Saturday August 29, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Lovely, lovely boat ride with the other Reitters. The day looked like rain - but it never came. Sunny, warm and perfect for playing in the water and sand. The boys all love it and Quinn and Wes actually played for a good long time without asking for anything (snack, milk, go home). Such a nice way to spend the afternoon and early evening.

Also two episodes of Dexter Season 3 Disk 1 for Erik and I ... so far it's really dern good!!

Worst Part of the Day - When we were entering into our house we noticed a hummingbird was stuck inside the screened in porch area of our deck. The poor thing could not find the door. The little boys are all getting hyped up and yelling. Then suddenly Erik calls me over and there is the bird caught in a spider web. What the ... he's hanging upside down and not moving and I am freaking out. So Erik has to be the calm adult and get the bird free (with a broom) and bring it outside. It flies away. It was really upsetting and kind of weird - to see that bird just hanging there from a spider web. Shudder!

Friday August 28, 2009

Best Part of the Day - This is sooo lame I can scarcely write it ... but here goes. I got Quinn's new lunchbox from LL Bean today and we trekked to the mall to get his name embroidered on it. It took only 20 minutes and just looks so cute and he's so dern proud. Ahh the four year old adorable stage - happiness is your name on ANYTHING.

Worst Part of the Day - Wes took a late nap and was just fighting (again!) the sleep time. I think we are 'transitioning' phase of the napping stage. He loves 'em and they make him (me) happy but they are now impeding with a regular bedtime. And unlike Quinn (who would just play in his room), Wes likes to stomp about, visit the downstairs to "watch tt with mama and dad" and make up fake excuses why he's not sleeping (need water, need pillow, need ...._)

Friday August 28, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Whew. Finally some itty bitty baby steps forward. I signed Liam up for fancy preschool, had car fixed for error by mechanics when they fixed the brakes, did a cheek swab to see if I could be a stem cell donor for others who are battling awful, awful cancer, saw my own doc for strange pain, completed school shopping for S. (omg) and got haircut for S. AND wrapped up highly productive work week. Now maintain break neck speed daily for 20 years....ahhhhh.

Worst Part of the Day-
I have felt like I cannot get above water since I returned from Colorado. What is up?????

Thursday August 27, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
I had both kiddies head to the sitter's for a full day. (Usually I feel the guilt set it as I work a jam packed full 4-5 hours, not 8...) I had to, had to, had to get some things off the unending pile.

Worst Part of the Day-
Started in on my dumb "to do" mountain (I know this is a bore). Took my car into get its required emissions test in order for me to renew my license plate stickers (due 9/30, usually I would do it anytime in 10/1-12/31 and just fake cry to any policia...). My car did NOT pass the test. It is only 5 years old. It is due to a cracked gas cap, which is minor, but still.
Also, I packed up my beloved Mac and treipsed off to the Apple Store and low and behold they are closed until 8/29 due to renivations. Teeth gritting...
I am trying to DO my stuff and it is only adding more on to my "to do". Tomorrow=hunting for more Apple Stores and heading to Auto Zone...

Thursday August 27, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn came up and grabbed a paper towel saying "I have to clean up." Uh oh. I looked and saw he had his pull up off. Uh oh. I jump up and run downstairs and find both he and Wes are bare bottomed. There is poop in both pull ups that are thrown on the floor. There is also poop ground in on a spot on the floor. And the Damp Rid I keep on the mantle above the fireplace had been dumped all over the new train table (it wasn't quite water yet - more like a sticky, tapioca texture). I about had a breakdown - um, WHEN DOES PRESCHOOL START?? September 8 seems awfully far away.

Super annoying trip to Trader Joe's - I thought we were going to have to abort mission about three minutes in. But Wes recovered from a screaming fit (he had already picked a box of cereal and opened it and then (upon seeing Quinn's box) wanted a different kind. Sorry, kiddo - pick it and stick it.) He was placated by picking some granola bars and I was able to finish the shopping.

Best Part of the Day - Wes tried to pull the 'not sleeping' thing again - but he was thwarted by my militant sleep tactics (I put a child safe lock on his inside door knob and threatened to close his door and 'lock' him in - he was asleep 20 minutes later.) I then watched Sunday's Mad Men and the first part of No Country For Old Men.

Best Mad Men Line - so this is set in the 60's and one of the main characters is pregnant. She has wine with her meal and then later is smoking a cigarette when she says to her husband "wow - she's really kicking." Huh - wonder why???

Wednesday August 26, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Took the kids to a cool park near our house. Scarlet was an amazing friend and deemed herself mother hen of the park and ended up befriending a set of boy/girl (Sam and Alli) twins who just turned 4 yesterday. They were sooo adorable and played excellently. Liam chased and copied and hung. It was awesome. At the end of the play time, the new BFF's hugged and Scarlet declared, '"Let's meet here Friday at noon."


Worst Part of the Day-
My kids are INSANE when they are in a store. It is annoying. Also, Scarlet cried, "You are too strict with me and you only love Liam!!"
Yes, I am strict 'cause she is nearly 6. Liam is 2. I expect her and any other 5-6 year-olds to show little ones the correct ways, not the naughty, naughty, non-listening ways. Ma lordie, it is tiring. I really can't get a thing done with these kids--we can play and I can entertain, but there is no chipping away at my nuts amount of 'to do' madness.

Wednesday August 26, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik had the boyz at the playground for two plus hours while I worked out and then ran some errands. I made it home as the Serta dudes pulled into the driveway with the new mattresses for Quinn and Wes (whew!) Now the beds are all set up and the bedrooms actually look like ... bedrooms.

Erik took Quinn to the airport to pick up Nana and Papa (they had a five hour (!) layover in Charlotte on their way back to Europe). The four had lunch at Rock Bottom Brewery and it sounds like Quinn was good as gold. Love it.

Worst Part of the Day - Still dealing with the sore throat, but no other symptoms.

Also bedtime was a nightmare as the suddenly super fun, WOW we have beds energy turned to "we will NOT sleep in those beds and would like them removed from our rooms." Ummm - no can do. Quinn was asleep in no time - but Wes? He was up until 9:45 p.m. Boooo.

Tuesday August 25, 3009

Best Part of the Day - Erik made it home and we settled in for the last episodes of Jericho (Season Two). That was a pretty dern good show - too bad it got cancelled.

Worst Part of the Day - Have a slight sore throat goin' on - probably am about to get what the boyz have been dealing with.

SO OVER grocery shopping with Thing One and Thing Two. Highly stressful, annoying and ultimately I forget the one thing I went in for.

Clarence escaped and was brought back by a neighbor. Same as it ever was.

Quick Study - The boys were shoving each other today and I said "guys stop it or there's going to be waterworks." And Wes said "waterworks?" And I said "yes - lots of crying." So about four hours later the boyz are in the bath throwing wet washcloths at each other and I said "guys stop it before someone gets hurt." Suddenly Quinn gets hit in the eye and starts crying. Wes looks at me, points his thumb at Quinn and says "waterworks." Yup - correct usage of the word kiddo.

Tuesday August 25, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Red, red wine. Late night.

Worst Part of the Day-
While attempting to upload 150+ pics, my MacBook seemed sluggish, then stopped, puttered, kinda blew up and I think, died. Omg. This is awful, awful!!!!

Monday August 24, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
After a atypically long 'n productive day at work, Will-O had a veggie pizza waiting for me after my bike ride home from the workplace. It was atypically ideal.

Worst Part of the Day-
I have an exceedingly long "to do" list and I need to take the time to tackle.

Monday August 24, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Boyz still not well enough to take to the gym but I did make them run some errands with me.

Best Part of the Day - Got some tasks done that have been on my 'to do' list for weeks. Ordered some adorable bedding for the kiddos (beds will be delivered on Wednesday). Then in the spirit of buy, buy, buy I thought about some gift certificates that were given to me one year ago and decided to use 'em up.

Also picked up Clarence from my sister-in-law today (Alex brought him up to HHI and then they brought him back to Charlotte). He looks great and so far is perfectly behaved! The boyz love having him (and his dog bed which is for some reason a big hit) back in the house.

Sunday August 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day - We will finally give up our Asian ways and give the boyz some beds (they have been sleeping on the floor since we returned from Michigan). Recession + Close Out Pricing = two Queen mattresses and box springs for less than the average price of one. Wow - what a deal.

Worst Part of the Day - Tried to get the boyz out and about this morning, but summer colds/coughs are plaguing us (not to mention one tired mama from getting up and down to soothe the lads all night). It was much lounging around and tv/computer time for the sickies on this gorgeous summer day.

Fun Fact - The car plug in for my navigation system also fits my phone. Um - this could have helped SO many times over the past year and a half. Oh well - now I know.

Sunday August 23, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O took the kids to the block party this afternoon (complete with moon bounce, slip 'n slide, full fledged fire truck and face painting) so I could have some Megan Time.  I read and cat napped and bathed in quiet/calm.  Met everyone at the gathering after 3 hours of peace and felt WAY better than I have in weeks.

Worst Part of the Day-

The kids and I got all set this morn to jet the gym for workouts and playtime.  When we arrived, the KidCare lights were dark and I saw a scary sign:  No KidCare on Sundays until after August 30--possibly later.  Doh.   

Best Part of the Worst Part-

I had the kids do sprints in the mini gym for many minutes and then we had hot cocoa (sugary coffee por moi) from the vending and ate our snacks from home at the tables overlooking the pool.  Kinda nice. 

Worst Part of the Best Part- 

I still pine for 18 hours of straight sleep.  I know, I know--beggars cannot be choosers.  Moms who get a nap and peace should not complain.  (But I want so much more!  I do!!!)

Saturday August 22, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Went to see live music (Chris P. on guitar) outside on Pewaukee Lake at an early show (started at 6pm) where to the kids could run and play and dance free.  Will-O met us there and it was necessary to have a second set of hands to prevent Liam from running and jumping off of the pier (reminiscent of Scarlet at his age=sprinting to the edge of Navy Pier in Chicago and giving hundreds of people heart attacks over and over...)  Love the outdoors on a summer night.

Worst Part of the Day-

Had to blow off a b-day party of S's school mate (twin girls who are turning 5--and adorable). Just too much happening as I had to pick up kids in O-town and then be back on that part of town for the eve music.  Can't fit it all in...

Friday August 21, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Delivered the kiddies to my parents this late morn so I could do a full day's work, then clean the not cleaned for 1 week home and ready self in peace for "gang night."  Woo-hoo.

Worst Parts of the Day-

1.  Feel like I could sleep for 18 hours straight with the kiddies out of the home.  Instead, I hurriedly practiced some hygiene and met the gang out for way toooo many drinks, a bit of fried food, etc.   Seriously??  

2.  Also, when attempting to leave home this morn, could NOT get it together.  Packing kid items is clearly my downfall, but his time they kept leaving the car and Liam walked around in rain puddles in his clean socks, then I couldn't locate shoes, then I realized I need to brush my teeth and hair, Scarlet drank all of her travel drink and needed another, then I didn't have my work keys...on and on and on...my non-goodness...

3.  Yes, still feel physically weird.  (Achey, tired?)

Thursday August 20, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

1.  I commanded and demanded "group nap" and it worked as I threatened we would miss the "party" at Kelly/Chris/Cale's tonight (only the 6 of us=party!)  They both snoozed and even I caught a wink.

2.  Delightful time at the eve gathering.  The kids played well together and it was pleasant to socialize a smidge.

Worst Part of the Day-

As Chris was walking me to the car (i.e. helping load in kids and bags and shenanigans) he felt something on top of my car.  My wallet.  Apparently I plopped it up as I was getting the kids out of the car (4 hours previously) and left it there.  Would have driven off and lost it all again--this time with phone and license!  I am soooo super smart and togetha!  (Thank you, Chris!!)

Still feeling odd/off.  I feel dehydrated, but know I am not.

Wednesday August 19, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O stayed an extra few hours so I could jet to work this morn without readying everyone and my bad self and then dropping all off, blah, blah.  It is so dang easy to simply leave without the bittles.  (My issue.)

Worst Part of the Day-

I am feeling a low-grade ickiness... kinda dizzy and headachey and possibly quite sleepy.

Saturday August 22, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik took the boys to the playground while I worked out and ran an errand. Then we all went to look at some boats and then off to Ikea where the boys had dinner in the amazing Ikea cafeteria.

Worst Part of the Day - The boyz SO need new drawers to replace the crappy, falling apart, particle board ones in their room. We found many options at Ikea and were .... so .... close .... to being able to purchase them - but alas Quinn is under the weather and Wes seems to be not well. I tried to ignore 'abort mission' signs - but when Wes laid down on the floor and started rubbing his eyes even I had to admit we were done for the day. So we had to leave empty handed. I turned back and sighed as we left - so hard to get 'er done wit the babes in tow.

Friday August 21, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik back in town and full of sunshine. It's happy, happy, joy, joy in the household!

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn might be coming down with something - he's coughing quite a bit.

New Old Softies - When I had thought Wes' froggie softie was gone for good - I ordered two more. He came upon the package and found one of the new frogs. He was quite pleased with his finding. Now Quinn also has two softies. Whenever I ask Quinn which softie he likes best, he always (always) chooses the old softie. So I asked Wes "which softie do you like best?" And he looked at both of them, then threw the old one on the ground, hugged the new one to his chest and said "THIS ONE!"

Thursday August 20, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - How can I expect the children to learn from mistakes when I clearly am not? Walked down in the basement to find (once again) the DVD's on the floor and Quinn with the powder in mid-air (guess my stern talking to and naughty room were not enough). So now the DVD's are locked away (along with the powder). When oh WHEN will I get to put items back on shelves and tables?

Also too much time in the car today running stupid errands.

Best Part of the Day - Chai Tea Latte and Mad Men premiere (finally!) Thought it was decent especially for a 'set-up for the season' episode. Did have to keep rewinding to catch the new British accented speech. Also did shake my fist at Don Draper - some things never change (esp on melodramatic television shows).

Wednesday August 19, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik on kiddo duty for about 90% of the day. I was able to errand it out without the babes in tow. We did do some family time at PetSmart and Best Buy (really? Yes, really. It was very entertaining for the young ones.) Erik went to bed early, early (he has to get up and drive to work in Wilmington tomorrow) and so I watched some 30 Rock Season One ... very funny. I missed most of them the first time around.

Worst Part of the Day - Took the kids out to eat (are we gluttons for punishment or just tired of the constant cleaning (dishes, table, floor) that comes after each meal? Quinn actually did fairly well - but that Wes! He wouldn't eat (rare for him) and pretty much was loud or trying to walk around. Hard to enjoy my shrimp and asparagus over baby greens with strawberries (sounds good, eh?)

CB IS EVERYWHERE - Saw a Crested Butte sticker on a car with NC plates on my way out of the gym today. Of course I sent it right to Cousin Pate' - the good vibes live on!!

Tuesday August 18, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Erik made it home tonight. Ahhh - so nice to have him home.

Worst Part of the Day - Left the kiddos downstairs alone while I changed out laundry. By the time I got back to them, an entire jumbo bottle of Johnson's Baby Powder had been poured over the floor, couches, and pile of DVD's (that had been thrown off the shelves). They tried to add some lotion to the mix, but there wasn't much left to smear all over everything. I was scolding them (and yelling) when suddenly Wes did an Oscar winning mimic of me while scolding Quinn. That's hard to take as I look like a real crazed lunatic when I scold the children (according to this impression, I also sigh a lot.) When I told Erik about this he said "oh on Sunday they took every blanket, shirt, pant and basket out of Quinn's closet and tossed it on the floor."

Later met my sister-in-law Ann out for dinner and it was just tiring. My kiddos were just not wanting to sit and instead of stressing out about it, I sat and watched them in a horrified state.

Come ON People now - We went to Discovery Zone today and they have a brand new cafeteria. It is about 98% green with compostable plates, silverware, containers ... as I munched on my organic mozzarella and tomato sandwich I watched people throw away their waste. Now there are two huge bins - one with COMPOSTABLE on it and a brief description of what can go in it. The other has RECYCLABLE on it and another brief description. Then there is a very small trashcan next to the bins for anything that has to be thrown away (nice visual - meaning 'not much needs to actually go in the trash'). I watched person after person throw away compostable and recyclable items in the small trashcan until it was overflowing (this did not take long). Let's just TRY peeps - how much easier can it get when all the work is done for you and you just have to READ a sign??!!??

Monday August 17, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Feeling pretty good today - not really tired. My mother-in-law (instead of heading off first thing in the morning) decided to do my Group Power with me. Come on - you know I live for sharing this class with people - it's just one more reason I'm so dern lame. She did awesome in the class - total props to her. Then we went to Trader Joe's and after that she took off with Jack (for Nana's German camp - Jack goes to the German Immersion school here in Charlotte.)

Worst Part of the Day - Should have gone to bed at 9 p.m. but stayed up until after 11 ... boooo. Also - it's really, really, really warm here. I think CB got me in the mood for fall. Too bad that won't hit Charlotte for another couple months.

Tuesday August 18, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Babs took Cuz S. and I to a Marquette function--the President's Picnic. It was honoring 100 years of women at M.U. with an open bar and high end "pincic" fare.

Note: Will-O was a trouper as he has had mucho time with kiddies (i.e. no downtime) since Thursday. I had to work a full day today and then skipped off to this fucntion til almost 9pm as our babysitter is on a vaca of her own this week. Doh.

Worst Part of the Day-
I have my workie work cut out for me.
And I am not certain that my plants have been watered bi-daily since the gardner was in CB.

Monday August 17, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Reunion with kiddies=squeals of delight and somehow taller in 4 days children running into my lovin arms. Lotsa hugs and smoochies. Liam asked, "Are you gonna stay with us, Mom?" Yes, me darlins!

Worst Part of the Day-
It was hot, hot, and humid when we landed in Milwaukee. Even lil ol me was dewey and slightly uncomfortable. It's still summer here (not like the cool mountains...) 30 minutes after landing, I had to scoot off to work to teach my standard Monday night class. Non-ideal. (But honestly, no biggie.)

Sunday August 16, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-
1. Brunch and Bloody's
2. Lying in Patti's Sleep Number bed for 6 minutes post-brunch and Bloody's
3. Hot tubbing with Babs after long (ass) drive to Denver

Worst Parts of the Day-
1. Missing my kiddies
2. 7 hour trek back to Denver (bad, bad car accident--my prayers)
3. Hotel did not carry AMC=no Mad Men season premier...

Sunday August 16, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Got to sleep in and head to brunch. Also had two hours to chat alone with Miss Amy at the Denver airport (note - travel agent might not be her calling as she scheduled herself a six hour layover). It was so fun to get to really have a conversation with her away from everyone else. Plus she watched my bags while I used the restroom and it made the time go super fast. Excellent travel buddy.

Worst Part of the Day - Had to leave - boooo. Wishing I had one more day to do some outdoor activity instead of viewing nature from behind a window. It's always sad to say goodbye to the Gast Clan ... I miss 'em all already.

Also almost puked on the plane from Gunnison to Denver - ummm BUMPIEST plane ride ever. I seriously had my hand on the barf bag.

And my poor mother-in-law got lost on the way to the Charlotte airport so she was 45 minutes late picking me up. Sigh.

Saturday August 15, 2009

Best Part of the Day - The wedding, wedding, wedding. The day shone bright and gorgeous (and only slightly chilly). The ceremony was heartfelt (and short!) The bride - GORGEOUS. The groom - clearly lovin' on the bride. The food - divine. The wine - divine. I was on Cloud Nine all day - I seriously think I was vibing on the true love and excellent energy of the bride and groom (and possibly being fancy free with no kiddos too.) Gin, Amy, Sarah and I had a post-mortem for a hour after we got home - consensus ... BEAUTIFUL, fun day!!

Worst Part of the Day - My stomach is still off. I had to cease my merry-making just prior to Cousin KEG's b-day party (which began after the wedding at about 6-ish). And had to (again) disappoint my younger cousins with my severe LAME-ness.

Happy Happy Birthday Miss KEG! Love you sister/cousin/friend!!!

Friday August 14, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - I'm really feeling the altitude today - headache and a general feeling of malaise (think moderately hung over). Sucks - but I pushed right on through it.

Best Part of the Day - Whole day was fab - slept in, leisurely and fun-filled drive with Meg and Babs (including a stop to a hoity toity Safeway for provisions), arrival at the most excellent rental pad procured by Patti and paid for by mom and dad (I thought sista Sarah and I would be on a pull out - but instead each had our own double bed). Then off to Patti and Bill's for the pre-wedding BBQ which was filled to the brim with family and fun. I had to head off to bed somewhat early with only a half a beer in me ... but that might be part of the best part too.

Saturday August 15, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

Gloriously sunny day nestled in the mountains was a perrrrrfect backdrop for intimate wedding (ceremony of love!) of Patti/Bill.  Tear-inducing, sweet, touching vows and Bill serenading Patti=honor to be a part of it all.  

Lotsa drinks, laughs, jumping and photographers catching it all with ease.

Great wedding date, Mark, was a champion mingler, self-introducer, overall cheerful partier=my kinda date. 

Sensational day.

Congrats to Patti/Bill!!

Worst Part of the Day-

The tiredness snuck on up after a full day of drinks, dancing and sunshine.  By 10pm I was done-ski.

Happy Birthday to Super Mama, Kristen!!!!   Love you.

Friday August 14, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Made it to sickeningly lovely Crested Butte with Babs and Mol in 4-cylinder rental car and joined in a delightful/relaxed evening gathering at Patti (bride) and Bill's (groom) fairly kick ass mountain home (chalet of love.)  A bonfire with Courvoisier and a guitar and stories and family and friends (and Saskatchewan spelling bees and iphones and designated drivers) made it perfect.  

Worst Part of the Day-

Mama Meg is tie-tie.  (Tired.)  And speaking in third person.  Needing to sleep.   

Thursday August 13, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-

Holy smooth travel sailing, Batman!!  Hitch-free, straight flight from Milwaukee to Denver.  I could not believe when the pilot said we were about to land...no issues and easy shuttle to nearby hotel.  

Cuz Mol met up with us (Barbara and me) with apparent ease (recalling her corporate America navigating skillz, fo sho) and drinks and eats and chats and laughs were had.

Worst Part of the Day-

Kind of a dick-ish waiter this eve almost made me bust out into my former (mouthy) self. (Picture pouty lips, zig zaggy head and hand snaps in a frazzled Z formation.)  Had to control former self and remember, I'm all growed up now.  Errrrrrr.  

(Burning question:  Why work in customer service if you detest customers???   And suck at tending to the annoying needs of customers?  And mumble???! )

Thursday August 13, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Johanna was a super help today as I packed and readied myself to leave.  She took the boyz for a hour to the playground so it was a laid back departure.  Then it twas a breeze to travel to Denver and meet up with the Cahill lasses.  We relaxed in the hotel room and then went down to the 'lounge' for cocktails and din din.   After we walked back to the hotel room for some more computer surfing and chit chatting.  Ahhhh - relaxing, relaxing, relaxing.

Worst Part of the Day - Feeling somewhat emotional leaving the boyz (which is rare for me) - but we can chalk that up to time of the month and all that jazz.

Wednesday August 12, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Rainy, rainy. The day seemed to drag on forever ... and even Monkey Joe's could not placate the kiddos.

Best Part of the Day - Erik around = super big help with kiddos. Also my mother-in-law Johanna came in this evening to babysit the kiddos for the upcoming Aunt Patti's Crested Butte wedding bliss! We sat up until midnight (!) talking - I mostly like to get her stories of the post WWII because they just seem to crazy to be true (even though I know they are all totally true and happened to many, many people). It still seems so crazy that this happened (and is happening) - horrors. It's incredible what her parents (and she) went though.

Wednesday August 12, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Having a kind Milwaukee man Facebook message me this eve and inquire if I had lost a credit card today as he found one with my name on it.  What a (honest/creative) guy?!  

Worst Part of the Day-

I had to take the kiddies everywhere as my sitter is on vaca and there was a mix up with when Will-O would be back.  Arrgggghhh.  Long gone are the days prior to a lil vaca when I would do some last minute shopping and get a mani/pedi.  Today I rushed around in the heat with the kiddies.  I even HAD to take them to work for 2 hours, errands, lunch and finally the pool.  

As I was about to be organized and pack for Colorado this eve, I received a call from the Fraud Dept of one my credit cards asking about some charges today.  Then it hit me:  our last errand stop was at a gas station where Liam "helped" me pump gas and Scarlet was on messy squeegee duty.  I just may have plopped the good ol wallet on top of the car and whoosh, it was gone and I never knew..til the calls and my new FB friend.  

At least I oddly had my license in a zippered part of my purse and I have one credit card sitting in a drawer for backup.  Just in time for an AM flight tomorrow.  Good golly.  

The gods are indeed testing me.  

Tuesday August 11, 2009

Best of Part of the Day-

Highly productive in the work zone.  Prepping for my lil getaway comin right up!!

Worst Part of the Day-

The kids were kinda whiny and seemed irritable.  Scarlet and I had an issue regarding her non-listening and we agreed that when I am gonna lose it with her (it's easy to do after asking 900 times to get her pj's on...) I should simply say the command, "Kai Saw!"  and she will immediately jump into listening mode and even salute and reply, "yes, Ma'am!"  We shall see.  

All of one sudden I heard something grinding in the passenger side rear new the wheel.  I drove for a bit and then decided to pull in to my neighborhood car repair shop to get a standard mom-style check.  Low and behold something "flew" into my rear brake drum and yes indeedy I need new full on brake drums, adjusters, brake pads--you name it.  $600 dollars and 2 hours (of 2 kids tearing apart a repair shop) later, I was on my way.  Sigh.

Tuesday August 11, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - It's sooo hard to decide ...

1. I was helping Quinn upstairs when I heard a commotion downstairs. I came down to find Wes' hands looking like a scene from Carrie ... I didn't freak out too much as there were not any visible deep cuts. I ask "how did you hurt yourself?" Then Quinn tugs on my shirt and points at the microwave. Seems Wes, aka Tiger Woods, took a swing at the microwave with a plastic golf club and broke the front glass part ... he then tried to pick it out??? Now microwave (used roughly five times per day) is not usable. Wes has teeny tiny cuts on his hands and is most impressed with his band aids.

2. While I was bringing in groceries, Quinn (I realize later) was messing with the security system pad. Seems by messing around with various buttons, he alerted the fire department that there was a fire in our home. By the time ADT got a hold of me - it was too late to stop the call. So Quinn got to see a shiny red fire engine and I got to show my shiny red embarrassed face.

3. During bath - I left to go fold some clothes. I heard some commotion and came in to find water EVERYWHERE on the floor and Wes trying to flush his shorts down the toilet (he had already tried with his shirt and just flung it on the floor.)

Best Part of the Day - Erik came in from Wilmington and we got to chat it up and then watch the finale of a stoooopid show that ended four weeks ago - NOT worth the wait dear ole Harper's Island. But fun nonetheless.

Monday August 10, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Cousin Sarah came to my childcare coverage rescue and hung with the kiddies tonight as I had my standard Monday night stuff for work--about 2.5 hours of pretty packed evening events and she handled it like a professional.  The kiddies were fed, bathed and snoozing by 7:30pm.  Exemplary!

Worst Part of the Day-

As I was wrapping up my work (I usually end with completing the urine drug screens and pregnancy tests..), I discovered a positive preg test staring out at me.  Oh boy.  As I looked closer I realized it was from a 15 year-old who has some major problems.  It always leaves me with a pit in my stomach...poor, poor little babe, poor girl, the system, the tax payers, society just keeps getting handed some crappy hands.   And then my 36 year-old married friends who are amazing and financially stable and can't get pregnant--of course.  

As a side note, this only stimulates my need to be a foster parent to these babes....arrrrgggh.

Sunday August 9, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Spent the entirety of the day at a pool/water park with Will-O and kidz.  This was a good choice as it was roughly 100 degrees.  

Worst Parts of the Day-

1.  Liam and Scarlet awoke at 6am.

2.  Missing some family fun as I decided last eve to opt out of making a day trip to Chicago for my dad's B-day celebration (which may sound way worse than it was...) 

3.  Highly sleepy from last night's late, late festivities. 

Happy Birthday, Dad!!!  (We will extend the birthday festivities by having another mini-party soon!)

Monday August 10, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Boyz slept until just after 6 a.m. - Wes might have slept longer but Quinn was up and at 'em. We hit the free breakfast buffet and the boyz were not too, too awful. Wes was obsessed with the large array of juice and for some reason kept calling them all 'watermelon juice' - weird. Drove about two hours and then stopped at a McDonald's Playland where the boyz played and ran and played for a hour and a half. Then made it home at 3 p.m. to a clean home. Fed and bathed the boyz and then prepared for a looong night (they will not be sleeping together and have no beds in their rooms) ... but they went down after just a few shenanigans. Ahhhh - peace and quiet and tv.

Worst Part of the Day - About ten minutes in - the boyz had already mussed and messed with a lot of the house. Wes found a gel filled eye pad that you can put in the freezer and then put on your poor puffy eyes and it can be used over and over. Well, he squeezed it as hard as he could and it went all over the basement walls. Nice - and not really coming off the walls so well. Also every window at their level now full of snotty smudges. Not to mention a trashed playroom, crackers all over the floor under the table. Sigh - at least we had those ten minutes.

Note - Froggie Softie is in the mail, but Quinn's original softie is still MIA. We need to put honing devices on these suckers.

Sunday August 9, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Well summer finally arrived - just in time for me to have to pack up a car.  IT'S SO HOT AT 8 IN THE MORNING!!  I was sweating my arse off as I lugged bag after bag (after bag - why did I stock up on rice milk again? Oh yes, it twas on sale at Meijers) to the minivan.  Wes' frog is still missing - did he take it outside?  WHERE is it?  Then I have everything together and we are on our way out the door when I hear the gas burners in my parents cottage clicking away ... what the!  I don't want to blow us all up and I suspect Wes was messing with it, so in frustration I yell at him.  (Later I realize that he probably had nothing to do with it.  Nice.)  I finally channel the Queen (of England circa WW II and "Stay Calm and Carry On" and unplug the entire gas deal.)  I'm just sweating with a big head of crazy hair by this point.  Then I realize Quinn's softie is also missing ... but what can I do but leave?

We make it to the hotel around 6 p.m. and the boyz are INSANELY crazy -jumping on beds, moving mirrors, SCREAMING ... I feed them, bathe them and still they are jumping up and down.  Finally I just lay down and turn off all the lights and wa la 20 minutes later both are in snoozeland (one on either side - I upward dog myself out and into the vacant second bed).

Best Part of the Day - Drive is halfway over! 

NOTE - While cleaning up after us my mom finds the frog stuffed way in the basement sofa (I promise you that my mom, dad and I each spent two hours looking for that thing yesterday.)   Quinn's beloved softie has yet to resurface.

Also special thanks to my parents for hosting us for four weeks - whew!!

Saturday August 8, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

1. Will-O and I took the kiddies to a neighborhood pool and it was nicey nice.

2. Liam is home!!!

3. Out to eat and drink grown-up-style after putting the kidlets down.  Divine sushi, much wine and intriguing eve over all.

Worst Part of the Day-

So much changing o' plans due to: monstrous thunderstorm (led to no out o' town guests during day), hungover friend (led to no State Fair with kiddies...thank the lords from my stance--only the kiddies bummed 'bout that one), a fellow sushi diner/wine drinker became mad/slightly dramatic ( led to me not meeting up with other fun friends who were out and ready to party across town.)

Friday August 7, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
It was just Miss S. and me (and that makes it E.Z.!) We had our monthly "girl date" and headed to a Mexican restaurant down the street. Scar was a great date: funny, fun, and excellently mannered. She was showing off her limited Spanish skills (i.e. saying da nada with extra loud volume and lots o' Senor! going around.) As she was ordering she said with a straight face to our Senor, "I would like the quesadillas and all-you-can-eat crab legs." She is her father's daughter. It was great fun and relaxing! Love it.

Worst Part of the Day-
It was Scarlet's last day of summer day camp. I am sad. It was a fantabulous experience and I really can't wait 'til next summer when both kiddies will be there. Yes, yes, yes.

Saturday August 8, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Rain the entire day. Kids super, super whiny and just overly emotional (do they know we are leaving tomorrow?) They just bugged me the whole dern day. Annoying conversation with Erik on the phone - I'd like a tich more empathy re: my drive to Charlotte tomorrow. Wes feel asleep at 5 p.m. and woke up at 7:30 p.m. wanting waffles ... um it's not morning son. Then both proceeded to impede my packing and planning and it. was. so. frustrating. AARRGGHHH! Also can't find that dern froggie softie. Uh oh.

Best Part of the Day - The fact that is almost over.

Friday August 7, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Quinn and his best little lake buddy Cameron (son and grandson of excellent family friends) are like two little nerdlingers playing together in PERFECT harmony for hours on end. Never have these two even come close to having a fight - both too passive and on the same wavelength. They big wheel, play in the sand near the sidewalk, water flowers and do other nerdy little things that each enjoys. Kate (Cameron's sista) and Wes try to join in but can only focus for several minutes on the tasks at hand. Still is easy living for Cam's mom and I as we chit chat on sunny benches by the beach and watch the kiddos zoom around. Mama gonna miss this.

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn has scabbed knees to the nth degree - meaning that his legs look like they've been through a meat grinder. The cement has not been kind to his delicate knees and legs. Today at the gym he fell on the industrial carpet and tore open one of the large scabs - ugh, poor kid! He barely cried and was off playing after being administered a band-aid and put into 12 month elastic band gym shorts (he looked rather like a little European boy as they were super short). Also must cop to watching Labor Pains on ABC Family with Lindsay Lohan .... and I DVR'd it a couple weeks ago so it was a planned watching, not just a 'oh look what's on' watching. Oh my - can start to feel my brain mushing.

Thursday August 6, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Getting set fo' fall fun:
1. Registered the kiddies for fall activs--Liam is taking a painting class for bittles: Monet Monkies and Miss S. will be playing flag football per her request (or course soccer as well.)
2. Also found out who Scarlet's Kindergarten teacher would be and it is the one she wanted!! Seems like a super woman with oodles of years of experience. Incidentally she started the preschool program at the Milwaukee Zoo years ago and also has degrees in Zoology and Environmental Studies--I like her already.
3. Purchased mad amounts of back to school clothes for the Miss S. who seems to bust out of clothing sizes like the Hulk (whilst Little Man L. comfortably wears his baggy 2T...)

Worst Part of the Day-
Will-O had yet another relative pass away (this is what happens when your parents have you when they are 40...sorry) and he wanted to show Liam off to the relatives who quite frankly may not live to see him next summer. I understand--Liam is a sweet, smiling/charming one who will LIVE for the meet 'n greets that are funerals/visitaions AND he is William IV, afterall--but I am missing the boy on his 30 hour trek to the north woods!!! Me love.

Also had to cancel Liam's sitter for today on short notice. I am sensing sitter is getting irked at all of my sudden changes/switches...

Thursday August 6, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Today after my gym workout my parents came and got the kiddos and took them to the pool. I went and got coffee and then a pedicure. Ahhhh - so GREAT! I feel so refreshed and relaxed!!!

Also took the kiddos to Teusinks Pony Farm (which is three minutes away). The boys hilariously loved feeding all the goats, sheep and ducks. Then Wes ran right up the pony ride and wanted on one of those ponies (it took Quinn more time to actually get up on the pony and then I had to hold his hand as they walked in a circle. Wes was saying "make go fasta mama!") Wes rode that dern pony thing about seven times. Then when we got home he tricked my dad into giving him a pony ride on his back ( he first had my dad sit on the floor. Then asked him if he could get on all fours ... then he just jumped on him. None of us caught on to what he was doing until we was on his pony.)

Worst Part of the Day - I've GOT to get on my travel planning ... maybe tomorrow.

Wedensday August 5, 2009

Best Part of the Day - My mom offered to take the boyz to the Farmer's Market this morning. So I went to the gym and then to the grocery store by myself. I read about Kristen Bell (Veronica Mars) in Glamour magazine, bought myself a coffee and picked up some snacks for the inevitable car ride home. Ahhhhh. So lovely.
Also napped this afternoon while Wes napped and my parents watched Quinn. Just nice to lay down for a minute. We then went to the Yacht Club for dinner which I thought might be a HUGE mistake. Then the heavens opened and angels sang and Quinn and Wes sat for 45 plus minutes (without DVD playa peeps) while eating their ENTIRE dinners. WHOA WHOA WHOA!!! It was soooo great! (However the cynical part of me now FEARS the next time we dine out ....)

Worst Part of the Day - We got home from the club around 7:30 p.m. I let Quinn and Wes stay out biking and big wheeling until 8:25 p.m. Then (oh then) it was MISERABLE trying to get them down to sleep! It took until well after 9 p.m. and by that time I just wanted to go to bed too! BOOOOOOOOOO.

Tuesday August 4, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Is there anything better than watching an old episode of Will & Grace with petal pink earphones while pedaling away on the recumbent bike? OKAY - there are about one million things better than this ... but still it was lovely and zen-like (which might mean I need to up the resistance a tich).
Dinner out at the AMAZING Everyday People Cafe with my mom, my friend Mary and her mom. The restaurant was so dern busy (recession anyone?) that we ended up on the patio where you could only order appetizers. So we got four tasty, tasty apps (and I had two pint glass margaritas!) and then desserts. A really lovely time with fun and interesting people. We did it last year as well (with a larger crowd) and it it now agreed that it will be a summerly tradition.

Worst Part of the Day - What is the AVERSION to the beach for both my kiddos?? It's sooo close but I just can never get them to go! Instead they big wheel and bike around the cottage and CLOSE to the beach .... sigh and doubled sigh. Still it is easier clean up when they are not wet and covered with sand.

Wednesday August 5, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Will-O and I took the kiddies to a great beach from 5pm-7pm. It was delightful. We built serious sand castles with (my signature) a moat and river and tributary back to the mother water source. I gave Scarlet a swimming lesson in (also my fave) the breast stroke. And then we played "shark", the all at once scary and exciting game of someone's gonna getcha! Summer time fun and some much easier with 2 grown ups.

Worst Part of the Day-
Finished To Kill a Mockingbird and Mad Men-Season 2. Awwwwww.

Tuesday August 4, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
Will-O showed up early this morn to hang with Little Man L., so I wouldn't have to get him all gussied up and take him with to drop off Scarlet for summer camp. It was very, very helpful. He is really turning over a thoughtful new leaf in the wake of all of this sobriety.

Worst Part of the Day-
My car is a PIT of hell. It appears that 1-2 homeless men live in this car. Albeit tennis playing and beach lovin homeless men who love to Gatorade and dolls and gum and overall messiness. It needs a professional. Yick.

Monday August 3, 2009

Best Part of the Day-
My girls at work gave their research presentations on sexually transmitted infections. They all did quite well on their projects (no crude jokes here, please) as well as the end of unit quiz. I dare say, I am schoolin 'em good.

Worst Part of the Day-
My kittens would not settle down for beddie as I returned home smack dab in the middle of the bedtime routine. Doh.

Sunday August 2, 2009

Best Parts of the Day-
A wonderful college bud and 1/3 of her kiddies (alright, only 1 of her 3) came for a Swill City visit. They arrived in the mid-morn and we did it up: lunch and sight-seeing at Miller Park, on to M.U. campus for pics--ahem 8 year-old Jack and 5 year-old Scarls taking pics of Sara and I at our old stompin grounds. We then headed to the beach for ice cold Lake Michigan water and snow cones. Suuuuuper duper fun.

Worst Part of the Day-
Lunch itself was a tad nuts. For some reason Scarlet was not her usual showy-offy-for-guests-self. She was kinda a typical (bratty) 5 year-old at lunch. She was wiggling all over her seat and popping the balloons given to us and it was a titch of madness for 9 solid minutes. Thank heavens friend, Sara, also has a 6 and a 2-year old and quite literally knows the darn deal. We were both pleased that none of our childless friends were there to watch the annoying aspects of little ones in a public eatery. Dudes.

Monday August 3, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Sista Sarah had the day off today so I dragged her around the Holland-town (working out, McDonald's Playland, light downtown shopping, lunch). Sounds good until you realize we did all this with the two little sweets in tow. So nice to have an extra set of hands. And so nice for her to get to leave it all behind for her quiet, neat apartment in Swill City (I think she about lost it when the two seemed to be auditioning for a Wes Craven flick in the back of the minivan. SCREAM/SCREAM/SCREAM! Then both dying laughing at the humor of it all. After she left the day went by in a RUSH.

Worst Part of the Day - All my sibling and sibling-in-law helpers are now officially gone. Also must figure out how to get myself (and the kiddos) back to Charlotte without major stress n' duress. That's going to take some forethought which has of late not been my strong suit.

Sunday August 2, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - Too much sangria and not enough sleep. Booooo - Mama is tired. Also Joe and Stacy left today.

Best Part of the Day - Fritz, Mary and Babs came out. We had so much fun chatting with them and leisurely hanging out - laughing and laughing about old stories. Got to see the inside of Big Red (the lighthouse) and see all the sandcastles in the Sandcastle Competition. Quinn received his certificate for his participation in the Fun Run and he was so dern proud. Adorable. Got Wes to take a nap. Both boyz outside for majority of day (and night - no bed until 9 p.m,.!)Also soooo glad to get to bed - just beat!!

Saturday August 1, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - The beginning of the day looked merely cloudy. Then it deteriorated to whipping wind and rain. This esp was sucky because the Macatawa Days events (kickball, slow bike race, kayak races etc.) were to be held today. Most went through - but some had to be canceled. Also my parents were in charge of the big dinner for the evening - and bad weather puts a serious damper on it. But inside the huge tent it was nice n' cozy away from the whipping wind and rain.

Best Part of the Day - Party Clown Joe took much care of the kiddos today - how nice to have him around! Had a babysitter come for the evening and had a fun, fun (too much Sangria?) fun time at the Macatawa Days dinner. After the rain ceased, there was a gasp from the crowd as a HUGE double rainbow bended from end to end of Lake Macatawa. People started patting my mom on the back (as if she'd ordered it) and she cried out "cue the rainbow" about 25 times. Very lovely. Ended the evening at the adorable home o' friends for more chatting, sipping and laughing, laughing, laughing.

Saturday August 1, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Will-O took the kiddies to a Rock and Roll kids party in the late afternoon and then on an overnight...ahhhhhh, down time.  

I watched crazy amounts of Mad Men and relaxedly tidied up the home for out o' town guests arriving tomorrow morn.  

Worst Part of the Day-

After the Y this morn and outside play this afternoon, the kids watched a scary amount of Sponge Bob.  I rarely let have movie marathons as they both seems to get sick of sitting there after about 40 minutes, tops, but this was a good chunk---sorry little ones.  Bad Mama.  (They do live for S.B., though.)

Friday July 31, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Had a fun day of hugging and swimming with Liam (whilst S. was at day camp).  This boy is a lover, that's for sure.  He would run from the pool into my arms and exclaim, "I love you!"  And I declare, "I love you!"  Over and over and over.  My kinda love festival.

Worst Part of the Day-

I took the kiddies to the grocery store (I do this 3 times per year with them in tow...) and it was as I recall:  fairy horrendous.  Lotsa Liam pulling M&M's off the candy section and Scarlet grabbing all sorts of eye candy item strategically placed by marketing peeps to get her to do so...it was too much.  At the end the checkout woman tried to "be nice" and give the kids a lollipop. Little did she know this is not nice, but negative reinforcement.  I pleasantly said, "No thank you (childless woman), they don't deserve treats" and we bolted.

Thursday July 30, 2009

Best Part of the Day-

Today was a video shoot for a marketing dvd for my workplace.  It was great fun to play my role as nurse on film.  It was a funny diversion from the every ol day at work.  It was funny to see some of my co-workers down right nervous for their takes.  I just told em, "direct me and I'll do it."  Film crew peeps are pretty fun on the whole, I'd bet.  It will be hilarious to see this final project.

Worst Part of the Day-

Took the kiddies to the pool/playground from 5p-7pm (atypical, I know).  They weren't the greatest listeners when it was time to cruise (Scarlet is usually fine to exit at this juncture.)  Liam had wiped out on the slide and received his routine bloody lip and Miss S. would not stop doing the monkey bars she is addicted--she can skip a bar, do them backwards and do the sides, whatever you need, but she would not exit the playground...arrggghh.

Friday July 31, 2009

Best Part of the Day - Had a babysitter come this evening so we could go out to dinner with no stress. We went to the yacht club and it was packed with all the pals - so fun to see everyone with their parents, kids, grandkids ... the service was slow (and I secretly LIVED for that part. Ahhh leisurely dinners out are my FAVE!) and the drinks were cold and it was sooo fun to see everyone and hear the gossip and coo over the adorable kiddos.
Also Babs showed up for a quick beach hour or two and it's always such fun to have her around. She entertained Quinn in the water for one full hour and then came up to chat.
At the end of the night a game of Clue made me laugh so hard - my dad is such a head game player o' board games. We all had a blast trying to figure out who done it. Good family fun.

Worst Part of the Day - Quinn and Wes still fighting amongst themselves. A-NOY-ING!!! Also brother Joe has not lost his touch in the bugging dept - he's still the champ!

Thursday July 30, 2009

Stacy is sooo cute preggo!! Love it!!

Best Part of the Day - The VILLAGE (as in it takes a village to raise a child) hath arrived. Sarah got in late last night and brother Joe and his wife Stacy arrived today. I made Sarah participate in a two hour workout and then my parents grabbed the kiddos and we went into GR to pick up Joe, Stacy and btb (baby to be). Their plane was late so Sarah and I grabbed lunch (Arnies - a local GR fave). We made it back to the cottage just in time for the boyz dinner :-) Joe is an excellent uncle - a roughhouser, entertainer, party clown. Sarah gets the less glam tasks of diaper changing and comforting. I feel relaxed and like I have several nannies.
Thanks to all - esp Ray and Ginny for taking care of the boys for the entire afternoon.

Worst Part of the Day - We all stopped to see G-Ma after the airport pick up. She did recognize each of us and answered about 20% of the questions posed to her. But it just felt depressing - where is the vibrant, sometimes sassy, eagle eyed Swingin' Mary? In there somewhere but buried deep. I miss her.

Wednesday July 29, 2009

Worst Part of the Day - At one point in the afternoon it felt like time was standing still - and not in a good way. In a ... will this day NEVER end way and mama can't think of another thing to entertain you with. Also boyz fighting amongst themselves like never before. Grating on the ole nerves.

Best Part of the Day - Just when I thought the day was dragging - it suddenly picked up with the boys heading outside with pals and riding, riding, riding big wheels, tricycles and bikes. Outdoor fun for all and suddenly it was well past suppertime.

Quinn did hilariously take off his swimsuit to pee outside as my dad watched and then covered his pee with sand ... like a cat. Instinct?