Wednesday July 29, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Cranked through sooo much Mad Men-season 2. I do declare I watched 2 discs full of 6 episodes. Loooooove.

Worst Part of the Day-
Those damn 1960's Manhattan characters in Mad Men make me want to (need to!) drink cocktails, smoke cigarettes and eat things like: anchovy stuffed olives, avocado, crab legs, hearts of palm salad as I watch. And make me want to slam Bloody's. It overwhelms my mind. No wonder this bunch looked a tad haggard at age 40.

Tuesday July 28, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Rode my bike to and from work and it was a delight and a luxury. Gorgeous outside.

Worst Part of the Day-
Feeling like I was forgetting something important all darn day.

Tuesday July 28, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Had to run to Target for some boxed sangria (Macatawa Days is almost upon us and this shall be my and sister sarah's drink o' choice). The boyz were (once again) horrorific in the store.

Also trying to book my ticket for the wedding o' Cousin Pate' ... it's been the toughest ticket to book. And also then grumbling that when Erik books a ticket - he can book it whenever. I have to juggle babysitters, his work schedule and the like. Boooooo. Have booked one part of the it (the way back - after about four hours research it looks like I'll just be doing two one-way tickets.) Now I just have to get with my in-laws to see what time they will be there on Thursday so I can then book the way OUT ... itsn't it annoying just reading about it? ugh ugh ugh. The time change doesn't help either.

Best Part of the Day - At the end of the day I slowly sipped an Oberon and read a book while the cool breeze blew.

Monday July 27, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Hosted my Book Club gathering as we discussed, The Book Thief.  It was a giant success!!!  12 women made it and as always, the food was divine and conversation riveting.  Love you, ladies. We ate din and had dessert al fresco and then went inside the confines of my cozy home for the lengthy discussion and a bit of wine.  Super duper great fun.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Just have a lot going on right now.  Whew.

Sunday July 26, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Met up with the kiddies!!!!   We all headed to my mom/dad's for a relaxing day of tennis (thanks, Mom, for hanging with the kids while I played!) and a little beach action.  

My dad and I were the winning champs of doubles vs. Sean and Alli and Scarlet was an excellent/intense listener during 2 tennis lessons from G-pa T. and Sean.  Lovely day.

Worst Parts of the Day-

1.  Molly and Erik missed seeing the kids and vice versa by roughly 3 minutes.  Scarlet was miffed and whined, "...but I had a dental question for that Erik!"  

2.  In my rush to head to my parents', we showed up with a shoe-less Liam.  There happened to be one of his "fancy" suede church-type shoes in the trunk, but only the one.  Doh--to the store I went...

Saturday July 25, 2008

Best Parts of the Day-

1.  Cuz Molly and Erik came to town.  They scooped me up and off we went for a lunch/chats, a margarita, a sunny reunion gathering and ultimately out to din and drinks and drinks.  Great to see 'em and catch up.

2.  Will-O took the kiddies all day and night so I could have free time with the guests!

Worst Part of the Day-

I really was unsure of the dinner/evening part of the Molly/Erik plan, so I thought for sure I would meet up with friends for a few cocktails while Molly/Erik chatted with old college buds and we would all meet up for late night fun.  The thing is, I know all of the old college buds of Molly and E.  I was starving around din time, so I thought, "yeah, I'll go out to dinner with y'all and then head out for a few drinks and we'll meet up late night."  

Plan foiled:  After my din cocktail and tuna melt, some kinda GI distress/exhaustion hit me.  I cancelled drink plans with my ladies and had to call it an "early" night.  There was to be NO late night anything.  Boo.

Friday July 24, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Met out in the 5th Ward for dinner and drinks. Exceedingly pleasant evening of convo and delectable dining.

Worst Part of the Day-

The 1.5 hour PM rush to get myself clean 'n ready and the kiddies eating din, and clean n' ready so I could scadattle out the door at 7:30p.  Doh.

Monday July 27, 2009

Best Part of the Day - The nine year old boy known as Jake who entertained and cared for the Reitter boyz for the majority of the day. He would bike with them (as they rode big wheels), create games and make sure they took turns and generally run with them. At one point my dad said "maybe we should go check on them?" To which I said "nah." I watched him run them ragged while ensuring their safety ... I think it's all good. He did come in at one point and say "I'm EXHAUSTED" to which I said "I know how you feel, brother."

Worst Part of the Day - We went to the grocery store after the gym and the boyz were doing pretty well (albeit bribed with yogurt covered raisins and juice). Then Quinn decided to dump the entire large bag of yogurt covered raisins all over the grocery store floor on purpose with a shit-eatin-grin on his face. He wasn't so happy when he was then denied all treats (swiping the credit card and signing, granola bar in the car and so on). Then he was directly appointed to le naughty step upon our return home. Wes said "Mama not happy. Qinn is naughty." Yup - that's about it.
Also Jake had to leave today ... booooooo.

Sunday June 26, 2009

Best Part of the Day - OH how I love the day after recap o' the reunion. While Erik is not as much as eight gal roomies - he's not bad. Also loved waking up in Megan's house and having some chat time with her as well. Then I got to hug the babes.

Worst Part of the Day - Very tired - not hungover (surprise!) as I barely drank. Dropped Erik off at O'Hare for his flight and it was sad. Ready for an early bed and hoping for an uninterrupted night o' sleep.

Saturday June 25, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Amy (cousin and babysitter extraordinaire) arrived right on time (8 a.m.) and we were out the door 20 minutes later. Arrived at Megan's cozy, lovely home at around 11:30 (central time) and chatted for some time before leaving for lunch. Went to the Third Ward (AMAZING riverfront- go Milwaukee!) for lunch with some old college pals and Miss Megan (who I basically kidnapped for the day). Then margs and then the outdoor reunion party on MU's campus. Whoa - tons o' blasts from the past and basically the same conversations over and over (but I enjoyed hearing the other peep's info!) To Hag's for a quick minute and home to shower and change it up. Then to John Hawkes Pub for dinner and then to the new Murphs. More people to see and chat it up with (and lots of qt for me and miss megan who I loved chatting with the most.) What a fun reunion - so cool to see the fun alums.

Worst Part of the Day - Chicago traffic and tolls - BLOWS y'all.
Also hating to see Megan sapped o' her energy - truly I've never (EVER) seen it. But also think this is a most natural reaction to what has been going down. Still the strongest person I know (and creme de la creme o' friend.)

Friday June 24, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Worked out. Brought packed lunch (plus bought Chicken McNuggets) to playground and then watched the kiddos play it out. Gorgeous, gorgeous summer day.
Then successfully napped Wes - (angels sing) MIRACLE.

Worst Part of the Day - (Devils head bang) as Wes wakes up in the WORST mood. Oh my - when will THAT end? Also kind of bummed to not be at MU tonight .... too bad, so sad.

Thursday July 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Used family friend's jet ski for some kid-friendly rides. Wes loves to 'go fast' while Quinn can be happy to just putt putt - but both understand the No Wake zone better than most boaters (including my father - heh heh.) Had dinner at the Parkway (kids eat free) and then off to Captain Sundae so the boyz could use their coupons. Stress free ... due to EXTREME use of the DVD player at dinner.

Worst Part of the Day - Not looking good for a babysitter for Friday night of the Marquette reunion ....

Wednesday July 22, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Headed over to a family friend's to borrow his boat. It was slightly chilly on the lake - but overall an excellent day out in the sun n' fun. The boys, of course, LIVE for the boat rides ... but also like to hang their bodies over the side of the boat to watch the wake ... UGH! Still overall a most excellent day.

Worst Part of the Day - A series of misunderstandings and miscommunications .... we left the boat to head to the Yacht Club to eat by the pool. When we got there (at about 5:15 p.m.) we realized that you could not order food by the pool until 6 p.m . Then it looked like rain. My mom arrived in her suit at about 5:45 and then when we decided to eat inside - she disappeared. Erik ran up to the cottage to get dry clothes for himself and the boys - so I'm policing the two kiddos by myself and it grows to be one full hour past their dinner time. By the time Erik gets back and we get them dressed and head inside - I still have no idea where my parents went. My dad is now inside drinking with some pals. We move to a table but I realize very quickly that there is NO WAY that a restaurant dinner is going to happen. We walk out and there is my mom - seems she went back to the cottage to change (please note I am still in my bathing suit and cover up.) So we pack them back in the car and head on home.

Hilarious - While on the boat (see above) my dad got pulled over by the sheriff for 'creating too much wake'. My dad was telling him about his Captain's License and 30 years of experience sailing while fumbling around looking for the registration. Finally the sheriff put him out of his misery and just gave him a warning. Then he gave the kiddos Captain Sundae coupons for wearing their life jackets - they were MUCH obliged and clung to them like American citizens carrying passports in Iraq.

Thursday July 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
1. Talked to my old college pal and had the MOST WONDERFUL conversation about me/Billy/marriage/success/life in general. I felt amazing after our talk and once again: I la-hove my friends.
2. Watched a pretty intense documentary with Will-O. Enjoyable.
3. Am reading To Kill a Mockingbird, and could not stop reading it until the wee hours...a joy to read.

Worst Part of the Day-
Super sleepy at the end of it all, yet could not snooze.

Wednesday July 22, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-
1. Lil' family gathering at Kel's parentals...gorgeous summer night with fun fam and the kiddies played well with "Cousin Hazel". Scarlet was a phenom mommy's little helper with Hazel-the-cute and Liam was lovin it all.
2. Continuing to feel fantastic about decision with Billy. He and I are getting alongswimmingly and it is soooo dang nice.

Worst Part of the Day-
Just the standard rushing around...whatevs.

Tuesday July 21, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Hit the gym and then thought we would try out the pool at the health club for the kiddos (it's one of those amazing pools with spraying 'flowers' and buckets that fill up and then pour out - very cool.) It took 30 minutes to get a grilled cheese and a slice o' pizza and in that time Wes completely melted down - picture a child laying on the ground, screaming "I WANT ICE CREAM." Sweet and just one of the eight incidences in the 30 minutes. We had to pack it up, pack in in ... and in the time it took Erik to pull the car up, Wes had become calm and lovely and was wading away in the pool. But we had to hold firm and go - so we loaded up a sad Quinn and a pissy Wes and off we went. And then Wes would not nap and it just felt very, very, very exhausting.

Best Part of the Day - Erik and I finished Burn After Reading and then I read for a bit and felt the day melt away .... also an Oberon helped too!

Monday July 20, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - After the gym we hit the Meijers to pick up some needed items .... the kiddos were HORRORIFIC. Seriously now - they both had to be yanked from the store and as Erik said "how did you do this on your own?" I answered "popcorn as a bribe to make them sit in the cart."
Also - how many more times are we going to have to clean up poopy underwear from Mr. Quinn??? He is now 100% on peeing - hooray! And 0% on the other - booooo.

Best Part of the Day - Erik and I hit the town with dinner at a chain restaurant (ugh) and a movie (Harry Potter - slightly dull, but I do like to be in that world even if it is a little boring. And I don't mean that it wasn't enjoyable ... just could have used a tich more action). But it was still a nice, leisurely time to just sit and talk and relax. Thanks to Gigi and Pops for the babysitting duty.

Tuesday July 21, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

1.  Watching Miss S.'s t-ball game (her legs are soooo long and muscular...geez).  She had a better listening game and it was entertaining to spectate as usual.

2.  Hitting the sack---beat down.

Worst Parts of the Day-

1.  Feeling extremely exhausted (perhaps feeling the drain from yesterday??)

2.  My kidlets would NOT settle for bed despite their vast tiredness.  Both snoozing by 9:30pm after many tears and battles.

Monday July 20, 2009

Best/Worst Parts of the Day-
Will-O and I jointly and contentedly filed for a civil divorce today. We went to the courthouse together, but I was sure we would need other forms or papers we didn't have, so I wasn't convinced the filing would happen today. It turned out that after 4 hours of visiting various courthouse rooms and floors and 40+ copies later, we had successfully filed. It was not as emotional as one may guess, we were there to get a job done and even split up to do things most efficiently. i.e. "You go make copies in the legal resourse room and I will run down to get the Judge's name/stamp..."
In the end, we high-fived and then lunched at a Chinese restaurant. We both felt a bit lighter and way more free of the swirling tension that has surrounded us much of the last years. We talked and even laughed during lunch (his comment: "you haven't laughed at one of my jokes in 2 years...") and it feels like the right thing to do as I type. We discussed how we feel it is imperative that the kids see us as happy and well-adjusted individuals as opposed to being the grouchy couple that stays together 55 years...to us (we could agree, at long last!) that would equal success. I feel my potential rising already...

My fortune cookie told me: Life to you is a dashing and bold adventure.

Sunday July 19, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
A pool b-day party in the afternoon for a friend's 6 year-old (holy fun and amazingly yummy treats) followed by a dinner b-day party for my mom.
In standard fashion, my mom threw a grand dinner party for 11 in her home. (Not what I will ever do on my magical day of birth, but it is true that she "loves" to slave away for others on her special day!)
Quite fun overall and good post-dinner story telling.

Happy Birthday, Babsalonia!!! (You deserve it.)

Worst Part of the Day-
My dad simply does not talk to me about anything of substance.

Saturday July 18, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Delightful afternoon going to the zoo with a friend and 3 year-old child who plays uber well with both kiddies O'Neill. Enjoyable and dare I say, "easy".

Worst Part of the Day-
The kiddies awoke with vigor as always and I felt sluggish and off the entire morn. I felt a tad achey and sore throaty....ugggg.

Friday July 17, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Did the outside running trails at Y after work. Soooooo pleasant.

Worst Part of the Day-
Went to bed super duper early (yes, this is fun) but needed to get post-kiddie awake stuff done!!

Sunday July 19, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Gast Family Fun out at the cottage. Had all of Fritz's fam up to join the fun. It was a great day (even the weather turned nice!) and we all had so much fun just leisurely hanging out. So great to meet Amy's boyfriend who I thoroughly enjoyed. Erik made it back from Ft. Wayne (he had left on Friday to hang with some high school pals) just after Fritz and fam came up - so the day just seemed to fall into place. Tons of active fun (though not by me - I have been rather lethargic the last couple days ... hmmmm) on the beach and general goodwill towards all by all. Lovin' it.

Worst Part of the Day - Truly it was when everyone left ... Erik and I looked at each other and said "they're all gone" and then watched two and a half movies to dull the pain. Come back soon, ya'll!!

Saturday July 18, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Baby Wyatt (oh and his parents Terinel) came to visit! We had so much fun with the petite and his parents ... dinner, cocktails, sunset socials (okay, so I hung back at the cottage for 15 minutes o' silence, but still). SO great to be able to hang with them!

Worst Part of the Day - Baby Wyatt is not only baby perfection in his looks ... but also in her laid back, never cry, go to anyone, just chillin' out over here peeps disposition. What a total doll baby!!!

Friday July 17, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Supposed to head into GR to hang with an old high school pal but her uncle passed away :-( So we had to postpone. Really looking forward to catching up with her and feeling so bad for her family.

Best Part of the Day - Sister Sarah arrived today and after getting the kiddos to bed we had takeout and red wine on the porch for many hours. Laid back evening fun.

Thursday July 16, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Had my 3rd cardiology appointment of the calendar year (usually I am a once a year gal) and was wondering if I should be concerned...until after my stress test and my doc declared I am the healthiest patient he has.  Quote:  "Out of 123 patients, you are in the best shape; the healthiest I have." (Note:  amongst flabby and pale congenital heart patients who are told their entire lives long, you shouldn't run or lift weights or have babies or blah, blah, blah...)

Anyhoo, good to hear.  Right on, baboon...

Worst Part of the Day-

The kids were playing in the back yard when I heard a scream I knew meant stitches or perhaps a broken bone.  I saw Scarlet screeching in pain and ran out to find a yellow jacket bumble bee stuck to the sole of her foot.  I flicked it off and went into Native American medicine man mode as I (within seconds) made a paste of baking soda and water and slopped it on the stinger, wrapped the foot in an ACE wrap with an ice pack.  Then in standard mom mode I turned on an atypical late day movie and propped her foot up on pillows.  Whew.

Wednesday July 15, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

A smooth-sailing day of work and play.  After my 4 hour work day, rode bikes with Will-O and took Liam to the cutest kiddie pool in all of the lands.  (Scarlet at "camp".)  Love, love riding bikes!  Love, love pools.  Love summer...

Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O kind of stormed off when I didn't want to discuss grown-up issues in front of Liam.  We really don't communicate well...huh.

Wendesday July 15, 2009

Happy Anniversary to my parents - 42 years. Wow!

Best Part of the Day - Temporarily joined a gym and after I picked Quinn up from the childcare I found him on the Dance Dance Revolution game (yes, this is one HIGH end gym). They said he had been on it the ENTIRE time - I watched him and was dying laughing. How hilarious to watch this kid dancing to some sort of Asian teeny-bop song. Cracked me up.

Worst Part of the Day - We all went out to dinner for my parent's anniversary and the kids were overly whiny and my dad was overly annoyed .... not a good combo. I think things got slightly out of hand. I ended up being very annoyed at both my father and my children. Isn't that sad on an anniversary? The best part of the worst part is that Erik was a really good friend and unbiased commentator on the evening - just what I needed.

Also watched One Missed Call - wish I would have missed seeing it. SOOOOOO VERY BAD.

Tuesday July 14, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Drove back from Bloomington today and just OVER being in the car. Plus Wes fell asleep and we didn't want to stop for eats and wake him up so we were RAVENOUS by the time we hit the cottage.

Best Part of the Day - Went out for pizza with my parents, Erik and the kiddos. Fairly uneventful as we were the ONLY ONES seated on the outdoor patio. LOVE IT. As we left Erik heard a couple say "oh yes, outside please." And we laughed as they had no idea how close they came to sheer annoyance.
Also Erik and I watched Jumper and while it SUCKED it was much fun to mock.

Tuesday July 14, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Scarlet and I had a girl date at Noodles & Co. (our spot) post-Tball game. It was delightful and a cinch with only her. We chatted about her attitude at Tball and I think she got it! (see below.) We talked about what fans are all about and how to treat one's fans, how/why to listen to one's coach and it's the thought that counts in general--whew.
(Will-O took too tired Little Man L. for a sleep over at his mom's... )
So easy/breezy with one child!!!

Worst Part of the Day-
Scarlet was sassier than usual during her Tball game. My parents had driven the hour in to see her and she was all sass. At one point, she yelled to us with a scowl, "Please don't watch me or sit close to me...it's distracting!"
My parents were able to witness the rest of her team whining, crying and collectively breaking down at various times in the game (it is a 4-5 year-old league, me darlins...), but my Miss S. was quite clearly the only one demanding to play certain positions and being generally a bigtime sassypants...is she 13?? Ma lordie.

Monday July 13, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
My mom tended to the kiddies (per our summer agreement; Mondays=Bab's Days.) Seriously refreshing to: 1. not have to clean in preparation for her arrival (like I feel compelled to do for your typical sitter) 2. the kids have SUCH fun w/ their G-ma and eat their veggies 3. the home is tidied and the kiddies are clean and snuggly in their beddies after my work evening.

Sum up: Feeling like a dad in the 1950's--coming home to a smiling woman who just put away the last dish as I enter the door. A pleasant greeting as she wipes her hands on her apron. A sparkling clean (quiet) home is evident and my only task is to relax and have a drink. Ahhhhh. Love it.

Worst Part of the Day-
Took Liam to the Y this morn and he cried/sobbed/kicked the entire way there. Once we entered, he happily handed in my i.d. card and several workers commented how happy he was!! He waved goodbye without an issue and ran to play with his KidCare buds. Dude?!

Sunday July 12, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
1. Reunited with the kiddie pies after 2 days!!
2. Brunch at my parent's....
3. Took the kiddies w/ Will-O to a cute lil beach near his mom's in the late afternoon. Though Liam had HAD it with the full day of fun/sun and perhaps too many activs for a 2.5 year-old, I actually lounged on my beach blanket while Will-O tended to kidz on the playground...

Worst Part of the Day-
Standard communication breakdown on the family front. I felt (being the one who prides self on being assertive...ahem, bitchy/loud-mouthed/etc) that I must be the ambassador and straighten the tangled lines of communication right out and get all back to a full function. Well, some may be sick of my assertiveness (oh you, again!) and I'm not sure it really helped.
FYI-at the heart of all miscommunication are little hurt feelings that are not expressed.
PS-as my family grows, I see the drama expand, as well. At least it takes the spotlight away from lil' ol' me...

Monday July 13, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Waking up after all the red wine swillin' ... but actually didn't feel all that bad!

Best Part of the Day - Spent ALL day on the water with the entire Pinter family. The lake was empty - glass was the water. I tubed with the niece and nephews and could not stop laughing - what fun! We had lunch out there and snacks and drinks. Wes took a two plus hour snooze under some towels. Quinn was most excellent. On the whole it was good ole clean family fun on the boat in the sweet, sweet sunshine with great family. DIVINE. Everyone BEAT afterward in the best sort o' way!

Sunday July 12, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Had brunch with nine high school pals at a delish place in GR. We sat for brunch for two hours and then stood outside for another hour and a half chatting away. it's SO cool that everyone is amazingly fun to talk with, down to earth and just plain cool (channeling Ginny and Babs - but in this case it's true that they are all CUTE CUTE CUTE too.) It was really fun to chat about all sorts of thangs at a leisurely, leisurely pace.

Arrived in Bloomington (to visit Erik's sister, husband and three kiddos) at about 6:30 p.m. Central Time. It was FUN from the moment we arrived - Wes didn't cry or say "go home" he just waltzed off with his older cousins who proceeded to amuse, entertain, babysit him and Q while Erik had mango martinis, I swilled red wine and we all just sat and chatted, chatted, chatted until well past 2:30 a.m. Loving the Pinter house!

Worst Part of the Day - Um couldn't really get the kiddos to fall asleep until well past 11 p.m. Might not be so good manana.

Saturday July 11, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Successful pull-off o' backyard engagement partay!!!  Group effort=fun 'n games n' summer lovn'.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Laying sod at 10am....booo.

Friday July 10, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

1.  Will-O took kiddies on overnight so I could ready home/yard/food/drinks/self for tomorra's gathering.  (Necessary it is to banish the chilluns.)

2.  Hit the sack early-ish (perhaps the non internet access is helping me.)

Worst Part of the Day-

1.  Groggy and stunned after late night "gang night".  (What the??)  

2.  Forgot damned laptop power cord at work again!

Thursday July 9, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Saw The Hangover as part of "gang night".  Absolutely hysterical and so, so wrong in many ways.

Worst Part of the Day-

Just about flaked out on "gang night" as I have 99 things to do to home/yard prior to me throwing intimate, sweet, and fun times enagagement party for Seanie/Alli in 2 days...feeling the stress a titch.

Also left my laptop power cord at work for 3 days and have no power, thus no internet (no bloggy.)  

Wednesday July 8, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Watched the movie, Children of Heaven, care o' netflixies.  Perhaps the sweetest story with the most precious kids...eva.

Worst Part of the Day-

Cuz K. generously watched the kiddies for me while I ran necessary errands and went to mandatory meeting.  Thought I could saunter back to her pad after and we could all sit on the deck and sip wine...no.  The O'Neill kiddies had to be exited ASAP.

Saturday July 11, 2009

Happy Birthday Dad! So glad we got to spend it with you!!!!

Best Part of the Day - Wes ended up being left behind with Erik when we went to the pool (how many times can you threaten a kiddo before you have to follow through on something you REALLY don't want to follow through on? Roughly eleven.) So the pool was DREAMY - chit chatting with pals I haven't seen since last summer, leisurely lounging while Quinn was taken care of by my dad and then Erik (he was given a Wes watching reprieve by GiGi). Utter bliss at the pool with sunny and perfectly warm temps. Plus outdoor family fun for the rest of the day on the beach (both late afternoon and early/late evening) with more friends young and old to talk with. Yumm-o Birthday dinner for my dad - really cool to have us all together on his b-day.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes up at 5:20 a.m. but I did lay with him and then get him back down. Then he was a little pill for a lot of the day. We took the kiddos to the beach to watch the sunset and then they were WIRED. We didn't get them down until about 10:30 p.m. (UNHEARD of). I am anti - it feels like you never get a break.

Friday July 10, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Yes so we arrived in Michigan at 4 a.m. and the kiddos are WIRED. There is no sleeping for them. Erik stays up with them until GiGi grabs them at about 6:30 a.m. Then we both get some shut eye - but both of us feel groggy and crappy. Also it's COLD here - UGH!

Best Part of the Day - Making it to Michigan! Hooray!! Quinn acting like he's lived here his whole life - Wes, a couple moments of Wessonwail, but mostly good. GiGi and Pops entertained the kiddos all morning. Then we all walked the beach, visited friends, rode bikes, out to dinner ... then off to bed! Everyone exhausted.

Thursday July 9, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Began our 12 hour drive to Michigan. UGH!

Best Part of the Day - Kiddos MOST excellent on the drive! We never even pulled out the DVD playa (amazing - we usually have to pull it out on the 3.5 hour drive to Hilton Head.) Stopped at McDonald's Playland about three hours in and then straight on till morning (literally - 4 a.m. arrival time.) The driving was fairly smooth and we made good time. Whoa - not nearly as bad as it thought.

Wednesday July 8, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Trying my best to remain calm as I try to clean, pack and organize with the two boys underfoot. Losing it.

Best Part of the Day - Erik arrived home after dropping off the dog in Jax - a very calming influence. Plus I got to head out in the evening and do some zen like returns and purchasing with just my own self. lovely.

Forgot - Yesterday Carson (Quinn's cousin) said "you know that dude with the bumpy head?" And it took us all a second to realize he was talking about Quinn - and all start laughing. But Carson continued, talking straight to me "Do you know him? Have you ever seen him?" Once or twice, buddy, once or twice.

Tuesday July 7, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Miss S. had her first T-ball "game" of her life.  It was truly more of a practice game and let's review the rules, shall we?  Pretty cute, nonetheless.  She was quite pleased by her fans Cale and Chris and even beamed afterward, "A boy I didn't even know high-fived me!"  

Scarl was the lead off batter and made it a point to make contact with the ball no matter what position she played (i.e. barrel over her own stunned teammates to touch that ball and whip to first.)  Could be called a ball hog, but this mom will call her a gutsy gamer.

Note pic: Scarl given the low down by 1st base coach.  (Good readiness form.)

Worst Part of the Day-

Me=sleepy after Monday night madness.  

Monday July 6, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

1.  Successfully pulled off Health Night PSA videos.  Hilarious.  (And done.  Whew.)

2.  Met up with friend since age 5 who is visiting fam--now lives in San Fran.  HI-sterical time finding new Milwaukee watering holes and an old standby.  Very fun to eat and drink and laugh and chat--per the usual!!  Note pic taken by most likely buzzed up bartender...fez hats?  Huh.

Worst Part of the Day-

All of my snooty elitism regarding my precious and luscious MacBook had to get hushed out today (some swearing under breath involved.)  The day my (stupid) video project was due, my iMovie went nuts and kept freezing up--frustratingly reminiscent of my horrifying PC days.  What is up?????  I loved you for so long, Mac...

Sunday July 5, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

On the way to deliver kiddies to my parentals, I had the impromtu notion to swing by (15 miles out of the way) Old World Wisconsin--a 56 acre museum of how life once was--Laura Ingells Wilder style.  Super cool for me and kidz and even do-able for me solo.  We saw a Blacksmith, an inns keeper, ate at the General Store and the kids washed laundry old school.  I dorkily bought a membership cause it was good clean fun.

Note:  Old World Wisconsin would be kooky fun with friends and some old-time barley 'n hops drinks...

Worst Part of the Day-

I was to deliver kiddies to my parentals at 5pm.  At 1pm, they had HAD it with the home and yard and we were out the door in a desperate attempt to go somewhere...anywhere!

Tuesday July 7, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Can feel the stress of not having a break from the kiddos in quite some time and packing it up for the Michigan trek (how HARD can it be to try and clean with two little ones either underfoot or messing it all up the very next moment?  Makes me CRAZY.)  Must take deep breaths as I'm starting to sound shrill and the boyz keep looking at me like "lady - take it down a noch."  You know it's bad when your almost four year old pats you on the head and says "it's okay Mama.  It's okay."

Best Part of the Day - Worked out.  Made me feel a little better.  Also Erik's parents got in from Europe today and they (along with Chris, Ann and the kids) came over for dinner and chit chatting.  The basement continues to be a lovely place to sequester the children (again a la 1978).

Perspective - After the gym we all went to Target to grab some last minute things.  We were on our way back to the car after a "successful" run (I'd give them a solid 'C' because they were good but I had to bribe them with popcorn and juice boxes.)  Suddenly I remember that the REAL reason we went to Target is that I had a load o' returns.  Hmmmm - do I just do it later or take them back in?  I take them back in.  It was utter MAYHEM.  They were knocking over signs, banging on the computers, throwing leftover popcorn.  No one in the line was smiling and thinking "Oh how sweet" or "wow she's really got her hands full."  They were all about to pull out their wallets and pitch in for a tube tying session.  I grabbed my receipt and dragged them out of there (Quinn was shoeless by this point).  I have to say that everyone was so appalled that it did make me laugh.  On the way out as Wes is dying laughing and trying to stand in the cart and Quinn is hobbling with one shoe - this woman exits a pick up truck.  I'm talking to Wes saying "now what are you doing.  Please stop."  And she says "he says 'I'm just bein' 2, Mama."  Then she points to the tattooed young man who had driven her to Target and says "that's my grandson - so you better just enjoy it!"  and I say "I think I'm about ready for them to be able to drop me off at Target."  She just smiles and walks on in.  

Monday July 6, 209

Worst Part of the Day - Each time that Wes needed to be put in his car seat today was a complete struggle.  And it's to the point that it is hard to get him strapped in if he doesn't want to.  So I try to get him to "buy in" with waiting him out, threats, treats ... it's so annoying.  It's become this complete power struggle and I just want him to GET IN THE FREAKIN' SEAT.

Also Erik made it to Jacksonville with the dog (bringing him down there so we can leave for Michigan this week).  The dog has already chewed up the frame of the downstairs door (really finished the job he started in 2005.  Bad Dog Clarence!)

Best Part of the Day - Tree removal dudes showed up on time (!) and got straight to work.  They worked the entire day ... I was muy impressed.  Also scheduled the fridge to be fixed (there was a recall on the door), the security system peeps to come over, called Am Ex about the fact that while my points were deducted I was charged full price for my computer, got the upstairs computer working again, did laundry, steam cleaned the rug, cleaned out the laundry room ... and more, more, more.  

Nice - At the playground today this young lad came up to me (about 9) and asked "what is his name, we couldn't get it."  So I say "oh that's Quinn."  "Okay, Quinn," he says.  "Come on Quinn!"  And then this lad proceeds to hang out and totally entertain Q.  So cool.

Sunday July 5, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Probably had one of the Top Ten worst nights of sleep - eva'.  We ended up sleeping over at Chris and Ann's and it was one thing after another (dogs needing to be let out, Wes up and yelling, Carson up and yelling, dogs needing to be let in, Erik snoring ....)  Top that off with multiple slushy alcohol drinks and the morning was not pretty.  (Although my manana was prettier than Erik's - he has a cold, a hangover and beat up feet from playing basketball barefoot.)

Best Part of the Day - My new BF Janelle invited us (and the kiddos) over for a little get together to have a low key birthday celebration for her son Gavin.  They have the PERFECT set up for little ones (she has two boys just about the ages o' Quinn and Wes).  They had a blow up  bouncy house thang that they bought two years ago from Little Tykes - so cool.  A room full of new toys (well new to Quinn and Wes) and a fenced in backyard with swing set.   So fun and so nice to meet some new moms who live right down the street.   Also, hilariously, Janelle's son Aaron calls Quinn - McQuinn. We think it must be from the movie Cars.  

It's All Relative - One of the males at the party was telling a story how he went to China recently and his work mate got pulled aside for a high (99 degree) temp and eventually put into quarantine for several days.  Then we got to talking about having two kids in a two year span (which almost everyone at the party had done - give or take a few months).  "Now that's Chinese Quarantine," he said.  And I was dying laughing.  Chinese Quarantine.  

Saturday July 4, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Intimate gathering at Cuz K's parent's gorg-e-oso lake home.  Kids played in water/on beach, boating, swimming, smiles, relaxing and BBQ'ing.  Lovely, lovely.  Little Man L. fell fast alseep on the way home and Will-O took Miss S. to fireworks as a Dad n Daughter Date.  Yipppeeeee for me.  No taxation without representation!!!  

Happy 4th to all!

Worst Parts of the Day-

Insomnia despite early morn:

Alright, so Will-O had taken Scarlet to watch late night fireworks and then the 2 planned to sleep over at G-ma Sally's (i.e. firework extravaganza close to her home.)  Liam was snoring by 7pm and I was all jacked up about hitting the sack and catching up on my sleep issue.  Doh--couldn't sleep after watching 48 Hours about murder, blah, blah, blah.  At 10pm, I started Ghandi on Netflix--instant play.   Ahem, that's a 3+ hour flick.

Fact to consider:  Liam did arise at 5am excited for the holiday.  Scarl was up and dressed in full red, white and blue at 5:30am.  My friends---a holiday means rest.  Sleep in!!!

Friday July 3, 2009

Oddest Best Part of the Day-

Finished Grey Gardens care of Netflix.  I usually love snacking away during films, but this one icked me out tons (Watching mentally ill peeps living in squalor does not make me want to shovel the popcorn in.  Think unwashed hair, oodles of cats AND racoons...yuck.  Reminiscent of my home health nurse days...)  The Best Part was the relaxing post-kiddie.

Worst Part of the Day-

I have so many options for tomorrow that it is perplexing to me.  Lake gathering here, lake party in Madison with peeps I haven't seen in long while, parade in morn, late fireworks with kiddies, drinks out with friends late after kiddies snoozing, or the standard Summerfest...what to do, what to do?  So challenging being this popular.  Babs would be pleased with me even pondering this much socializing.   Eeee gads.

Thursday July 2, 2009

Best Part of the Worst Part of the Day-

Will-O's Aunt Katy's funeral/mass was today.  Holy cats it was a GLORIOUS celebration of her life complete with excellent eulogy/sharing/homily.  What a woman!  (Does make one think of what might be said at one's funeral...)  Will-O's mom was a PRO-fessional with her reading and sharing--definitely where Will-O gets his performing skillz.  She nailed it.  (And that is a tall order when emotions are high and ya gotta get up there and do it.)  She was sweet, funny and ended with a song about Katy--perfect.

Lame Worst Part after attending a Funeral-

Had to semi-rush to pick up Liam and then still go to work after the day long event.  (I know, lame when I have all of my limbs...and an acceptable heart rate...)

Scarlet Quote-

As we were getting out of the car, Scarlet accidentally banged her knee on the door and said clear as a bell, "Dammit."  I asked accusatorily, "What did you just say?"  Plainly she stated, "I said 'dammit'--it really hurt."  When I told her that she should say darn it, or dang it, instead, she replied, "Oh, I always get the kid ones and the grown-up ones confused."  

Saturday July 4, 2009

Happy Fourth o' July!!

Best Part of the Day - Took kiddos to the playground this morning. The to Target for more party supplies, then to lunch at Red Robin, then to Old Navy.  Very fun half -day (even thought Wes did press the back door alarm at Old Navy.)  Then off to a party at Ann and Chris' house for the 4th.  It was super, super fun and the kiddos were MOST excellent!  They just played and ate and ran around ... so nice to just be able to run and check on them every so often.  Lots of fun adult time with kiddos present - like it's 1978 or some thang.

Worst Part of the Day - Oh MY!  Getting ready to go to that party?  Could it actually be taking us MORE time as of late just to walk out that door??  Note - must create more self sufficient kids.  This grows ridiculous.  

Also Erik had a moment of "no one is paying attention to ME" moment at Old Navy.  Well when I pay attention to you in a store with the two kiddos there ... alarms tend to get tripped (see above).

Friday July 3, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Ab FAB day on the boat.  The "Sand Bar" area is now very sandy and so the kiddos played and played and played (with very limited whining.)  Gorgeous water, sun, snacks, beers ... sigh.  Bliss, bliss, bliss.

Home that evening, Erik and I finished up Jerhico.  Pretty good, I have to say.  No wonder all the peeps went ballistic when it got cancelled.  

Worst Part of the Day - Had to pick up Erik's car this morning and it was such a damn cluster just getting out the door!  Parents threatening, kiddos not listening and/or obeying.  JUST GET IN THE CAR FOR CRISSAKES!!!

Thursday July 2,2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik and I now have a 95% clean garage (just waiting on what to do with 25 bags of mulch left over from previous owner).  Wow - what a difference.  It is now a thing of beauty to admire instead a place to advert your eyes.

Also excellent lunch with my sister-in-law Ann - so relaxing to just chill out and talk without interruption.  

Worst Part of the Day -  Looking like Erik will head to Jacksonville to drop off the dog on Monday.  Then the boys and I will meet him in Wilmington to help him look for his 'weekday apartment' (the new job is in that area - so he'll live there for four days each week.  I know, I know but it's only temporary ... that's also a mantra o' mine.)  So it's going to be a nice, cluster filled jaunt and chaos until we leave.  UGH!

Wednesday July 1, 2009

Best Part of the Day - ADORABLE Fourth of July parade at the preschool!  Oh my - it was hilarious to watch Wes being pulled in a decked out wagon and Quinn on a big wheel with a homemade patriotic hat.  HI-larious.  Erik is now done with his fellowship and so he got to attend.  Also pulled Erik out of a foul mood with my new mantra JOY IS CONTAGIOUS.  Wow - my sun totally blocked his rain cloud.  

Worst Part of the Day - Had to drop off Erik's car and the kiddos slept on the way.  Then .. no naps.  Boo Hoo.

Tuesday June 30, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Preschool, vet appointment, brake check, pedicure.  Met with another preschool and the director is amazing - so we're going to go for it and have both of them at the same school with a GUARANTEED space ... but I'm still kind of holding out hope that this present preschool will have room for Wes.  Also started The Other Boleyn Sister and think it is very, very good!

Worst Part of the Day - A borderline violent struggle with Wes regarding the car seat left both of us angry, hot and annoyed.  I'm always going to win this one, kiddo, so you might as well just give in early.

Wednesday July 1, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Saw Cuz K. after weeks and weeks of her dealing with medical madness...went to Cale's Little League game and then took Cale and Miss S. out to din on cute-sie Downer Ave. The kiddies were soooo well-behaved. We chatted and were able to calmly eat and enjoy the company of all present. Yippeee. (FYI-I can handle1 child with ease.)

Worst Part of the Day-
After Liam's Kindergym (where is remains star pupil), I thought we would hit up the Kiddie Open Gym which is in the same area and run by his teacher. Sounds like fun...
Midway through the hour of tumbling on primary colored equipment, playing mini basketball & balloon volleyball with appropriate kid-friendly songs setting the pleasant tone, Liam went ballistic wanting a balloon he didn't have. AKA-a tantrum. So his sweet teacher saw her sweet star pupil transform into Bealzabub. Yippee. (Maybe I cannot handle this 1child with ease...any longer...ah, the 2's.)

Tuesday June 30, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Nearly done with filming the girls PSA's for my Health Class projects.  Gettin er done.

Also blogging, making call backs and getting things in order as I had 1 or 2 spare moments (literally) this eve.  

Worst Part of the Day-

COMPLETELY flaked on the fact that Miss S. had T-ball tonight....arrrrgggh.  I was trying to work late to get er done (see above...now love Keith Urban so I gotta talk like this...) and remembered with a jolt at 6:30pm--as the practice was officially over.  In my chaotic defense, Will-O and Scarlet also forgot all about T-ball.  Doh. 

Monday June 29, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

1.  Scarlet started Summer Camp '09 and it seems wonderful.  Cool/caring staff and a summer full of kid fun and field trips.  Woo-hoo!!!

2.  My mom watched the kiddies so I could join my Book Club lasses.  An intimate gathering with yummy treats, sensational chats and thoroughly amazing women.  Love 'em.   Book-Foxfire.  I recommend.

Worst Part of the Day-

Found out that Will-O's aunt, Katy, died yesterday in her sleep.  A bit of a shock as she was not ill, per se.  She was 80, but spry, funny, theatrical and always in a good mood.  Liam LIVED for her as she would completely and totally engage the little bittles.  She was a kid lover who would get down on her hands and knees and act like a silly monster or a crazy dog.  Katy has lived with Will-O's mom for 10 years so this will be a great change.  She will be missed, but never forgotten.  

Fun Katy Memory-

At an O'Neill cousin wedding this past February, amidst the toasts and stories of the bride/groom's 20 something friends, 79 year-old Katy waltzed up to the microphone and belted out a show tune that I think she may have made up or at least ad libbed the lyrics that really didn't have anything to do with the bride or groom or the wedding.  Priceless.  And ballsy.   Love it.

Sunday June 28, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

1.  Saw G-ma again this morn and wheeled her outside in the sunshine.  Kids played in ever thoughtful/convenient child play area in the courtyard.  I gave G-ma a neck and back massage and she commented, "I wish you lived closer than Milwaukee..", so I knew she did, in fact, know who I was.  We has a little convo and it was pleasant.

2.  Saw cousins Jen and Amy and the kidz went wild with excitement.  Both kddies ran right into their arms and proceeded to talk nonstop and show off their stuff for minutes on end.  Highly fun to see them!

3.  Hung with Fritz/Mary/Amy/Jeff at their cottage for a mere hour but it was bliss to sit in the sunshine and have Cousin Amy tend to Liam on the boat whilst Scarlet swam and splashed in the lake.

Worst Parts of the Day-

1.  Cut it a tad short on the way back from the Gast cottage to the ferry.  Both kids zonked out in the car and I had to wake/carry tired kiddies and collect bags and return the car and rush to the ferry check-in.  Whew.  (This is where another adult is key:  You go return the car and I'll check-in for the ferry.  You take 1 child and I'll take another.  Sounds great.  Exhale and smile.

Instead I had mild tachycardia and perspiration and crabby kids and difficulty locating my wallet.  Ahhhhh.  Delightful.

2.  When I returned the rental car, I told them I had used perhaps 1/2 tank of gas and didn't have time to fill it up, so whatevs.  The Hertz woman told me the gas charge added up to $59.  I plastered on my best smile and told her that was fantastic and sounded like a real bargain!  Is that all?!  I thought for certain 1/2 tank of gas should be at least $75.   I then collected my disorganized bags and sweating self and disheveled kids and hobbled onto the ferry.  (That really Hertz.  Ba dum bum.)