Saturday June 27, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

1.  It was a gloriously beautiful day for a ferry crossing.   The kiddies loved every minutes of it. What a fantabulous way to cut a 6 hour car trip into 2.5 hours.   Yeah, water!!

2.  Wonderful to get to Michigan in one piece--handy GPS in the rental car did assist.

3.  Bed, bed, bed with the kiddies at a calm/quiet Uncle Fritz/Aunt Mary home.

Worst Parts of the Day-

1.  Though the ferry ride went smoothly, it was not exactly relaxing with me chasing Liam to and fro for the entire time.  He could not be enticed with movies on a laptop or the big screen when there was water and wind and sailboats and people right outside.  

2.  When we finally arrived at my grandma's nursing home, Scarlet was unabashedly pinching her nose due to her perceived smell "of pee".  Liam loudly corrected her, "It doesn't smell like pee, Sis, it smells like garbage!"  Scarlet then audibly gagged like a Valley Girl when we saw an old man hocking up some clearly stubborn phlegm while waiting in the dining area.  It was a lot to take when I just wanted to sit and talk to my G-ma. 

3.  I pretty much lost my shit with Scarlet at 10:30pm when she would not listen/stop talking/follow instructions/zip the lip/settle down for sleepy time.  I did scream (perhaps at top of lungs) and then she did listen.   I didn't even feel bad about it.  Note:  I may flip out if I ask anyone anything 75 times in a row and do not get a response.  I just may.  (Also if I slept 2 hours the night prior, I really just may...my bad there, I know, but I'm not sure I feel bad about it even now.  She's 5 1/2 and needs to learn that even this nice ol even-keeled mama can be pushed to the edge.)  

Monday June 29, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Had a weird moment at swim lessons today.  I never get to watch Quinn as he is with an instructor and I am with Wes.  This woman came up to me and said, pointing at Quinn, "oh is he yours?"  And I say "yes" and she proceeds to kind of go on and on about what a good sport he is at swimming and how the other mothers and she always try to give him encouragement and didn't know who his mom was ... so I say "Yup that's me the absent mother."  Hard de har har.  So after lessons I stop the instructor and am talking to her (this is the last lesson so I just wanted to get some input) and she is telling me that he just needs some more confidence but is doing well overall.  So I walk back in and the same mom from before comes up to me and says "oh I just felt soooo bad for Quinn today - I just wanted to give him a big ole hug."  And I say "what?  Why??"  And she says "oh he was just so scared and wasn't doing anything and ... wasn't that what the instructor was talking to you about?"  And I say "no.  Not at all."  And she says "oh ... oh ... well it wasn't that big of a deal.  It ... Oh well."  And I'm just staring at her.  Just staring.  And then she just trots away in her dry clothes with her one girl child following obediently.  And I stand there dripping and chilly with two wet children to stip and dress and I'm feeling Mama Bear all over.  I told Erik the story later and he just shook his head and said "don't worry about THAT." 

Also Clarence escaped again.  DERN DOG!!!

Best Part of the Day - Easy, easy bedtime.  Babes must be tired.  Also got tree removal lined up.  Now just have to finish other eight large items off To Do list before leaving for Michigan.

Sunday June 28, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Slept in until 9 a.m. Erik got up with the kiddos and then I put on the white noise and conked out. I've been so tired lately - so I felt really, really good when I woke up. Also Erik spent the entire day with the kiddos ... and did pretty good. (The key, he said, is to keep them moving and go on outings. Indeed.)

Worst Part of the Day - Household chores. Erik fixed the fence, I cleaned off our nasty porch and we started on the garage. Hot and sticky ... but at least it's done.

Also Clarence escaped again today ... he was all the way up by the busy road.  That dog is going to get hit!!  Must reinforce that fence.   

Saturday June 27, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Erik increasingly impatient with the kiddos.  I don't know how we will make it through July with him not working .... but he does acknowledge behavior (and truly, I see myself in his behavior.  It's just hard to be with them full time.)

Best Part of the Day - Had a spontaneous, successful, end of the day family outing of looking at boats (I SWEAR if you have two antsy toddlers take them to a boat dealership.  The kiddos had a BLAST running up the stairs and on the boats and looking at 'features' ... I'm sure the owners did not love us, but any port in a storm (boat cliche heh heh).  Then out to dinner and then ice cream.  By the time we got home, we put on The Ant Bully (cheers to Cousin Kelly for the rec) and then snoozeland.)  Ahhh.

Friday June 26, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Friend L. had free tix to big time concert at the Summer Fest.  My policy is I will always go anywhere with fun friends and free tix.  Found out late in the game we were going to see Keith Urban with the Counting Crows as the opening band.  Ummmm.  Alright, I had maybe heard of Keith Urban, but definitely didn't know any of his songs.  I truly just hoped he didn't sing that awful song "I love this Bar!"  The peeps who know me well also know that I kinda wanted to kill the plaintive lead singer of the Counting Crows due to from some weird memories of the '90's and him whining away and wooing Jennifer Anniston...

Anyhoo, I went into the entire eve acting as a music critic, obviously not a fan.  

My critique:  The Counting Crows were quite good live and chatted about how they give to local charities in each city in which they play (awesome) and Keith Urban was, um, AMAZING.  He was cute as pie, a great/charismatic performer, quite a guitarist and beamed with delight through his performance.  It was clear was truly enjoying his clean and sober self and his pretty kick ass job.  At one point he walked with his guitar through the massive ampitheater and cut over to where we were sitting. He was a mere 6 rows from us and he sang/played  3 tunes dedicated to his lover/Baby Mama, Nicole Kidman.  I may have shed tears, it was so precious. Each one of his 5 band mates also belted out a Michael Jackson song a cappella and holy cats, they were fantastic singers.  Shockingly enjoyable concert.  Keith Urban is a pro.  And seriously cute.  I now love Keith Urban.  There, I said it.

Worst Part of the Day-

Told friend, L. that of course I would love to hang with her and the summer festival, BUT I would absolutely have to, have to, have to be home at a reasonable hour as I had plans to take both kiddies solo to Michigan on a ferry, no less, to visit declining grandmother.  Definitely cannot stand out until 5am like our last outing (and all of our madcap outings)....of course, of course, of course.  

So my new boyfriend, Keith U., ended around 11:30pm.  Perfecto.  We headed to get some necessary fried cheese and head home.  Oh hello, there!  Ran into friends and crazy acquaintances and the next thing I know we are in a white stretch limo heading far, far away. All sorts of people kept promising they would get me home by 2 at the latest.  Alright, alright. At 3am we went through a McDonald's drive thru in the now annoying limo and then were abruptly dropped of at some home where a party was non-happening and the movie Tropic Thunder was being blasted on a huge t.v.  Not in the mood.  My bitchy (tired and over all of it) persona came out and I demanded a ride ASAP.  After minutes if peeps wondering if I were kidding about all of this ferry ride and 2 kids, blah, blah, blah, a cab was hailed and I was home at 4:30am.  Booooooo.  

Thursday June 25, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Hit up a kiddie pool mere blocks away for the afternoon.  It is puuuurrrrfect for the kidz as it is the length of a normal pool, it goes from 1 inch to 9 inches deep.  Somehow kids S.'s age can swim around, yet no one can really get hurt.  Also, there is a sign clearly stating--kids 10 and under only.  Satisfactorily eliminating the older kid splashing and dunking antics.  (Not cause I fear for my kids, but I fear my kids will copy that behavior if they know it is possible...)  May come here daily...

Worst Part of the Day-

Nephew W. had to undergo a day surgery (planned, it was) and I thought about the lil nug all day--and his parents.  I hear all went well and he is recovering with the help of Tylenol #3. Nuggie nugs. 

Friday June 26, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Babysitter arrives.  We leave for a fun dinner with friends.  Dinner is delish, margs divine, fun conversation and relaxation sets in.  Ahhhhh.  It's nice to have someone else put the kiddos to bed.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik at the gym for two hours and late to help me with the kiddos.   Does apologize (he lost track of time??) and then HUGE help while I am able to (for once) leisurely get ready.  I just can't be mad when a babysitter is about to come.

Musing - Why do I feel the need to make the house PRISTINE for a 20 year old babysitter?  It's exhausting and probably not all that necessary.  But at least now I have a clean house.  Also fun is that she is a twin and works in Wes' class at the preschool.  She said "wow - he talks a LOT more than he does at school."  That ain't the half of it, sista.

Thursday June 25, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Took kiddos to this huge playground and it was outdoor family fun (but man o man even at 9:30 a.m. it was HOT!)  There were two other little boys for them to play with and some moms for me to commiserate with.  We stayed until 11 and then the kiddos were drug out so I could hit my class at the gym.  They were DRRRTTY.  But what can you do?  

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn spiked a fever this early evening - just lethargic and very warm.  Uh oh - no wonder he was such clinger yesterday.  I'll tell you what - Motrin brought down the fever in literally minutes.  Whoa.

Also the star pupil of the summer session preschool aka Wes ... he smeared his own feces on the ottoman, hit his brother with a drumstick, threw his smoothie on the floor, hid my phone ... need I go on?   Perhaps we should call him Sybil from now on.

Um ... Just Don't Call Child Services On Me - While loading the kiddos into the car this morning - Wes climbed up on the hood and then to the top of the van.  While I was telling him to come on down, Quinn did the same.  So I've got two kids on top of a minivan parked on a driveway.  I glance out to the street and there is a woman with a baby carriage who has stopped, mouth wide open to watch the scene.  But truly I'm not so worried about her - more worried about which ER to go to if this goes bad.  I get Wes to sit down (he was going to launch himself at me from a standing position - yes he was standing on the roof of the van) and grab him and then Quinn does the same.  Oh Jesus Jones - that's no good for the hood (both the car and the 'hood).

Wednesday June 24, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Liam started Kindergym last week and it will be Wednesday morns for the rest of the summer.  It is a sweet class incorporating ball games, songs, gymnastics and how to wait your turn, etc.  I planned to take my own workout class during this time, but after peeking in, I found myself glued to the glass, watching from afar for the entire 45 min class.  It was the cutest dang thing to see little L (he is the tiniest of the 2.5-3.5 year bunch--and somehow the tannest) doing everything he is told and loving it all.  He calls it "my class!"  What a pleasant surprise for my little big man.

Worst Part of the Day-

Something is going on with the kidlets and the bedtime.  Long gone are my hopes for 7pm. Tonight they were so wound up and refused to listen or lay down or close eyes or stay in rooms...this was after a 6am wake up, playing at the Y, to the sitter's for a spell and a M.U. BBQ with games and slides and bouncy house madness...WTF???

They finally gave in to Mr. Sandman about 10pm.  

Funny Kid Quotes:

After I collected the kiddies from the sitter at 4:45, I knew I had to kill about an hour before meeting my mom on M.U.'s campus for this b-ball rally BBQ.  I thought since the kiddies were all buckled up (and it was 90 + degrees) we would take a spin down to the lakefront and see what was happening at the beach.  The beach was of course packed to the gills (duh!) so I kept driving and pointing out sights.  Liam was super into it all as we passed the marina ("Look at all the boats!!"), the art museum ("Look at that!"), lake park ("This is a scary forest..."), and the gorgeously huge lark park homes (Liam shouted at a Victorian, "Look, a real castle!!")  I thought it was a pretty cool (in the comforts of the AC) tour myself until Scarlet said, "Are you trying to trick us, Mom?  Why are we exploring Milwaukee when you said we're going to a barbeque??"   Can't fool her.

Tuesday June 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Riding the good ol bike to and from work.  How delightful to exercise and get to where you've got to be!  Feeling like a little kid.  And a bit of a rebel--as there was a heat advisory today. Honestly it wasn't that hot.  Now 118 degrees--that's a heat advisory I may listen to.

Worst Part of the Day-

Feeling for a friend who is having an awful time related to health, etc.  She is the person who the seems to get the stuff that "only occurs in 1% of all people."  Really feeling for her and hoping this whole ordeal can hurry up....sending the love.

Funny Scarlet Quote:

Out of the blue..."My favorite words are gumball and teenager.  I just love how they sound in my mouth.  Gummmballl.  Teeeeenager.  Yeah."

She has been pretty into the rituals and habits of adolescents for a spell.  This is the same child who a few weeks ago said to our check out girl at Home Depot, "You're a teenager.  I can tell.  You have that measles only teenagers get on their faces."  (Ahhhh, facial acne.)  Cringe, cringe.

Happy Birthday to my sweet Nathalie!!!  Cocktails on the veranda...Mexico 2010!!  Love you.

Wednesday June 24, 2009

Best Part of the Day - I think we might be nearing an end to our tree removal deal (how many more estimates can we get??)  Now just checking on permits - why do they make it so difficult to find the correct person?  Do they want to bust people on pulling trees?  Is that some sort of fun Mecklenburg County game?  I think that it could be easily spelled out on some website.  Really now.

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn was having a Velcro day where he can't leave my side.  Sigh - this makes it hard to ... well do just about anything other than party clown it up for him.  And that (for four straight hours) is exhausting. 

Don't Pigeonhole Your Kiddos - I walked into Wes' preschool class and saw him talking to a teacher about cars.  I thought he might have been being saucy and so I went up and asked if he was playing nicely.  

"Oh yes," she told me.  "He was just showing me how some cars can automatically go forward once you rev them up."  

"Oh good," I say.  

"Oh Miss Molly," she continues, "Wes is the one I always go to to show the others what to do. He goes first in the line to the playground because he will always listen and stop when I tell him too.  Some of the others I have to hold back because they won't stop, but never Wes.  He always listens and helps to clean up.  

"Wow," I say.  I'm kind of stunned.  I pick up his watermelon picture and she says "oh yes and his fine motor skills are amazing - just fabulous.  I have to say he is just so sweet and we are really enjoying him."  

Huh - Wes the star pupil of the summer session preschool?  Mind-blowing.  

Tuesday June 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Went for a massage.  I requested and received a deep tissue which left me feeling more WHOA(AARGH) than AHHHHH.  But still I think it's worth it in the long run o' healthy self.

Worst Part of the Day - Found out that Wes is still not in his preschool class for the fall - although he is number one on the waiting list.  Still I really just want him to be in so I can stop thinking about it.   Also stood up by a contractor who I hustled home to meet - annoying!

Monday June 22, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Get 'er done.  I called the preschool (to see where Wes is on the waiting list for fall), called the cable company to find out why my bill went up $20 (sneaky bastards), met with two tree professionals (still working out estimates on tree removal), and made Clarence a vet appointment.  Still ... it somehow feels there is o so much more to do.

Worst Part of the Day - A miscommunication betwix Erik and I started to get ugly (I do not respond well to condescending sarcasm, do you?)  However (I'm turning this worst into a best, job interview style) I rose above and we ended up having a nice evening.

Funny Comment - As I was pulling up to the gym this morning, Quinn said "Oh no.  Not here, go swimmin'."  And Wes turned to him and said "Qinn - watch tv here!"  Way to accentuate the positive kiddo.

Monday June 22, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Decided to ride my bicycle to work 1 day/week and today was the day.  Sooooo fun and refreshing.  And again, feeling a smidge like a bad ass hippie.  When I pass both cars stuck in traffic and people waiting at bus stops, the thought, get on a bike, people and you will never wait again! screams in my mind...and all y'alls will steer clear of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, general sluggishness and paying out the nose at the pump.   

Side note:  Started the filming of the girls at work for their PSA (Public Service Announcements) project for my class.  The lot of the groups are impressive.  Creative ideas all around and pretty darn good acting...perhaps a life of hard knocks gets one all set to turn it on in front of the camera.  Highly entertaining thus far.

Worst Part of the Day-

Weirdest thing ever.  I got home from work around 7:45pm-ish and the kiddies were snoozing. Will-O told me they had a huge day of  the Y, water park and playground park so he put them down around 6:40pm.  At 8:30pm, as if directed to do so, both kids woke up separately and proceeded to act refreshed.  Scarlet thought it was the next day (to be fair, it was still light out...)  I read some books to them and tucked 'em in and tried to get them to settle, but there were a lot of tears and running around and Liam finally went down at 11:45pm in my bed.  OMG.  

Sunday June 21, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

1.  Parentals picked me up for a sporting/lunching outing in Chicago with the fam.  Father's Day fun, for certain.  

2.  First tennis experience of the season.  Played a set of doubles tennis and won!

3.  Seeing the kiddies after their long weekend of hotel, oodles of swimming and lunching with the O'Neill side.  Lotsa hugs and snuggs.  It was clear they had a blast.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I awoke feeling downright crummy and sluggish and slightly disoriented.  Did I have a TIA in my sleep?  Is this feeling a result of adequate sleep for 2 consecutive days?

Happy Dad's Day to all!!!   You really are key to the success...

Sunday June 22, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Boat ride makes the heat seem so very far away.  Went tubing with first Wes on my lap and then Quinn - both loved the tubing but hated the spraying water in their eyes.  Get used to it babes.  Then Erik and his bro each took turns trying to throw the other off the tube and for some reason it made me scream with laughter.  Watching both on them, in turn, fly across with looks of sheer determination cracked me up.  Then we just 'parked' the boat in the middle of the water and swam and swam and swam.  So very cooling and relaxing.

Worst Part of the Day - I took all four boys while Ann, Chris and Erik did some finish up work at their lake house after the boat ride.  At one point I went downstairs and saw that our blind was DESTROYED.  So I gave them all a talking to, tried to find the culprit (I only knew that it was NOT Jack) and then made them all come upstairs as I "could not trust them."  (Please note - no kiddo seemed even phased by my tongue lashing or 'punishment' of watching some Deigo movie on the big screen.)  So the adults came home and I told Chris and Erik to look at the blind ... turns out no human boy did this dastardly deed!  It twas the dog.  Oh and where is the dog?  Turns out he escaped out the yard and some neighbor had him in their backyard.  So Clarence saw were were going on the boat and threw a tantrum, destroyed a blind and then ran away from home.  I already have two preschoolers, Clarence, don't need another one. 

Schadenfreude or Karma or Na Na Na Na Na Moment - Turns out the house we rented (where the landlords seriously screwed us out of some of our security deposit) is STILL NOT RENTED.  So it's going on three and a half months vacant.  It is mean - but can't say there was not some evil laughter going on.  You only get what you give, according to the New Radicals.  Take that Reeves'.  Now I shall think of you no more.

Saturday June 20, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik began his father's day a little early - massage and then met an old pal for lunch.  He came home in a fantabulous mood (um - of course!!)  We loaded up the kiddos, dog, tapas and SANGRIA and headed to the Sangria Off.  The kiddos were fabu at the party - no whining, no real drama ... all good!   Erik and I did come in last place - too citrusy for the masses it seems. But I enjoyed ours so much that I finished it on up.  The others were a tich sweet for me - but I think that is what the people enjoy.  Erik is also an excellente bean bag tosser and a good sport whether he wins or loses.   

Worst Part of the Day - OH golleeeeee.  This potty training?  We're presently standing still.   Quinn clearly was not phased by his younger brother doing what he has yet to do .... sigh and double sigh.  

Friday June 19, 2009

Best Part of the Day -  The iMac came today!  It took more time to get it out of the box (five minutes) then to set it up and get it running (three minutes - no lie.)  The old Dell went up to the 'bonus' room for the boyz.  And it got online via wireless with a little drama - but I was pleased to have worked through it.  Oh and the new screen is a tich large .... you cannot see Erik (6'4") when he's sitting behind it.  Erik and I teamworked our sangria for the "Sangria Off" party manana.  I think we have a winner - it's pretty dern bueno!  Erik and I began the tv series Jehrico via Roku tonight.  It is pretty good (I have a paranoid (or maybe not) feeling that the world will be destroyed by some sort of nukes.)  

Also we got Wes to POOP ON THE POTTY.  He came upstairs and just sat on the pot and did his thang.  We made a HUGE deal out of this (at one point Quinn put his hands over his ears and said "lalalala"  where did he learn that?)  Wes got 10 M & M's and a present (Matchbox Car Wash) which he didn't have to share (and then totally exploited this by the end.  Bad news.) Here's hoping a little jealousy will work on the Q-Ball.

Worst Part of the Day - When a new computer comes and is amazing and shiny and new - I do think that even the most negative o' nellies could say something other than "That screen is too big, grumble, grumble."  and "Why does the Internet look like that? grumble, grumble."  I say "come on get HAPPY - it's a new, fun, albeit very large computer!"  Don't steal my sunshine.

Saturday June 20, 2009

Best Part(s) of the Day-

1.  Slept in until I naturally arose.    

2.  The whole damn day of fun and doing whatevs I wish!!!!!!!  Lotsa Megan Time.

3.  Watched the movie, Incendiary, and thought it was great (sad, sad) and hopeful.  2nd Michelle Williams movie this week and am highly impressed.  

4.  Found beloved camera!!!!  Sooooo happy.  

5.  Weeded out clothes closets of all family members and bundled up 5 bags for Goodwill.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Found camera only after 6th consecutive hour of cleaning/organizing.  (But I love cleaning and organizing!!  I love the camera!!!)

Friday June 19, 2009

Best Part(s) of the Day-

1.  Went the Lakefront Festival of the Arts with my mom in the morning.  I purchased a fun/cool art piece for Will-O (and myself and kiddies) to enjoy.

2.  Went out for Mexican and mui beers with Cousin S.  Had HI-larious time as usual.  Talked family, analyzed and solved numerous world problems, learned of S.'s recent dates with Pumpkin Head, Squishy Face and Chunk, got round of drinks sent to our table from pleasant wait staff who were entertained by our obvious hilarity.    

Worst Part(s) of the Day-

Sleep deprivation.  Truth be told, got home from Thursday night's shenanigans at 5am after friend's car was stolen, (ahem-towed.)  Slept for 2 hours and went to art fest.  After art fest, rode bike to work, worked 5 hours, rode bike home, then out for din/drinks til shortly past 1am.  Ummmmm?  Yeah.

Thursday June 18, 2009

Best Part(s) of the Day-

1.  Will-O took the kiddies for a long weekend visit to see his dad.  The kids were stoked to go "on vacation" and stay in the hotel w/ pool, etc.  

2.  I rode my bike to meet out with friends for Mexican and then we all headed downtown to meet more old friends and to make new ones.  

Worst Part of the Day-

1.  Just the 5 minutes prior to the kiddies and Will-O's departure.  I was having a heart attack 'cause I could not find my wallet.  I was having fears and freak outs in my head that everything was gone and I would have to cancel it, blah, blah, blah.  I was being semi-bitchy as I was freakin.  Just wish it didn't go down like that.  

2.  Also I had to take the kids to work with me for an hour prior to their leaving.  Will-O was running late and it just had to happen.  Liam was fair (he's 2--he's everywhere!), but Scarlet was not my best helper or listener.  She told a coworker, "I only an excellent listener for people who spoil me."   She was driving me a tad nuts.  

One childless worker looked at me like, "why the hell are these kids here whining and crying and freaking out and throwing games everywhere?"  The thing is, I really don't know.  I thought I could pop in a movie in the conference room and they would sit and be quiet.  No, no, no.  I will try not to bring them again...for awhile at least.

Wednesday June 17, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Miss S. started t-ball and it was highly cute.  There are a TON of kids and the parents all sit in fancy fold-up chairs and have a mini picnic while the kiddies play.  (Holy America's past time, baby.  These kids had roughly 50 fans watching.)

Scar really enjoyed herself and was an awesome base runner.  I got a kick out of her wearing her pink batting helmut the entire practice.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Cannot locate my camera!!!!  Must find.  Getting nervous that I can't put my finger on it.  

Tuesday June 16, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Scarlet's last day of 4 year-old kindergarten was today!!! We had a special celebration planned...Will-O and I met her at school and picked her up (in lieu of bus riding). We went to our fave vegetarian restaurant on the east side and had an alfresco family celebration/dining experience.
So fun! So proud of her!!!

Worst Part of the Day-
Alright, I dropped the ball...
Our plan was to meet Scarlet at her school for her pick-up at 2:10 when they all line up to exit. I had thank you cards/gifts for all of her teachers, so I thought it would work out nicely that we could pick up our sweetie and then she could quickly deliver the cards/gifts herself and then to our family celebration we could go.
I arrived at 2:07 and knowing that I was pushing it, I asked Will-O st stay with Liam in the car and I ran in to meet her before they all lined up, etc. We I got to her room at promptly 2:10, the room was dark and locked. What the??
I ran to the gym and couldn't find her...her teacher saw me and looked upset and said, "Oh you are here...we didn't have a note about parent pick up, so we sent Scarlet to her bus. She was very upset, but we didn't have a note." I ran to the cafeteria to see if she had boarded the bus yet (peeps,they were to leave for the bus between 2:15-2:20. I could not see her in the madness of the cafeteria. I ran out to the office. The main office secretary saw me and said, "Oh my goodness, we called you but you didn't answer (phone in car with Will-O) so we put her on the bus. We didn't have a note." I ran out to the busses and then back to the cafeteria. Then I saw my sweet Scarlet. She was sitting on a bench, looking down and crying. (omg.) I ran to her and she sobbed, "You didn't send a note!!" As we walked out, we saw her teachers and they came up to us and said, "Sorry we didn't believe you, Scarlet." (omg--she was so upset/betrayed/confused.) She knew we were planning this celebration and then she wasn't allowed to do what we had planned all because I didn't send a darn note. And cause they obviously lined up 3 minutes earlier than normal...I felt AWFUL to put a serious damper on her last day of kindey.

Thursday June 18, 2009

Best Part of the Day - The class at the gym has been moved to 11:30 a.m. for the summer - so the boys and I hung out at home with little to no drama. Then after the class we went to McDonald's Playland where there were several kiddos Quinn's age. So Quinn played and played and played (and Wes ate and ate and ate). We were there for over a hour without any whining, crying or the like. Hallelujah!

Worst Part of the Day - Coming home from a trip to the library was a cacophony of whining, crying, screaming .... I need to just start checking out two of the same dern book. Really now. Also there was some major thunder going on and Clarence the dog took off the baby proof knob on the door to the garage (now this is double taped on because the boyz can just take them off.) Just annoying to have to keep re-doing stuff like that.

Wednesday June 17, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Wes slept in until 7 a.m.! Then got them off to preschool and then tackled the room known as "where we put all the boxes we didn't know what to do with when we moved it." It is now 60% cleaned up. I was only stopped by having to pick up the boys from school. And Quinn had not had an accident. Also had veggie burgers and then watched Boy A with Erik .... pretty good, kind of grim.

Worst Part of the Day - It's soooo hard to have to stop in the middle of a project. It's the part of parenting young children that I often find the hardest (that and the whining. If you ask for it in a nice tone I'm FAR more likely to give it to you.)

Tuesday June 16, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Finished all sorts of annoying little items that had been on my internal to do list. But could not get to my big project of cleaning out the room with all our stuff that was shoved there during the move.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes up very, very early. And he wakes up like this (think volume level of 10 plus) "MAMA MAMA WANT TO GET UP NOW. GET UP NOW! GET UP NOW!" Me in a stage wisper "okay, okay shhhhh."
"GO IN BED BED. GO IN BIG BED MAMA."
"Okay you can go in big bed if you are very, very quiet."
In big bed Wes begins thumping his feet on the bed and then begins singing
"TINKLE TINKLE WITTLE STAR HOW I (unintelligible) ARE."
"Wessie, Wessie shhhhh."
"WHERE QINNIE GO? QINNIE SEEPING. SHHHH. MAMA? MAMA? HUGGIES! HUGGIES MAMA!"
So I give him a hug and then he head butts me.
"SORRY MAMA."
And by this point there is nothing else to do but try to extract him from the bed and bring him downstairs before he wakes up Quinn. I hear Quinn yawn in the other room.
"QINN! QINN! QUINN AWAKE!"
Hmmm wonder why.

Monday June 15, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Watched The Color Purple by my lonesome and felt the power of my womenfolk.  Rise up, peeps, rise up.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Little Man L. awoke once again at 5am.  He was rearing to go and after we dropped Miss S. off for her bus, L. and I took a stroll around the 'hood.  This did not appease as I had hoped.  After I was done this glorious walk (by 7:11am), he begged for more and I allowed...(never veer from schedule!).  I thought, it's gorgeous outside and he's already in the dang jogger.  I happily walked down the street so I could get a yummy, sugary cup of coffee.  He helped me in the coffee place, but then wanted our crazy morning walk to continue.  Any time I tried to venture back to what he knows is our block, he would freak--whine, whimper, etc.   It was a wrestling match to get the child back into the home by 8am.  

P.S.  He is officially in 2 year-old mode/Terrible Twos, fo sho.  Lotsa "no" and tonsa whining going on.  (Note:  the second time around it really does not phase me like this did w/ S., though.)

Monday June 15, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Wes up EARLY and me up too late watching Defiance. Feeling tired and on edge. Needing to meet up with tree removal peeps (oh yes - the tree that was clearly dead and leaning in our yard? While we were in HHI it feel over upon our fence and cracked it all up. That fence is my BFF when it comes to the kids and dog. Not that the dog can't escape the backyard ... but still.) But, funny, two contractors never showed up. Really now.

Best Part of the Day - I (finally) got Roku working. It's Erik's birthday present (April) from my parents. It streams Netflix videos directly to your television. But I could not get it to work and then could not carve out the time (or would not carve out the time) and was seriously frustrated by it. Today - I figured it all out and was watching Party Down in the eve (new series by Rob Thomas creator of Veronica Mars and co-written my the excellent Paul Rudd.) Now I just need the new computer to show up and we can be rid of some wires!

Also Wes? He seriously may be swimming by the end of the summer - it is unreal. Also I think he might be a tich of a show off.

Ahhh Love! My great pal Stacia is in Argentina vacationing and has become engaged to be wed!! The news filled me with happy, happy, joy, joy. Can't wait to help her celebrate before, during and after.

Sunday June 14 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Headed out to my parents' for a fantabulous beach day.  Scarlet swam and made 2 BFF's while Liam made sand castles and waded in and out.  Soooo beautiful and fun.

Worst Part of the Day-

My dermatologist may kill, kill, kill for the direct sun I received on the delicate facial skin for hours and hours on end.  I swear I had SPF 70 on, but I needed a floppy hat and a parasol.  

Saturday June 13, 2009

Best Part(s) of the Day-

1.  Cahill family wedding drama has subsided/dissipated/is over.  I feel all is well and good and it can and will all be worked out.   I really am looking forward to Destination Wedding Bliss!!

2.  Scarlet participated in her first track meet and it was (hands down) the sweetest, most precious thing to see these kiddos trying their socks off and running their hearts out (2 just now made up sayings...)   The track meet is named The Bosman Classic (in honor of the late, great Bart Bosman, who ran the meet for over 10 years for the Y.)  I was extra pleased to have my sunglasses covering the crows' feet as it literally choked me up and brought tears to my eyes to watch these little bittles (ages 6-12) at the starting blocks.  I was nervous for all of them and cheered for every single one.  It was so amazing to witness the sheer joy of full-on competition at these young ages.  It is so rare in our "everyone wins!" society, but there is something highly special about getting out there and sprinting as fast as your little legs will take you.   I have not been to a Special Olympics, but this makes me want to go.  This experience may be akin to cheering at a marathon for the first time--the emotion of it catches you off guard.  You may initially think, "boring...whatever, 26.2 miles...", but you get to witness people physically and emotionally pushing themselves and it is very exciting and inspiring.    

Super cool, family fun.  

Worst Part(s) of the Day-

1.  My little friend, Liam, awoke at 5am.  

2.  My little friend, Liam was screaming, "Be nice!" at the track meet when he had hit (at mock speed) the proverbial wall at 1pm and needed to be exited.  He refused to be strapped in the stroller and it was a kicking and screaming festival leaving the damn cutest athletic competition I had ever seen.   Of course, I was being pushed physically and emotionally trying to corral and carry my oh so tired boy out of the stadium and I am certain not one witness was moved or inspired.  Eeegads. 

Sunday June 14, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Found an AMAZING playground really close to the HHI house. Ann and I took the boys there while the males cleaned the house. It was more outdoor physical activity for the little ones.

Worst Part of the Day - Ann was skeptical of the males cleaning, but I thought they would do a good job. Guess who was right? I'll let you know it was not me. Um, males? You have to keep an eye on the wash and then change it out so it will dry in a timely manner. Also - if you have some indoor cleaning to do you might not want to be outside fishing. Just some helpful hints.

Best/Worst - The ride back to Charlotte was not bad at all. Kiddos very good once again. Then we had Jack's Chuck E. Cheese birthday party - so we cleaned up at Chris and Ann's and headed over. The boys (of course) lived for it. But by the end it was a LOT of day for their little systems. We had some tragic tears on the way home but then just put them to bed. Erik and I watched Defiance and then hit the hay ourselves.

Saturday June 13, 2009

Best Part of the Day - The males took the boys to the beach while Ann and I went to the nail shoppee. I actually got my eyebrows waxed (when was the last time I did that? Eons ago.) Then we hit the outlets, grabbed lunch for the crew and hit the beach. Then off to the pool where we stayed for close to three hours.

Worst Part of the Day - Don't think I reapplied quite enough sunscreen to the little ones ... some mild red striping going on. Babes all so tired today. House is a MESS - we have much cleaning to do tomorrow.

Friday June 12, 2009

Best Part of the Day - AMAZING beach day!!! Perfectly warm and sunny and OH MY WES! He did great - played with others and by himself. Did not cry or freak out or want to go home. We had plenty of snacks and whatnot. Then out for lunch and then to the pool to get rid of the sand. Wes will now jump into the water from a standing position and completely submerge himself (over and over and over). We ended up getting take out from Carrabbas and I must highly recommend the shrimp Caesar salad - it was really good (or maybe that was the Sangria talking). Alex (third Reitter brother) arrived at about 9 p.m. and then we all had some rousing games o' Schwatzer Pater (I don't know if that is the correct spelling it is the German version of Old Maid. But instead of an Old Maid, it is some sort of Black Peter. I like to call it the Racist German Card Game.)

Worst Part of the Day - My sweet nephew Carson is having a moment. He is being really aggressive with Wes - hitting him on the head, taking his froggie softie, taking whatever toy he happens to be playing with .... it was a long drawn out "Carson - no! Carson - stop! Carson - you're now in time out." Also feeling badly for my brother and sister in law - they just seem to be in a bad place (two high stress jobs, two kiddos, two houses .... sigh.)

Thursday June 11, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Just the normal annoying whirlwind that is trying to pack up the babes and ourselves for a four day Hilton Head excursion. Man - it's exhausting. And I am in no way organized for these events. I try to be, but just cannot manage it. In the end - things are being throw in haphazardly and important things forgotten.

Best Part of the Day - Kiddos amazingly good on the car ride. Got to HHI and decided to go out to eat with Chris, Ann and all the kiddos. While it was in NO way perfect, it wasn't so bad. (We have not been out to eat with the babes in a looonggg time.) Not too bad. Then back to the house for bedtime and some sangria n' games for the adults.

Wednesday June 10, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - I popped into Total Wines to purchase ... well some wine and my credit card was not working. I was about to pull out another one when the manager was called over and he grabbed my card and called AmEx on the phone. I'm thinking - huh, I wonder if this is about me using all my points on the iMac. But then they ask to talk to me and once I verify that I am the one true Mary Lovett Reitter (whoever that is), they ask if I spent $527 at ToysRUs on Saturday? Um, nope. Also there was $120 at ABC Liquor and then $13 at McDonalds all charges in or around Kissimmee, Florida. It turns out that someone got my credit card number and MADE a card and then used it (until their fourth charge at Foot Locker got denied as mine at Total Wines did because AmEx put a 'hold' on the card. I asked how they knew it wasn't me and she said that she didn't know how the security perimeters worked, just that they ding the card when there is suspicious behavior.) BUT the REALLY weird thing is that this happened to my sister-in-law one week ago!! I'm wondering if the last place we ate at is running some sort of credit card numbers scam. Paranoid? Maybe - but that is one hell of a coincidence.

Best Part of the Day - It's o so leisurely to walk around Pier One (why? Because it happened to be right there) with no kiddos, cup of coffee in hand.

Is that YOU? After getting a haircut today, the stylist blew my hair straight. Upon picking up the boyz there was plenty of double takes and startled faces. Quinn's teacher said "we recognized your car but were not sure WHO was driving it." It's always fun to be straight haired for a bit.

Friday June 12, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Had to bring my 90 bags of yard waste (alright, 5 bags) to the dump for composting.  Liam was wowed by this apparently magical place and all of its various receptacles...concrete, brush, aluminum and low and behold--stinky garbage.  He was my stellar helper and happily, but not easily, tried to heave the bags into their appropriate bins.  As I tried to humor him for many minutes, but knew (duh) I had to toss the big bad boys in the bins.  Little Man L. was miffed by me taking over and said clear as a bell, "I can do it, Mom, I'm a big kid.  And you shouldn't get dirty."   My little knight in shining...

Worst Part of the Day-

Alright, my cable-less ass doesn't quite get this analog to digital cable switch, though, yes, hells bells, we were all warned.  I can't watch a damn thing.  I still do not remotely want the devil that is cable (as long as I have my BFF, Netflix)...but I would love my NBC and PBS.  Doh.  

Thursday June 11, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Brother Seanie and long-time sig nif (Sista A-Lo) have picked a wedding date!! Destination=caribbean.  Holy cats!!  Excitement abounds.

Worst Part of the Day-

The family who never fights was having a soap operatic day.  I sense feelings were hurt and sensitivities were high over the potential per person cost of aforementioned destination wedding. All in the name of that evilest of evils--money.  Many people simply will not be able to afford to go or will be able to take the time off to go.  It cannot be taken personally.  That comes with the territory regarding weddings where peeps are shoeless on the beach.   Awkward, ickyness.   I really don't like it.  (Though I am pretty used to awkward ickyness by now...still sucks.)

Wednesday June 10, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Watched the movie, Yes Man, with Will-O as we are trying to do things civilly and let me tell ya, it is waaaaaaay easier hanging out with someone who is high on life--whew.  The movie was really cute/funny--with a basic message to say "yes" and see what happens.

Worst Part of the Day-

Cannot locate camera, cannot locate camera, cannot locate camera!!  I have cutie pie pics from the zoo outing Sunday and Scarlet has a track meet coming up.....eeeeegads.

Tuesday June 9, 2009

BEST-EST BEST-EST Part of the Day - Summer session preschool began. I about skipped out of there on my way to ... get a pedicure and go grocery shopping (um ... the pedicure? Fine. But grocery shopping? Weeelll I've been grocery shopping with the babes for three months now and miss the zen of grocery shopping without them.) Also met my new best friend to be. Her name is Janelle and she has a boy in Quinn's class and a boy in Wes' class and she lives on my street and she's adorable (not that that matters - just channeling Ginny and Barb in order to make friends). I almost feel bad for her in a way because I'm going to charm (pester?) the sh$t out of her and then she just has to be my friend (hope she likes wine and doesn't mind incessant chatting on my part.) She already invited me to the standing Thursday at the pool (sounds vaguely Flamingo Kid - except no cabana boys.)
Also Q's last speech appt. We brought Miss Rose (Miss Wose to my petites) some flowers and looked extraordinarily touched. Do people not get their speech therapists little gifties?

Worst Part of the Day - I brought Wes into his classroom and he gave a one beat pause and then BURST into tears, demanded to be held and then clung to me for dear life. I had to physically extract him and set him on the ground. Then I skedaddled (they said he calmed down when they went out the playground. So I think he wept for quite some time.)
Also Q is supposed to be potty trained for his preschool class so now we are in beat the clock mode - he did pee at school but then peed and pooped his pantaloons at home. I am definitely flunking potty training - do you think it will be on the final?

Tuesday June 9, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

I had to wear a heart monitor around for 24 hours as part of standard testing I must do every few years as a result of being born with my baboon heart.  I was supposed to do everything I would normally do; making sure to drink coffee, take a light jog and also do wind sprints.  (Is the latter apart of the normal day of most?)  As I ran (light jog), Will-O took the kids to the park in our 'hood and I was to meet them there and then we would all walk home together. When I arrived to the park, I challenged Will-O to sprint against me for fun.  We ended up sprinting 3 or 4 50-yard dashes and it was hilarious.  (Will-O shirtless and shoeless still won.) The kids got a giant kick out of watching mom and dad full-on racing and they started doing their own sprinting about.   This morphed into cartwheel and head standing contests (I am the reigning champ since 6th grade.)   

Something about running on a sunny afternoon makes ya smile.  And thankful for health.  Thank you, baboon heart.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Haven't heard from the attorney regarding settlement check #2.  It was all supposed to be done in March and then delay, delay, delay, by June 1.  I really just want it all to be over.  It's June 9th.  Ma lordie. 

Monday June 8, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O was able to pick up kiddies from sitter so I didn't have to rush and drive across town just to get them and drive back across town to teach class.  Nice.  Was able to sneak in a grocery run sans kids.  Finally some full cupboard action.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Scarlet woke up with fever and stayed home from school.  She looked pretty bummin.  Extra sucky as there are only a few days of school left for the year...what can ya do?

Also, it seems as if her 6 bouts of febrile illness per year is making the magic Motrin lose its effectiveness on her.  

Sunday June 7, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Zoo outing with cousins and siblings and nephews and kidlet cousins.  So fun.  Everyone was on the same page with the day being about:  1. outdoor enjoyment  2. relaxed gathering revolving around the (random manic-depressive) whims of children (not including even-keeled Wyatt or Cale.  Alright, just my kids.)  3. family  4. snacks  5. Liam trying to escape our human world and enter the unauthorized animal habitats  6.  Scarlet wanting to be pushed in the stroller?  5. farm animals  7. zoo animals (in that order). 

Note:  The kiddies LOOOOVE "Baby Wyatt" oh so much.   I, too, nearly ate his soft cheeks as he fell asleep in arms while strolling the grounds.

Worst Part of the Day-

The kids were up at 5:45am chatting and readying for the long awaited Zoo Trip!!  Too bad they had to wait and un-ready themselves over and over for 6.5 hours until highly anticipated Zoo Trip!!  It was also 40 degrees when we awoke pre-6am.  WTF?

Saturday June 6, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Picked up the kiddies around noon and implemented the first ever, yet highly successful Rainy Day Movie/Picnic Extravaganza.  Picked up 2 kiddie flicks from Redbox and the kids had much fun snacking and watching and lounging the dreary afternoon away.  (Perhaps a perfect recipe for obese Americans, but 1 day can't hurt, right?)  I was able to do computery things and mini-organizing for hours!  Everyone was happy as clams.

Worst Part of the Day-

I still have not gone to the grocery store for a full stock up.  It's weird--I may be conducting a social experiment with myself--will I or will I not push it to the max and finally use the last can of refried beans in that damn cupboard??  (Did venture to Farmer's Market, though, so fresh, locally grown produce is sustaining our beings.)

Friday June 5, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O took the kiddies overnight for a camp-out style sleep over!!  I tidied the already cleaned home (no one to mess it up), ventured out for a run, luxuriously readied self for dinner and drinks outing with gang.  

Who says separation doesn't have it (minor) perks??  A lil' bit o' time...

Also--purchased cheap as hell and straight flight ticket to Crested Butte for August!!!  Cannot wait for the fun!!

Worst Part of the Day-

On the way to the restaurant this eve I started to feel a little umm, weird.  Not out right woozy, but strange.  Deduced I was STARVING and needed chips and salsa stat.  When I sat to order and began shoveling chips and salsa in my mouth, I knew I couldn't order a beloved margarita or I would feel quite dizzy and probably unable to operate heavy machinery or my vehicle. Midway through my good ol' college try of beer, I figured I had all of one sudden come down with something.  I could not calculate my meal cost or a tip and my brain seemed fried.  I had to say no to further drinks and adios to the gang.  Boo.  Hisss.   

I had to operate the vehicle and desired jammies.  Arrrggghhh.

Monday June 8, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Just tackled the basement/playroom today (and some yesterday). It (no hyperbole) had been a sh$thole for weeks now - barely an inch of the floor not covered. I mean it when I say Hurricane Katrina bad. Now it is a thing of beauty (even vacuumed). And I have three huge garbage bags of toys to go to Goodwill, some saved items for baby LoveBerg and and one and a half bags o' trash. Whew - you can imagine it's a TICH more tidy down there. My goal to myself was that if I got the basement cleaned up, I could have a pedicure tomorrow. So beautified toes - here we come!

Also the boys and I had a good n' busy day - it's kind of like the day before a haircut when you think "man my hair actually looks GOOD today." I think it was only like this because preschool starts tomorrow.

Worst Part of the Day - Erik got home around 6ish and so I headed out to grocery shop. Get it all done - and have more time to chill out tomorrow (can you tell I'm slightly excited?) I'm in the line at Target putting my groceries on the belt. It's just about all wrung up, so I head on over to the credit card payment deal and grab my purse. Oh ... where is my wallet? That's right - it's in my car from swim lessons today. I tell the cashier to hold on one sec and run out to my car. Oh ... right. Erik had blocked me in so I took HIS car. Right - no wallet. One hour totally wasted and no groceries. The funny thing is that I grabbed my canvas bags out of my car, but not my wallet. Oh Lawdy.

Sunday June 7, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Still so much cleaning and organizing to do in the house. I have a LOT to do once those kiddos get back in some schooling.

Best Part of the Day - Got to sleep in (dark circles under eyes diminished). Then a boat ride with all the cousins. So much fun. Gorgeous weather, mostly happy kiddos, cold drinks. Quinn INSISTED on being pulled on the inner tube by HIMSELF. Erik was anti, but Chris talked him into it. It was so hilarious to see Q out there just chilling out (but hanging on tight) being pulled. Pretty dern brave. We ate snacks and fed ducks and had an excellent time.

Saturday June 6, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Took the four boys (Wes, Quinn, Jack and Carson) to the pool and it was mild chaos and major reprimands. Can boys make ANYTHING into a weapon? And how many times must I say "don't splash me, or any other adult" before being listened to? I was up to ten times with the 7 year old and he STILL was not listening. Frustrating. Then Wes was unhappy (at the pool?) and then got happy. Then (on cue) Quinn got unhappy. Then Carson and the others are having a splash fight and as soon as HE got splashed ... waterworks. Hmmm. WE ARE AT THE POOL - just splash nicely and be happy. The End.

Best Part of the Day - Erik went to help Chris latenight at the lake cottage and so I got to veg all by my lonesome. Sigh.

Friday June 5, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Got the A/C fixed. We have two units (for some sort of 'zone' heating - like we live in a mansion with wings or something. But I say if it helps with overall environmental impact then all good.) The top floor of the house was getting pretty uncomfortable and now it is all fixed and the fix was about the most minor you can get. All good.
Also Erik's career crisis is over (at least for six months). Crush called and now all is well.

Worst Part of the Day - Poor ole kiddos. Cranky mom, cranky dad. Impatience high.

Thursday June 4, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Tried to go to McDonald's Playland due to inclimate weather ... but the kiddos are on to me. They are no longer wowed by the Playland. Um ... when does summer session preschool start again? I have tapped out our indoor play options.
Also Erik still in career crisis - but won't help himself. Acting a tich like a 10th grader who won't call crush because she should be calling him. No wonder he didn't go to prom.

Best Part of the Day - Hit the library and we were there for over a hour ... such a great place to sit with the kiddos. Picked up the new A. Waldman Bad Mother memoir (musings?). It is HILARIOUS so far - relatable.

Thursday June 4, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Scarlet had her Spring Concert at school and it was too cute.  She really enjoys belting it out and doing the hand motions about 10 times more dramatically than her classmates.  Pretty funny.

Worst Part of the Day-

A few days ago, no diapers.   Today, no food.  I really need my peapod.com man to come and I truly need to stock up.  Instead I pretended (in my own deranged mind) that it was war time (husband off to war) and I was doing my best with the nearly barren pantry and a positive attitude.  Dork.

Notable-

When I walked into S.'s school for the concert, I saw the entire class walking down the hall toward the auditorium.  When S.'s teacher saw me, she immediately came up to me.  Probably to thank me for taking time from work to see the kids (only about 1/4 of the parents can make these midday shows), I thought.  Instead she reprimanded me for Scarlet's choice of shoe wear.  "Is it possible that Scarlet could wear shoes that are appropriate for school?  No jellies, no platform flip flops, no open toes, nothing with a heel."  Wait--that's her entire collection.  I asked S. if her shoe wear (pink jellies) were distracting her or her classmates.  She said with a mild pout, "I'm not trying to.  I thought they would add drama for my performance."  Oh my. 

Wednesday June 3, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

1.  Miraculously Liam stayed dried last night.  I toileted him prior to sleep and he stayed dry.  I am in shock.  Happy shock.

2.  I watched a French film called I've Loved You for So Long.  It was really fantastic.  Interesting characters/story and sweet and enjoyable.   Thanks again, Netflix.

Worst Part of the Day-

Liam spiked a fever about an hour after I picked him up from the sitter's.  All of a sudden he didn't want to play outside (what the?) and he said point blank, "I want to go lie down, Mom."  As soon as I scooped him up I felt the burning hotness.  I had to give a Tylenol suppository as his sickie state made him want to refuse Motrin and any liquids.  He slept in my arms and then snoozed for 3 hours midday.  Poor little sweet.

Tuesday June 2, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Today I went to work from 7a-11a. I forgot how fantastic the morning work shift can be. One cheer for early morn productivity!! Two cheers for being done by 11!!

Worst Part of the Day-

Astonishingly there were zero diaper/pull-ups in this house and it was time for bed. (One diap bag was at the sitter'--fully stocked and one was with Will-O--stuffed to the brim). My entire stash under the bed was gone, gone, gone. Now that Liam is potty training if he pees one drop in his pull-up he will rip it off and discard, so apparently my stash has been depleted vastly sooner than usual. Arrgggh.

Scarlet had the fairly creative idea of using some of her doll diapers (that creepy doll that drinks and pees...) Too bad they were just a smidge too small. Liam was also perplexed the entire time saying with a scrunched up face, "But I'm not a doll--I'm a big boy. I'm a kid!"

It was really just too late per my comfortability to pack the kiddies up and head to the store.

I chanced it and made a sumo looking diap out of a towel. Just pretending it is 50 BC.

Wednesday June 3, 2009

Best Part of the Day - I took McAfee security off our computer as it was acting really crazy and suddenly the computer is FAST FAST FAST again. I don't want to put it back on, but (sigh) I will. Once the iMac gets here we won't have to worry about it so much.


Worst Part of the Day - We've been missing Wes' softie - Froggie Softie for three days now. Due to late nights finally catching up with him - he hasn't really noticed at bedtime and during the day simply, stoically states "Froggie Softie gone." This evening he finally realized that Froggie Softie is GONE. I put him to bed and then 30 minutes later heard "Where Froggie Softie? Missin' my frog (frowg)! Missin' my frog (frowg)! Where he go?" I let this go on but it did not let up. He also likes to kick the door which was startling me every so often. Then the mantra turned to "Where mama go? Mama open door. MAMA OPEN DOOR." Then "Huggies? Mama Huggies? Wes need huggies! Wes need huggies." So I finally (35 minutes later) opened the door and then had to lay with him (10 minutes), put him in big bed where he feel asleep (25 minutes), and then move him to his room (he woke up). By this time Erik is home from le gym and we all go into Wes' room. Then Wes says "Go look (sounds like yook) for Frog (frowg). Be right back. Go yook." He heads down the stairs as Erik and I lay in his room. He returns with a "Blue Bear (bwear)" and proceeds to lay himself down and go to sleep. Later (after a diligent search into air vents, garbage and in the grill) I find Froggie Softie in my closet. Might be time to clean that sucker out.

Beautiful - We were at Monkey Joe's (half price Wednesdays - can't beat it.) Quinn is heading up this really tall inflatable stair deal that then leads to a really tall fun slide. He's about to head up the stairs when he looks and sees a girl about his age struggling to get on the blow up. He says "need help?" She doesn't answer and he asks a couple more times. Then he reaches down for her but figures that isn't going to work. So he jumps down and is starting to help her get on when she finally gets herself on. Quinn claps for her as she just runs off without a glance. Then Quinn can't get himself back on so I go over to help him. "What a sweet you are to help that girl," I said. He just grinned and ran off. It made my week.

Tuesday June 2, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - We didn't get out too much today and I think that was a major issue. But I was trying to do some tough love potty training with Q. But really all I got was five wet and/or poopy undies, pee on floors, and poop on floors. In fact at one point, Quinn and Wes had both pooped and were 'decorating' Wes' room with it (Wes had a log on his bed and was sprinkling it with powder. Really? Really.) I promise you I had been downstairs for two minutes changing out the laundry when this was happening. They both were so bad off they had to go straight into the bath. So it was a long day with lots of yelling and cleaning and just general misery on my part.

Best Part of the Day - The end of it?

Monday June 1, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Changed our swim lessons to Monday because of the new preschool schedule that begins next week. Wes was AMAZING - he blew bubbles, went underwater for a three second count, jumped in on his own (I had to grab him on that one). He's just really understanding the lessons and what he is supposed to do.

Worst Part of the Day - Went grocery shopping after Erik got home ... always seems so much more tiring to go at night for some reason. Just seemed like no down time today.

Sunday May 31, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Tante Ann picked us all up for a boat ride to the Sand Bar (this sheltered cove with a big sand bar that people sand or anchor their boats at. Then you can wade into the sand part and play volleyball or have kiddos wade in shallow water or just chill.) The kiddos loved it (even Wes overruled his 30 minute happytime rule.) It was a perfect temperature and perfect water and there were tons of snacks and fun for all.

Worst Part of the Day - Um the boat wouldn't start when we were ready to leave. So Chris had to tow us back on his jet ski. The fumes! Oh god, the fumes! And then we took the cousins back to our house so we could get them dinner (while Chris and Ann finished up some stuff at their lake house). The day took an ugly turn. Quinn had a major meltdown - man, that's about three in his whole life. But three is enough! Wes pee-ed upstairs. There were four to change out of wet suits, feed, and change. Exhausting and it was ANOTHER after 9 p.m. bedtime for each boy. Man o man - my kiddos need baths and early bed tomorrow!

Saturday May 30, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Family trip to the gym. Then planned boat ride with Tante Ann ... but that didn't come to be so we took all the boys to the pool. Then had take out and let the boys stay up late and watch Night at the Museum.

Worst Part of the Day - At the swimming pool we had major Wes meltdown. He was having a wonderful time but then must have realized "hells bells, I'm over my 30 minute happy rule!" He was "all done swimmin' " and then stripped naked and then I had to carry that naked, screaming, wriggling kiddos on home. So sweaty and gross and annoyed! Gol dern it - you're at the POOL. Get HAPPY.

Friday May 29, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Took kiddos to Monkey Joe's and now they have this policy about "no outside food". Well I had a dern large latte in my bag ... and I proceeded to sip it on the sly for one hour. Also Wes began demanding "granola bar" over and over and over until I gave it to him again on the sly. That place is kiddie heaven and it's like I still have to semi entertain Wes. After about 30 minutes ANYWHERE he is pretty much "bye bye. I go home." What the ... mama is trying to finish her book.

Best Part of the Day - Took a family trip to Target (Erik home very early). What a cluster. At the end we were sitting, exhausted, in the Target cafe with the boys eating popcorn and I said "well, would you rather do this or head to work every day?" And Erik said "This. I don't get to do this ever - so I'd rather do this." And then I just felt bad for him because even with kids, Target can be a magical place (very consumerism-ish I know, I know. But it's also the clean wide aisles and the promise of organization.)

Monday June 1, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Trying to rest now. Though it is close to 1am...

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O and I had our final family therapy session as he has now graduated from his treatment. Today's therapy was once again disruptive to my fairly successful suppression of emotion regarding this whole ordeal. These therapies always do a good job of stirring up and dredging up some yicky stuff for me. I again was pleased about what I said and how I reacted. This time, though, I burst into tears near the end and it was hard to stop the emotion. When asked why I was crying I was able to say that I was pretty offended being told things like, it seems like you are angry or you seem resentful. (Seriously? Duh!) I asked (though rhetorical) what is an acceptable way to feel or respond to all of this? I said I feel like I should be given a medal or at least a solid, thank you for carrying all of it with a smile and in the name of fun for the kids and not only doing the billions of perfunctory tasks that go into maintaining a home and yard and bills and working and kids, but also living a life of active moderation and balance and allowing the kids to see a mom who made it a priority to squeeze in on top of it all things like exercise and social activities and organic eating. Though I thought I made a pretty kick ass speech, Will-O's therapist told me plainly I have been traumatized and that I should seek professional help.

Alllllrighty. So no medal, then?

(To be fair, I did get a sincere thank you from Will-O and that was the Best Part of the Worst Part.)

Sunday May 31, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O had the kids until 2pm and then I took them out to my parents' and we headed to the beach.  Fun to sit for many moments and chill in glorious sand/sun.   The kiddies had such fun.

Worst Part of the Day-

Did not get to play tennis as I hoped I would.  All in due time.  

Saturday May 30, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O took the kiddies for another overnight at his mom's house.  This time I planned smartly NOT to go out and get involved with ridiculous madness with friends and drinking and boys who look like they are in 8th grade.  I completed house painting projects, did (and put away) mass laundry and (yes, Mol) finished the bulk of the yard work.  I have seriously been busting ass on the home shiest.  I have this feeling like I have to quickly get everything done for:   1. a house showing for a desperate sale, 2. obsessive nesting prior to an impending birth or 3. getting everything in its just so place for my nearing death.   I do hope it is not # 2 or #3. Hopefully this must do now feeling is simply logical ol me taking full advantage of the kiddies being elsewhere.  

Worst Part of the Day-

I took both kidz to a b-day party at our awesome childrens' museum.  It was another case in point of why I need 1:1 ratio of child to adult.  

1.  We arrived 45 minutes late.  (I had to take both kiddies with me into Target to pick up the gift and wrapping on the way to the beloved party.)  

2.  Paid a cashier in a convenience store $1.00 to use masking tape since this store didn't sell tape and the gift didn't quite fit into recently purchased gift bag=ugliest wrapped gift ever.

3.  In elevator on the way in to the party Liam stepped on Scarlet's freshly pedicured foot and somehow gave her a 1 milimeter cut.  She entered the party whining and begging for a bandaid from the more prepared moms who carry such items around.  She also took this opportunity to steal spotlight from B-day girl and show all her new "pedi".  Two hippie moms looked at me like I was a vain beeyatch who wants her 5 year-old to a pageant girlie.   

4.  Liam did not want to go into the party room, but only wanted to see the Thomas the Train exhibit we walked past on the way in.  He cried for the first 20 minutes and yelled, "I wanna see Thomas!" and all moms of only 5 year-old females stared at me and perhaps wondered, Who the hell is Thomas??  

5.  I was sweating and annoyed and wanted to leave kids in the care of magical nanny while I sipped a coffee and ate a bagel sandwich somewhere quiet and calm.  

Friday May 29, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Riding bikes (yes, bicycles, all y'all lazy arses who drive every ol place) with Cuz SEL to the Brewer game.  Fun tailgating with the work crew and a fairly exciting game.  A big win!

Worst Part of the Day-

Despite sheer exhaustion, could NOT fall asleep post-bike riding and game.  Perhaps the ol baboon heart was too amped up from the late night ride.  

Funniest Part of the Day-

Scarlet and Auntie Kelly had a girl date planned.  They got mani's and pedi's and then Kelly took her shopping at Tar-get where she picked out platform flip flops and a smiley face tee. Scar may have died and gone to heaven.   Kinda funny.  Yes, yes, many of us chatted about how some of our first mani's or pedi's were for our own weddings!  (I know my mom didn't have one done until her 50's.)  Times are a changing.