Monday March 30, 2009

Happy Birthday Miss Sarah! Sweet, sweet ... wait how old are you again? I can't keep track of my own age any longer. I'm stuck at 35.

Worst Part of the Day - For some reason Quinn is freaking out whenever I take him to this new gym's childcare. It's weird. But then when I pick him up - he's having fun, smiling and drags his feet to leave. It does make me wonder if something happened at one point? He's not like that at any of the other gym's child cares and was not like this the first time he went there. Strange and so sucky to leave a crying kiddo.
Also now Erik seems to have come down with the stomach thang the boyz had - nauseous and just not feeling well.

Best Part of the Day - Sooo nice out! We spent the afternoon outside in the warm, sunny temps.

Sunday March 29, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Had a play date scheduled in Madison with a college friend and her kiddies (and she is preg with #3 and final--sooo exciting.)  It was refreshing to get out of the house, do a road trip and play, play, play in a new enviro with new toys, pals--on a Sunday--who knew??  The moms had fun chatting and catching up and K. was a perfect sounding board for my tales (o' woe and o' general). Super great day.  Both kids fell fast asleep on the car ride home--a shocking rarity.  

Worst Part of the Day-

There is a titch of the musical bed phenomenon going on as of late.  Yes, yes, both kiddies took a snooze in the late afternoon and it makes sense that they were a bit giddier at 7pm, but what the heeeel??  How did my once militant bedtime thing become a free for all/non-sleeping festival?   (Just 'cause I know the answer doesn't make me the winner...)

Saturday March 28, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Met Cuz K. for drinks in the fairly early eve.  Seriously fun and therapeutic.  Met up with Cuz S. for pizza contest party/lil' b-day gathering.  Great concept for a party--will be stealing.  Good peeps and fun.  Yeah for life.  

Worst Part of the Day-

A freezing, slushy, windy snowstorm does not please me in late March.  The roads were treacherous (and usually I quite enjoy driving in a full on blizzard.)  Had a minor late night car scare and then took it down a few notches (and gears and mph's) and made it home safely and slowly.  (Thank you to friend, T. for your AAA-style help.  Uber thoughtful and sweet.) 

Sunday March 29, 2009

Best Part of the Day - No rain! Sunny and warm!! Got to sleep in!!! Took the boyz to the Raptor Center (found out lots about raptors, i.e. owls, eagles, hawks and so on. I previously just called them birds which I think is a major Raptor Center no no.) Then to the playground. Then to the backyard for Popsicles which are oft more trouble than they are worth - major drama and stickiness. Then some FNL and Lost to cap off the evening.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes a major crabby appleton - so we had to nap him early. Boyz scrapping over whatever item the other is presently holding. Very tiring. Also how many times can one boy poop in a day (Wes - this means YOU!)

Saturday March 28, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - It's still raining - it's been four day snow. We are a tich stir crazy here. Too much television, whining and scrapping for the boyz. It MUST clear up soon or else.

Best Part of the Day - Did have some fun watching Charlotte's Web and eating popcorn with the boyz. Also had some vino and leftovers for din din and was in bed by 10 p.m. Let's hope for a better best day manana.

Friday March 27, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - So tired from being up most of the night. Also dealing with our old landlords who are supposed to get us our security deposit back on Monday (that is 30 days after the move out date as stated by NC law - or so says the Internet). I e-mail to ask about it and get a "we're still making repairs. We'll be in touch." Um no. That is how we got taken advantage by these people in the first place - by letting them take their time on stuff. But truly I just want this over - I don't want to think of them any more. It's stealing my sunshine fo shore.

Best Part of the Day - Oh McDonald's Playland, how I love you so. Coffee and a newspaper for me. Yogurt parfait and safe rainy day running around activity for the kiddos.

Friday March 27, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Watching Scarlet in her kindergarten circus this morn.  Not only was she awesome, ALL of the kids were great.  How darn cute!!!  

Worst Part of the Day-

My paycheck is ridiculously small.  Perhaps taking off 5 days to hang in Colorado and not wanting to work for the subsequent 5 days is making itself known to the pocket book. 

Thursday March 26, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Finally have the elephant costume for Scarlet's circus at school tomorrow.  Super cute!!

Worst Part of the Day-

I did stay up tooo late (was I doing shots and smoking cigs???)  

Wednesday March 25, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Started watching Dexter-Season 1, disc 1 (thank you Cuz S.).  I am enjoying--nothing like watching a double life/serial killer show to create a diversion from my every day...

Worst Part of the Day-

I need to sit down and sift through and pay some bills online, etc.  Instead I want to smoke cigs and do some shots.  (Kinda).

Thursday March 26, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Counting down the days until I don't have to do the 30 minute commute (each way) to the kiddos' preschool. The new one will be three minutes away. It's a draaagggg - I don't like driving all that much and then I have to just burn through four hours (when I could be at home unpacking boxes!!) I don't seem to get any time alone in the house. But there is light in the distance .... this preschool will end in May.

Also Wes had diarrhea late this evening (really would be Friday morning if you want to get technical about it) - so I was again up for most of the night. Oh my - so dern tired.

Best Part of the Day - A beer, basketball, book and then bed.

Tuesday March 24, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

I had to take several moments for my bad self.  I headed down to the east side to try my luck at some boutiques (and ahem, Urban Outfitters).  I found 3/4 of the makings for Scarlet's elephant costume for this Friday's circus at school.  The real best part is that I popped in to Real Chili on M.U.'s campus for a late lunch.  Oh my--the veggie!!!  It was yummins AND filling as hell.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O.   

Monday March 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

I finished the movie Blue Velvet care of Netflix (my queue is crazy random.)  Huh.  I liked it 'cause it reminded of me of what I enjoyed about Twin Peaks.  Would recommend with reservation...

Worst Part of the Day-

As I was leaving my class this eve (approx. 6:30pm) to head home and smooch on the kids, Will-O called to ask if I would pick up a pizza. I said I would thinking it would be for him as the kids usually eat around 4:30pm.  He said, "Well Scarlet wants a pepperoni pizza."  I said well that's too bad, 'cause it is time for bed.  

He ended up taking the kids with him to pick up a pizza as I was en route home.   So the kids ate deep dish pizza at 7:30pm (omg) and then did not settle down until 10pm.  Liam was not asleep until 10:40pm.!  Are you kidding me???  In the end (yes I was irritated), I told Will-O that the kids need to eat din around 4:30-5pm so they can be bathed, read to, in bed by 7pm--for their health--they need stage 4 of REM for rejuvenation, blah, blah, blah.  He then told me, "oh they had McDonald's at 4:30".  Then why in tarnation did you get a pizza at 7pm?  Oh yes, because YOU wanted a pizza.  

Is is just me??????

Wednesday March 25, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Began swim lessons and although I had my stuff scattered all over the pool deck (sigh), it was still pretty great. Quinn did AWESOME (I don't mean from a swim standpoint, I mean from an attitude standpoint. He cried for two minutes when I left him to get in the water with Wes and then happily participated for the rest of the time. Even wanted more swimming when lesson was over. Love it.

Worst Part of the Day - I channeled my mom and made Wes go to the gym and to swim lessons. He's still lethargic, but seems on the mend. Still seems kind of mean - but we had to get out of the house. There are only so many episodes of Wonder Pets one person can stand before throwing a shoe at the television.


BONUS ENTRY -

A Tale of Two Sickies by M. Lovett

Quinn's sickness



6:45 p.m. Begins vomiting

8:00 - 11: 30 p.m. - vomiting or dry heaving but then laying right back down and going to sleep

11:30 - 6:45 a.m. - sleeping



Wes' sickness



2:45 p.m. Begins vomiting

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. vomiting or dry heaving but then laying right back down and going to sleep

7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. - sleeping

9:30 p.m. - wakes up and demands water. OVER and OVER and OVER until we give in

9:45 p.m. - throws up due to said water

10:00 p.m. - comes into the bed with Erik and I

10:10 p.m. - throws up in the bed. I clean it up best I can and we get back into the bed

10:15 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. -Wes is tossing and turning in the bed and I am uncomfortable due to his oven-like warmth

12:05 a.m. - move him to his room and lay down with him until he falls asleep

12:45 a.m. - sneak back to bed, lay down in exhaustion

12:55 a.m. - Wes calls out, I lay down with him in his room on the floor

1:30 a.m. - sneak back to bed, lay down in exhaustion

1:45 a.m. - Wes calls out, I lay down with him in his room on the floor

2:30 a.m. - sneak back to bed, lay down in exhaustion

2:55 a.m. - Wes calls out - WATER WATER WATER

3:00 a.m. - Wes calls out - WATER WATER WATER

3:10 a.m. - Wes calls out - WATER WATER WATER

3:11 a.m. - I give him and give him a little water

3:15 a.m. - back in my bed. Wes is silent

4:00 a.m. - Wes calls out WATER WATER WATER

4:01 a.m. - I give him a little water

4:05 a.m. - back in my bed. Wes is silent

5:00 a.m. - Wes calls out WATER WATER WATER

5:01 a.m. - I give him a little water

5:05 a.m. - back in my bed. Wes is silent.

6:05 a.m. - Erik gets up for work. I hear Quinn stir. I try to lay as silently as possible.

6:40 a.m. - Both boyz are up and I am SO looking forward to the day.

Tuesday March 24, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Had received this Aveda card in the mail for a free customized scent spray, so I dug out my gift certificate (thanks Stacy!) and headed on over after I dropped off the boyz. Got a customized spray (yum!), three products and became a lifetime Aveda member (whatever that means - something about points. I was a little distracted after my hand massage).

Worst Part of the Day - Took Quinn to speech and was walking around the school with Wes. He wanted to be carried which is strange for him. So I picked him up and then all of a sudden ... projectile vomit all over the sidewalk. Uh oh. I left him 'puke it out' for five more minutes and then a nice lady told me she would let the office know. Then we went to sit on the grass and he upchucked some more. Then we sat in the car for a bit. Then after we got out of the car and he threw up some more, we went to interrupt Q. Wes ended up puking the rest of the day and into the night.

Monday March 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day - The morning was smooth as silk - it seemed we had so much time and were not rushed. Weird. How can I get this EVERY morning? Had a grrrreat workout (and the kiddos barely looked at me as I dropped them in childcare). Off to SuperTarget to shop for the week - no going back and back and back (Two kiddos and a $1 popcorn = easy shopping). Feelin' organized!

Worst Part of the Day - It's a gorgeous day and we're all outside and all Wes can say is "inside. inside. inside." Sigh!!!!!

Bright Spot Alert - Erik may have found a way around the heinous NC Dental Licensing Exam .... whoa! Way to be proactive Erik :-)

Sunday March 22, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Went to T's March Madness Extravaganza to watch the M.U. game. Soooo fun to hang on a Sunday. Feelin like a teen.

Worst Part of the Day-
Poor M.U. Poor Wisconsin Badgers. It's madness, I tell ya....

Saturday March 21, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
I jetted myself and kiddies out to my parents' (mom is out o' town) to hang with my dad (needed something to do!)  Their house was somehow annoying as a child, but I can tell it is a pretty fun house to the grandchildren set--lotsa nooks and corners and much stuff!!!   My dad and I took the kiddies to the park/playground on this gorgeous day and took a "nature hike" down to the water's edge.  It was fun, fun and nice to have an adult helper.

Worst Part of the Day-
I was fried at the end of today.  Whew.

Sunday March 22, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - It's my manana to sleep in, but I (of course) get up to see if Quinn is okay after puking the night before .... I walk into his room and on accident wake him up. I can't tell if he's still sick or not, so I take him in the 'big bed' (Erik is already up with Wes). It becomes apparent after several minutes of bouncing on the bed, tickling me and counting to 20 over and over (and over) that this kiddos is JUST FINE. Sigh.
Also the Marquette game? Bummer, bummer, bummer. No Sweet Sixteen for us this year.

Best Part of the Day - Lovely, lovely weather day. We went out for coffee and sweet treats this morning. Then off to Plaza Fiesta so the boyz could climb. Then spent the rest of the day pretty much outdoors (and then indoors to watch basketball games). The boyz were in their beddy byes by 6:52 p.m. Mama was NOT messing around today.

Saturday March 21, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik took Quinn to soccer and unlike (ahem) two weeks ago it was a smooth operation getting them out the door (even when Erik informed me at the last minute that he had to go the hospital after the game so Quinn would be staying with Chris and Ann. Huh - well, I ask him, did you pack extra shoes? Extra shirt? Extra everything ... nevermind, I'll just do it.) Still then Wes and I had a leisurely morning hanging out and hitting Group Power.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik left for a Bobcats game and I was readying the boyz for slumber time (and looking forward to some mind-numbing television). At approximately 6:45 p.m. Quinn came into the office and said "uh oh. Tummy hurts" and then projectile vomited up all the shells from his mac n' cheese dinner. I rush him upstairs. He vomits off and on until roughly 11:30 p.m. I change clothes three times. I do one load of laundry. I collapse in bed still smelling vomit on myself (despite a thorough cleaning).

Friday March 20, 2009

Best Part of the Day - The weather today was FAB. My kind of day - cloudless blue sky, slight wind and about 68 degrees. Sigh. The boyz and I swang in the hammock. Also Marquette pulled it out at the last minute in the tourney. After the win (which I watched with the boyz) Quinn yelled "Yeah Yellow Guys" and Wes did a somersault. High praise from the preschool set.

Worst Part of the Day - I think I went to Target or SuperTarget every day this week. MUST get my grocery list organized. So stupid. Also Wes woke me up with a call out at 5 a.m. but them went back to sleep as I lay awake in the bed. Then Quinn came into our room at about 5:45 a.m. just as I was drifting back. HATING the early morning wake up.

Friday March 20, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

FNL'ing.  (You know it.)  

The kids were amazingly well behaved today...

Worst Part of the Day-

I remain kinda sleepy and a titch out of it.  Still getting back in the mode post-vacation.  A mighty work week o' catch up + an exhausting personal week with 2 chitlins under foot = sleeepppyyy.   I had to skip my Book Club tonight.  Did not finish book.  Could not get sitter. Could not scrounge up energy to make fancy dish to pass.  Most importantly-couldn't bear to miss FNL.  

Funniest Note of the Day-

I was paging through Newsweek (not this week's, for certain) with Liam on my lap as he demands these days.  I was reading an article on the topic death in fiction and there was a picture of Tolstoy (long ass white beard--lookin all serious and Russian and 70 years-old...). Liam pointed to Tolstoy and excitedly exclaimed, "Daddy!"  I laughed to myself and then flipped the page a second later.  On that page was a pic of Octomom, Nadya Suleman.  Of course, Liam happily exclaims to this one, "That's you, Mama!"  I guess I shoudn't have laughed at Tolstoy.  I smirk.  He finally points to the newborn Octomom is holding to her chest and he naturally declares, "and THAT's me!"   I feel like Tolstoy would majorly object to procreating with Octomom.  Maybe not?  

Thursday March 19, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Got my haircut and I actually kind of like it. Texturizing is my new buzzword - meaning thinning the sh*t out of curly hair to make it less frizzy and more lay down-ish. Also got the kiddos signed up for swim lessons (thanks for the inspiration from KEG).

Worst Part of the Day - Oh the baby boyz are in difficult mode. If we're outside they want inside. If I leave for a minute it is waterworks and MAMA MAMA MAMA. Also Wes up at 4:55 a.m. with a sopping wet diaper and I did not want him to wake Quinn so he came into our bed and was semi-good, but no real sleep was achieved.

Best Quote - I had just put Quinn to bed and laid down with him (I never do this - but he looked so sweet and I just thought I'd talk with him for a minute). I put my head on his pillow and said "night, night Quinn." And he said "night, night Mama." Then he put his hand gently on my face and pushed it and said "go away." And I thought maybe I didn't hear that correctly, so I said "what did you say?" And he said "Mama - go away." Okay then. I was dying laughing. I mean I couldn't leave him for a minute all the day. Sigh.

Wednesday March 18, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Went to the closing (and liquidating) Home Depot Design Store (really? A Design Store?) Got a steal on a really cool, contemporary rug for our living room. Hopefully this will help with some of our 'echo' issues. Also got Quinn (and Wes but he's not as big of a deal) to eat gnocchi with red sauce. Quinn 'gave up' red sauce at about 14 months - he'll only eat it on pizza. But by golly, that kiddos ate it up. Whoa - hopefully this is a sign of good eating to come.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik worried about the upcoming NC Dental License test. Also worried about ... well the future regarding his career. Although he does have commitment issues - I do think that some of his issues are valid. Sigh. That's all I can say for now - please don't even ask.

Thursday March 19, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Headed to friend's Annual March Madness party (a 4-day long open house, if you will.)  Brought the kiddos as had no real other choice.  They were pretty alright and of course they lived for the "parrrrr-teeeee".  Kinda fun for a school night.

Worst Part of the Day-

1.  Liam broke my fave glasses in with one swift motion of his destructo hand.  They may now function as opera glasses only.  

2.  In the middle of the night, Sir L. awoke screaming his head off.  What the?  I was blind in the dark (also without glasses, duh) and drugged with sleepiness.  I picked him up and tried to hug the tears out of him.  He kept on crying and I carried him into my bed.  I felt his face wet with tears and he was choking on his massive tears.  Geez, buddy.  I turned on the lights and much to my shock their was blood EVERYWHERE.  What happened?  What the hell happened??  It took me a solid 10 seconds to realize Little Man L. was having a massive bloody nose.  It was all over his face, his hair, his jammies, and of course my face, my hair and my jammies.  My stark white comforter was covered with his bright red blood.  It was crazy how much blood there was.  (I declare I have never had a bloody nose.)  I guess his face wasn't just wet with little boy tears. Oh my.  It took me about 45 annoying minutes to get everything cleaned up and then toss the entire comforter in an ice cold bath.  Da-hude.  

Wednesday March 18, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

This weather is crazy nice.   After I collected both kiddies we all hung out in the back yard for hours.  I put out some of the out door furniture and they played fairly well together in the sand box.  We all showed our stuff with chalk creations.  Lotsa balls and bubbles and buckets and bikes.

Worst Part of the Day-

Felt a titch like sh*t today (deflated).  My generally blabbing self didn't really want to talk today--can't bear to pick up the phone.  

Tuesday March 17, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

I planned and pulled off a Health Foods St. Pat' party at work.  Instead of spending money on typical junkie party food (i.e sodas and Doritos and mass-produced cupcakes), I proposed a Whole Foods version (i.e. much Pirate's Booty and Odwalla smoothie drinks and vegan cookies). It was a complete hit with the girls.  Love expanding their worlds with the basics of nutrition! Low fat, no cholesterol, yet all the vitamins--(and helps my constipated patients!!)

(Who knew strawberries were in season right now??)

Worst Part of the Day-

Planning, planning for the future.

Happy Birthday to G-ma!!!  Wish I could celebrate with you.  Hoping you get to sip a gin martini.

Happy St. Pat's to the rest of y'all!!

Tuesday March 17, 2009

Happy Birthday G-Ma!! I did (along with siblings) send flowers, a card and left a voicemail message to celebrate the day. I sincerely hope she is doing well - you can't really talk with her on the phone anymore unfortunately. Isn't St. Patty's Day the BEST birthday?? Especially for an Irish Lass like Mary Patricia Dugan.

Best Part of the Day - Got the boyz dressed in their Irish finery (aka Target and Old Navy T's). Ran some leisurely errands. Erik was done for the day when I got home, so I left Wes with him and took just Quinn to speech (how lovely to sit and read ... again!) Later, I roped Erik into watching both Survivor and Rock of Love Bus with me. How nice to just veg out after a day of running around.

Worst Part of the Day - A talk with Megan. Left me simultaneously hopeless and hopeful. Can only imagine how she is feeling - wish I could be there.

Monday March 16, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Bye bye Gigi and Pops. Thanks for ALL your help regarding babysitting and everything else. Soooo lucky to have parents who will come and give me a break!!

Best Part of the Day - Hanging with the boyz today was pretty fun (but really - the fighting over a toy (whatever toy the other has) has to GO!) Actually it's nice to be back home and eating salads and drinking just water and resting. But must start planning the next get-away - Erik and I will go somewhere in May!

Sunday March 15, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Hauling my self out of bed after three hours of sleep. WHY OH WHY (but really, so worth it :-) But cousin vacay is over for another year. Boooooo.

Best Part of the Day - Exit rows on both my flights. Sleeping and reading the entire time. Dad picked me up and I had the BEST welcome home. Two boyz throwing themselves into me for a hug that lasted minutes and minutes. And MAMA, MAMA, MAMA!! Then after we got them to bed, my mom produced an excellent meal and Erik did all the clean up. Finished Water For Elephants (very good!) and was snoozing by 9:20 p.m. Ahhhh.

Saturday March 14, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Slept in ... again. Had my favorite kind of wake up - Megan, Patti and I on the bed chit chatting away. Breakfast and some CB shopping. BYE BILL AND PATTI - and GRACIAS!!! Then coffee and road trip back to Denver (with four bathroom stops. Seriously.) Then got to hang with KEG's boyz who are soooo cute! Oh my. Then showers and off to Rio (scene of a crime almost ten years ago involving Megan and a "limit three" rule she blew off and lived to rue the day. Full disclosure - I was not much better.) Margaritas and an Oconomowoc reunion led to staying out until 1:15 a.m. OH MY.

Worst Part of the Day - Some GI distress due to heavy meals and some boozing. Perhaps also the altitude? Also another perfect day, but no time to ski :-(

Monday March 16, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Smooching and hugging the kiddies.  

Had a low toned talk with Will-O where he did a lot of nodding and looking down.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Just getting back to work and in the swing.  There was a large hill of paper work to combat.  The trip really is over now.  

Sunday March 15, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Seeing the kiddos!!!!  I missed their soft sweet cheeks and big higs!!  They seemed amazingly calm and cheerful and it was crazy fun to reunite.  

Worst Part of the Day-

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(real worst part too painful to actually write...)

Secondary Worst Parts:

1.  Did miss bag check-in time in Denver airport by 2 minutes.  Had to mail myself my $25.00 hair products for $20.00 as they were over the dumb liquid ounce rule.  (Oh my stupidness.  No terrorist is gonna do the liquid shit again!!!)

2.  Did miss my airport shuttle by 6 seconds and had to wait 1 hour for the next.  (GD calf muscle.)  

Saturday March 14, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Cuz KEG carted my slightly hungover ass around the state.  After leaving CB and arriving in Denver the fun train continued with seeing Kristen's adorable boys, Mexican dining (margaritas, ahem) and meeting up with old pal, Mark, for more drinks and dancing and mingling.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Leaving Crested Butte.  Cutest town in America, I tell ya.  It would've been nice to continue chats with Pate and just chill.  

Also received cryptic call from home about Will-O.  Seriously?  I was just getting into the relaxation zone.  (Thank heavens the ladies were there as my therapists.)

Friday March 13, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Oh me oh my.  Perfect day:  Slept in til naturally arose, bloody marys and yummy lunch with Cousin Pate, reading and nap, ortho bionomy session for traumatized calf (removed all pain in just over one hour), yumminess at cocktail lounge, out for din, many beers while being entertained by the musical talents of Bill/Pate/Farley.  Sooo much laughter and fun and shenanigans.  So much.

Worst Part of the Day-

Was not able to go skiing with the gals on this gorgeous sunshiney day.  (Damn artificial turf.)  

Friday March 13, 2009

Worst Part of the Day -   Got slightly sunburned from the skiing.  I am anti the sunburn peeps.

Best Part of the Day - Cousin Kristen and Uncle Bill (hee hee) took me skiing and it was .... AWESOME!  It was blue sky, sunny, crisp air and good snow.  I had not been skiing in a loooong time and my form was ... well less than perfect.  But I had a blast skiing down greens and blues and even made it down several blacks.  Had perma-grin on my face the entire day and just fell in love with the skiing!  SO MUCH FUN!  Then Cousin Kristen and I had some beers and showered up.  Patti and Megan came home and we all went out for infusion martinis (mine tasted like mango salsa - in a good way).  Then to the Ginger for dinner.  Then to see Bill sing and play (often along with Patti) at the Princess.  Fun, fun.  Then home to comfy bed.

Thursday March 12, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Poor ole Cousin Kristen is a sicky.  Feel bad - but she must power up (via Zycam and Motrin).  Gigi gets in line at the local preschool (this is just a preschool being fair, not being YOU MUST WAITLIST YOUR FETUS OR YOU WON'T GET IN).  She has four people in front of her  - but I think it will all work out.  

Best Part of the Day -  Slept the HELL in.  To breakfast with the cousins and KEG's lovely, upbeat friend Steph.  Leisurely.  Leisurely.  Left for Crested Butte around noon.  Stopped at these Hot Springs and boiled myself for two hours.  (Why does relaxing leave me so tired, asked Cousin Kristen.)  Got to Cousin Patti's and primped (well, mostly Megan primped her now high maintenance hair).   Got to the party and watched some middle age mayhem with some wonderful Dogfish Head beers.  Home to bed and ahhhhhhhh sleep. 

Wednesday March 11, 2009

Worst Part of the Day -  Did not love to leave the parents as we'd been having so much fun.  But leave I must.  Wes also with the bad diaper rash ... AGAIN.  

Best Part of the Day -  Dropped off at the airport by my dad.  Flight delayed.  No worries.  I finish one book on the first leg of the flight.  Have some food.  Meet up with Megan in the Big D.  Seats are together (due to my cyber stalking).  We are talking and laughing so hard that we get drrrty looks from the women in the seats in front of us.  Picked up by Cousin Kristen and more talking and laughing.  Then to bed in Kristen's comfy, COMFY guest bedroom.  Cozy, cozy.  Am sleeping !!! 

Thursday March 12, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Slept in.  Leisurely breakfast.  Drove to the hot springs---ahhh the hot springs.  Made it to Crested Butte without issue and began drinking beer at one of the wildest parties of the over 50 crowd to which I have been privy.  On top of highly welcoming/friendly talkers (my faves), there was a bowl of condoms (safety first), body shots--including a male slurping tequila out of the navel of another male. (Typical Thursday night fun for this crowd.)  Loved it.  Perhaps 50 is in fact the new 20.  Inspiring.

Worst Part of the Day-

Perhaps too much of the delectable artichoke/jalapeno dip.  I guess I shouldn't have been eating it with a spoon.  Some gastric issues followed.  

Wednesday March 11, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Officially on vaca!  Successful and fun trip to O'Hare and a day/eve of hitch-free airport experiences.  Sat next to Mol for our Dallas to Denver leg (cyber stalker) and chatted the whole way.  I am feeling the calm and the fun and the laughter a'comin...

Worst Part of the Day-

I had to miss Scarlet's First Stage performance which concludes this session of her beloved drama class.  Will-O text me post-show and said she stole the show and was "smashing."  (And he is pretty objective when it comes to performance critique.)  I can't do it all...

Tuesday March 10, 2008

Best Part of the Day-

Had a fun time manning the desk for the cookie sale fundraiser for Miss S.'s school.  We raised a net of over $15,000.  Holy cats.  Since this is my first fundraiser thing, I thought it might bring in a couple hundred bucks...who knew??  The fundraiser peeps were kissing out butts, they were sooo pleased with the outcome.  

Worst Part of the Day-

It was a long long day of tending to the kiddos--both with fever and feel lousy--work, PTA volunteer madness, then silent auction and spaghetti din at Scarl's school--oh and then back for more work 'til 10pm.  My left heel is burning from the boot.  No longer is it even my calf.  The heeeeeeeeel.  Ouch.  

In my past life, the day before I went on vaca I would get a haircut and maybe a new sassy outfit for travel....today, I was lucky to shove one meal in my starving mouth.

Tuesday March 12, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Dropped the boyz at preschool and then my parents and I ran some errands and then went out for lunch. Then dropped off Dad and Wes (for nap) and my mom and I took Quinn to speech (how lovely to sit and read a book instead of occupying a 2 year old for 30 minutes. Sigh.) Then off to the very child friendly library to pick up some books (vacation is almost here!!) Meanwhile Dad took Wes to the playground. Another gorgeous day - lots of outside time (thank GOD for the fenced in yard!!!)
Erik and I went to dinner at a local seafood place (local being four minutes away). Very good and nice to see him pulling himself out of his funk.
Am packing up for the VACATION with the cousins tomorrow. Can't wait!!

Worst Part of the Day - After putting Wes to bed, we were all chatting upstairs and woke him up. It took him quite some time to go back to bed. Must remember - house is echo-y without any area rugs.

Monday March 9, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Parents arrive! Hooray! They got in about 10 a.m. When we arrived at the house, the boyz were ALL jazzed up. Quinn saw them from the backyard and screamed "GIGI! BaPA!" and came arunnin'. Wes of course followed suit (he pretty much thinks all people are pretty great). Then the rest of the afternoon passed with outside and inside play, grilling burgers in the sunshine, reading and roughhousing. Then some Thai takeout and bed. Great day.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik in a baaaad mood. I actually do feel bad for him - but also want some sunshine inside as well as outside.

Sunday March 8, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Had Chris, Ann and the kiddos over for a couple hours today. It was parenting bliss as we locked them (and ourselves) outside and just basked in the outrageously warm day. The boyz were all pinked cheeked and mostly laughing by the end of it all. I felt like a real parent by constantly stating "NOPE - you are staying outside" when one of them would try to get inside via the locked door. Also Popsicles were out in full force. Ahhhh - summer. WAIT - if it's this hot in March what will July look like? Can't think of that now and am hoping it's just a fluke.

Worst Part of the Day - Lately I grocery shop and spend lots o' cash and then come home and there is nothing to eat. I'm thinking I might want to buy ingredients for meals and not just ... well whatever it is I'm buying (fruit snacks? graham crackers?)

Monday March 9, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

This is a queer best part, but I tackled and demolished a gargantuan pile of work to do and home to do stuff today.  It was a nonstop 10 hour ordeal, but I am currently pile-free.  Taxes, too! Nothing like a swiftly approaching vacation to inspire some serious crossing off of lists.

Worst Part of the Day-

My little Miss S. was up the majority of the night and wee am hours with burning red hot fever, headache and a cough/nausea combo.  Poor sweet.  You could tell she was miserable.  Her cherub cheeks were rosy red and her eyes were glassed over.  Her bottom lip was perpetually lowered in cartoonish fashion.  She felt awfully lousy.  It's odd that the trusty Motrin didn't seem to work its usual magic.  

Sunday March 8, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Dads: My dad came to babysit this afternoon while I ran (well, hobbled) to the grocery store. I officially used my assertiveness training and asked for some gol diggity help. (Well, after my mom assured me he had no plans for the day...) My dad has never watched the kids without my mom, so this was a bit new. The kiddies were soooo excited to see him. They all had a blast with no issues and only fun and literal games. Liam sobbed per his usual when my dad's shift was over. Very helpful. Thanks, Dad!

Worst Part of the Day-

Dads: I heard that my friend's father passed away of cancer last evening. My heart aches for her as they were very, very close. She was one of his nurses until the end though the only nursing skills she possessed were the most basic and most crucial--TLC--and time to spend with him. The toughest job you may not want to end.

He was an amazing man--the kind of man everyone loved. (Well, he was sweet, wise, funny and Irish--what's not to love?!) Truly, I don't know if they make 'em like him anymore. Here's to you, Dr. Martin. Cheers. Peace. You will be missed greatly. Good job on your awesome kids. Note: pic above of Buddah (possibly the greatest nickname ever) and his girls.

(I don't like that we're all gonna die...I just don't.)

Saturday March 7, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Went to hobble about in the gym.  Did do some upper body shenanigans and then dangled my boggy calf in the whirlpool for 30 minutes, but mostly it was about getting the heeeel out of the house with the kiddies...it felt good to pretend I am back to my normal self.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Well, half of my left foot and ankle (the entire heel) has been numb and tingly since my injury. Also the temp of the foot has been noticeably cooler than the right.  I became a titch concerned today.  I thought being in the whirlpool would get things moving and flowing, but it did nothing.  I conclude this is a nerve issue as a result of the calf injury as it seems like someone injected my foot with a never block.  It's the weirdest/most annoying feeling.  There is no pain, just prickly ass pins and needles.  All docs want to save their buttskis and say to go to the ER.  No thankya.  

Funny Note:  I took the kids to work for an hour or so (have not brought Liam in over 6 months as he is a handful!  They both did great today. )  Scarlet knows the basic gist of why the girls are in the treatment facility--I tell her the long and the short of it are the girls may have trouble with listening and behaving.  She now knows when they complete the program and become good listeners with good behaviors they are ready to leave the facility.  

While I chatted with a needy resident about medical issues, one girl (who has an 8 month-old of her own) was sweetly playing catch and blocks with Liam, and Scarlet was coloring for minutes and minutes with a super smart girl who is also a talented drawer.  (FYI-This artist girl is really a good kid who I would adopt in a second.)   Anyhoo, when my duties were done and we were packing up and saying goodbye, Scarlet me of her new artist friend, "Hey, I really think it's time for her to leave.  She doesn't need to be here anymore.  She has very good manners--like me!"  I will be sure to pass on my 5 year-old's sentiments to her treatment team.

Saturday March 7, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn had his first soccer game today. And Erik was taking him to soccer while Wes and I were heading to the 'new' gym. It's weird how Erik taking Quinn to soccer turns into a group project. I mean, I get both kiddos dressed, fed, and out the door on (somewhat) time five mornings a week. But I get yelled at for not hopping to when Erik did not plan his morning well. I think it might be an actual crime in his world to be prepared ahead of time. Hmmmmmm. I will say that by the end of the day he did admit to being in a terrible mood and that he was so sorry for being short with the kiddos. THEN (to help out his mood) we realized that one of the kiddos (WES!) had gone into our shower (where Erik is slowly doing some grout work) and placed many tools down the open drain. WHAT THE .... So Erik fished out some with a hanger and then stared unfocused at the wall repeating "I can't take it. I can't take it. I can't take it." So I ran to Lowe's and got some magnets. We then were able to fish the rest of screws, allen wrenches, and nuts out of the hole. Aren't I just the little problem solver.

Best Part of the Day - Relaxing to the Season Finale of Nip/Tuck. Even thought I TOTALLY CALLED the ending - the look on Christian's face at the end was sooooo priceless. I had to rewind and watch it two more times it cracked me up so much.
Also at the 'new' gym - Wes was freaking out when I left him and just dandy when I picked him up. My little one is growing up (and I LOVE it!!)

Friday March 6, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

FNL!  (I can't help it!)  I thought it was a really great show tonight (even better than the usual greatness.)  I likey.

Worst Part of the Day-

Went to a fish fry (what the hell, I'm in the 'Kee).  It was really disgusting.   Amazingly it was rated one of the best fish fries in the city.  Ewwww.   No likey.

Thursday March 5, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Met friends out in the eve for drinks and apps.  Had a hi-larious time, as always.  And as always, bordered on inappropri-Ate fun n' games (compiled a husband Not To Do List)...how healing it is to laugh and laugh.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I was feeling a little sorry for my handicapped self in the am.  Will-O went to work out for 2 hours and during that time I felt I could not appropriately hobble after Liam, cook, clean, shower and ready for work in this damn boot.  (I do not believe I ever left him alone with kids--or cooking, cleaning--when he was down and out with fractured knee caps and stuff).  Sometimes being notoriously independent can backfire--when ya physically do need help.  Dern it. 

Friday March 6, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - A total HASSLE getting to the gym this morning. There is tons of traffic, it's pretty far (I'm realizing) and there is all this construction right by the gym, so you can't turn in from the main street. UGH. I have to drive the kiddos 33 minutes each way to preschool and then 24 minutes to the gym three times a week??

Best Part of the Day - Took the kiddos to McDonald's Playland for some juice (them) and latte (me). It was a really good playland and they had a blast. Then on the way home I noticed a sign ... did that say Peak Fitness (that's my gym). I turned around and YES! I found a gym only 12 minutes away!!! That made my whole day - esp after the hassle this morning. Getting to know the area .....
Then after getting Quinn cleats (he starts soccer tomorrow), I left all the boyz and went to meet Ann (my sister-in-law) for a movie. This new movie theater is Uptown (that's Charlotte's Downtown) and it is SO cool! It's attached to a restaurant so you can order food, appetizers, cocktails ... The seats are comfy and HUGE (with trays on which to eat). I had the turkey burger and it was dern good. We saw Slumdog Millionaire and it was G-double O-D GOOD! Loved it. Then we went to a bar for a couple of vinos and chit chat. Such fun! We are now once for at least once a month at this posh, fun theater!

Thursday March 5, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik had a slow morning - so after I dropped the kiddos off at preschool we went to the wine store, grabbed coffee and then went out to lunch. It was so leisurely and fun and we got to have hours of uninterrupted conversation. What a treat!

Worst Part of the Day - Oh the whining. The whining. It's too much and sets my teeth on edge. That Quinn - he is full on in the moment of whiner. UGH.

Wednesday March 4, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Finally made it to my workout class - and again not crowded at this new locale. Hooray!
Also did watch the season finale of Buffy .... sniff. I thought it was the best wrap up of a multi season show I've ever seen. Ingenious, satisfying and emotional. Seriously. Some good television. Congrats Joss (five years late).

Worst Part of the Day - Had some road rage when this ijit would not turn today - clearly the light was faulty as the red arrow never turned green. But this little rule follower two cars in front of me would not turn. Was really getting into the name calling when I heard Quinn's little voice from the back say "Come ON! JUST GO!" Hmmmmm. But this person did make me miss the warm up and part of the squat track ...... justifiable?

Tuesday March 3, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Oh my with the errands done while kiddos were in preschool - post office (we've moved card stamped and mailed), Best Buy to get me $100 back from the tv, Trader Joe's for produce, Target for junk ..... then picked up the kiddos and we took a tour of our neighborhood looking at snowmen (almost as cool as Christmas lights for this crew).

Worst Part of the Day - OH those dern 'We've Moved' cards. NOT ONLY was the postage pricey ($$) - I had to stick two stamps on each card to get the correct postage. Grrrrr. Hating the adorable 5.5 by 5.5 squares!!!

Wednesday March 4, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Today was my self-appointed free day.  I got the kids moving in the morn and then took my time--I read, chilled, sipped and napped.  I grocery shopped (solo!) and cooked a healthy din for the fam.  Very 1950's. 

Funny side note:  I chatted with numerous strangers today (the large black boot I am wearing is an easy conversation starter.)  While sitting in a coffee shop before picking up Miss S., I was extra chatty (usually I do not speak when out in public...) with a young (20-ish) guy.  He was telling me about a similar injury he had while training for a marathon, blah, blah, blah.  In the end of our 10 minute talk, he shocked me by asking out on a date!..oh my.  I believe he was 21. (I said no and quickly hobbled my 15 years-older-than-21 self out of there.)

Worst Part of the Day-

I still need to complete the dang taxes...it looms.

Tuesday March 3, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Went to the Ortho and lobbied for what I wanted--no surgery!  The Ortho guy was cool and seemed to be caring and listening (not what my preconceived notions were fearing...).  He told me, "you are really a spitfire and very against surgery."  Yes, yes.  In the end he diagnosed me with a grade 3 gastroc. medial head tear.  Fancy words for tore the shitskis out of my calf muscle. The part of the calf that meet the achilles has been battered, but not severed (sooo gross to say).  The mutually agreed upon plan:  I will wear a stabilizing boot for 2 weeks at all time save for showers--even sleep.  If no improvement, then we could talk some surg.  If improvement, then 2 more weeks of the boot and then 4 weeks of PT.  Whew.  I already feel a huge physical relief in the boot--it's comfy and supportive--and a big emotional relief--girls trip, here I come!

Worst Part of the Day-

I guess the whole high-fiving myself over still having to be laid up for a minimum of 8 weeks--bummer.   Too bad I was actually digging the workout scene.  Doh.

Monday March 2, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - I will never, repeat never, order adorable square note cards again. The "We've Moved" cards came on a 5.5 by 5.5 square. My printer no likey. I could NOT get them to print correctly and after using up many envelopes, I simply printed them with the flap to the side. Maybe people will think it's purposeful, edgy even. A 20 minute job took over two hours. Wasteful in every which way.
Also Wes .... from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. was up. Just up. Talking, Yelling, Kicking, Evading his 'childproof' knobs and taking strolls. I finally laid down with him and woke up (with a neck crick) at 5:30 a.m. I snuck off to my room thinking "he'll sleep to at least 7 a.m. now if not later." Nope that one was up at 6:30 a.m. Sigh.

Best Part of the Day - Oh, I'm on the mend now. My stomach still isn't 100%, but the rest of me feels pretty dern terrific. Also reconnected with an old Jax friend and had a great conversation. Made the afternoon fly on by.
Oh and at least those silly 'we've moved' cards are freakin' done. I'm always glad to get those projects off the desk.

Monday March 2, 2009

Worst Part of the Day-

Crap, crap, crappity crap crap.  I ended seeing my Primary Doc to check out the leg.  I was feeling like maybe it was just a really bad charlie horse and perhaps I was being a foolish wuss to pay my $30 co-pay to be told to continue what I was already doing:  ice, elevate, ace wraps, and then be formally told I had a bad muscle strain.  Well, I went to the doc anyway hoping to at least get some crutches out of the deal as I really couldn't walk--that is an issue.  

In the end I was told that I ruptured my achilles tendon and would require surgery right quick. What the?  I still have to see the Ortho tomorrow and see what in tarnation my options are...guess the ski portion of my upcoming Colorado trip is out the question.  Crappity crap crap.

Best Part of the Day-

Just chillin at the end of this nuts day.   

Sunday March 1, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik got up with the kiddos and I had an excellent two extra hours of morning sleep. I'm really starting to feel better. Chris, Ann and the kiddos came over to watch the MU game. The boyz all played exceptionally well together (only about three cry outs and no real issues at all). Jack is especially good with Wes. They were upstairs in the "secret room" that connects Quinn and Wes' room for over an hour just throwing pillows around and laughing. Sweet. Then Erik and his brother ran to Lowe's and replaced the toilet on the first floor so now we can actually use it!! The day went by in a leisurely flash.
Also my mom called with the news that our new TV is now $100 cheaper. Oh Best Buy I will be seeing you soon with my receipt.

Worst Part of the Day - It was cold and rainy all day. Then the rained turned to snow. Also we gained a toilet (see above) but lost another one (won't flush - might be a pump issue??). SIGH!!! Homeownership - hooray.

Saturday February 28, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Woke up feeling not so good - and I was betting that today would be my rebound, I feel GREAT day. Not so much. Still achy, still with the sore throat ... although neither as bad as prior. And it rained allllll day long.

Best Part of the Day - Realized that FNL in on On Demand and so the episode we thought we'd missed during the move? We have it right at our fingertips. Hooray!

Friday February 27, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Still feeling not all that well - but MUCH improved. Erik went over to the rental house in the afternoon to mow and do some final clearing out. The "landlords" (our next door neighbors) came over to do the walk through and started getting nitpicky "is it clean" the wife asks as she walks through the door. Funny - they handed it over to us with freakin' urine stains on the toilets, so if that is their standard then yes it is clean. After pronouncing it "adequate" they then proceeded to complain about a portion of wallpaper the kiddos had torn off (legit on their part BUT the wallpaper is peeling all over the house and was loose (and I pointed it out to him) when we moved in). They are going to strip it and paint it and charge us. Well Erik brought up the broken fridge (three weeks and groceries lost), water heater not working (close to a week), microwave never fixed (four weeks) - but they said "This is not about those issues - this is about the wall." I guess I thought we had a gentleman's agreement - they were kind of crappy landlords and we would get our deposit back. Huh. Guess you really do have to document everything. Feeling jaded about people.

Best Part of the Day - Got the remote to work - we can watch tv once again.

Sunday March 1, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Met my mom and Cuz S. at hipster brunch spot to watch M.U. game.  (Almost sooo hipster that the crowd may have thought we were geeks for caring about sports...)  Though I did not imbibe in the Bloody Mary action (soooo hard to say no...but had to take Miss S. to a b-day partay in an hour--did not wish to be "drunk mom"), I swilled coffee like a champ and dined with the lasses. Quite fun.   (Cuz S. cracks me up!)  (Thanks for picking up the tab, Babs!!!)

Worst Part of the Day-

I was gonna say the Worst Part was getting lost en route to crazy far away b-day party (I may have driven 15 miles out of my way...screw you, Mapquest!) and then having to hang in the loud enviro that is Family Fun Land.  (Actually the kids were fantastic.  But seriously, do families have tangible "fun" at these places?  It seems a quiet nature walk with the fam would be far superior...) 

Or I was gonna say the Worst Part was getting up out of my warm slumber this eve to go and play in my 10pm soccer finals game.

But alas, I will say my official Worst Part today was hearing an actual pop and then a millisecond later feeling the location of the pop in the belly of my left calf as I was about to make a break away with the ball in the highly late at night game.  Whoa.  I was stopped in my tracks and had to leave the game. I hoped it was just a cramp.  As I sat out for a few minutes, my lower left leg turned into a painful wooden post and I was unable to flex my foot, let alone ambulate.  Nice.  I now have foot drop that accompanies poor souls who suffer a stroke.  I seriously cannot put any pressure on my left leg.  I cannot walk!  Non-awesome.  ( I did score prior to injury and we won 11-2!)  But who cares 'cause now I am physically challenged for a spell.  

Saturday February 28, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Miss S. and I had a "girl date".  I took her to work with me for a few hours--she sporting her i.d. badge and work keys, we walked down to a river (I forget how cool moving water is for kiddos. Oh my!  A real river!) and we shared our mutual fave:  Thai curry soup with tofu--scrumptious.  It was a good afternoon and I enjoyed her company thoroughly.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I awoke with a terrible tension headache (have not had one in years it seems...).  It could have been from the sulfite-laden wine I had last eve (only 1 glass!).  Who knows, but I felt achy and crappy all morn.

Friday February 27, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

We had a low-key pizza (and wine) night with the kids.  Nice 'n easy.

Worst Part of the Day-

While I was sleeping, I must have been sprawled and splayed out.  I remember feeling pain in my right shoulder.  I believe I even yelped out in the night.  I think I may have torn my right rotator cuff in my sleep.  How geriatric of me.  Nice.