with Will-O to visit his father. It was a lot to pack up: the snow suits, the nice clothes, the swim stuff for the hotel, the snacks, the typical madness.  I will admit that the packing for the kids for a many day stay does often throw me off (it's my weak spot), but this time the TheraFlu effects were making my least favorite task even more challenging.  I kept sensing I was dropping bags when I was not...hello, freakshow...lay off the cracky decongestants.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!

Wednesday November 26, 2008

Worst Part of the Day-

I had been to work only 2-ish hours when I received a call from Scarlet's school.  The secretary stated the facts as she knew them, "Scarlet has been throwing up and needs to be picked up immediately."  Whoa.  I wrapped up my work and left within minutes.  I thought of maybe stopping at the store to grab some Gatorade and thought, no, I should just rush and get the poor girl.  When I got to the school Scarlet was calmly playing.  She didn't look ill.  When I asked her how she felt, she said fine.  I asked her what happened and she relayed she took a bite of a corn muffin (she hates corn muffins) at lunch and gagged and spit up.  Huh.  Does this episode really deem calling the parent to rush over?  Weird.

Also, I have started to feel achy and yucky this evening.  

Also, my 7pm bedtime kids would not settle down until 9!!  What the?

Best Part of the Day-

I atypically took some TheraFlu and hit the sack.  

Tuesday November 25, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - My mom had an early flight so we were up at 4:45 a.m. to get her to the airport. Then I came home and laid down for 45 minutes before the boyz got up. Looking at Wes I could not decide whether or not to send him to preschool today. After a dose of Motrin and a thorough face washing - the kiddo stole a pen and wrote all over his feet and legs. Doesn't seem like a sicky to me especially as he's splashing through puddles as I'm trying to get him in the car. I drop the two off and head out to do the delinquent grocery shopping. Less than on hour later the preschool is acallin' - can I pick up my feverish Wes? I enter the office and there is Wes laying down on a bench covered by his jacket. He's not super hot - the fever must be very slight. But I have to admit that I've never seen him just laying anywhere at anytime unless it's nap time or bedtime (the preschool must just LOVE me). I get him home and he sleeps until 12:45 when we have to pick up Quinn. Then I get him home and he sleeps until 3 p.m. Then he's REAL unhappy the rest of the afternoon.
I'm not feeling too well myself - and Erik worked a 13 hour day and we're all a little ... tired.

Best Part of the Day - I went to the library to return a book and then pick up some new books that I had reserved. I read this book front to back today/tonight - The Fifth Child by Doris Lessing (don't be too impressed, it's only 133 pages). Whoa - I don't know what to say about it. It would be a good book club book because it brings up all sorts of issues (class, family size, who 'deserves' to live, is the good of one worth the destruction of many, how much of a child's actions can be 'blamed' on the parent ....) I found it very, very interesting. Also I did have a really excellent latte at Caribou Coffee. I had never had their coffee before and it rocked.

Monday November 24, 2008

Best Part of the Day - After the gluttonous weekend it felt great to workout (although I still feel a little off - slightly nauseous and a sore throat.) I left Wes home with Gigi and took Quinn to the gym with me.
Then that evening my mom and I went to Dean and Deluca for dinner and then watched Tropic Thunder which did crack me up (but I thought I would laugh out loud more). Too bad she leaves tomorrow - what a HUGE help it's been having her here.
Also my latte/cappuccino machine is broken!!!! I am sooo sad - it was my treat to get me going every morning. Now dealing with Williams Sonoma to get 'er fixed.

Worst Part of the Day - The boyz are still not 100% feeling well and they are being pistols (esp Wes). I had a plan to do grocery shopping during their nap while my mom was still here - but I ended up taking a nap instead. I am fighting something off and I am beat!

Sunday November 23, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Slept in. Breakfasted. Cleaned up, said our goodbyes and set out for home. Very fun and leisurely morning with just myself to worry about and pack up. Easy drive back home.

Worst Part of the Day - I felt nauseous on the way home - maybe it was the Subway attached to a gas station that we got for lunch? UGH.
The poor ole boyz both have colds galore. Quinn is actually starting to look a lot better, but now the little one is in the middle of it (nonproductive cough, weeping eyes and stuffed up nose). And poor ole Gigi who had to take care of little ones who were ornery and sicky. Yuck.

Tuesday November 25, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Sitting in the freshly tidied home (thank you, self) after the kidz were snoozing.  Will-O left today after a 1 week stay and though it was civil and fine, it is calming and necessary to get the home back in order.

Worst Part of the Day-

The morning.  After my long day of workin it yesterday, I didn't do my typical house pick-up and organize session for the morning.  That was a mistake.  Scarlet's back pack was MIA and her snow pants, coat and mittens were balled up and wet from the day before.  While she has other mittens and coats, she doesn't like to wear them to school (why?).  It was a cluster o' tears.   Arrrgggghhh.

Note:  Scarlet came home from school with new Hannah Montana gloves.  When I asked her where she got the gloves, she stated cheerfully they were a present from the substitute teacher today.  She said, "I got them because I was helping the teacher."  Hmmm.  Usually teachers don't give out anything more than stars.  I began to pump her for more info.  I asked what the substitute brought if a boy was the helper.  She started to look sheepish.  I pressed her for more details and then said I would like to call the teacher to thank him for the gloves.  Then she broke.  No, no, no.  "I didn't get them from the teacher...I took them from my friend."  "You stole the gloves, Scarlet?"  "No, I just took them."  We discussed this and agreed she would return them tomorrow.  We also discussed lies and fibs, etc.  I feel good that I know kids who tell fibs are bright and creative and imaginative (not evil, like my parents thought), but we have got to nip this in the bigtime bud.

Monday November 24, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Scarlet is such a sweet in the mornings.  She goes from snoring to awake in a snap and is gleeful (that is so not me.)  This morn there was a healthy dusting of snow on the ground and Scarlet was absolutely jazzed up to get her entire snow get-up on and run out and play even prior to her 7am bus.  To be that enthused about snow and mornings and life...amazing.

Worst Part of the Day-

Peeps, just a long day.   An almost 12 hour day at the work place.  

Sunday November 23, 2008

Simultaneous Best and Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O and I had a crazily needed heart to heart.  We went through a therapist-like exercise where I wrote down a list of "violations" he has committed against me.  He then read them to me and we discussed them one by one.  It was healing for both us to hear him speak from his heart and apologize.  I may keep the paper for a really bad modern art piece.

Saturday November 22, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

My 3.5 weeks alone with the kids have earned me 3 "free" consecutive weekends and today commenced the fun.   I drove to Chicago this morning and had an incident-free drive (deliciously rare.)  I had a lovely lunch/brunch with very soon-to-be-mama Sista M.  A pedicure with Sista A. And then din din, wine and movies with Brotha S. and Sista A.   A wonderfully relaxing day/night. Just my style.

Worst Part of the Day-

I did not get to meet up with one of my Chi buds as she had to take her daughter to the ER for non-stop puking all the live long day.  Poor dears.

Friday November 21, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

I went to the Aveda spa I live for--courtesy of sister-in-law's gift to me for throwing a babe shower--hello, unnecessary (but awesomely awesome!)

The experience was divine.  The comfy robes, the relaxation room, the yummy Aveda tea, the ever pleasant staff...the deep tissue massage was amazing!!  I forgot how much I loooove the spa world.  

Worst Part of the Day-

When Scarlet woke up this morn, within minutes she complained, "I have a headache and a sore throat."  The complaint seemed legit (she is not an AM complainer) so I gave some Motrin and had her continue to get dressed for school.  She proceeded to state her case of lousiness 5 times in 30 minutes, so I made the time-sensitive call to cancel her bus and then called the school to report her absent.  About an hour later she was singing, dancing and talking per her usual and I wondered, is this the effect of the Motrin, or have I been snowed by a mini-con artist?

Saturday November 22, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - A little tired and a little hung over - but nothing too bad. Back at the homefront, Quinn is starting to feel better and Wes is now in the middle of a cold. Ugh.

Best Part of the Day - Shopping at the outlet mall with Erin and Ann. Then lunch. Then a nap. Then cocktails. Then out to dinner (we had a babysitter for Chris and Ann's kiddos). (I had pesto grilled Kingfish on seafood risotto with grilled spinach - delish! and a dirty martini.) Then back home for more cocktails and game playing. Relaxing and fun.

Friday November 21, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Crazy morning of running around and getting ready to leave for Hilton Head. Forgot to take the dog for a walk (my mom is taking care of the boyz this weekend and I wanted to give Clarence one good walk - but totally forgot!) And Quinn is still not feeling great and now Wes appears to be coming down with the same cold. Ugh - poor Gigi.

Best Part of the Day - Enjoyable, relaxing four hour drive to Hilton Head (no screaming, crying, whining from Erik or I). Arrived right with Alex and his gal pal Erin who we were meeting for the first time. Had some cocktails, went out for Mexican food (yum) and headed home to find that Chris, Ann and the kiddos had just arrived. Perfect timing. More cocktails and game playing ensues. Bed (for me) around 1 a.m. The Reitter Boys stayed up until 2 a.m. playing poker

Thursday November 20, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn is not feeling 100% - but his spirits were high. So I Motrined and Musinexed him and sent him to preschool. He made it through the time - but then was not very happy to be heading home.
And baby? It's cold outside! I can't even THINK how chilly it must be up North if it's this dern cold here!

Best Part of the Day - Ginny and I had a fun shopping/lunching day - Target, Costco, Mall, Talbots (for her, not me :-) and then lunch. A relaxing fun time.

Thursday November 20, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
I volunteered at Scarlet's school today. A group of parents were to serve the kids a "tradtional" Thanksgiving meal (no stuffing and no cranberries does not equal traditional!) to the entire school. It was really fun (though I was bustin ass with my rusty waitressing skills...) and the kids were by and large very sweet and excellently mannered. Several kids in various grades would ask, "Who's mom are you?" I would tell them and shockingly the response would be, "Little Scarlet? I know her!" It was unexpected. I don't know how they would know her. Of course S's classmates do know me and it was fun to see them. "Scarlet's Mommy-I need more mashed potatoes!"
After the feast, I sat with Scarlet and class and watched the first grade's performance called Munchin' and Movin'. It was less of a play and more of a medley of songs, dances and skits--it was seriously cute.
The original plan was for Scarlet to come home with me at 1:45pm instead of getting on the bus and coming home at 2:15pm. Instead she insisted on taking the bus. It turns out that one of the stars of the show (he stole the show with his tap dancing!) is a boy named, Mitchell. Apparently Mitchell rides the bus with Scarl and apparently she was star struck and wanted to have a chance to congratulate him on his performance. She said, "I'll tell him to break a leg." Well, a little late, but alrighty. (I can condone her being a theater groupie...just not a rock band groupie.)

Worst Part of the Day-
I hit a wall at 5pm. I had to again cancel my evening plans--too sleepy. I went to bed at 6:30pm with the kids. Lame, but necessary.

Wednesday November 19, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
A gang night of dinner and drinks was overdue and tonight was the night. Too bad Cuz S. was not feeling up to par--and my prescription of Dr. McGillicudy's did not seem to cure what ailed her. I, myself, was feeling spry and wanted to have just one more... (It was super duper easy to have Will-O at home with the kids as a sitter would've been completely out of the question.)

Worst Part of the Day-
Out a little later than I should have been with my just one more philosophy...I know the children will get up at their usual 6AM--eek.

Wednesday November 19, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Had a terrible night sleep due to Quinn calling out and the dog then deciding he needed to go out. Tired. And oh no. Quinn is a sickie. He has a non-productive cough, stuffed up nose and seems to be out of sorts. After a trip to Trader Joe's and his speech appointment, I put him down for a nap and he just ....would .... not .... sleep. So by the late afternoon we had a sick, whiny, tired as hell kiddos who was no fun for anyone. Whew - bedtime could not have come quickly enough!

Best Part of the Day - Had a workout that did not involve lugging the kiddos (thank you Gigi). Then had a fun evening of bad television with my mom and Erik. Gigi gamely watched Erik and my guilty pleasure (The Pick Up Artist 2). Then to bed early as I was pretty beat all day.

Tuesday November 18, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - I think we are getting some sickness in da house. Wes is stuffy, Quinn seems to be starting to come down with something. Uh oh.

Best Part of the Day - Erik came home from work and I scooted out to pick up my mom from the airport. She arrived right on time and (surprise) I was actually in the cell phone lot waiting for her. I tend to sometimes be a tich late to pick people up. We got back to the house to find the kiddos fed, bathed and ready for bed. Quinn and Gigi played the computer a bit and then off to snoozeland.

Tuesday November 18, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

A successful workout was had!  I left while Will-O was readying the kids for bed and enjoyed a leisurely exercise, stretch and cool down session.  Nice.

Worst Part of the Day-

As Will-O is home for this 7 day stretch I had planned to take advantage of his evening presence and go out on the town each night this week.  The problem with this good-in-theory-plan is that this ol' mama is used to going out 2x/month at best.  I was too sleepy to make my cocktail engagement tonight...I needed my flannel jams and some couch time.  Now that is hot and hip.

Monday November 17, 2008

Best Part of the Day - Erik had the day off and so we had made plans to meet with a Realtor and do some exploring out by Mountain Lake. Now doesn't this sound organized? We got a hold of the Realtor on Sunday morning ... but one thing about this crap market, if you are buying a home, you are like royalty. So Erik got the kids fed and then I got them dressed and then we headed out to explore. We ended up at the mall which had Cinnabon (for the kiddos - I swear I only had one teeny bite) and an absolutely gorgeous Polar Express set up. The boyz must have been especially naughty as they would not go anywhere near Santa (WHAT is Santa doing out so dern early anyways??? Boooo.) Then we went through some homes, had some lunch and took the boyz home for naps. I even worked out in the evening ... something that is hard for me (but not as hard when someone else is home feeding, bathing and pj-ing the babes).
- Oh did I forget to say we might now stay in Charlotte? It's all still up in the air - but looking more positive toward staying.

Worst Part of the Day - The afternoon was a tich whiny. And poor ole Quinn is not feeling well - a cough that is so surprising and upsetting to him. And Wes is just in a mood - probably feeling a bit out of sorts from Cinnabon, lunch out and a late nap. Or maybe just being a pistol. Either way - makes for a long afternoon.

Exciting News - My mom got a last minute ticket two days ago and is coming for a visit. Hooray. And she has generously offered to watch the kiddos while Erik and I go to Hilton Head with Erik's two brothers. Should be some delish kid-free fun!

Monday November 17, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O is home for a week.  We agreed upon the non-traditional practice of pretending we are friendly acquaintances (as opposed to oppositional spouses) so we can get along swimmingly. Per my chore request, today he raked leaves in the morn, mowed the lawn in the afternoon and then played with the kids during the temporary blizzard this early evening.  All of that helped take a nice load off of moi.

Worst Part of the Day-

It was slick rick out on the roads this evening.  Out of nowhere I fish tailed twice and the next instant an ambulance coming toward me in oncoming traffic did a solid 360 and narrowly missed me.  I really knew it was time to turn around and go home when I saw 5 cars in one block look like this: 2 in a ditch, 2 had hit different trees and 1 had nailed a street lamp.  Yikes.  

Sunday November 16, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Kiddos inside for the duration of the day .... see Erik got Panther's tickets from work and so I said "take your brother!" Well his wife (Ann) was already going with their elder son, so I said "I'll take Carson" (the younger one). The kids played fine together - but since Carson does not nap, Quinn did not nap and Wes only took a hour nap. So no time out for Mama. The kiddos were all fine (just age appropriate whining, crying or mild fighting - they really all did super, super well. It was just a long day to be indoors - I knew there was NO WAY I could take all three somewhere and did not have a car seat for Carson anyways. I had forgotten how long NFL games are! And Erik had many o' cocktail. Jealous!!)

Best Part of the Day - Chris and Ann gave us their tickets to Chicago (the musical, not the city). So after the Panthers game, they took Quinn and Wes to their house. So Erik and I got to get dressed up, have a kid-free dinner and then go see the show. Fun, fun, fun! Very relaxing and enjoyable even with a semi-buzzed husband (I did see him do some sleepy head jerks during the performance and he did get the hiccups - but I just ignored and watched the show. Classy.)

Sunday November 16, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
I went to brunch at a lovely, lovely place for Cuz K's belated b-day. (I have a great new brunch place for any and all out of town guests!) It sooo hit the spot: the scenic restaurant, the divine bloody mary's, the perfect brunch fare and the grand company! I was jonse-in' for brunch all week...

Worst Part of the Day-
As I as readying for beddie-bye, I started feeling low-grade waves of nausea. I felt fine (wonderful!) all day so I just laid down on my side and tried to remain still. About a half hour after I laid down, I jumped up 'cause I knew I was feeling the bad, bad sensation rising....ick...I puked in the bathroom garbage can 1 second later....yicky yickiness.

Saturday November 15, 2008

Best Part of the Day-
Super fix-it man, C. Pete, came over this morn and fixed the ill toilet. Not only did he repair it in under 6 minutes, he also made it more environmentally sound by lowering something so the water level in the tank did not have to be as high, therefore saving tons o' water with each flush. Hurrah! Thank you, C. Pete, for the fixing!! Thank you, K. Pete, for demanding he fix it!!
(I owe ya, big time!!)

Worst Part of the Day-
Scarlet was up at her usual 6:15am. She was singing and talking soooo loudly at that hour. She continued singing and talking loudly (as usual) allllll day long. At 6:15pm, I packed the kids up to go get the sitter for my bachelorette outing and Scarl was still singing and talking. Her vocal cords had not taken a rest for 12 hours. That was a bit taxing today. Let's play the quiet game, shall we?

Saturday November 15, 2008

Worst Part of the Day - Oh the boyz during their breakfast. A waffle and a half were wasted and when Erik tried to lecture me, I told him that while I hear what he is saying, it is a hard balance to figure out what they are going to eat when. Nine times out of ten, Quinn will eat three waffles and today he ate only one and a bite. When Erik tried to tell me that I ALWAYS waste food, I didn't get mad and storm out. I simply said "that can't POSSIBLY be true. They do eat some of it." And he had to agree.

Best Part of the Day - We met Uncle Chris and Tante Ann with Jack and Carson at the playground. The boyz all ran around while we stood and chatted (well whoever wasn't chasing/keeping Wes from concussions got to stand and chat). Then we headed over to their place where our boyz were as good as gold. (OKAY so Wes did dump some dirt out of a plant - but that is it. That's about ten gold stars for that kiddo.) All played nicely together and we got to have an adult Asian meal together with plenty of chit chat time. Got home at 9:15 p.m. (!) and the babies went right to snoozeland. I was soon to follow - whew!

Funniest Moment - we were saying goodbye to Uncle Chris and Tante Ann. As always with an adorable almost two year old we say "Wes give Uncle Chris a kiss and say goodnight." Wes is in Erik's arms and he turns and says "night night!" and then puckers up and leans in to kiss Chris. At the last moment, still puckered up, Wes reaches up and smacks Chris' face. Of course we all die laughing which is exactly the wrong response. Can't wait until he does it to his preschool teacher.